We have a 4 hour transit coming up in CGK in December. We (2 adults + 2 kids) have booked on SQs new SYD-CGK service in J before transiting to Thai Airlines from CGK to BKK in Y.

Both of the adults are Star Alliance Gold and I was wondering how lounge access works in Jakarta in this situation? The Star Alliance web site lists both the Purah Indah and the Emerald Sky lounges as open to us (and every review suggests they are both pretty dire lounges).

There are a few mentions around various forums of airlines issuing a lounge invitation? We won't be checking in in Jakarta and will be airside the whole time. Is it enough to arrive at either lounge with Star Alliance Gold Cards (or status showing on the boarding pass) to get in or would we need an invitation. If we need one can you get it airside?

Is either lounge better or worse?