Lounge Review: Vietnam Airlines Lotus Lounge (Noi Bai International Airport)
When I flew out of Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) on Singapore Airlines in Business Class, I had access to Vietnam Airlines Lotus Lounge (sometimes referred to as NASCO Lounge) before departure. Even though Vietnam Airlines is not part of Star Alliance (it is actually part of the SkyTeam Alliance), most of the star alliance partner airlines use this lounge for their premium cabin passengers. Located in the International Departures Terminal above Gate 28, the Vietnam Airlines Lotus Lounge is open from 6:00AM to 2:00AM daily.
Interiors
Vietnam Airlines Lotus Lounge - Noi Bai International Airport
While the lounge is not exactly huge, it did not get crowded at all during my visit. In fact, I dare say that it was only 10% occupied at most. There are various seating configurations here in the lounge and I did find a couple of them to be slightly odd. For instance, the chairs in the photo above look like they belong on a boardwalk by the beach (and not in an airport lounge). The lounge feels a little depressing in general and the dull colour scheme certainly did not help.
Runway View
Vietnam Airlines Lotus Lounge - Noi Bai International Airport
What the lounge did have however is a nice view of the airport runway which is great for all you aviation geeks. The air was slightly polluted when I was there so the view was not great but I can definitely imagine this to be a great spot on a clear day.
Cold Food Selection
Vietnam Airlines Lotus Lounge - Noi Bai International Airport
There is a decent selection of food here in the lounge but most of them did not look too appetising to me at least. There are also some fruits available here on the buffet station but they look like they have spent some time there so obviously I stayed away from them.
Chicken Pho
Vietnam Airlines Lotus Lounge - Noi Bai International Airport
The hot food selection looked slightly more promising and there was even a small pho station where you can assemble your own bowl of chicken pho.
Chicken Pho
Vietnam Airlines Lotus Lounge - Noi Bai International Airport
Unfortunately, the chicken pho did not taste quite good at all so I decided not to eat anything at the lounge and go for a couple of drinks instead. If you are hungry, make sure you eat before coming to the lounge because chances are that you will not enjoy most of the dishes here.
Beverages
Vietnam Airlines Lotus Lounge - Noi Bai International Airport
The Vietnam Airlines Lotus Lounge does have a good selection of beverages and you can also find chilled cans of beer in the refrigerator. Alternatively, there is a small bar counter by the side where you can order yourself a glass of wine or a simple drink. I ordered a G&T but was not given ice so I ended up with a warm G&T which is not great as you can imagine.
Power Outlets
Vietnam Airlines Lotus Lounge - Noi Bai International Airport
Some power outlets are scattered throughout the lounge and if you are looking for one, the lounge chairs are probably your best bet - there is a power outlet between two chairs but do note that they are not universal so you will have to bring your own travel adapter if you require one.
Lounging Area
Vietnam Airlines Lotus Lounge - Noi Bai International Airport
The Vietnam Airlines Lotus Lounge in Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) is probably one of the most unimpressive airport lounges that I have been to and to be honest, my flight on Vietnam Airlines in Business Class was not great either. Now I am not certain how long this lounge has been around but it is definitely in need of a ‘hardware’ refresh - the decor is dated, the food options are not great and the showers are in a pretty dire state. If you have a respectable credit card with complimentary airport lounge access, head over to the Song Hong Business Lounge instead.
The Travel Club Lounge in the Satellite Terminal of KLIA might be a good spot to work before your flight, but the subpar food and beverage offerings make it a poor choice for those seeking quality refreshments.