Travel

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In 2007, IHG decided to give the Holiday Inn brand a makeover, elevating its standards to a level that the customer of today wants. It is spending more than $1 billion to invest in the product, which includes overhauling every single Holiday Inn around the world — a process that is still ongoing.

The result aims to make the Holiday Inn brand appeal to a new generation of travelers, with special attention given to creating a more uniform experience across both new and existing properties.

The Holiday Inn dates back to 1952 and started as a pioneer in hotel services, offering new conveniences like free parking, free stays for children, swimming pools, and extra amenities like cribs and telephones. Today, these are all expected perks, so how can the new Holiday Inn stand out from the pack?

How to know if a Holiday Inn is renovated to new standards

If you’re staying in a renovated hotel with the new Holiday Inn experience, you can expect more open spaces, new open restaurant and bar concepts, adaptable meeting space and more modern accommodations.

The new open lobby combines the restaurant, bar and hotel concierge with more coworking space to create a lounge environment where people can gather outside of their room.

These updates are in line with what other hotels in the midscale/mid-tier, full-service category are doing.

Features in the new-concept guest rooms include:

  • A welcome nook with space for keys, a hook for coats and a charging port. The brand describes this as what many people may have in their own home’s entryway.

  • Moveable desks and the ability to work with a laptop or other device in many areas of the room rather than just at a single desk.

  • Upgraded bedding.

  • Blackout shades.

  • Upgraded shower facilities.

True to its origins, kids 11 and under still eat free in Holiday Inn restaurants, assuming an accompanying adult pays for a meal.

According to IHG, 50% of its hotels in the U.S. will be renovated by 2025 — with its first new-build prototype opening early next year as well.

In Europe, the majority of Holiday Inn hotels have completed the new open-lobby renovations. Another new amenity for European Holiday Inn hotels is a to-go coffee station, featuring Starbucks.

Push aside any previous thoughts you had about the brand. IHG’s efforts are meant to upgrade the brand to be full-service offerings that cater to a variety of travelers, not just families, roadside overnights or business travelers. While Holiday Inns may not be the most expensive in each destination, they are not meant to be a budget offering.

5 redesigned Holiday Inns worth a visit

1. Holiday Inn Resort Aruba-Beach Resort & Casino

(Photo courtesy of IHG)

The Holiday Inn Resort Aruba-Beach Resort & Casino now offers guests three pools, whirlpools, a spa, five restaurants and bars (including one on the beach), and a casino.

With nearly 600 rooms directly on Palm Beach, this property has been welcoming guests. It is one of 45 open Holiday Inn Resorts and nearly three dozen Holiday Inn Vacation Club properties around the world.

2. Holiday Inn Singapore Little India

(Photo courtesy of IHG)

In one of the city’s heritage districts, this 20-story hotel benefits from recent renovations and showcases the new open-plan lobby lounge design.

Business travelers appreciate its convenience to the Central Business District while leisure travelers will enjoy the pool and easy walking distance to dining and shops, many with Indian heritage.

3. Holiday Inn Paris – Gare de Lyon Bastille

(Photo courtesy of IHG)

This Holiday Inn could not be more Parisian with its belle époque facade (“beautiful age”), fitting right into the neighborhood.

It showcases the latest brand design with renovated guest rooms and an open-plan lobby. Want to get around the city by metro?

As its name suggests, the Gare de Lyon train station, a major hub for metro and express trains (RER), is just a short walk from the front door.

4. Holiday Inn Belfast City Centre

(Photo courtesy of IHG)

The Holiday Inn Belfast City Centre is well-positioned for touristic pursuits around Northern Ireland’s capital city. The property is close to public transportation options as well as the city’s entertainment and shopping districts.

Fans of “Game of Thrones” and Titanic history can earn IHG One Rewards points while visiting top attractions.

5. Holiday Inn Resort Orlando Lake Buena Vista

(Photo courtesy of IHG)

Just one mile from Walt Disney World Resort, this renovated resort has pools, whirlpools, an arcade, a splash pad and poolside activities like dive-in movies and ping pong.

Like other Holiday Inns around the world, kids eat free when their parents order a meal, which can be a budget-friendly move when paying for expensive theme park tickets.

How to earn elite status with IHG One Rewards

Cards with IHG elite status perks

IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card

on Chase’s website

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

on Chase’s website

IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card

on Chase’s website

Annual fee

Elite status perks

Includes automatic Silver Elite status.

Includes automatic Platinum Elite status.

Includes automatic Platinum Elite status.

Welcome offer

Earn 80,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.

Earn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Earn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Learn more

With elite status, you can earn bonus points during your stay (the number increases as your status moves up the chain) as well as other perks like room upgrades and late checkout.

Holiday Inn is not the same brand you may remember

With a $1 billion brand refresh that is making its way to Holiday Inns around the world, guests will find new lobby and guest room concepts, plus more food and beverage options than before.

As IHG repositions the brand to focus on full-service at a mid-tier price point, guests stand to benefit from the changes.

How to maximize your rewards

Source: nerdwallet.com

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Detroit is a Delta Air Lines hub through and through. As a result most of the lounges in the airport belong to the airline.

If you are not a SkyTeam flyer, there are some other options worth trying, but be sure to see where they are located as the two main terminals are not physically connected. This means it is only convenient to use the lounge in the terminal you are using although there is a shuttle that takes guests between them.

No matter whether you use Priority Pass, the American Express Global Lounge Collection, credit card lounge access or club membership, there are several Detroit airport lounges. As a result, it can be helpful to know what is available before your next flight.

About DTW lounges

McNamara Terminal: Delta Sky Clubs, Priority Pass

Lounges at Detroit Airport’s McNamara Terminal mostly serve SkyTeam passengers. There, you will find a suite of Delta Sky Clubs as well as a Minute Suites, which provides Priority Pass access.

Delta Sky Clubs

Regardless of which Delta Sky Club you access, rules for admittance stay the same.

  • Must present a boarding pass to enter.

  • Open to SkyTeam premium cabin and eligible elite status passengers.

  • Open to annual Sky Club members within three hours of departure (or any time if making a connection).

  • Open to certain Delta co-branded cardholders and Platinum-branded cardholders. See card options below.

