How to get into an airport lounge

QUESTION: I never fly business or first class, but would like to use one of the lounges at Johannesburg Airport when I am going overseas to avoid the crush in the terminal. Is it possible to pay to get into these lounges, even if you are not flying with that particular airline? - Margaret Sampson

ANSWER: You can pay to use the international Premier Club airport lounge at Johannesburg Airport. This is not affiliated to any one airline, but is used by as a courtesy lounge by a number of organisations, travel companies and financial institutions. The entry cost is around R140 per person (check this, as the price could change due to currency fluctuations). This gives you the right to use all facilities in the lounge which include showers, Internet access, fax services, TV and a smoking area. You also get free sandwiches and snacks along with free drinks (beer, wine, liquor, sodas, juice and bottled water). You are allowed to use the lounge from three hours before your flight time. There are also Premier Club lounges in Cape Town and in domestic terminals.