Gulf Air, Golden Falcon Lounge

     I have visited Gulf Air’s lounge a couple of times, and have never been disappointed. Even though on both occasions my flights were at 10am, mornings at Heathrow’s Terminal 4 airside can be still crowded and noisy. So it was a feeling of tranquillity to enter the lounge and be welcomed by the staff who addressed me by name.

     Considering that Oman Air is the only other carrier that uses it, with two morning and two evening flights, and only for premium customers, the lounge is surprising large, therefore not crowded. The rectangular layout, with the bar as its central feature, is bright and airy. This is because the entire front side of the lounge is glass, with views of several aircraft at air jetties, taxing aircraft and beyond. On my first visit, a Jet Airways 777 parked so close to the lounge, its nose felt like within touching distance. On my next trip it was Gulf Air’s new 787 Dreamliner, which had taken pride of place right in front, which I was looking forward to flying to Bahrain in.

787 Dreamliner, right opposite the lounge

     The decor is simple, tasteful, architecturally modern with touches of Arabic influences, and spotlessly clean. The Middle Eastern music in the background is soft and not intrusive. The walls have some old black and white photos of Gulf Air which are interesting. There are several styles of furnishings, while the well stocked bar has counter level stools, most of the other seatings are comfortable sofa chairs. There is also a smaller section with tables for dining.

Spacious and uncrowded

     The best areas are by the glass front, giving panoramic views of the runway (although a fair distance away) and aircraft activity nearby. Along the length of the front, the seating is divided into smaller sections, with semi see-through screens giving a sense of privacy. In the back, the lounge has a business center with a few computers, and reading material racks with magazines and newspapers. There are a couple of shower rooms, which I could not check out.

Spacious and uncrowded

    As you enter, on your right is the dining and food section. On my first visit a couple of years ago, I was a little disappointed with the variety of food. However on my second trip, I was impressed with the various hot and cold items on display. On both occasions, as my flights were in the morning, I opted for a hot breakfast which was self-service.

     This was not exactly gourmet cuisine. But the cold buffet did have a good selection of croissants, muffins, yogurt, cheeses, cereals, as well as an Arabic section including hummus and olives etc. The hot breakfast was western - sausage, scrambled eggs, omelette, grilled tomato, baked beans and hash browns. It was more than adequate. I assumed the cuisine would change for the night flights, but I forgot to ask.

     While there was self service for fruit juices and other soft drinks too, tea or coffee had to be requested at the bar. I was offered both regular coffee and the customary Arabic Coffee. It was promptly served where I was seated. No sooner had I finished, everything was cleared away swiftly, and refills followed.

Self service buffet

     Settling down for my breakfast, and fiddling with my phone unable to get connected, I had to ask a staff member, who rushed to help, apologising that there was a small problem with the Internet, but soon sorted out the WiFi connection for me.

     Spending 90 minutes at this oasis, completely satisfied and relaxed, it was just a 5 minute walk from lounge to plane.

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