Over the sea and back again

I started a long journey recently to Tokyo at Dublin, for a change, largely because the fare was worth a hop across the Irish Sea for!  Whilst Dublin’s Terminal 2 looks very shiny and new, unfortunately I was travelling from Terminal 1 which, to be honest, felt like I’d stepped back in time by 20 years.

I might have been spoiled of late by connecting over the Middle East hubs in Dubai and Doha, but even by UK standards I felt Dublin was a little lacking; people were super friendly, as you’d expect, but the facilities were all a bit tired and the retail offer in T1 seemed to mostly consist of duty free, electronics and food outlets, and just left me feeling a bit underwhelmed.

I was fortunate to be flying business class with Finnair so this gave me access to a business lounge at Dublin after a speedy check in and bag drop, in a quiet check in area. The lounge wasn't a dedicated airline one unfortunately. This one was operated by the airport. Similarly, the lounge at T1 in Dublin is a bit substandard and, to be honest, I find myself often underwhelmed in airport lounges, (plaza premium in LHR T4 I’m looking at you). 

I was in the lounge between 0800-0900 and was looking for a hot breakfast before a long weekend of travelling. I don’t tend to eat on planes due to food allergies so often try to have a meal on the ground first.  The only hot offering were Irish porridge oats, which were warm at best.  There were cereal options, some baked goods and some yoghurt and granola, alongside some canned peaches.  No bread, toast, eggs etc. the whole space felt cramped and lacking in comfortable seats and privacy. 

Had there been more time I’d definitely have left the lounge and got a nice breakfast from one of the many food outlets in the departures area, all of which seemed more friendly and inviting than the lounge. As a regular traveller it does feel like paid for or business only airport lounges are ripe for a bit of disruption and some thinking about what travellers really want. If I'd paid extra to use this lounge I'd have felt cheated I reckon, which is not what any airport wants from its passenger experience.   So, Dublin, it was lovely to be back, but next time, I hope I’m in Terminal 2!

-Deirdre Fulton