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WTL Travel Services enters liquidation owing agency staff £127k

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WTL Travel Services has gone into liquidation owing travel agency staff £127,000.

The Blackpool-based firm was set up in March last year by David McDonald, director of Book in Style, which traded as agency chain World Travel Lounge.

World Travel Lounge staff were transferred across to work for WTL Travel Services.

A Statement of Affairs filed by the liquidator shows the company failed owing £277, 784 to creditors, including 22 members of staff, and holding just £8,000 in assets.

Employees are owed more than £48,000 in wages and almost £79,000 in redundancy and notice pay, with most of the remaining debt owed to HM Revenue & Customs.

Ian Williamson and Christopher Brindle, of Campbell Crossley & Davis, were appointed liquidators on March 2. The company confirmed the liquidation was in its initial stages.

McDonald, who set up World Travel Lounge in 2015 and grew the chain to 10 branches, said: “Covid had a huge impact and as such we have recently sold a number of stores – three to Protected Trust Services and [one taken over by] Holiday with Us – while also closing a number of other stores, protecting as many roles as we could.

“Our sole focus has always been our colleagues. We’re doing everything we can to support them through this difficult time.”

McDonald is named on Companies House as director of WTL Travel Services, Book in Style, Spalding Travel and Travel Co-op Limited. He recently resigned as director of a further company, Irene’s Breakfast.

In October last year, two World Travel Lounge branches, in Preston and Blackpool, were acquired by Hays Travel North West , reducing the former’s retail estate to eight.

In January this year, Protected Travel Services took over the World Travel Lounge branches in Cleveleys, Fleetwood and Leyland, and its in-house tour operation Odisea . This included its 16 staff, formerly employed by WTL Travel Services, which was not a member of Protected Trust Services [PTS].

Book in Style had its membership of PTS terminated in January. Its 1,500 bookings remain in trust and are being protected by Protected Trust Services and fulfilled by Protected Travel Services.

World Travel Lounge also had branches in Thornby, Crosby, Nott End, Lytham and Spalding, with the Spalding shop now understood to be owned by Holiday with Us.

The website for its LGBTQ+ tour operation Chillimix, launched in 2020, is not currently accessible.

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Monday – Saturday 9:30am – 5:30pm

Sunday 11:00am – 4:00pm

World Travel Lounge is your local, independent travel agents for every holiday under the sun. From City breaks to luxury escapes, they cover every type of holiday imaginable.

01772 915 017 worldtravellounge.co.uk

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World Travel Lounge

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About the Business

We are an independent travel agency based on the Fylde Coast with a store on Birley Street, Blackpool and another on Park Road in St Annes-on-Sea. World Travel Lounge has a team with a vast knowledge of destinations and exciting holidays from all around the world. We currently have 7 Full Time Holiday Advisers across both stores waiting to help you plan your next dream holiday. We are a member of the Co-op Consortium which is a part of The Midcounties Co-operative, you can be assured of the best service, best value deals and fantastic service when in store. Call in and see our team, grab a complimentary tea, coffee, hot chocolate or juice and let us build the holiday of your dreams. …

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11 Birley Street

Blackpool FY1 1EG

United Kingdom

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The 'girls' in the Leyland branch have…

The 'girls' in the Leyland branch have booked many holiday for me, my mum and a group of friends in the past years. They've always been friendly and helpful. Looking forward to them helping again very soon.

Date of experience : February 09, 2024

Booked in Leyland branch with Katrina…

Booked in Leyland branch with Katrina and her staff for Gran Canaria had a fabulous time. Sorted everything for us Covid documents boarding passes ,car parking ,fast track passes all printed off for us. So good we booked another holiday on return.

Date of experience : September 28, 2022

Southport branch beyond excellent

The Southport branch were beyond excellent. Normally book independently but with travel so unpredictable now, we needed more reassurance and a friendly helping hand from an agent and we certainly got that. So helpful . After we booked we had some concerns and this was sorted out immediately. Will be using this agent for all our holidays from now on. Thank you very much Southport team

Date of experience : September 19, 2021

Was charged double very incompetent

Was charged double very incompetent Staff .. having gone back home was Charged £92 for 600sk. Which worked out at £43 so went back in got full refund. The staff are very rude and couldn’t give a s…t why is somebody doing currency have no idea the rate and we are pensioners. That don’t do a lot of internet etc .. we went next door to Hays and got wat we required. With no problems That’s all we wanted ..!!

