Plaza Premium has opened their newest lounge in Canada at Vancouver International Airport and technically speaking it is actually two lounges in one! The dual concept lounge features an updated standard Plaza Premium Lounge and also North America’s first Plaza Premium First Lounge.
Located in the international terminal at YVR between gates D67 and D68, the dual lounge is nearly 1,000 square meters in size and can accommodate 136 guests in the standard lounge and 115 in the First lounge. This is the third dual lounge concept from Plaza Premium after opening and operating ones in Kuala Lumpur and Macau.
Plaza Premium Lounge
Operating hours: 0730-0130 (Sun-Fri); 0630 – 0130 (Sat)
The new Plaza Premium Lounge at YVR is being hailed as their flagship lounge at the airport. The 136 seat lounge partakes in the lounge operators Proudly Local initiatives to bring local foods and culture to their spaces:
Experience the flavors and culture of British Columbia at Plaza Premium Lounge, where Vancouver’s multicultural essence shines through our food offerings. Savor a curated selection of dishes that celebrate diverse culinary traditions from around the world, reflecting the global influences that make Vancouver unique. Immerse yourself in our lounge’s beauty, highlighted by stunning art pieces and murals created by local artist Ken Prescott, inspired by the natural wonders of British Columbia
Some of the amenities of the flagship lounge include:
- Interactive Live Cooking Stations: Seasonal menus featuring rotating options like noodle bars, pasta bars, and a signature poutine station.
- Family-Friendly Amenities: A welcoming section for family, offering board games on request and a “Mama’s Room” for nursing mothers.
- Self-Service Bar: Featuring a selection of soft drinks, juices, locally sourced wines and beer from BC partners and a selection of spirits for guests to enjoy at their leisure.
- Shower Facilities: Premium showers are available at an additional charge of CAD 25.
A quick check of pricing for a 2 hour visit to the new lounge on December 5 showed a pricing of C$65.20 (this is with a 10% online booking discount as the standard rate is $69+tax):
This is where credit cards with lounge access membership come in handy! Whether you have a card like the American Express Gold Rewards Card which provides four free annual Plaza Premium visits or even a card without visits but the cover the membership and give you the discounted access rate of US$32.
Click here for more details & to book Plaza Premium Lounge
Recommended reading: RWRDS Canada’s Guide to Airport Lounge Access
Plaza Premium First Lounge
Operating hours: 0730-0130 (Sun-Fri); 0630 – 0130 (Sat)
The first Plaza Premium First Lounge in North America provides white glove service for up to 115 guests at a time with expanded dining and beverage options along with additional amenities
“This flagship lounge redefines indulgence with an exquisite dining experience that includes a carefully curated selection of gourmet buffet options, an à la carte menu, and a handpicked collection of fine wines, premium spirits, and signature cocktails. Guests enjoy personalized table service, ensuring their every need is meticulously attended to.”
In addition to all the standard amenities found with the standard Plaza Premium lounge, the Plaza Premium First lounge also offers:
- Refined A La Carte Dining: A gourmet menu featuring signature dishes like Crab Omelette and Vegan Thai Curry, complemented by a premium buffet.
- Full-Service Bar: A curated selection of top-shelf spirits, fine wines, champagne, and handcrafted cocktails, including seasonal sustainable zero-waste creations.
Spa-Like Amenities: Complimentary showers and private relaxation areas provide a serene escape before departure.
A quick check of pricing for a 2 hour visit to the new First lounge on December 5 showed a pricing of C$115.52:
I have not been able to find any details on whether there is discounted access to the First lounge with the various credit card and/or airport lounge access membership programs like Priority Pass and DragonPass. Free access to this part of the lounge would be an ideal benefit for The Platinum Card from American Express (Hint hint Amex Canada when you read this)
Click here for more details & to book the Plaza Premium First Lounge
Wrapping it up
After being closed for sometime albeit they did have a temporary location, Plaza Premium has reopened their lounge in the international terminal in Vancouver. The new dual concept lounge is the first of its kind in North America and provides locally curated menus, decor and amenities. Whether you want a standard lounge experience or an elevated experience, you can now get that with the new Plaza Premium Lounge and Plaza Premium First lounge at YVR.
All images via Plaza Premium