I have read through the past year or so of this thread, and it looks like some changes have been made to the terms of the relationship that seem to be to the benefit of PMs and DMs.

I am considering a Mileage Run to JNB in December to put me over the top for DM next year. I want to try out VS in PE, but lounge access during the long layover, and in JNB concerns me.

It looks like most people have had good luck with Clubhouse lounge access in LHR even when connecting onward to places like JNB. Is this the case? Has anyone been able to access the JNB Clubhouse as a DL elite when flying Virgin PE? Are there other ways to access that club? Would I at least have access to the Air France club while in JNB even if not flying AF or DL?

My main concern is not getting stuck in the terminal at LHR for 10 hours when connecting to JNB and not venturing out of the airport during that time. Clubhouse access would be great, and a shower would be even better.

Thanks in advance!