Date of experience : August 15, 2023

Went into blackpool shop booked my…

Went into blackpool shop booked my flight to bangkok in august,staff were very friendly and helpful.great for us people who prefer personal service to online..barry.

Date of experience : January 14, 2022

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World travel lounge doubles in size after sealing shop deal.

North West independent World Travel Lounge has doubled its store count after acquiring three shops from a neighbouring agency.

Currently based along the Fylde Coast in Blackpool, Cleveleys and Fleetwood, the business – owned by David McDonald (above, left) – will expand into Preston, Leyland and Southport after taking over locations previously run by Book in Style.

McDonald, a member of the TTG 30 Under 30 scheme in 2016, said he was approached by Book in Style boss Andrew McKenna about a month ago over a shop deal, with McKenna looking to leave the travel industry.

“It was just too good an opportunity to pass up,” McDonald told TTG . “I mean, who would really [want to] expand during a crisis like this? But I thought hard about it and it felt like the right move.”

McDonald said it gave World Travel Lounge “a nice cluster” of stores in Lancashire, now stretching down to Merseyside. The newly acquired shops will be rebranded and staff retrained before they reopen on 14 July.

Foreign exchange departments will also be added to each branch “to give customers even more reason to come and book with us”, said McDonald.

The Preston store, in the town’s St George’s shopping centre, will become World Travel Lounge’s busiest catchment area for footfall.

“All the stores are in really strong locations and, once things pick up again on the high street, I think they’ll do really well,” added McDonald.

He said his current team – whose stores will reopen to the public on 1 July – had been seeing business bounce back, with most interest for Spain.

The expansion caps a busy month for McDonald, one in which he also appeared on BBC News to discuss how high street businesses were battling through the pandemic.

“There’s a lot of negativity and distrust from the public about the travel industry right now, so I wanted to let people know agents really do have their backs.”

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World Traveller Plus

Welcome to World Traveller Plus, our premium economy cabin. With fewer rows, the cabin is quieter, more spacious, and more exclusive than World Traveller.

A premium experience

• A separate, smaller cabin with wider seats and more legroom
• Two delicious meals and complimentary bar service
• A personal entertainment system with noise-cancelling headphones
• A stylish amenity kit made from recycled plastic bottles
• Access to in-seat power
• More free baggage allowance
• Priority boarding

Upgraded seat and amenities

The seats on our premium economy flights are wider, with greater recline, lumbar support, a head and foot rest, plus extra leg room to stretch out. Each seat also has its own power supply, so you can use your devices on board. A few of our aircraft might need you to bring your own adaptor if they aren’t sold on board.

Our stylish quilt and cushion adds an extra layer of comfort when it’s time to rest, and we’ll give you a special amenity kit designed with sustainability in mind. The bag is made using material from recycled plastic bottles and includes all the essentials. Relax with lip balm, an eye mask, a pen, socks, toothbrush and toothpaste, with earplugs also available on request.

Delightful dining experience

In World Traveller Plus you can enjoy a glass of sparkling wine after take-off and a starter, main and dessert with our dining service. During your flight we'll deliver snacks, hot, cold and alcoholic drinks to your seat.

In-flight entertainment

Stay connected to the world below or relax and leave it all behind in our World Traveller Plus cabin. You can lose yourself for hours in a blockbuster film or gripping series thanks to our huge on-demand entertainment library.

• A personal flat screen and noise-cancelling headphones
• High-speed Wi-Fi on most aircraft with free messaging on your personal device for Executive Club Members
• Access to Paramount+ with hundreds of the latest films and shows, as well as music, audio books and games

Treat yourself to the airport lounge

Sit back and relax before your flight with Lounge Pass, your key to non-British Airways airport lounges across the globe, no matter what airline you are flying with or cabin you are travelling in. Enjoy light refreshments such as alcohol and food, Wi-Fi and a selection of newspapers and magazines while you wait to board, plus Executive Club Members can collect 5 Avios per £1/€1/$1 spent.

Double baggage allowance

Baggage allowances.

World Traveller Plus’ generous baggage allowance means you can pack more for your trip. Bring both a cabin bag and laptop or handbag on board, as well as up to two bags in the hold.

Some routes and tickets come with an even greater allowance, and extra bags can be added for a fee.

