'I tried a lounge at Manchester Airport and couldn't believe what I got for the price'

Not much compares to the excitement of going on holiday. What's not to love about the anticipation of soon being swept away somewhere new, whether that's a bustling European city or a balmy beach resort further afield?

That is, until you remember all the stress that comes with it. The planning, packing and of course navigating the airport, which, although a small price to pay for the privilege of jetting away, is a feat some come to dread - myself included.

From sorting out your liquids bag well before leaving the house, to organising your holiday outfits weeks in advance, travellers take many steps to have as smooth experience as possible. One way to kick-start your getaway is by booking in to one of the airport lounges.

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Passengers usually pay a set price to access a lounge, in return for a selection of food and drink nestled away from the hustle and bustle of the Departures waiting area. Manchester Airport, which flies passengers to more than 160 destinations, has nine lounges across its three terminals.

The Escape Lounge promises 'an oasis of calm' and is the most economical option, priced at £28.99 per person. Having never tried a lounge before, I decided to see if that really was the case at Terminal 1 - and I can't believe I ever waited so long.

The stress of a busy security check began to fade and was instead replaced with fluttering excitement as I followed the signage to the airport lounge. As I walked down the corridor and approached the lounge entrance, it reminded me of checking in to a hotel.

I was greeted at the door by two members of staff and gave my name - I had already pre-booked and paid for my slot online, which involved having