Why Credit Card Lounge Access Offers Are a Scam: From 2018 Luxury to Today’s Langar-Like Chaos

Credit card companies have long marketed lounge access as one of their most exclusive perks, promising cardholders a luxurious pre-flight experience. However, what was once a prestigious privilege has now turned into what feels like a free langar at the airport. Back in 2018, credit card lounge access was reserved for those with high-end cards, offering a quiet, comfortable environment with quality food and a relaxing atmosphere. It felt like a genuine reward for loyal customers, and the annual fees for premium cards seemed worth it.

However, the scene has dramatically changed in recent years. As more credit card companies expanded lounge access to a broader base of customers, the once exclusive lounges became overcrowded, losing their charm. Today, these spaces, once serene and elegant, now resemble a free langar at the airport, full of people who are simply taking advantage of the "free" access without regard for service quality or comfort.

The Decline of Lounge Access: Overcrowded and Underwhelming

With more and more people gaining access to these lounges, the peaceful experience has become a thing of the past. The overcrowding has led to a significant decline in both the ambiance and the quality of service. What was once a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the terminal now feels like a crowded waiting area. The lounges are often packed with people, the food selection is basic at best, and the seating is uncomfortable.

Credit card companies have marketed these lounge access benefits as a luxurious perk, but the reality is that they are often not truly “free.” While the lounges are advertised as an exclusive benefit for cardholders, the high annual fees that come with premium cards ensure that you’re still paying for the access, even if you don’t use it. In many cases, these lounges charge additional fees for premium services, such as better food or more comfortable seating, making the so-called free access feel more like a marketing gimmick.

Is Lounge Access Worth It Anymore?

Once reserved for the elite, credit card lounge access has now become a highly marketed benefit designed to attract customers to expensive credit cards. However, the reality of these overcrowded lounges is far from the peaceful retreat they used to be. The overcrowded nature of these lounges today makes them resemble a langar at a temple – chaotic, crowded, and far from the luxurious experience once promised.

For those considering a credit card for lounge access, it’s important to weigh the cost of the annual fees against the underwhelming experience that many travelers now encounter. Whether you're looking for catering services in Mumbai or the best corporate catering services in Mumbai, it’s clear that “exclusive” benefits like lounge access have become a shadow of their former selves. The reality is, these perks have lost their appeal, and a once-elite experience now feels like just another overhyped offering.