Doorstep baggage pick-up & check-in

AirPortr can collect your baggage from your doorstep, securely transport it to the airport, and check it in for your flight for you. This means that you can travel to the airport luggage-free and head straight to security when you arrive. This service is only available for flights departing from Heathrow, Gatwick, Geneva, Zurich and Vienna.

Aircraft variations

Wherever and whenever you fly World Traveller Plus you can expect the same top quality food, drink and premium service by our attentive crew. A few of the cabin design elements may vary by aircraft.

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• Airlines + Airports

The Best Airport Lounges in the World — and How to Get In

From Paris to Sydney, these amazing airport lounges offer gourmet restaurants, relaxing spas, and more.

Forget fluorescent lighting, stale buffet food, and spotty Wi-Fi. These days, the best airport lounges feature amenities like yoga studios, detox bars, spa treatments, and dining rooms with menus by celebrity chefs . Of course, you generally have to pay for the privilege of luxuriating in these wonderful way stations by flying business or first class . But some premium credit cards will also grant you access. Here are 13 of the world's best airport lounges, and how you can get into them.

Some of these lounges might be closed at the moment, but all are expected to reopen. Before any intended visit, be sure to check with your airline about what facilities and amenities are available, and what cleaning and health protocols are in place.

Air France La Première Lounge, Paris

Air France's La Première first-class cabin is one of the most fashionable flying experiences in the world, and the airline's ground game is très chic , too. The airline reopened its flagship first-class lounge at Charles de Gaulle in May after an extensive refurbishment that included freshening up the cozy cocktail bar to be brighter and more inviting, adding semi-private relaxation areas and installing new pieces of art. Fliers can still expect cuisine created by star chef Alain Ducasse in the dining room. Hopefully, the Biologique Recherche spa treatments will resume soon, too.

Access: If you're one of the lucky few departing or connecting in Paris in Air France's La Première cabin, you're golden. You can also purchase access if you're departing on a long-haul Air France or Delta flight that's not equipped with La Première cabins for 500 euros ($600), or 75,000 of the airline's Flying Blue frequent flier miles, per person.

American Airlines Flagship First Dining

Although they are currently closed due to COVID-19, American Airlines fields its most exclusive lounges, Flagship First Dining venues, at its hubs in Dallas, Los Angeles, Miami, and New York JFK. Once inside, guests are seated at their own individual tables and can order from gourmet menus that might include seasonal dishes such as roasted beet and burrata salad, or free-range beef tenderloin with peppercorn crust and prosciutto-wrapped asparagus. The airline also typically serves Krug Champagne along with other premium vintages from France and the U.S., as well as handcrafted cocktails.

Access: Getting into a Flagship First Dining lounge requires passengers to be traveling in the airline's first-class cabin on international routes, or one of its transcontinental flights in a three-cabin plane (meaning, economy, business, and first class). The Miami location is set to reopen in September, with the others to follow.

American Express Centurion Lounges

American Express has been steadily expanding its network of chic Centurion Lounges , even opening new locations throughout the pandemic in airports like New York JFK and Charlotte. It will soon count 40 locations, including both Centurion Lounges and freshly rebranded Escape Lounges — The Centurion Studio Partner (read: smaller outposts with fewer amenities) around the world. Although the services and facilities vary from lounge to lounge, guests can expect consistent touches across the network, including place-specific décor and installations by local artists, fine-dining menus created by up-and-coming regional chefs, and both signature cocktails as well as more unique options like Napa wines in San Francisco and Colorado microbrews in Denver. Some lounges even house spas, while the JFK one has a speakeasy bar .

Access: If you have a Platinum, Business Platinum, or Centurion (a.k.a. Black) card and present a same-day boarding pass, you can spend some time in these lounges. Those with a Delta SkyMiles Reserve business or personal card can also come in when flying Delta.

Cathay Pacific The Pier First Class Lounge, Hong Kong

Designed by Ilse Crawford (whose other projects include Ett Hem in Stockholm and Refettorio Felix in London), this stunning salon is all about different spaces for different vibes. There are elegant sitting areas framed by floor-to-ceiling windows with tarmac views for the aviation geeks, and a distinctive, horseshoe-shaped cocktail bar with a pale green onyx top for the see-and-be-seen scenesters. The mid-century-inspired restaurant serves classy continental fare (but also the airline's signature spicy dan dan noodles). For those in search of quietude, however, there are eight day rooms plus shower suites in The Retreat portion, as well as a small spa offering complimentary mini treatments like facials and foot massages.