Cards with Delta SkyClub access

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card

The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

Annual fee

Still not sure?

CONCOURSE A

Gate A18: Located across from Gate A18 on the second level of the Express Tram South Station. An open bar, Starbucks coffee station, hot and cold food buffet, and workstations where travelers can charge devices are all on tap here.

Gate A38: This is the largest Sky Club at the airport and also has the longest operating hours. Aside from the traditional workstations, food and beverage options and Starbucks coffee station, this lounge also has showers. It is the only Delta lounge at the airport to offer them.

Gate A43: This is yet another lounge option for Delta and SkyTeam passengers featuring an open bar, hot and cold food, workstations and a Starbucks coffee area.

Gate A68: Located across from Gate A68 on the second level of the Express Tram North Station. Like other Delta lounges in the airport, there is an open bar, hot and cold food buffet and plenty of workstations where travelers can charge devices. A Starbucks coffee station is also available.

CONCOURSE C

This is the only Delta lounge in Concourse C. It has a full-service bar plus a buffet of hot and cold items. One of its many features is a cozy fireplace, which is popular during the colder months. A Starbucks coffee station is also available.

Priority Pass lounges

Minute Suites

This is not a traditional lounge. Instead, it provides private rooms where guests can lie down on a bed, work or watch TV. It is a great option if you need some alone time and want to escape the busy terminal.

Be Relax Spa 1

  • Located near Starbucks at Gate A18. 

Be Relax Spa 2

  • Located between Johnston & Murphy and Vino Volo near Gate A46. 

  • Either location is open to anyone for a fee. Priority Pass cardholders receive relaxation services free of charge.

These are not traditional lounges. Anyone with a Priority Pass card can take advantage of several relaxation services. These include a 15-minute massage plus oxygen, a 30-minute massage, nail polish change and hand massage, or a chair massage plus oxygen.

Evans Terminal: Lufthansa, Priority Pass lounges

This terminal is on the other side of the airport and not connected to the McNamara Terminal. Here, visitors have two Priority Pass options, and Star Alliance flyers have access to a Lufthansa lounge.

Lufthansa Business Class and Senator Lounge

  • Located next to Gate D8.

  • Open to Priority Pass members during certain hours. It is also available to Lufthansa premium cabin passengers and those with eligible elite status. Star Alliance Gold members traveling on United plus United first class passengers and United Club members can also access this lounge.

  • This lounge is also part of the American Express Global Lounge Collection, which means you use an eligible credit card to gain access.

This lounge has a hot and cold food buffet (depending on time of day), an open bar, workstations and comfortable seating.

Anita’s Kitchen

  • Near Gate D23.

  • Open to anyone, but also to Priority Pass cardholders.

This is another non-traditional lounge. It is a Lebanese restaurant serving fresh salads, burgers and shawarma among other things. Priority Pass cardholders receive a $28 credit to use here.

Best Priority Pass cards

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

on Chase’s website

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Annual fee

Priority Pass benefits

• Full Priority Pass Select membership.

• Includes two guests per visit.

• Full Priority Pass Select membership.

• No limit on the number of guests allowed.

• No restaurants.

• Full Priority Pass Select membership.

• Includes two guests per visit.

• No restaurants.

Enrollment required. Terms apply.

• 10 complimentary Priority Pass lounge visits per year.

• No restaurants.

Terms apply.

Learn more

Plenty of variety from the lounges in Detroit Airport

Whether you want a place to lie down, to shower, to work, to eat or to relax, Detroit airport lounges have you covered. Not everyone has access to all of them, and it is wise to review your access options before arriving too early at the airport.

With a plethora of Delta Sky Clubs as well as several other options for Priority Pass members, and if you have access, the ideal Detroit airport lounge is available on your next trip.

To view rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card, see this page.
To view rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card, see this page.
To view rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express, see this page.
To view rates and fees of The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, see this page.

How to maximize your rewards

Source: nerdwallet.com

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The Priority Pass airport lounge program allows members access to over 1,500 airport lounges and restaurants worldwide. Two of those Priority Pass locations are at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas.

The airport has two separate terminal buildings, Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. There’s one Priority Pass lounge in each terminal, and you can move between the two terminals post-security by tram if you want.

The Club, which runs nearly two dozen airports around the U.S. (as well as a few in the U.K.) operates both lounges.

Whether you’ve got a flight delay, a long layover or just need to kill time before your flight, these two Priority Pass lounges in Las Vegas can be a nice place to hang out. There, you’ll find complimentary refreshments and a comfier seat than you’d likely find in the general terminal.

Here’s a guide to those two LAS Priority Pass lounges.

Where to find LAS Priority Pass lounges

The entrance to the lounge at Terminal 1. (Photo by Sally French)

The Club LAS, Terminal 1 (near Gate D33): This lounge is located after security on Level 2 of Terminal 1 near Gate D33.

You can also get to this lounge from Terminal 3, though you’ll have to first hop on the Red Line train. Budget 15-20 minutes of commute time (one-way) if you’re coming from Terminal 3.

The Club LAS, Terminal 3 (across from Gate E2): This lounge is located after security in Terminal 3 by Gate E2.

Just as you’d ride the Red Line train to get from Terminal 3 to Terminal 1, you’d board the same train in the opposite direction to get to this lounge from Terminal 1. Again, account for that same commute time.

What to expect inside the LAS Priority Pass lounges

Since The Club runs both Priority Pass lounges, expect similar quality furnishings, snacks and other amenities. Here’s a look inside the Terminal 1 version of the lounge:

Food

(Photo by Sally French)

Food at The Club is a mix of self-service buffet and made-to-order dishes. All the food inside is complimentary.

Crispy breaded cauliflower is served with a chimichurri aioli dipping sauce. (Photo by Sally French)

To order, you scan a QR code at your table or counter seat, which takes you to a website where you can choose from a variety of menu items. Choose as many dishes as you want — and order as many times as you want.

The Protein Bowl consists of roasted veggies topped with chicken, black beans, corn, pico de gallo and avocado. (Photo by Sally French)

Portion sizes are relatively small, so count on ordering at least a few plates if you’re seeking a full meal. Menu items include chicken tacos, soup, breaded cauliflower and a protein bowl.

