Fly-Ho Smackdown

In a cage match of frequent flyer VIP lounges, the Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge wins hands down over United's Red Carpet Club. In Sheena's recent unscientific survey of North American Star Alliance lounges, here's the scorecard. Data for US Airways Club lounge is incomplete and not included in this analysis.

Free Wireless?
MLL - Yes, usually great signal though since changing providers recently, a touch flaky, at least in Pearson. (Updated on May 21: the new 'sesame' wireless provider at least in the Terminal 2 Pearson US departure MLL sucks ass. Twice in the last week it hasn't worked).
RCC - No. T Mobile in most, but Verizon in others and Canadian credit cards verboten. Annoying.

Free Booze?
MLL - Yes. Selection varies depending on location, but generally drinkable wines, decent bar brands of hard stuff. Larger locations have 'pour-your-own Guinness' which is funny to watch.
RCC - No. Though some top end United frequent flyers have coupons they can use.

Food?
MLL - much better in recent months. Hot soups during dinner hours, cheese, crackers, snacks and salads/sandwiches
RCC - lucky if you can scare up a piece of fruit or stale tasting sesame snack pack.

Furniture?
MLL - many locations refurbished over last couple of years. Massage chairs, ergonomically sensitive Steelcase workstations.
RCC - Grandma's basement

Guest Policy?
MLL - pretty good, usually no hassle.
RCC - unpredictable and inconsistent.

Feminine Protection?
MLL - free tampons
RCC - inconsistent. Only Stayfree maxi pads in PHL (with wings, natch...)