I have been a very frequent traveler for many years but recently began concentrating my flights on 1 airline in order to gain status. As a U.S. Airways passenger I earned several passes to the lounge but whenever I went to the desk I was turned away. With over 2 hours till my connecting flight I decided to check the admirals club and the very helpful desk agent informed me that I had 5 passes remaining and 1 that just expired.
This is my first experience and it is night and day better than waiting on the crowded gate area. The free coffee and snack are okay but no hot food option make it necessary to go into the terminal for a meal.
I am really digging the comfort level the private bathroom (without a creepy attendant) and the peaceful luxury of the surroundings.
The less frequent traveler has no idea how awesome it is to earn status with the airlines.