Yes it's true that other than in North America all airlines give lounge access away for free domestically. But I doubt United would be able to rapidly change there business model and be able to give away domestic visits for free to United Star Golds.

But the thread is about improving the Red Carpet clubs and while it would be nice to have all the free booze available, get free Wi-Fi, etc we should try to agree what the minimum (think incremental) improvement should be.

To me the Red Carpet Club is a place to do some work, eat something small, have a drink, recharge the laptop (especially in between flights) and prepare for the next flight.

I'm all for free Wi-Fi and don't think that this would be a major expense but if this happens in a year it won't kill me.

But the food situation in my opinion *must improve*. The basics: something healthy and *warm* (like a soup), keep the celery and carrots, and look at what the other Star airlines are able to do without breaking the bank.

The Red Carpet clubs look fine in my opinion but they serve little utility and that makes all the difference in the world when it comes to trying to sell membership. In other words if the Clubs are just more comfortable seats -- I'm not willing to spend either miles or money to buy a full membership.

But if they become practical -- read the opportunity to eat something small, grab a drink, check my email (for free) then that is something I'm willing to pay membership for.