I enjoyed participating in this Influencer Activation Program on behalf of Influence-Central for American Express. While I received thank you items for my participation, all opinions are my own.
You know what I thought the last time we were dragging our family of five through SFO?
Well, it certainly wasn’t, “Wow, that was a delicious breakfast. I mean, obviously that seasonal cuisine was the work of The Restaurant at Meadowood’s Christopher Kostow.”
It also wasn’t, “That signature cocktail—the brainchild of renowned mixologist, Jim Meehan—will get me half way to Hawaii without having a mental breakdown.” Or, “I’m still trying to decide if I liked the Napa Valley Cab or Pinot pour from the wine tasting station better.”
You know what our kids said the last time we were dragging them through SFO?
Well, it certainly wasn’t, “Did you see how awesome I was playing Xbox?” Or, “Those bean bags and ponies were so much fun to bounce around on!”
No, last time we were dragging our family through the airport, it was a bit more, well…frantic. First “we” did our best to turn the people movers into roadblocks. While this was wildly entertaining for our kids, the other travelers weren’t as impressed. And when we finally arrived at our gate, one of us watched the bags and kids (who were darting between innocent bystanders playing chase and giggling madly), while one of us stood in line to get dried out muffins, coffee, and bottled waters—which cost almost $50.
We managed. But now that I know better, well, I would do more than manage. I would Lounge.
You see, a couple weeks ago, I got to enjoy a sneak peek of The Centurion Lounge by American Express at SFO, a day before it officially opened to card members. And I was really impressed with how many family friendly touches this upscale lounge offered. There were custom logo sippy cups available for use in the drink areas. The food was healthy and delicious, but simple enough to please even a picky little eater. And the sound-proof family room with toys, an Xbox, and Frozen playing on the TV—all behind a sound-proof glass wall (so even you, the parent, can be out of earshot while watching your kids have a blast)? Well, it was pure genius.
So how do you get your family a piece of this magic? First you get your shuttle to drop you off at the far side of Terminal 3 at SFO, then make your way through security. If you’re a Platinum Card or Centurion® Member, you’re in. Yes, for you lucky people, entry into The Centurion Lounge is complimentary, and you may bring your immediate family—or up to two travel companions—along. Other American Express Credit and Charge Card Members can purchase a one-day pass for $50, which allows you to bring family members under the age of 18 in for free. (So, for our family of 5, it would be $100—$50 per adult/card holder—and our little ones could join us at no cost. Though I’m thinking Lenny might enjoy this even more during his kid-free travels…)
Once you’re inside, all the fresh eats, mixologied and/or sippy cupped beverages, refreshing showers, couch catnaps, connected work space accomplishments, wine-tasting pours, Xbox victories, and world-class-amenity thrills are yours for the taking.
The Centurion Lounge at SFO is the fourth location in its expanding network. Check out the others if you’re looking to escape the crowded-airport blues in Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS), Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), or New York’s LaGuardia Airport (LGA). (Plus one will open next year in Miami International Airport (MIA).)
Have you been to one of The Centurion Lounge locations? What’s your favorite feature?
Photos (except family lounge) courtesy of American Express.
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