Where are your lounge manners?

If you think you missed the memo on how to carry yourself in this public space, read on.

Lounge etiquette is so underrated. I penned down some thoughts on this little-discussed topic while sitting at a lounge in a beautiful sea-facing South Mumbai hotel. Most of my fellow neighbours are quiet and calm; however, there are a few gentlemen whose private lives, business conundrums and balance sheets must surely be known to the entire lounge by now.
A lounge is a private place, where some comfort is provided with privacy, at a price. It doesn't come complimentary. Even if it did, I think a few basic etiquettes should be followed by all. So, here goes:

1. Don't talk loudly: It's a lounge, where people are trying to read, have a drink or take a nap till their flight is announced for boarding. The least one can do is to not talk over the phone, unless absolutely necessary. Even if something important comes up, please keep your voice low or exit the lounge if you need to have a verbal slagging match. Talking loudly is an etiquette faux pas in itself - let alone at an airport or hotel lounge, where people pay extra for privacy and exclusivity.
2. Keep your phone on silent: Adding on to the previous point, keeping your phone on silent mode is
generally a good rule of thumb at a lounge, unless you are expecting a very important call. Funny or loud ringtones are a credibility distractor. At a lounge, I personally feel the ringer should be off by default.
3. Avoid public displays of affection: In public, holding hands, walking arm in arm, or exchanging a light kiss with the love of your life could be charming - but prolonged, passionate embraces are not considered appropriate. Young couples can often be spotted in lounges engaging in public displays of attention; it would do everyone well to remember to tone such displays down when in a lounge.
4. Mind your attire: At times, people treat executive lounges like their living rooms. I am not saying we need to turn up in high heels and ball gowns - but slippers, shorts and gym clothes take the casual modern theme a tad too far. Dress appropriately, even if it's casual; have a touch of elegance. A warm jacket with jeans and loafers are a great option for travelling without compromising on comfort.
5. Be courteous: If you are alone at the lounge, offer a larger table to other guests who have come in with family. Offer elders the comfortable seat with the view, and opt for alternative seats yourself. Showing kindness in simple gestures like these shows your true value and will bring a smile on someone else's face.
Till next weekend, #beextraordinary.
wknd@khaleejtimes.com