Kim Hyun-bin began his journalism career at Arirang TV from 2012 to 2017, specializing in defense, foreign affairs and the economy. In 2018, he joined The Korea Times, covering society and business, and is currently responsible for embassy affairs.
Air France' business lounge provides extra comfort
On the left is Le Balcon in the Air France's business lounge at Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris. Designed by Mathieu Lehanneur, the place provides a comfortable atmosphere for business class passengers of Air France and SkyTeam members. On the right is the Instant Relaxation area, a smartphone free location where people can enjoy a more peaceful and relaxing environment. Courtesy of Air France
By Kim Hyun-bin
By Kim Hyun-bin
PARIS ― Air France's business lounge, which opened in January last year at Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris, brings a new level of pre-flight comfort and luxury for passengers who have some time to spare before their flights.
The lounge for passengers of Air France and SkyTeam member airlines spans 3,200 square meters and is able to accommodate 540 people at once, making it Air France's largest lounge. In addition, parts of the hall were designed by renowned French designers to better portray a French flavor and atmosphere throughout the premises.
One of the most eye-catching areas is Le Balcon, designed by Mathieu Lehanneur. Its ceiling is decorated with gold mirrors which reflect the planes ready to fly. The blue LED screen embedded in the wooden floor symbolizes the blue sky and changes from sunrise to sunset with real sunlight beaming through the mirrors from the outside.
Le Balcon
Each night from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., Le Balcon serves cocktails at a bar personally created by the head bartender at Paris's Hotel Lancaster.
Further along the lounge is the open kitchen dubbed Gourmet Table where a chef prepares hot meals in front of the guests' eyes. Along with the scrumptious meals, there are a selection of wines and champagnes selected by world famous sommelier Paolo Basso.
For those wanting a quick bite, there is also a self-service dining area where passengers can enjoy precooked meals, salad and pastries.
The lounge is also well-equipped with areas where customers can relax and get some shut-eye before their flights, including large shower rooms and two private saunas. In a smartphone-free location called Instant Relaxation, people can enjoy a more peaceful and relaxing environment.
One of the most popular amenities is the Clarins Spa, which offers a 15-minute free facial massage, and passengers can book in advance.
For children aged between four and 12, there is a special recreational area equipped with two PlayStation 4 machines and touch tables, where they can enjoy numerous games with others.
The lounge is offered to business class passengers of Air France or SkyTeam member airlines.
All information about the lounge can be found under the lounge category on Air France's smartphone application.
The Air France lounge is located in Hall L of Terminal 2E at the airport.