LAX-IAD weekend trip last weekend. Leaving IAD I thought I would try the BA lounge instead of the AC - in theory I should be able to use any OW lounge if flying on OW airline (OW Saph). BA lounge was great - open bar, dinner service, etc.... instead of the AC giving you one or two drink vouchers and pretzels.

I don't understand how AA charges for AC membership and doesn't allow elites flying domestically to use them (cf QF) but still provides a much lower service. I am at a loss why someone would pay for the AC in these circumstances. You have to pay for frinks, only get pretzels, have to pay for internet connectivity (T-Mobil hotspot).

Always go for a BA/QF/CX lounger over an AC. Luckily IAD domestic and international departures are all from the same terminal. :-)