Access: Another one closed until further notice, we expect this lounge to reopen eventually given its popularity. To get in, you'll need to be departing in first class on Cathay Pacific or another Oneworld airline, or have Oneworld top-tier Emerald status.

Delta Sky Club, Atlanta

Delta fields no fewer than nine Sky Clubs at its home airport of Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson . Visit the one in Concourse F because that's the location with the outdoor Sky Deck, where guests can enjoy snacks and drinks with views of the runways. Barring that, try to swing by the flagship in Concourse B. It has the most space to spread out, and fun features like a "wine wall" of bottles curated by Andrea Robinson, the airline's master sommelier, as well as a rotating selection of Southern tapas from acclaimed Atlanta-based chef Linton Hopkins. A gallery of works by local artists and brightly lit shower suites are added bonuses.

Access: Want to access either location? You'll need a Delta Sky Club membership or to be flying business class on international or transcontinental routes with Delta or its SkyTeam partners. Some SkyTeam elites can also get in, as can folks with the Amex Platinum or Delta SkyMiles Reserve cards who are flying with the airline the same day.

Emirates First Class Lounge, Dubai

The Emirates First Class Lounge at Dubai International Airport is essentially its own terminal, spanning nearly the entire length of the airport's international concourse. Once inside, guests can indulge with a tasting in the lounge's wine cellar or a treatment in the Timeless Spa. Then, perk up with an espresso at the coffee bar or sit back with a stogie in the cigar lounge. There's also a whole arcade of in-lounge duty-free shops. The dining room fields an extensive buffet, with everything from sushi to pastries, as well as à la carte options, though feel free to order food and drinks from any of the expansive seating areas you happen to settle in. There are also shower suites and semi-private quiet rooms for napping, if you just want to unwind.

Access: If you want to spend some time here, you'll need to have Emirates Skywards Platinum elite status or be departing in first class on an Emirates flight.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal, Frankfurt

Lufthansa has created not just a first-class lounge, but an entire First Class Terminal, at its hub in Frankfurt. Instead of heading to the main airport, fliers can pull right up to the First Class Terminal and go through security screening on-site before enjoying the lounge's many attractions. They'll then pass through a dedicated customs and immigration checkpoint before being chauffeured to their flight. The lounge's highlights include a cigar lounge, a bar serving over 130 different kinds of whiskey, a full-service dining room, and shower rooms including one with a full bath (ask for one of the airline's signature rubber duckies before you lather up).

Access: The First Class Terminal will reopen on Sept. 1 . When it does, you'll need to be departing in first class on Lufthansa, or arriving on Lufthansa in first class and connecting to a flight operated by Lufthansa, Austrian, or Swiss. Uber-elite Hon Circle fliers can also get in.

Qantas First Lounge, Sydney

When you make your way past the massive living wall of plants and step onto the escalator that whisks you from the crowded concourse up to the lounge level at Qantas' Sydney hub, it's like taking a journey back to the golden age of flying, complete with a vintage-style destination board featuring clattering letter and number tiles. Guests can while away the hours nibbling on seasonal fare created by Aussie celebrity chef Neil Perry, or step into the day spa for a complimentary massage or facial performed with fancy LaGaia products. There are also a number of marble-clad shower suites for freshening up and private conference rooms for impromptu meetings.

Access: Closed for now, this lounge should reopen when international flights resume . First-class fliers on Qantas, Emirates, or Oneworld partner flights can get in, as can certain Qantas, Emirates, and Oneworld elites departing on Qantas, Emirates, or Oneworld partner airline flights.

Qatar Airways Al Mourjan Business Lounge, Doha

You might think Qatar Airways' industry-leading business-class Qsuites are the main reason to fly the airline, but a sojourn in its spacious, sophisticated lounge in Doha isn't a bad rationale either. Measuring up at over 100,000 square feet, there's something for everyone, including dedicated family spaces, both quiet and more communal sitting areas, small semi-private napping rooms, not one but two dining rooms, and a warren of individual shower suites, plus a game room with pinball machines, foosball, PlayStation, and even an F1 race car simulator. Saunter down the sculptural spiral staircase to the reflecting pool to feel like a true jetsetter.

Access: To get in, you need to be flying business or first class on Qatar Airways, or one of its Oneworld partners, though you might be able to purchase access online ahead of time or during travel if you're flying the airline in economy or on a basic business fare.