Besides the made-to-order items, you can access a self-service buffet anytime.

(Photo by Sally French)

There, you’ll find tea and an espresso maker that whips up coffee beverages, including lattes and mochas.

(Photo by Sally French)

There’s also a salad bar and fruit.

Seating

The seating is varied, providing options for your lounge activity of choice — whether that’s snoozing, dining or getting work done. One room, which is separated from the food, features couches and chairs with footrests that might accommodate a more comfortable nap.

(Photo by Sally French)

Counter seating makes it possible to get work done. There are a good number of power outlets. Plus, Wi-Fi is free.

(Photo by Sally French)

There’s a good amount of seating, but this lounge can sometimes get packed. Occasionally, there’s even a waitlist to get in.

Accessing Priority Pass lounges in Las Vegas

You could theoretically get in to both Las Vegas Priority Pass locations in a single day, and you could bring a friend. Here’s what you need to know about admission and guest policies.

How to get in to the LAS Priority Pass lounges

Many people access these two lounges by purchasing Priority Pass membership, which typically costs from $99 to $469 a year. That said, you can score complimentary membership through many premium travel credit cards.

Top cards with Priority Pass

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card

U.S. Bank Altitude™ Reserve Visa Infinite® Card

Annual fee

Priority Pass benefits

Priority Pass Select membership. Enrollment required.

Terms apply.

Priority Pass Select membership. Enrollment required.

Terms apply.

10 complimentary Priority Pass lounge visits per year. Enrollment required.

Terms apply.

Eight free Priority Pass lounge visits per year.

Learn more

Both LAS Priority Pass lounges are located airside (past the security checkpoint); you’ll need your membership, a same-day boarding pass and a valid ID to get past security and in to a lounge.

Can I bring a friend?

Children under age two are admitted free. For everyone else, the ability to bring a guest depends on the terms of your Priority Pass membership.

  • Membership: If you purchased membership through Priority Pass, you’ll typically need to pay $35 to bring a guest with you.

  • Card perks: If you have membership through a credit card, you might be able to bring a guest or two for free. For example, Chase Sapphire Reserve® members can bring up to two guests for free. Check the terms of your credit card so see if guests are included.

  • Day passes: Anyone can purchase a day pass for either of the two lounges, which typically costs $50. With a day pass, you can enter up to three hours before your scheduled flight departure.

Other Las Vegas airport lounges to know

The Club LAS lounges aren’t the only lounges at the Las Vegas airport. And in fact, they’re far from the best.

But The Club lounges rank among the easiest to get in to — especially if you have a credit card that offers Priority Pass.

Travel credit cards can offer all sorts of value, ranging from the ability to earn bonus points to travel insurance coverage for purchases made on the card. And given the complimentary food and drinks you can nosh on at Priority Pass lounges like these, premium travel credit cards can make waiting in airports just a little bit better.

To view rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express, see this page.
To view rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, see this page.
To view rates and fees of the Hilton Honors American Express Card, see this page.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024, including those best for:

Source: nerdwallet.com

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Budget travelers rejoice. Just in time for summer travel to really kick off, major U.S. low-cost carriers Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines made big pricing updates and dropping change and cancellation fees.

Frontier and Spirit offer low base fares, but any add-ons for basic amenities like seat selection or carry-on luggage come at a price. The total cost sometimes rivals other full-service airlines. And until now, changes and cancellations have also come at a steep cost.

This move follows a growing trend in the airline industry in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Previously, Southwest was one of the only domestic airlines not to charge any change fees. But big airlines like American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines all stopped charging change fees on most domestic flights (with the exception of basic economy fares) during the pandemic. Now budget airlines are following suit.

Here’s what you need to know about these pricing updates.

Frontier Airlines pricing update

Frontier overhauled its pricing and services, including eliminating change fees for most fares and offering new ticket options with included benefits.

Four fare classes

Here’s a breakdown of their newly defined fare options, all presented upfront when you book:

  • Basic Fare: For budget-conscious travelers, this option includes a personal item for your essentials. Additional amenities can be purchased if needed, providing flexibility.

  • Economy Class: Offers a carry-on bag and a standard seat assignment, balancing affordability and convenience.

  • Premium Class: Offers preferred seat selection (subject to availability), a carry-on bag and priority boarding with guaranteed overhead bin space.

  • Business Class: Offers extra legroom and comfort in UpFront Plus seating (when available), including a guaranteed empty middle seat. This fare also includes a carry-on bag, two checked bags with a higher 50-pound weight limit and priority boarding with guaranteed overhead bin space.

No change or cancellation fees

Frontier eliminated change and cancellation fees for most fares (Economy, Premium, and Business) to give travelers more flexibility.

Moving forward, you won’t pay any fees to change your ticket or itinerary, however you’ll be responsible for any difference in price between your original ticket and the new fare. You will not get a refund or travel credit if your new fare is lower. This also applies to any changes you make with optional add-ons.

🤓Nerdy Tip

If the new fare you are looking at is lower than the original fare, consider canceling your itinerary instead of changing it. By canceling, you’ll receive a travel credit good for up to 12 months, versus forfeiting the difference in price.

“For Less” price guarantee

Frontier also announced a new “For Less” price guarantee, promising customers 2,500 miles if they find a cheaper flight on the same route and date after booking with Frontier.

To claim your 2,500 miles under the “For Less” guarantee, fill out the claim form within 48 hours of booking your Frontier flight if you find a cheaper option elsewhere meeting specific criteria (same route, dates, travel type). Miles are awarded after your qualifying Frontier flight.

See Frontier’s website for full details and restrictions.

Spirit Airlines pricing update

Following Frontier’s announcement of these big changes, Spirit Airlines dropped change and cancellation fees for individual bookings. Before this change, fees ranged anywhere from $69 to $119 depending on the fare class and how close to departure the change was made.

Now, changes can be made up to one hour before scheduled departure. Canceled fares will receive a reservation credit, valid for one year.

Spirit hasn’t made sweeping changes to its pricing like Frontier, but there could be more updates to the passenger experience down the road. For now, the airline’s basic flying experience remains the same. While change and cancellation fees are gone, you can still expect to pay extra for checked bags and seat selection.

