For the subsequent segment of my journey from Iceland to The Residence via Cambodia, I had a lengthy layover at Techo Airport (KTI), the new aviation hub for Phnom Penh, Cambodia. I arrived in Singapore Airlines’ 737 MAX business class from Singapore (SIN) and was making a connection in Etihad’s A321LR first class to Abu Dhabi (AUH).
While at the airport, I explored two lounges — the Plaza Premium Lounge and the Plaza Premium First Lounge. In this write-up, I aim to review the former, which is the more basic of the two contract lounges available. Overall, it’s a lovely facility in an exquisite terminal, and I appreciated that the lounge was not overcrowded during my stay.
Plaza Premium Lounge Techo location
Techo International Airport boasts an impressive terminal — it’s brand new, with a stunning design. Although my transit experience was unusual, once I reached the airside departures area, everything became quite enjoyable.
Once you pass through security and passport control, you’ll locate the Plaza Premium Lounge and Plaza Premium First Lounge right in the middle of the concourse, each positioned on opposite sides (the Plaza Premium Lounge is to the right, while the Plaza Premium First Lounge is to the left). They are situated one level above the concourse and can be accessed via elevator or escalator.
Plaza Premium Lounge Techo hours
The Plaza Premium Lounge Techo is currently open every day from 6 AM to 12 AM; however, you can expect the hours to adapt according to flight schedules throughout the year. Nevertheless, the lounge should be accessible before almost all departures.
Plaza Premium Lounge Techo entry requirements
Regarding entry to the Plaza Premium Lounge Techo:
– Access is available with a Priority Pass membership, and certain credit cards also provide direct entry to the lounge.
– You can buy access to the lounge through the Plaza Premium website.
– This is a contract lounge, which means many airlines direct their premium passengers here; interestingly, I found that more airlines utilized the Plaza Premium First Lounge as the contract lounge rather than the Plaza Premium Lounge.
At least during my airport visit, the Plaza Premium First Lounge was significantly busier than the Plaza Premium Lounge, which was somewhat unexpected.
Plaza Premium Lounge Techo layout & seating
The Plaza Premium Lounge Techo feels contemporary (since it’s new) and is also quite spacious, particularly given how tranquil it was during my visit.
Upon entering the lounge, you will first find yourself in a room filled with dining tables, each accommodating two (mostly chairs, but with some banquettes as well). Although there was a drink station during my visit, the food service area was largely vacant, as the back of the lounge featured the utilized buffet.
A long hallway leads to the main section of the lounge, showcasing a variety of seating arrangements.
This portion of the lounge includes the primary buffet and bar area, complete with numerous dining tables.
Additionally, there’s a small zone intended for relaxation, with rows of seats facing each other.
The lounge also features an “open air” concept (well, within the terminal, with an indoor terrace overlooking the rest of the terminal).
The terrace area contains several single seats facing the terminal and apron, making this lounge section ideal for views.
In summary, I’d say the lounge setup is quite pleasant, particularly due to how new and fresh it feels.
Plaza Premium Lounge Techo food & drinks
The Plaza Premium Lounge Techo offers a commendable selection of food and beverages.
Regarding drinks, there were two separate drink stations; each featured an espresso machine, a soda fountain, juices, and beer.
There was also a modest assortment of self-serve liquor and wine.
Concerning food, this was divided into several areas. One display offered cold options, including fruit, salads, and finger sandwiches.
Another section provided hot selections, with an extensive variety.
For instance, there was a live cooking station featuring options like fish ball noodle soup and curry laksa.
Other choices included spring rolls, bread pudding, pumpkin soup, mushroom penne, stir-fried vegetables, chicken teriyaki, stir-fried vermicelli, and steamed rice.
In addition to the warm bread pudding, there were several more desserts, and some snacks such as nuts.
Plaza Premium Lounge Techo bathrooms & showers
The Plaza Premium Lounge Techo includes bathrooms and showers, located towards the entrance of the lounge. The men’s room had a couple of stalls, urinals, and sinks, and was well-maintained.
The lounge also features a couple of showers, available for an additional fee. However, I did not get the chance to check them out.
Bottom line