Swiss First Class Lounge, Zurich

The first thing you see when entering Swiss' flagship lounge is a glassed-in humidor containing 1,000 bottles of wine, some of which are served at the nearby Champagne counter and in the lounge's two restaurants. Passengers with longer connections can take advantage of two fully equipped "hotel rooms," complete with Hästens beds and en-suite bathrooms. If you're just passing through, however, a rinse in one of the shower suites might suffice, while business travelers can book a conference room for meetings on the fly. Take a moment to step out onto the terrace for a breath of fresh air and views of the Alps, too.

Access: The lounge is currently closed, but will hopefully reopen soon to guests departing or connecting on Swiss or Lufthansa in first class.

Turkish Airlines Lounge Business, Istanbul

At over 60,000 square feet, and with space for 765 people, you might think Turkish Airlines' lounge at the relatively new Istanbul Airport is too large to be luxurious, but you'd be wrong. There are a variety of comfy seating areas, including individual cabines for folks who want a quiet space to nap or work. There's a multimedia room with a wall of televisions for entertainment and a business center outfitted with iMacs, plus a kids' area with a small playground. If you're feeling peckish, simply wander around to one of the various food stations for both buffet and made-to-order specialties such as pide , gözleme , and baklava . And if the lounge happens to be crowded, you can always pop into one of the private shower suites for a preflight ablution.

Access: First- and business-class passengers on Turkish Airlines and other Star Alliance flights, as well as Star Alliance Gold elites, should be able to get in.

United Polaris Lounge, Chicago

Along with rebranding its international business-class cabins and service a few years back, United also began building bespoke Polaris business-class lounges at several of its hubs. The mother ship is at Chicago O'Hare and features unique elements, like an installation by artist Wolfgang Buttress on the ceiling that mirrors the Chicago night sky, as well as relaxation areas with chaise lounge's outfitted with Saks Fifth Avenue pillows and blankets. There are also plenty of seating spaces, depending on whether you want to socialize or work, including individual pods with a single armchair and desk each. The large dining area includes a buffet and a full-service menu with dishes like mahi mahi tostadas and orange-seared chicken, as well as creative cocktails like the Polaris paloma.

Access: To enter, you must be flying United Polaris (not just the airline's domestic business or first class) or business or first class internationally on a Star Alliance carrier.

Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse, London

Virgin Atlantic almost singlehandedly made flying fun again when it debuted back in the 1980s, and nowhere is that swinging spirit still on display more than in the airline's flagship Clubhouse at London Heathrow. There's a 14-meter cocktail bar for carousing with your fellow passengers, as well as a dining room with à la carte selections (like the classic Clubhouse cheeseburger), where you can also linger over a leisurely afternoon tea. Your first stop, however, should be the salon and spa desk to book a first-come, first-served complimentary hair or spa treatment, so you look your best for your flight.

Access: Heathrow Terminal 3 just reopened, so this lounge can't be far behind. To get in, you'll need to be flying Virgin Atlantic Upper Class or Delta One, or some combination of high-end elite status with Virgin Atlantic or one of its airline partners.

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The Moscow Metro Museum of Art: 10 Must-See Stations

There are few times one can claim having been on the subway all afternoon and loving it, but the Moscow Metro provides just that opportunity.  While many cities boast famous public transport systems—New York’s subway, London’s underground, San Salvador’s chicken buses—few warrant hours of exploration.  Moscow is different: Take one ride on the Metro, and you’ll find out that this network of railways can be so much more than point A to B drudgery.

The Metro began operating in 1935 with just thirteen stations, covering less than seven miles, but it has since grown into the world’s third busiest transit system ( Tokyo is first ), spanning about 200 miles and offering over 180 stops along the way.  The construction of the Metro began under Joseph Stalin’s command, and being one of the USSR’s most ambitious building projects, the iron-fisted leader instructed designers to create a place full of svet (radiance) and svetloe budushchee (a radiant future), a palace for the people and a tribute to the Mother nation.

Consequently, the Metro is among the most memorable attractions in Moscow.  The stations provide a unique collection of public art, comparable to anything the city’s galleries have to offer and providing a sense of the Soviet era, which is absent from the State National History Museum.  Even better, touring the Metro delivers palpable, experiential moments, which many of us don’t get standing in front of painting or a case of coins.

Though tours are available , discovering the Moscow Metro on your own provides a much more comprehensive, truer experience, something much less sterile than following a guide.  What better place is there to see the “real” Moscow than on mass transit: A few hours will expose you to characters and caricatures you’ll be hard-pressed to find dining near the Bolshoi Theater.  You become part of the attraction, hear it in the screech of the train, feel it as hurried commuters brush by: The Metro sucks you beneath the city and churns you into the mix.