(Top photo courtesy of Frontier Airlines)

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024, including those best for:

Source: nerdwallet.com

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Dollar Car Rental and Thrifty Car Rental joined the Hertz brand in 2012 when the Hertz Corporation acquired the two rental car agencies.

Both companies primarily serve cost-conscious leisure and business travelers, so if you’re choosing between Dollar versus Thrifty, you might want to know which one would serve your needs better. So, let’s get this show(down) on the road.

Availability

Winner: Thrifty

In addition to 330 corporate locations in the U.S. and Europe, Dollar has more than 600 additional franchised locations in about 65 countries and maintains a strong presence in almost every U.S. and Canadian airport. You also can find Dollar rental car locations in major European destinations as well as some Asian cities.

Even so, Thrifty’s footprint is bigger. It has a presence at major tourist cities in Europe, while its 340 corporate locations are on par with Dollar, it also offers 1,000 franchised locations in 95 countries overall. So, in terms of availability, Thrifty wins this round.

Winner: Dollar

To determine which car company provides the most affordable rates when comparing Thrifty versus Dollar, we checked similar car-type rental prices in smaller and larger markets. We searched for a mid-size car (Toyota Corolla, Chevrolet Cruze or similar) for a one-day and a one-week rental in September 2024 at the following airports:

Rental Length

Dollar Rate

Thrifty Rate

Tampa International Airport

One-day rental.

Seven-day rental.

San Francisco International Airport

One-day rental.

Seven-day rental.

Harry Reid International Airport

One-day rental.

Seven-day rental.

Indianapolis International Airport

One-day rental.

Seven-day rental.

Boston Logan International Airport

One-day rental.

Seven-day rental.

In our search examples above, Thrifty offered more favorable rates only in one case — a weekly rental at Indianapolis International Airport. So Dollar rentals are typically cheaper than equivalent rentals at Thrifty.

🤓Nerdy Tip

In some cases, a weekly rate didn’t necessarily offer the best daily rate with either company, so we recommend doing some math when searching for a rental car for your travels.

Winner: Dollar

According to the J.D. Power 2023 North America Rental Car Satisfaction Study, Dollar and Thrifty are ranked the lowest of all car rental companies, based on responses from more than 8,500 travelers who rented a vehicle from an airport location between August 2022 and August 2023.

Of 1,000 possible points, Dollar and Thrifty scored 817 and 808, respectively. Having said that, the highest-ranked company, Enterprise, scored an 866, so Dollar and Thrifty aren’t that far behind when it comes to overall customer satisfaction.

Loyalty program

Winner: Tie

The two car rental company’s loyalty programs are practically identical, so this round ends in a tie.

Dollar Express Rewards

Dollar Express Rewards, Dollar’s loyalty program, is free to join for drivers 18 years of age and older. The program offers a free additional driver (spouse or domestic partner), quicker pick-up and returns and free rental days.

The rewards structure is quite simple. You earn 1 point per dollar spent on the rental. Free rental days start at 500 points on weekends and at 625 points on weekdays. Only compact, mid-size, standard or full-size vehicles at Dollar locations in the United States or Canada qualify for a rewards redemption.

Dollar Express Rewards members can save 15% off a weekly or weekend rental by providing a member-only promo code at the time of booking.

Dollar Express Rewards points don’t expire as long as you rent a car once every 24 months.

Blue Chip Rewards

Blue Chip Rewards members can earn points on car rentals at Thrifty locations in the United States and Canada only. Drivers 18 and older can join Thrifty’s loyalty program for free.

As a Blue Chip Rewards member, you’ll earn 1 point per dollar spent on the rental to redeem for free days in a compact through full-size vehicle. You can redeem as few as 500 points for a free weekend rental day. Additionally, you qualify for a 15% discount off the base rate when you pay later and not when making the reservation.

Blue Chip Rewards points don’t expire with qualifying rental activity at least once every 24 months.

Thrifty vs. Dollar Car rental, recapped

When comparing Dollar versus Thrifty car rental agencies, you’ll find them to be quite similar. Both are part of Hertz Corporation, both run almost identical loyalty programs and both are ranked similarly in the customer satisfaction survey.

However, Dollar seems to overtake Thrifty when it comes to lower rates, which is likely to appeal to budget travelers. It also has slightly better customer satisfaction ratings. However, Thrifty rental locations are available in more destinations than Dollar, so your decision may be made for you.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024, including those best for:

Source: nerdwallet.com

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Pride month is approaching in the U.S., typically celebrated in June. But Pride events aren’t confined to a single 30-day period. Because these events are often tied to a region’s history of LGBTQ+ equal rights movements, they happen at different times in locations around the globe.

If you want to branch out from attending Pride locally (or celebrate beyond June), consider booking a trip to visit one of these six LGBTQ+ events around the world.

1. MemDay Weekend Women’s Festival in Provincetown, Massachusetts (May 23-27)

Commercial Street is Provincetown’s main drag, dotted with shops, bars and performance venues. (Photo courtesy of Getty Images)

A historic artist colony and top LGBTQ+ destination, the picturesque Provincetown, Massachusetts is known for celebrating individuality and free expression. Ptown, as it’s called locally, hosts several LGBTQ+ events throughout the year, including MemDay Weekend Women’s Festival, celebrating LGBTQ+ women and nonbinary and transgender individuals.

MemDay happens at the end of May, just before the start of Pride Month. It’s put on by LesbianNightLife, which calls MemDay the largest lesbian takeover in the country.

Events at MemDay Ptown include the MoonLit Pool Party and the Freedom Boat Cruise. If you’re single, there’s a ticket called the Single & Social Pass, which includes speed dating, a coffee meetup and a singles tea dance.

Provincetown is easily accessible to visitors from out of town. Travelers can take a 1.5-hour ferry ride from Boston to Provincetown for $108-$120 round-trip.

2. Berlin Pride (June 28-July 28)

There are few better places to dance and be your full self than Berlin, a global center for clubbing and queer life. (Photo courtesy of Getty Images)

Berlin Pride is an excellent option if you’re looking for a Pride event with an eclectic mix of people who’ll keep you dancing all day and night. Berlin, Germany’s capital city, is known for its acceptance of gay, lesbian and queer people.

