Jaunted

The wide-open space and thoughtful design had our eyes going every which way. From a fairly minimalist foyer to the seating areas, Virgin is sensitive to a variety of traveler preferences. The only bad thing about the design is that the windows have no scenic tarmac views, only looking onto the roof of the passenger drop-off area. So, sadly, there will be no sitting back and plane spotting with a glass of wine.

If relaxing in peace and quiet is more your speed, the lounge boasts a large tranquil area with uber comfy chairs and ottomans. White gauzy curtains hang from floor to ceiling as wall coverings and the space lends itself to decompressing before dealing with the masses aboard an aircraft. There are flat-screen televisions, but they are muted with plenty of reading material at hand. Do note that this area is not a designated quiet zone, nor is it sound proof, but this is a den of rejuvenation.

Amongst the various sitting areas are three or four work station areas with futuristic pop-up powerports to get a last minute charge for any electronic devices. Individual and large, the mid-century modern office chairs slide up to curved, double-sided tables.

Dining options were not that plentiful when we visited. One hot option of a minestrone-type soup and the traditional sandwich fillings are very standard and nothing too special. The special part, however, was a D.I.Y. panini station. Win! And, although delicious, we were extremely confused by the option of cold meatballs on the buffet.

Where dining options lacked, beverage options made up for it. Virgin offers a barista service from 11am everyday and will whip up a flat white for you in no time. If adult libations are more to your liking, a fully stocked bar with a wide variety of red, whites, and proper French champagne! On the recommendation from our friends at Australia Business Traveller, we couldn't pass on the Crement de Bourgogne and we are happy we tried it.

All in all, Virgin has taken great care to design the one-month-old outpost in Brisbane. With (free) Wi-Fi speeds fast enough to do the social media we partake in when traveling and wide selection of wines, we would say they hit the mark. But with all of that natural light, it's a shame we are forced to look at a parking lot and the roof of the departures area.

[Photos: Rayme Gorniak for Jaunted]