With the recommendations of our born-and-bred Muscovite students, my wife Emma and I have just taken a self-guided tour of what some locals consider the top ten stations of the Moscow Metro. What most satisfied me about our Metro tour was the sense of adventure .  I loved following our route on the maps of the wagon walls as we circled the city, plotting out the course to the subsequent stops; having the weird sensation of being underground for nearly four hours; and discovering the next cavern of treasures, playing Indiana Jones for the afternoon, piecing together fragments of Russia’s mysterious history.  It’s the ultimate interactive museum.

Top Ten Stations (In order of appearance)

Kievskaya station.

Kievskaya Station went public in March of 1937, the rails between it and Park Kultury Station being the first to cross the Moscow River.  Kievskaya is full of mosaics depicting aristocratic scenes of Russian life, with great cameo appearances by Lenin, Trotsky, and Stalin.  Each work has a Cyrillic title/explanation etched in the marble beneath it; however, if your Russian is rusty, you can just appreciate seeing familiar revolutionary dates like 1905 ( the Russian Revolution ) and 1917 ( the October Revolution ).

Mayakovskaya Station

Mayakovskaya Station ranks in my top three most notable Metro stations. Mayakovskaya just feels right, done Art Deco but no sense of gaudiness or pretention.  The arches are adorned with rounded chrome piping and create feeling of being in a jukebox, but the roof’s expansive mosaics of the sky are the real showstopper.  Subjects cleverly range from looking up at a high jumper, workers atop a building, spires of Orthodox cathedrals, to nimble aircraft humming by, a fleet of prop planes spelling out CCCP in the bluest of skies.

Novoslobodskaya Station

Novoslobodskaya is the Metro’s unique stained glass station.  Each column has its own distinctive panels of colorful glass, most of them with a floral theme, some of them capturing the odd sailor, musician, artist, gardener, or stenographer in action.  The glass is framed in Art Deco metalwork, and there is the lovely aspect of discovering panels in the less frequented haunches of the hall (on the trackside, between the incoming staircases).  Novosblod is, I’ve been told, the favorite amongst out-of-town visitors.

Komsomolskaya Station

Komsomolskaya Station is one of palatial grandeur.  It seems both magnificent and obligatory, like the presidential palace of a colonial city.  The yellow ceiling has leafy, white concrete garland and a series of golden military mosaics accenting the tile mosaics of glorified Russian life.  Switching lines here, the hallway has an Alice-in-Wonderland feel, impossibly long with decorative tile walls, culminating in a very old station left in a remarkable state of disrepair, offering a really tangible glimpse behind the palace walls.

Dostoevskaya Station

Dostoevskaya is a tribute to the late, great hero of Russian literature .  The station at first glance seems bare and unimpressive, a stark marble platform without a whiff of reassembled chips of tile.  However, two columns have eerie stone inlay collages of scenes from Dostoevsky’s work, including The Idiot , The Brothers Karamazov , and Crime and Punishment.   Then, standing at the center of the platform, the marble creates a kaleidoscope of reflections.  At the entrance, there is a large, inlay portrait of the author.

Chkalovskaya Station

Chkalovskaya does space Art Deco style (yet again).  Chrome borders all.  Passageways with curvy overhangs create the illusion of walking through the belly of a chic, new-age spacecraft.  There are two (kos)mosaics, one at each end, with planetary subjects.  Transferring here brings you above ground, where some rather elaborate metalwork is on display.  By name similarity only, I’d expected Komsolskaya Station to deliver some kosmonaut décor; instead, it was Chkalovskaya that took us up to the space station.

Elektrozavodskaya Station

Elektrozavodskaya is full of marble reliefs of workers, men and women, laboring through the different stages of industry.  The superhuman figures are round with muscles, Hollywood fit, and seemingly undeterred by each Herculean task they respectively perform.  The station is chocked with brass, from hammer and sickle light fixtures to beautiful, angular framework up the innards of the columns.  The station’s art pieces are less clever or extravagant than others, but identifying the different stages of industry is entertaining.

