According to forum posts, Birmingham Airport offers several lounges including No1, Aspire South, Aspire, and Clubrooms. Travelers have given mixed reviews about these lounges, with concerns about refund policies if not used due to delays.

Some travelers said that Birmingham Airport is accessible via a free monorail from Birmingham International Train Station. The airport provides a variety of parking options including a free 20-minute drop-off area, though charges apply after the initial free period. Additionally, there are warnings against parking on red routes near the airport due to strict monitoring and potential fines.

For many users, the experience at customs and immigration at Birmingham Airport varies. The use of e-gates can expedite the process but depends on the travelers' passport country. This impacts the time needed to reach subsequent transport such as trains.

Travelers have called out facilities for twilight bag drop for convenience, allowing passengers to check in their luggage the night before a flight. This service is complemented by nearby parking options, although timing and costs should be carefully managed to avoid extra charges.

According to forum posts, travelers can utilize the train from Birmingham International Train Station to Birmingham New Street, which is a 10-minute journey. Additionally, a free monorail connects Birmingham Airport to Birmingham International Train Station, offering a convenient transit option.

Some travelers mentioned that the X1 bus provides connections from the city center to the airport, with frequent departures and a journey time of about 31 minutes. Moreover, various bus routes such as 934, 935, 936, 937, and 997 serve different city parts, aiding in urban transportation.

Forum contributors have discussed the Swift pay-as-you-go card, useful for paying single or day fares on buses and trams within the city. Alternatively, contactless credit cards are accepted on National Express West Midlands buses, simplifying the fare payment process.

According to forum posts, for those visiting Birmingham for shopping, staying in the city center is highly recommended due to its proximity to major shopping areas like the Bullring and Grand Central. The Staybridge Suites and Aparthotel Birmingham are suggested for their location away from nightlife but near shopping areas.

For events like Crufts at the NEC, travelers have recommended hotels such as the ibis Styles Birmingham NEC and Airport Hotel, Premier Inn Birmingham NEC/Airport, and Holiday Inn Express Birmingham NEC due to their close proximity to the venue. These options are described as budget-friendly and conveniently located.

For special occasions like wedding anniversaries, high-end options such as the Radisson Blu and the Edgbaston are noted for their quality and ambiance. These hotels offer luxurious amenities and are well-regarded for their sophisticated atmosphere.

General recommendations from users for a safe and comfortable stay, especially for solo female travelers, include the Premier Inn Birmingham City Centre New St station and the Premier Inn Birmingham City Centre Waterloo Street. These are praised for their central location and safety.

According to forum posts, Birmingham Airport (BHX) offers several lounge options including the No. 1 Lounge, Aspire Lounge, and Clubrooms. Many users prefer the No. 1 Lounge, citing its proximity to certain gates and the availability of a bartender and free snacks, though meals are limited. The Aspire Lounge is appreciated for its self-serve setup and more substantial meal options, with two locations: Central and South.

Some travelers have expressed mixed reviews about the lounges, highlighting issues such as limited time use due to security delays. Despite having access to free entrances, some users still prefer spending at airport restaurants or bars like Wetherspoons, considering it more cost-effective compared to lounge access for short stays.

For travelers flying with specific airlines like Ryanair or Jet2, the choice of lounge might depend on the gate from which they are departing, as the Aspire South is conveniently located near gates used by Jet2, whereas other lounges are closer to gates serviced by other airlines.

According to forum posts, wait times at Birmingham Airport vary. Some travelers have reported going through security in about 20 minutes, while others have experienced longer waits, especially during busy periods. Early morning flights between 5am and 9am tend to have the longest delays, with some passengers waiting up to an hour and a half.

Travelers have mentioned that the airport sometimes struggles with handling large volumes of passengers simultaneously due to staff shortages, which can extend wait times. However, it’s noted that the airport does attempt to manage queues by pulling out passengers whose flights are departing imminently.

For many users, arriving at least 3 hours before flight time is advisable, especially for morning departures. This allows sufficient time to navigate through potential delays caused by security checks.