This post is reserved for exceptional lounge experiences and straight-up hacks. This will be a living-post, with additions coming in from my own travels as well as guest contributions (from trusted sources :D). I hope you, the reader, finds this helpful! Note, even if you're not part of a particular program (e.g. priority pass) you can often buy a day pass, which most of these experiences should merit.
SYD (Kingsford Smith international, Australia)
There are no priority pass lounges at SYD, but the perk may actually be better. You get 36 AUD off many restaurants, particularly in terminal 1 (which has 5 options). There is literally an entire hall of restaurants to choose from. From the burger shack to a nice sit-down affair. Honestly, you probably won't even spend this much (please do not take this as a challenge / save the planet :D )
Oh you have a guest? Then you get 72 AUD off your bill! What..?! Yep. Enjoy, come hungry.
CEB (Mactan-Cebu international, Philippines)
According to priority pass, Terminal 1 (domestic) has no airport lounges in network. It turns out there's a newly built "Plaza Premium" lounge. To get here you have to pass security and find an elevator near Gate 10 which takes you to the lounge. There are NO signs before security for this place and even airport staff gave me incorrect directions.
This Plaza is super nice featuring an onsite chef who owns a limited asian-fusion menu (and is willing to make off menu options). I had the Kimchi Ramyeon and Coconut chicken curry, both were solid. There are comfortable couches, work-pods, communal tables with USB/charging ports. This place has shower facilities. Also, it's completely empty (go figure). There were more staff than people here, in a place which is currently immaculate (and where I'm writing this post).
Side bar: There's a "muji" type store in terminal 1 which has decent stuff at rock bottom prices. I got a kick-butt eye mask (with cooling gel) for 3 USD :D
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