Baumanskaya Statio

Baumanskaya Station is the only stop that wasn’t suggested by the students.  Pulling in, the network of statues was just too enticing: Out of half-circle depressions in the platform’s columns, the USSR’s proud and powerful labor force again flaunts its success.  Pilots, blacksmiths, politicians, and artists have all congregated, posing amongst more Art Deco framing.  At the far end, a massive Soviet flag dons the face of Lenin and banners for ’05, ’17, and ‘45.  Standing in front of the flag, you can play with the echoing roof.

Ploshchad Revolutsii Station

Novokuznetskaya Station

Novokuznetskaya Station finishes off this tour, more or less, where it started: beautiful mosaics.  This station recalls the skyward-facing pieces from Mayakovskaya (Station #2), only with a little larger pictures in a more cramped, very trafficked area.  Due to a line of street lamps in the center of the platform, it has the atmosphere of a bustling market.  The more inventive sky scenes include a man on a ladder, women picking fruit, and a tank-dozer being craned in.  The station’s also has a handsome black-and-white stone mural.

Here is a map and a brief description of our route:

Start at (1)Kievskaya on the “ring line” (look for the squares at the bottom of the platform signs to help you navigate—the ring line is #5, brown line) and go north to Belorusskaya, make a quick switch to the Dark Green/#2 line, and go south one stop to (2)Mayakovskaya.  Backtrack to the ring line—Brown/#5—and continue north, getting off at (3)Novosblodskaya and (4)Komsolskaya.  At Komsolskaya Station, transfer to the Red/#1 line, go south for two stops to Chistye Prudy, and get on the Light Green/#10 line going north.  Take a look at (5)Dostoevskaya Station on the northern segment of Light Green/#10 line then change directions and head south to (6)Chkalovskaya, which offers a transfer to the Dark Blue/#3 line, going west, away from the city center.  Have a look (7)Elektroskaya Station before backtracking into the center of Moscow, stopping off at (8)Baumskaya, getting off the Dark Blue/#3 line at (9)Ploschad Revolyutsii.  Change to the Dark Green/#2 line and go south one stop to see (10)Novokuznetskaya Station.

Check out our new Moscow Indie Travel Guide , book a flight to Moscow and read 10 Bars with Views Worth Blowing the Budget For

Jonathon Engels, formerly a patron saint of misadventure, has been stumbling his way across cultural borders since 2005 and is currently volunteering in the mountains outside of Antigua, Guatemala.  For more of his work, visit his website and blog .

Photo credits:   SergeyRod , all others courtesy of the author and may not be used without permission

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The 'girls' in the Leyland branch have…

The 'girls' in the Leyland branch have booked many holiday for me, my mum and a group of friends in the past years. They've always been friendly and helpful. Looking forward to them helping again very soon.

Date of experience : 09 February 2024

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Booked in Leyland branch with Katrina and her staff for Gran Canaria had a fabulous time. Sorted everything for us Covid documents boarding passes ,car parking ,fast track passes all printed off for us. So good we booked another holiday on return.

Date of experience : 28 September 2022

Southport branch beyond excellent

The Southport branch were beyond excellent. Normally book independently but with travel so unpredictable now, we needed more reassurance and a friendly helping hand from an agent and we certainly got that. So helpful . After we booked we had some concerns and this was sorted out immediately. Will be using this agent for all our holidays from now on. Thank you very much Southport team

Date of experience : 19 September 2021

Was charged double very incompetent

Was charged double very incompetent Staff .. having gone back home was Charged £92 for 600sk. Which worked out at £43 so went back in got full refund. The staff are very rude and couldn’t give a s…t why is somebody doing currency have no idea the rate and we are pensioners. That don’t do a lot of internet etc .. we went next door to Hays and got wat we required. With no problems That’s all we wanted ..!!

Date of experience : 15 August 2023

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Went into blackpool shop booked my flight to bangkok in august,staff were very friendly and helpful.great for us people who prefer personal service to online..barry.

Date of experience : 14 January 2022

Traveling with family? How to get lounge access for your guests

Key takeaways.

• Lounge access is an especially desirable perk, and many travel rewards credit cards come with this benefit.
• However, many of these cards limit the number of guests you can bring into the lounge with you — and some don't extend lounge privileges to guests at all.
• If you regularly travel with family members or friends, the best ways to get lounge access for them are to choose credit cards that includes guest privileges, book with third-party lounge access services or book premium fares that include lounge access.

Having access to airport lounges can make any travel experience more comfortable, and these memberships can be a big money-saver, too. After all, airport lounges always have a selection of complimentary food and beverages along with wifi access, and some even have showers and special spaces you can use to freshen up.

