Welcome to the International VIP Lounge at Queen Beatrix International Airport
Nestled within the Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA), the International VIP lounge provides guests with serenity and comfort before travel. Aruba, one of the sun-kissed islands of the Caribbean, beckons travellers with its white sandy beaches, azure waters, and a vibrant mix of Dutch culture. This lounge is the last stop before leaving the island.
Airport
Queen Beatrix International Airport – official site.
Location
Airside, after Passport Control on the first floor, near Gate 2, on the left – labelled 8 on the map in green (Map courtesy of Airport Aruba).
Lounge entry for the International VIP Lounge, AUA
- KLM Business and First class passengers (plus partner airlines)
- Priority Pass
- Walk-in guests at $42 per person
Opening hours
1100 – 1900 hrs daily, except Saturday when the lounge is only open to passengers travelling to the US.
Ambience and atmosphere
The International VIP Lounge is basic, yet it serves its functional purpose with a calm atmosphere and much less chaos than the departure terminal. There is enough space to unwind and relax.
Corridor leading from reception to the lounge
Decor and Design
The open-plan International VIP lounge surrounds the bar, serving all the drinks. It has retro-style white sofas, single chairs, Dutch orange tub chairs, and a few stools. Artwork from around the island is on display. The style and layout resemble a hotel lobby.
Overlooking the main lounge area
Although there is no natural light, the lounge is not dark and is supplemented with enough artificial light.
Tub chairs in Dutch orange
Menu and Culinary Delights
The food options generally include sandwiches and rolls (ham, tuna, cheese and turkey), crisps, muffins, soup and fruits. No hot dishes were on offer at the time of visiting.
Bun and wrap selection
Beverage Selection
Complimentary alcoholic drinks (beer and wine only) are limited to three per adult. Subsequent beverages are subject to payment. The range of coffees and non-alcoholic drinks is sufficient, and a limited range of cocktails is on offer.
Four cocktails on the menu
Amenities and Facilities at the International VIP Lounge, AUA
A basic lounge offering air conditioning, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, a flight information monitor, television and free Wi-Fi.
VIP lounge sign
Reading Material
Newspapers and magazines are available in hard copy.
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi with decent speeds.
Power
Power outlets are very limited throughout the lounge
Smoking
This is a non-smoking lounge.
Mobility
Easy wheelchair access on a single level, so getting around the lounge is not an issue.
Bathroom
There is one separate cubicle bathroom for men and women. This results in waiting when the lounge gets busier.
Workspace
There are no dedicated workspaces. However, the high stools could be an alternative.
High stools but no power
Service and Hospitality
The staff are friendly, courteous and efficient. Reception is well-staffed, and lounge entry is smooth and prompt. At the time of visiting, only one person staffing the lounge.
Overall experience
The International VIP Lounge serves a purpose: it is basic yet functional and is indeed a better option than waiting at the gate. Food and drink options are limited, with little else to do, so most passenger visits are brief before heading to their respective gate. There is room for improvement, particularly concerning food, which would enhance the lounge experience significantly.
Whilst the decor and design are acceptable, it is not representative or reflective of the island, and a few more themed ideas would make the lounge more attractive to guests. With some investment of money and effort, it has the potential to be a decent lounge.
Cabin Bags Only rating: 5.5/10
More information about the International VIP Lounge, AUA
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