Lounge Check: The Qantas First Class Lounge at Melbourne Airport

Qantas First Class lounge at Melbourne Airport. Photo / Supplied

Ben O'Brien checks into the Qantas First Class Lounge at Melbourne Airport

Airport arrival: The Qantas First Class ground experience starts the moment you walk into the airport, with a designated First Class check-in area allowing you to drop off your bags and grab your boarding passes without stepping into the main terminal building. An express immigration card means I'm walking through the doors of the lounge within about five minutes of checking in.

The greeting: I happened to be taking this flight on my birthday, which was noted by the check-in agent, who must have called the lounge as we were making our way through security. On entering the lounge I was greeted with an enthusiastic "happy birthday" and given a quick tour before they whisked me to a reserved table in the dining area for brekkie.

Atmosphere: The lounge is split into several different zones to never feel crowded even during peak times, including a library area and a business area. The best seats in the house are the recliner chairs that line the floor to ceiling windows, complete with sweeping tarmac views.

Food: A full a la carte dining space in the corner of the lounge offers an extensive menu with all the usual brunch suspects thoughtfully prepared, and a focus on wellness dishes. I gorged myself on both the pancakes and the corn fritters — if you're here for lunch the signature salt and pepper squid is not to be missed!

If time isn't on your side, there is also a self-serve buffet area, which at 10am was stocked with pastries, yoghurt parfaits and fruit.

To drink: No less than three different champagne options kick off the frivolity. Other alcoholic options include breakfast cocktails, premium beers/ciders and wines (the good stuff is in the decanter, ask for it; there were also barista coffees, smoothies and kombucha.

Day Spa: One of the best features of the lounge is the Aurora Day Spa, where lounge guests can enjoy a free 20-minute massage or facial treatment. My "Men's Purifying Facial" had a focus on moisturising and was the perfect precursor to seven hours in an arid metal tube hurtling through the air.

Toilets/Showers: There are several well-apportioned private shower suites with ASPAR amenities if you need to freshen up before your flight.

The verdict: The sort of place that makes long-haul travel sexy again — the Qantas First Class experience is seamless from the start of your journey. Plan for a long stay/layover here if possible.