I am not a very frequent traveller by FT standards - usually just a few times a year for personal reasons - and almost always within North America on a direct flight. I think I have only been in one of the exclusive lounges once as a guest and it was just for a quick drink before a flight...

Recently, through some credit card activity, we've aquired lounge passes/access (AS Boardroom passes, AMEX Plat access). I have a few upcoming trips where I will have a few hours between flights and am wondering what are some of the benefits of lounge access? Also wondering about any etiquette that should be observed?

TIA