“What makes Berlin Pride great is its inclusive nature — Berlin is by definition a space that embraces and welcomes the alternative,” said Jason Lindo, a California native who previously lived in Berlin, in a text message.

One of the highlights of Berlin Pride is the Christopher Day Street Parade, where up to 750,000 people parade across the city. Berlin Pride is focused on more than just fun, though. Organizers also spearhead a political campaign and publish demands each year.

June and July are some of the most popular months to travel to Europe, so to save on flights across the pond, consider booking a cheap flight to a nearby destination. There are plenty of budget airlines and trains that can help you get to Berlin if you find a cheap transatlantic flight to another European city. Intra-Europe award flights can also be relatively inexpensive.

3. Amsterdam Pride (Aug. 2-4)

Folks crowd Amsterdam’s iconic canals for the annual Pride parade of boats. (Photo courtesy of Getty Images)

The International LGBT+ Travel Association calls Amsterdam Pride “one of the greatest gay events in the world.” It features street parties, circuit dance parties and the main event: a parade of boats through Amsterdam’s famous canals, which are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Dave Saunders is a British expat living in Los Angeles who attended Amsterdam Pride in 2023.

“Amsterdam Pride is great because it’s unique — the parade is held on the canals, and the Pride floats are barges. The sides of the canals are covered in throngs of people celebrating and cheering on the barges,” he said in a text message.

If you want to plan ahead for a landmark version of Amsterdam Pride, mark your calendar, as Amsterdam will be hosting WorldPride 2026.

4. Taiwan Pride (Oct. 24-27)

Party it up, but be sure to explore all the attractions and nature that Taipei and its surroundings have to offer. (Photo courtesy of Getty Images)

Taiwan Pride is the largest LGBTQ+ Pride event in East Asia, with an estimated 176,000 people joining the 2023 march, according to the Taipei Times. It’s not surprising that Taiwan Pride attracts such a large crowd, as Taiwan became the first place in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage in 2019.

While you could easily spend your entire trip at Taiwan Pride, there are also plenty of free hikes and other attractions in Taipei to keep you busy.

“If you’re visiting Taipei for Taiwan Pride, be sure to check out Elephant Mountain, an easily accessible hike that offers views of the Taipei skyline, including Taipei 101,” said David Chou, an American based in San Diego who has been to multiple Taiwan Prides, in a text message.

5. Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras (February/March)

U.S. travelers can get an off-season Pride experience in Sydney at the annual Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. (Photo courtesy of Getty Images)

Australia’s largest LGTBQ+ celebration is Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, an annual event that lasts about two weeks in February and March. The timing works well for U.S.-based travelers looking for a warm-weather getaway in the winter because Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras falls during the end of summer in the Southern Hemisphere. Plus, there’s enough time between now and next year’s event to start collecting points or miles to book an award flight to Australia.

Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras is big in size and star power. This year, the event’s signature parade included 12,500 marchers, 200 floats and 250,000 spectators. Mardi Gras has also featured some of the world’s top musicians, with past performers including Dua Lipa, Cher, Sam Smith and Kylie Minogue.

If you want to add some time on the beach to your Sydney Mardi Gras experience, check out the Bondi Beach Party — a dance party for 15,000 revelers on Bondi Beach

6. Cape Town Pride in South Africa (March)

The natural beauty of Cape Town, South Africa — including Lion’s Head mountain — gives travelers visiting for Pride plenty to explore. (Photo courtesy of Getty Images)

While smaller than the other events listed — just over 3,000 individuals took part in Cape Town’s parade earlier this year — Cape Town Pride is notable as a rare celebration of LGBTQ+ Pride in Africa. Homosexuality is still illegal in more than 30 African countries, according to Amnesty International.

When you’re not taking part in Pride activities, be sure to check out some inexpensive Cape Town highlights, including hiking Lion’s Head, visiting the penguins at Boulders Beach and enjoying a beach day at Camps Bay.

Ways to save on travel to LGBTQ+ events

While many Pride parades are free, the travel and other LGBTQ+-friendly events may not be. Here are some ways to save while celebrating:

  • Look for Pride Month hotel packages. Some hotels offer discounted rates and extra perks like a welcome gift or a free bottle of wine.

  • Book early. Some of the paid events for Pride Month and other LGBTQ+ celebrations offer early bird discounts if you buy tickets ahead of time.

  • Use points and miles to cover the costs of flights and hotels. If you spend on a travel credit card, you might be able to use points or miles, instead of cash, to help cover your travel costs.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024, including those best for:

Source: nerdwallet.com

Apache is functioning normally

Airbnb’s CEO Brian Chesky has gone full Willy Wonka.

I was watching him at a live press event, describing the company’s over-the-top new “Icon” experiences. This program includes a full-scale replica of the colorful house from the Pixar film “Up,” which his team lifted over the New Mexico desert with an enormous crane.

Chesky explained that regular houses can’t be lifted like that, so a special team of structural engineers had been hired to make sure the replica wouldn’t break apart on liftoff.

The flying “Up” house won’t make money for Airbnb or its shareholders anytime soon. It can be booked for $0 by fans who write the most compelling notes for why they want to stay there. All eligible entrants will be placed into a drawing, with up to 20% chosen at random as finalists.

From there, Airbnb has partnered with a third-party company to review answers. The “winners” will be notified of their successful booking with — you guessed it — a golden ticket.

I was ready to dismiss Chesky’s Wonka-ish stunts as the fever dream of a billionaire who had grown profoundly tired of dealing with his platform’s real-world problems, including restrictive local regulations, guest horror stories and the proliferation of corporate megahosts.

But then he said something that struck a nerve in my cold, cynical heart.

“As life becomes increasingly digital, what we’re focused on is creating more magic in the real world,” Chesky said. “The best way to experience Icons is not on a screen, it’s not even in a presentation — it’s in real life.”

It’s true. The best thing about Airbnbs is that they are real things in the real world — not images or reels shared by strangers in the digital swamp. At its best, Airbnb offers an antidote to social media: meaningful in-person connections with family and friends.

And that’s why we get so annoyed when it falls short of its potential.

