Originally Posted by CApreppie
Keep in mind that neither the CA nor BGS lounges are *Star affiliated, so you still need the invite/chit to get in.
The first time I went through PEK I wanted to check out both lounges. The first one I came upon was CA, and I just explained to the desk agents that I would like to just wander the lounge to see if I wanted to stay there (told them I was comparing).
I did not get an escort like Globehopper did, nor was I so presumptuous to pop a can of juice. Maybe because I was in there legitimately and according to the rules, not asking the desk agents to put themselves on the line for allowing an in interloper (can you imagine how many they deal with a day, trying to wheedle and whine their way in). Just took a quick spin, thanked the young ladies on my way out, and mentioned that I might see them again if I didn't like the BGS better. They were very courteous and smiling. A+ for service.
Did the same thing at BGS, except an escort volunteered herself to come with me who did a very nice job of showing me what's what and where's where. When I said I would like to stay here, got a pleasant "Huang yin ning de guang ling, *** xian sheng, qing man yung." Didn't even ask for the chit, but I caught her as he was turning around to give it to her.
Now if I were going to write any letters to any airlines it would have been to compliment the service and worldliness that these representatives showed me. One time because I asked for them to turn down the air conditioning a little bit which was blowing really too hard and cold in the location that I like to sit, the agents at the desk tell each other to check that the air conditioning isn't too cold whenever I come in.
Funny how things work differently for you when you're welcome (make yourself welcome) somewhere!