But, having airport lounge access only for yourself can be a major issue — especially if you travel with your spouse or partner, your kids or your friends from time to time. The good news is, there are ways to get airport lounge access for yourself and your guests, or to ensure the people you love have airport lounge memberships of their own they can use.

Travel credit cards with airport lounge access

The best way to get airport lounge access for yourself and your family or other guests involves signing up for a travel credit card — but not just any travel credit card. Look specifically for a top travel rewards card that include guest access or the ability to bring in others with your membership without paying any added fees.

Fortunately, quite a few top travel credit cards let users bring in guests, including:

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers flexible rewards and premium benefits like an annual travel credit worth $300, a fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck membership and Priority Pass Select membership. Users can also enter Capital One and Plaza Premium airport lounges with their membership.

Venture X cardholders can visit Priority Pass lounges with unlimited guests, and they can bring up to two guests into Capital One airport lounges with them. Even better, the Venture X allows cardholders to add up to four authorized users with no annual fee, and each authorized user gets their own Priority Pass Select membership with the ability to bring in guests of their own.

While the Capital One Venture X has a $395 annual fee, Priority Pass Select membership is valued at $469 on its own.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is a premium travel credit card that is known for the flexibility of its rewards and its luxury benefits. For example, cardholders get an annual travel credit worth $300 each year, a fee credit for Global Entry, NEXUS or TSA PreCheck membership and a Priority Pass Select airport lounge membership.

The good news about the Priority Pass Select membership is that it applies to more than 1,400 airport lounges around the world — and that cardholders can bring up to two guests into the lounge with them. A $550 annual fee applies for the primary cardholder. Also note that Chase Sapphire Reserve® cardholders can also add an authorized user to their account for $75, which grants that user their own airport lounge access with the ability to bring in up to two guests of their own.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Platinum Card® from American Express is another premium travel credit card that offers a range of luxurious benefits like annual travel credits and airport lounge access. However, this card’s Global Lounge Collection airport lounge membership is the broadest available today, since cardholders get a Priority Pass Select membership, entry into Amex Centurion lounges and the ability to enter Delta Sky Clubs when they fly Delta.

Cardholders can bring up to two guests into Priority Pass lounges with them for free. For Delta Sky Clubs, a per-guest visit of $50 applies and the entire traveling party must by flying with the airline. Cardholders who spend $75,000 or more per year on their Platinum Card can get complimentary guest access (for up to two guests) into Centurion lounges. Otherwise, a $50 fee for each adult guest, or $30 for children aged 2 through 17, applies.

Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®

Another card that offers guest access into airport lounges is the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® *, although this card is geared to American Airlines frequent flyers and requires a $595 annual fee. Cardholders get free Admirals Club access with this card among other perks, and they can bring immediate family members (spouse, domestic partner and/or children under 18) or up to 2 guests into the lounge with them for free.

A same-day boarding pass for a flight with American Airlines is required.

Find airport lounges that offer day passes

Even if a card offers airport lounge access for cardholders and their guests, it’s important to note that capacity controls can still apply. It’s not uncommon to head to a Priority Pass lounge and find a sign that says “full,” leaving you completely locked out of a visit you were counting on.

In this case, you may still be able to find airport lounges that offer day passes for a single day of entry. Services like LoungeBuddy and The Club can help connect you with these lounges if your preferred lounge is full, if you need space for more guests than your guest limit allows or if you don’t have access to an airport lounge membership through a travel credit card.

Book premium fares that include airport lounge access

Finally, you should know that booking international airfare in a premium cabin will typically get you airport lounge access included with major airlines and their alliance partners. For example, booking international Business or First Class flights with Delta Air Lines or SkyTeam partners will get you into Delta Sky Clubs as well as most partner lounges (terms vary).

To access this perk, you’ll likely have to book your entire family in the premium cabin to get everyone into the lounge, although there are some exceptions. For example, Virgin Atlantic airport lounges are for Upper Class passengers and Flying Club Gold members, but you are welcome to bring in a guest if they’re on the same international flight with you on Virgin Atlantic, Delta Air Lines, Air France or KLM.

The bottom line

Getting approved for the right travel credit card is the best way to lock in airport lounge access for yourself and your guests. However, you’ll want to read over specific card and membership policies so you know how many guests you can bring (and any other rules that apply). It’s also a good idea to have a backup plan if you’re counting on lounge access during your trip.