United Club — Local services in San Diego

The phrase ‘the calm before a storm’ can be used to describe a multitude of situations and experiences.

Early mornings at airports are, in my mind, a perfect example to apply this phrase as a description of the experience. Notwithstanding the token panic traveler who panics for panics sake, or a holiday weekend, 5am at the airport can be rather calm and enjoyable.

Sitting on the balcony of the United club lounge at San Diego airport, I feel more relaxed than I have in a long time. While the trip was a much needed weekend getaway for me to get out of town and cross some things off my bucket list, I can’t say the trip itself is the source of my relaxation.

I arrived at the Lounge shortly after it opened, greeted politely and softly by the agents at the front desk, and then a very friendly greeting by the staff inside.

Impact #1 - I really did feel welcome here

Now, most lounges at this hour are relatively quiet, despite people eating, rustling newspapers, other trying to figure out their days travel plans. Today was no exception. It felt as though one could hear a pin drop. I quickly gathered some items, a fruit bowl and a waffle, poured myself a glass of infused water, and headed outside to the balcony seating.

Impact #2 - everything was well stocked, no lines, people respectfully giving each other space.

If the interior was quiet, the balcony was deserted. For someone like me who doesn’t mind some space this early in the morning, this was perfect. The balcony overlooks a large public seating area and a bar by the name of bubbles, with a giant chandelier made of chrome metal and crystal suspended from the ceiling. Directly off the balcony there is a set of three palm trees, and behind them, windows to the tarmac.

And then there it was. An almost rhythmic sound. A line airport working wiping down the public tables to sanitize them. Not intrusive, almost melodic. It was also an indication that this quiet calmness would not last. This airport would become exactly what it was designed to be, a bustling hub of vacationers, business folk, families, and more. The lounge, and the public area below - would fill. The spotless table surfaces start to be occupied by drinks, food, laptops, and the like. The perfectly arranged food areas would be depleted and restocked.

No sooner did the 10th visitor make their way to the lounge did I need to start heading to my gate. Two lounge staff thanked me on my way out the door (incredibly friendly staff at the United lounge in San Diego!) Upon descending the escalator to the concourse, I was back in the airport. Shops opening, boarding lines filling up, Starbucks pouring drinks as fast as they possibly can. The call was over, and the...

I had such a great time on my day pass with United Club! It was so very relaxing and convenient that I’m investing in a yearly membership- it would be great if they offered a military/ veteran membership. I’ve often thought it would be great to have clubs like this open their doors to traveling disabled veterans who have layovers of over 2 hours while traveling for wellness to retreats or medical care. USO doesn’t always have space capacity and is intended for active duty and even only allows military retired on a space available basis. I know some airlines have done so in larger airports. Even a reduced one day pass would be an awesome addition.

What I loved most about the San Diego Club was the staff- the entry clerk was a delightful man that was a joy to speak with! The place is clean and who doesn’t love a single serve, made to order gelato machine? I also enjoyed the breadth of healthy options for snacks and lite fare. I don’t drink while traveling but many were enjoying the full, top shelf bar. The seating is varied and comfortable- allowing a very relaxing experience, the option to a more traditional table top dining experience or a high top seating option perfect for people watching while responding to emails. All in all- my sister’s one day pass gift is turning into a membership that I look forward to using all...

My husband and I arrived to the airport 2.5 hours early and leisurely made it to the reception desk at the United Club. We waited about 10 minutes to be scanned in. Within that time, I over heard the man working the counter(Manny) giving grief to the people ahead of us. I was hoping the other person would become available before this man.. but luck be.. we got Manny. My husband scanned his boarding pass and Manny said it wasn't valid for entry. Manny said you're unable to enter. My husband has been a loyal United member for over 15 years. He kept calm and informed Manny that there must be something wrong with the computer and Manny said.. "show me proof of your status." My husband was going through his phone quickly and then.. realized.. he should just try scanning his boarding pass again. That's what he did. Much to Mannys disappointment, it went through. Manny then said, "Yeah, it does that sometimes. You have to do it a few times". He purposely created this situation for his own entertainment; he clearly wants confrontation. The first interactions of any business sets the tone; the face of...