Aspire Lounge Helsinki, Federico's review
We continue to publish, with pleasure, trip reports from our readers. After the first flight and the first hotel, today [...]
HEL
We continue to publish, with pleasure, trip reports from our readers. After the first flight and the first hotel, today is time for the first lounge. Federico sent us his review of the Aspire Lounge in Helsinki Airport Terminal 2.
In this article:
Review of Aspire Lounge Helsinki
The hall is located in Terminal 2 across from Gates 27-28, is on the second floor, and is open daily from 5:00 am to 9:00 pm. The special feature is that in addition to being on the second floor, it is also mezzanine; this results in a somewhat claustrophobic effect, but the large windows let in plenty of light to dilute the sense of enclosure.
The first thing you notice upon entering is that we are in Finalndia, but the design of the furniture is very reminiscent of IKEA. Both in the chairs on the mezzanine and in the armchairs in front of the windows. The seating includes a mix of chairs and sofas of different shapes, sizes, and colors; the ambiance is a mix between a Moxy and a modern version of a Starbucks
Breakfast buffet selections included bread, deviled eggs, cold cuts, cheese, salad, yogurt, berries, cereal, and hot oatmeal.
A self-service bar included a limited selection of spirits, soft drinks, juices, coffee and tea. The centerpiece seemed to be a bottle of Meukow VS, a Cognac with honey and vanilla tones with hints of licorice, orange and wood. The coffee was horrible.
Honestly, what bothered me about this lounge were the plates, cups, and glasses everywhere. I suppose the lounge attendants might have thought that people were coming back to finish their drinks, but a little cleanliness and attention would be welcome.
Conclusion
Schengen gate areas are not outstanding at HEL, so the lounge is better than the gate. However, the nearby Finnair Lounge offered a far better experience.
