You know the saying, its not the destination, it’s the journey. In this case, the journey can be just as good as, if not better than, the destination. Usually the domain of the rich and famous, we take you to the staggeringly luxurious, best-of-the-best first class lounges the world over. Now, all I need to do is win the lottery.

Qantas International First Lounge, Sydney

The spacious Qantas International First Lounge is certainly the best in Australia. There’s plenty of comfortable seating, a business centre with iMacs, conference rooms and a library, as well a world-class restaurant. The seasonal menus are created by Neil Perry (the same chef who devises the on board meals), with meals like black cobia sashimi, grilled snapper and casarecce pasta on offer. If you want to continue the lux life vibe, the champagne menu includes Perrier-Jouët and Taittinger. First class passengers are encouraged to pay a visit to the spa with a phone call the day before their departure to reserve a complimentary treatment.

Cathay Pacific The Pier, First, Hong Kong

Following a major renovation last year, Cathay Pacific’s first class lounge, The Pier, is unrivalled in it’s luxurious extras. Case in point, the complimentary foot massages offered to all first class passengers. Rinse off between flights in one of the immaculate limestone shower suites, or hide out in one of the day suites if you have an extremely long layover. The dining room specialises in Chinese cuisines with congee and dim sum baskets on offer, or head to The Wing (Cathay Pacific’s business class lounge) to enjoy their noodle bar.

Emirates First Class Lounge, Dubai

Dubai is already one of the more luxurious airports so it’s no surprise the lounges offer next level service. The Emirates first class lounge is so expansive it is styled like its own terminal with duty free shops included. You can even board directly from the lounge. Take a trip to the spa, sip some champagne, try the cigar bar or just relax in a chaise lounge while you wait for your flight.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal, Frankfurt

Lufthansa offers a first class terminal, not just a lounge, for it’s premium fliers in Frankfurt. Finally, you won’t have to deal with the riff-raff. Upon arrival, the valet service staff will assist in parking your car or returning your rental, then your “personal assistant” will aid you in the security and check-in process. Talk about service! Grab a drink at the bar, have a soak in a bath (keep the rubber duckie as a cute memento), or hang out at the cigar lounge or candy bar. Finally, to ensure you still don’t need to deal with the plebs, board your flight via a Mercedes-Benz or Porsche ride directly onto the tarmac.

Etihad Premium Lounge, Abu Dhabi

While Etihad is in the process of building their first class lounge, the airlines Premium Lounge offers access to business and first class passengers. There is a dedicated family room with children’s entertainment if you’re travelling with your family, or grab a pod in the den with your own TV. Enjoy a treatment at the Six Senses Spa or head to the Style & Shade salon for a complimentary service before boarding.

Qatar Airways Al Mourjan Business Lounge, Doha

The first thing you see when you enter the Al Mourjan Business Lounge is a magnificent staircase that wraps around a 2 storey chandelier floating above a reflective pond. While the design aspects of this lounge are spectacular, passengers can take advantage of facilities such as a children’s nursery, game rooms and quiet rooms for napping.

Virgin Atlantic London Heathrow Clubhouse, London

If you want to feel like you’re in a private members’ club rather than a lounge, Virgin Atlantic’s Clubhouse is the place for you. Multiscreen TVs, pool tables and an outdoor garden patio all help you to relax before your flight. You can even have a last minute treatment at the Clubhouse Spa ranging from facials using Dr. Hauschaka products to a quick wash and blow-dry with Bumble and Bumble toiletries.