My rom-com relationship with Airbnb

Yet, like the protagonist in a romantic comedy, all my complaining about Chesky’s short-term rental platform veils an obvious truth: I actually love it.

I’m not alone. The short-term rental industry, which Airbnb dominates, nearly doubled its share of the lodging market between 2018 and 2023, according to a 2023 report from AirDNA, a short-term rental analytics company, and STR, a hospitality industry analytics service.

Far from the “Airbnbust” some predicted, vacation rentals are more popular than ever.

As Chesky explained his reasons for meticulously re-creating a computer-generated movie in the real world, it became clear why we’re all so invested in the platform and harbor such strong feelings about it.

We yearn to connect with real people in real houses.

Reflecting on my favorite memories with family and friends over the last decade, so many stories begin with, “Remember that time at the Airbnb when …” Even my not-so-great Airbnb rental experiences — like when my friends and I cowered in the basement all night to avoid a loose bat — become treasured tales of mutual hardship.

Lost in the media hoopla around Chesky’s flying house was a quieter product launch: new tools to help groups find and book properties together, including shared wishlists and trip invitations. It’s clear that Chesky’s heart is in the right place, and he knows what Airbnb can be at its best. But the pressure of earning profits has clouded that vision.

The profit pickle

Less than two decades ago, Chesky and his co-founders created Airbnb as a way to solve two parallel problems:

  • Many people had guest bedrooms and vacation homes that, much of the time, went unused. 

  • Many travelers were looking for affordable lodging options beyond hotels. 

By setting adventurous travelers up with otherwise unused spaces, the platform was creating a win-win situation. Guests got what they wanted and hosts earned some extra money to pay their mortgages.

Then, an unfortunate thing happened: Airbnb became extraordinarily popular.

More than 1.5 billion guests have now checked into Airbnb properties, according to the company — more than 18% of the entire world population. This success has bred a new kind of Airbnb host, one who wasn’t interested in sharing a basement room for a few bucks: institutional investors.

More than 30% of short-term rental listings in the U.S. are now listed by hosts with 21 or more properties, according to May 2023 data provided by AirDNA. That’s compared with 26% of listings from single-property hosts.

From a business standpoint, this all makes sense. There’s money to be made in buying single-family homes and converting them into short-term rentals, so that’s what has (and will continue) to happen. But for those of us who see Airbnb as a way to connect with friends and family, it’s a catastrophe.

“Saturday Night Live” recently skewered the “bland, generic, downright uninviting” interior design of these megahost properties, but it’s about more than uninspired wall art. It’s hard to make meaningful memories in a home that doesn’t feel like a home.

Holding out hope

At some level, I think Chesky wishes he could put the Airbnb genie back in the bottle (though probably not his fortune) and go back to the days when it was making life more enjoyable for backpacking cheapskates.

That won’t happen anytime soon, so he has turned his attention to more interesting projects, like making houses fly.

I still think Airbnb can be better.

By regulating itself (rather than putting the onus on local governments), the platform could limit how many properties a host can run and give preferential treatment to real hosts listing real homes. It could also do more to build and support local communities rather than extract maximum profit from them.

Chesky may have moved on to shinier toys, but I’m still rooting for Airbnb.

(Top photo courtesy of Airbnb)

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024, including those best for:

Source: nerdwallet.com

Apache is functioning normally

Everybody loves a relaxing vacation, but the chaotic nature of an airport terminal can induce anxiety in even the most zen of travelers. Loudspeaker announcements, beeping golf carts and crying children create a cacophony — wouldn’t it be nice to wait for your flight in a peaceful environment instead? Enter airport lounges.

Hanging out in an airport lounge before a trip or on a long layover can enhance your travel experience by a mile. And these havens aren’t just for those flying in fancy cabins.

What are airport lounges?

Airport lounges are quiet areas inside the terminal where passengers can relax before a flight or during a layover, eat snacks, work using the lounge’s Wi-Fi network, and sometimes even shower. Typically only paying members, passengers flying in business or first class, or cardholders of certain travel cards are allowed access. Here’s how to get in to airport lounges.

How to get in to airport lounges

There are six ways to get access to airport lounges.

1. Fly in a premium cabin

One of the most reliable ways to get airport lounge access is to fly in first or business class (typically on international routes and select transcontinental flights). This may sound like an expensive way to access a lounge, but if you purchase your flight with airline miles, your ticket still grants you entry to a lounge — either the one for your carrier or for one of its partners.

2. Reach elite status with an airline loyalty program

Frequent flyers are typically rewarded for their loyalty, and if you fly enough with one carrier or multiple carriers in the same alliance, you can enter airline lounges when flying on select routes.

For example, Executive Platinum, Platinum Pro or Platinum elite members of the American Airlines AAdvantage program can enter an Admirals Club on departure or arrival on qualifying international flights operated by American or Oneworld partners, even if they fly economy — and they can bring one guest with them.

Additionally, if you reach status with an alliance, which usually requires earning status with a specific airline, you’re able to get free airport lounge access when flying on a member airline.

3. Purchase a day pass

Another option for accessing an airport lounge is to pay for it.

United Airlines sells one-time passes that allow you to enter a United Club a single time, either before your flight or on a layover. Alaska Airlines also sells single-entry passes to passengers wishing to enter an Alaska Lounge. American Airlines sells day passes that are valid for 24 hours and allow you to enter multiple Admirals Clubs within that period.

Here’s how much airline lounge access will cost you with the following carriers:

  • Alaska — $60.

  • American — $79 or 7,900 AAdvantage miles.

  • United — $59.

Delta Air Lines no longer sells single-visit passes to Delta Sky Clubs, and annual membership is available to Medallion members only, meaning holding certain credit cards is the only way to access Delta lounges for general SkyMiles members (more on that later).

4. Purchase an annual membership

If you’re a frequent traveler, buying an annual lounge membership instead of repeatedly buying day passes can make sense. Of course, the value will depend on how often you fly with that specific airline.

Let’s take a look at how much an annual airline lounge membership will cost for individual, non-elite status flyers.

  • Alaska — $550.

  • American — $850 or 85,000 AAdvantage miles.

  • Delta — $695 or 69,500 SkyMiles.

