Originally Posted by
MrWilliamston
I know it's probably not possible to put a $ value on each visit.
Correct.
Originally Posted by
MrWilliamston
I basilly maintain my Gold status just for the lounges. During the last several years, I visit the lounges only 10 to 14 times a year. (Asia and Europe)
What are you paying over and above your normal travel patterns to earn the status?
As for estimating what the value is, what is your real replacement cost? Are you eating in the lounges simply because there is food available or are your flights timed such that you need a dinner of some sort at the airport. If the latter, what does a decent meal (likely better than what you're getting in the lounge anyways) cost at your most common airports? Ditto for booze costs. Do you use the free wifi and does the terminal offer similar? Do you nap or shower in the lounges typically?
Add up those costs and you'll know if it is a worthwhile investment.