I've had no problem taking guests to the Boardroom with PP, however, as noted, there is a $27 charge for the priviledge.
A little known benefit for BofA customers with more than $200,000 in deposits and investments is that you qualify for the Bank of America Accolades American Exress card, and one of the benefits for customers with that asset level is free Priority Pass (the $399 version). Not a bad deal! And if you're assigned to BofA's Premier Banking division, the service really isn't THAT bad!