  • United — $650 or 85,000 MileagePlus miles.

So, for example, if you’re going to fly round-trip with United six times in a year (12 individual flights), buying a day pass to the lounge each time would cost you $708 total ($59 x 12); an annual membership at $650 would be a better deal.

5. Present your military ID

Sometimes, being a military member can get you access to airport lounges. For example, the USO airport lounges are designed for active-duty service members and their families who are stationed around the globe.

Additionally, some airline lounges, like Admirals Clubs, offer complimentary access to U.S. military personnel in uniform traveling on American Airlines flights. United also provides complimentary access to U.S. military personnel at its United Club locations.

6. Open a credit card with airport lounge access

Many premium cards on the market offer some kind of lounge access to cardmembers. Premium co-branded airline cards typically offer access to the respective airlines’ lounges, and bank cards typically offer access to their own lounges and to lounges in the Priority Pass network.

Travel cards that give you lounge access

Let’s take a look at some of the best credit cards with lounge access.

Co-branded airline credit cards

Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®

By paying the $595 annual fee for the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®, you get access to the Admirals Club without having to pay the annual membership (a $255 savings), plus you get all of the other cardmember perks.

Standout perks include getting the first checked bag free for up to nine passengers booked on the same reservation, Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit of up to $100 every four years, a 25% savings on in-flight purchases, and the opportunity to earn AAdvantage miles on purchases made with the card.

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card offers access to Delta Sky Clubs for primary cardmembers and holders of four annual one-time guest passes (in conjunction with a same-day Delta ticket). As of Feb. 1, 2025, Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card holders will get a total of 15 Sky Club Passes per year. Terms apply.

Additionally, the card offers access to The Centurion Lounges by American Express, but access comes with restrictions. First, you must be flying that day with Delta, and second, you must have paid for the flight with an American Express card. A cardmember may bring up to two guests to The Centurion Lounges for $50 per person ($30 per child ages 2-17). Terms apply.

United Club℠ Infinite Card

The United Club℠ Infinite Card is a premium co-branded United card that comes with United Club membership for the primary cardholder and eligible guests (two adult guests, or one adult and dependent children under the age of 21).

You must be flying United or a Star Alliance partner to access United Clubs.

United Club℠ Infinite Card

NerdWallet Rating

Annual fee

$525

General travel cards

The Platinum Card® from American Express

As a cardmember, you can access the following airport lounges:

  • Airspace Lounge.

  • Delta Sky Club (when flying Delta).

  • Escape Lounge.

  • Lufthansa Business Lounge (regardless of ticket class when flying with Lufthansa, Swiss International Air Lines or Austrian Airlines).

  • Lufthansa Senator Lounge (when flying business class with Lufthansa, Swiss International Air Lines or Austrian Airlines).

  • Plaza Premium Lounge.

  • Priority Pass Select (enrollment required).

  • The Centurion Lounge.

As of Feb. 1, 2025, Sky Club access for The Platinum Card® from American Express members will be reduced to 10 visits per year, unless your yearly purchases on the card total $75,000 or more. And if you do spend that much on The Platinum Card® from American Express, you’ll receive complimentary access for up to two guests to Centurion Lounges. Otherwise, the Centurion Lounges charge a guest fee of $50 per adult and $30 per child ages 2-17. Terms apply.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

When it comes to free airport lounge access, travelers who hold the Chase Sapphire Reserve® card have fewer options than those who hold other cards, but there are still a couple of options. With this credit card, you can enter the following lounges at no extra cost:

  • Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club.

  • Priority Pass Select.

Although only four Chase Sapphire Airport Lounges are currently open, the network is expanding. To gain access to these lounges, you must activate your Priority Pass Select membership, which includes access to more than 1,500 airport lounges around the world. Up to two guests are allowed for free.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

  • Capital One Lounge.

  • Plaza Premium Lounge.

  • Priority Pass Select lounges.

Capital One Lounge locations are at just a few U.S. airports at the moment. Primary cardholders have unlimited access and can bring up to two guests. Entry for additional guests costs $45 each.

How the cards compare

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

on Chase’s website

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Annual fee

Welcome offer

Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Terms Apply.

Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

Still not sure?

Which banks offer airport lounge access?

Several banks offer card options with airport lounge access. If you’re looking for a card that includes lounge access as one of the benefits, consider the following credit card issuers.

American Express

As mentioned, The Platinum Card® from American Express offers lots of lounge options for travelers seeking some peace and quiet. However, if you don’t want to pay a high annual fee, we recommend the American Express® Green Card. It comes with an up-to-$100 statement credit for LoungeBuddy purchases. Terms apply.

LoungeBuddy, a lounge booking platform, sells limited-time access to select lounges in airports around the world. Depending on the airport, you might be able to get a couple of one-times passes with your annual credit.

Capital One

Capital One offers lounge access with its premium Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card. Cardholders receive complimentary Priority Pass Select membership, Plaza Premium Lounge access, and unlimited access to Capital One’s own Capital One Lounges.

Chase

For general travelers, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® card is going to offer the most convenient lounge access with its Priority Pass Select membership and access to the Chase Sapphire Lounges.

United flyers will find what they need with co-branded United cards. As we’ve discussed, the United Club℠ Infinite Card offers unlimited United Club access to primary cardholders, but if you’re a casual traveler, the United℠ Explorer Card will do the job. It comes with two one-time United Club passes every card membership year, so you can use it twice or enter once with a guest.

United℠ Explorer Card

NerdWallet Rating

Annual fee

$0 intro for the first year, then $95

Citibank

Though the Citi Prestige® Card is no longer open for new applications, those who currently hold it can take advantage of Priority Pass Select perks.

American Airlines flyers will enjoy unlimited Admirals Club access with the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®.

U.S. Bank

How to get airport lounge access recapped

Leave the crowded gates behind you and head to an airport lounge to wait out the layover. There are many ways to gain entry, even for passengers sitting in economy cabins — and you might be able to treat your travel companions to some peace and quiet as well.

Credit card memberships, elite status and lounge passes can transport you from a chaotic airport terminal to a serene lounge, making your next connection less stressful.

