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Six simple extravagances that can transform a holiday

The airport lounge can turn a stressful wait into a pleasure (with free wine) - This content is subject to copyright.
The airport lounge can turn a stressful wait into a pleasure (with free wine) - This content is subject to copyright.

The other night I faced a wait of at least four hours at Geneva airport. The place was in chaos, with many other flights either cancelled or delayed. Disgruntled skiers packed out the food courts, hogged tables and were paying through the nose for unappetising, overpriced food. 

We went in search of something better – and found it. Le Chef is Geneva airport’s posh restaurant, hidden away at the top of a lift in the check-in hall. It’s obviously aimed at business people on expenses: quiet, smart and, well, quite expensive. We changed our mindset. Instead of waiting at the airport, we were having dinner out. 

Two hours flew by. A spontaneous moment of extravagance had turned a miserable wait into an enjoyable evening. Here are a few other indulgences which might have a similar effect.

1. Late check out

If you are lucky, you may not even have to pay, but even if you do, keeping your hotel room until the end of the last day means you can shower and get changed before heading to the airport.

2. Airport lounges

If you don’t eat, at least wait in comfort in a pay per entry lounge.

At a glance | Airport lounge passes
At a glance | Airport lounge passes

3. Queue jumping

Most sights and theme parks have ways you can pay your way out of a queue – sometimes, if you book in advance, you don’t even need to pay.

The secret to skipping the queues in the world's most crowded cities
The secret to skipping the queues in the world's most crowded cities

4. Taxis

Not always – but when it really counts. Oh, and on your next trip to Venice, don’t take the waterbus from the airport. Take a water taxi – nothing beats speeding across the lagoon to your hotel.

Take a water taxi when you land in Venice – it's worth the money - Credit: BUENA VISTA IMAGES
Take a water taxi when you land in Venice – it's worth the money Credit: BUENA VISTA IMAGES

5. Ski guide

The slopes are packed – splash out on a local guide for a day and ask them to show you the quieter corners. You’ll be able to jump the lift queues, too.

16 ways to fly like first class when you’re actually in economy
16 ways to fly like first class when you’re actually in economy

6. Short stay car park

Reserve far enough ahead and it won’t cost that much more than long stay. You’ll be able to walk straight to and from the terminal – without the wait for the transfer bus.