To view rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express, see this page.
To view rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card, see this page.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024, including those best for:

Source: nerdwallet.com

Apache is functioning normally

Nashville is one of the most popular destinations for live music and bachelorette parties. With its growing popularity, Nashville International Airport (BNA) had more than 20 million passengers fly through its airport in 2023.

If you’re considering a visit to “Music City,” relax and enjoy extra amenities at one of the Nashville airport lounges before heading out. Learn more about the airport lounges at BNA, what they offer and how you gain access to them.

About Nashville airport lounges

BNA is a hub for Southwest Airlines, which isn’t known for offering premium benefits like airport lounges. However, BNA is serviced by numerous domestic and international airlines, so there are lounges at Nashville Airport that travelers can enjoy.

Most lounges are restricted to passengers of specific airlines, but Priority Pass options are also available to all travelers, regardless of carrier.

🤓Nerdy Tip

While you can buy a Priority Pass membership, many premium travel credit cards include Priority Pass memberships or day passes as a complimentary benefit.

The airport is divided into four concourses, depending on which airline you’re flying. Passengers can walk between concourses to take advantage of its lounge options.

Concourse A: No lounges

You won’t find any lounges in BNA’s Concourse A. Though this concourse serves a variety of airlines — including Alaska Airlines and United Airlines, which do operate their own lounges at other airports — none offer a Nashville airport lounge.

If your gate is in this part of the airport, walk to one of the other concourses to access an eligible lounge.

Concourse B: Delta Sky Club

When flying out of Concourse B, the only Nashville Airport lounge available is the Delta Sky Club, which recently completed a renovation to almost quadruple in size.

Delta Sky Club

  • Located near Gate B3.

  • Boarding pass is required for entry.

  • Open to eligible Delta passengers and SkyTeam travelers, as well as certain card holders.

The Delta Sky Club lounge in Nashville Airport recently underwent a renovation that finished in 2022. The renovation added over 10,000 square feet and nearly 200 seats for guests to enjoy. It offers complimentary Wi-Fi plus premium food, spirits and liquor at no charge, including an extensive assortment of regional whiskies, bourbons and ryes.

Guests can enter this Nashville airport lounge up to three hours prior to departure time. However, passengers with basic economy tickets do not have access to the lounge.

Travelers with Delta Medallion elite status also receive free entry when traveling internationally on an eligible ticket, like Delta One or similar class on a partner airline.

Concourse C: American Airlines Admirals Club and Priority Pass restaurant

There are two lounges at Nashville Airport in Concourse C. The first is the American Airlines Admirals Club lounge, which is primarily for passengers flying on American Airlines, and the other is a Priority Pass restaurant.

While many premium credit cards offer Priority Pass benefits, there are only two currently available that include dining credits.

American Airlines Admirals Club

  • Located near Gate C15.

  • Must present a boarding pass to enter.

  • Open to eligible American Airlines passengers and Oneworld travelers and certain American Airlines-branded card holders.

Visitors to the Admirals Club from American Airlines receive complimentary Wi-Fi, food and drinks during their stay. This Nashville airport lounge also offers a full-service bar where guests can order premium food and drinks for an extra fee.

Complimentary admission is available to travelers on American Airlines and Oneworld flights with Admirals Club membership, ConciergeKey members and AirPass members with Admirals Club® privileges.

American Airlines also extends club access to Oneworld elite status Emerald and Sapphire members on any American or Oneworld flight.

If you don’t qualify based on the other methods, one-day passes can be purchased for $79 or 7,900 AAdvantage miles if there’s space available.

This fee is waived for active duty military traveling in uniform and their immediate family (or two guests) when flying on American Airlines.

400 Degrees Hot Chicken

  • Located near Gate C19

  • Available for all travelers, but must show a boarding pass to use Priority Pass benefits.

One of Nashville’s most popular dishes is hot chicken, and it’s now available at the airport. Travelers can test the strength of their stomach with spicy chicken or choose from any number of breakfast, lunch and dinner options. 400 Degrees Hot Chicken also serves craft cocktails, beer and other drinks.

This restaurant is open to the public, but eligible Priority Pass members receive $28 per person in dining credits. Some cardholders are grandfathered in, but the only cards that include Priority Pass restaurant benefits that are open to new applicants are the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and Capital One Venture X Business.

If your card is eligible, you must activate your Priority Pass membership before you can redeem the credits.

Concourse D: Priority Pass and USO

You’ll find limited Nashville airport lounges in Concourse D. Minute Suites is a Priority Pass lounge that is also available to the general public. Plus, the USO offers active duty military and their families a place to relax and enjoy light snacks.

Minute Suites

  • Located near Gate D3.

  • No boarding pass is required for entry.

  • Open to all travelers. Eligible Priority Pass members receive one hour free.

Minute Suites offers five private retreats for travelers to escape from the noise and hustle of the airport. Although this Nashville airport lounge doesn’t offer showers, guests can nap, watch TV, work or take calls in their dedicated space.

Rooms include free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, a workstation and a comfortable daybed. Unlike other lounges, complimentary drinks and food are not included. However, Minute Suites offers a limited assortment of drinks, snacks and travel essentials for sale.

Travelers can enter Minute Suites Nashville by renting rooms by the hour or in 15-minute increments. Walk-ups are accepted, or you can reserve a room online. Prices start at $55 for one hour of $13.75 for each 15-minute increment.

On-site discounts are available for flight crews and active military. Eligible Priority Pass members receive one hour for free, and additional time is charged a discounted $34 per hour.

USO Lounge

  • Located near Gate D1.

  • No boarding pass is required for entry.

  • Restricted to active duty military and their families.

USO Lounges are reserved for active duty military and their families to relax before or after a flight. The USO Lounge at Nashville airport offers complimentary coffee, snacks, Wi-Fi, television and video games. Space is limited, so this lounge restricts its capacity to just 40 guests at a time.

Final thoughts on the lounges at Nashville Airport

While BNA is a smaller regional airport, it offers airport lounges from two major carriers plus two Priority Pass options.

The Nashville airport lounges are an excellent way to enjoy complimentary drinks, food, Wi-Fi and entertainment if your flight, elite status or credit card benefits provide access.

To view rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card, see this page.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024, including those best for:

Source: nerdwallet.com