When planning a holiday, research often centres on the
destination. Importance is placed on a resort having an amenity checklist, complete with luxury services, an
environment that fosters rejuvenation and a view that puts your soul at ease.
But why neglect the mode of transportation that gets you there? First class is now luxury class.
There are a number of international airlines that offer pure opulence during your travels, aside from the
already-provided three inches of extra leg space or increased baggage allowance – this is about celebrity
status luxury.
Here is a breakdown of what luxury airlines are offering onboard, first class.
Airplane food is no longer reminiscent of the frozen TV dinners of the 1950s. Today’s first class meals are
created in consultation with reputable chefs and establishments, based on seasonal ingredients and go beyond
the beef, chicken or vegetarian options, served alongside the finest champagnes.
British Airways infuses a bit of British
culture in their menu. Choose the “Catch of the Day” seafood, supplied by Loch Fyne in Scotland for flights
departing from the United Kingdom. Or, experience afternoon tea, British Airways’ signature dish inspired by
The Dorchester in London, with a choice of sandwiches, cakes and
teas.
With a guarantee of delicious food, the only hard decision left to make is whether to have the meal served on
fine bone china on top of a white linen dressed table, or in the comfort of your seat. For those travelling
overnight, BA offers pre-flight dining – eat before boarding the plane to maximize time for sleep.
Emirates compare their onboard dining experience as rivaling the
finest restaurants around the world. Their menus reflect the fresh markets of the regions they fly to
(Asian-accented braised beef rib, fresh, stir-fried lobster in black bean sauce). They also provide healthy
meal options that supply all the flavour without the added fat or oil. Experience a seven-course meal
starting with hors d’oeuvres and ending with tea and sweets (not to mention the selection of five cheeses and
port wine).
Singapore Airlines menu is created by award-winning chefs who
comprise the Singapore Airlines International Culinary Panel. The
wines that accompany your meal are hand-picked by a panel of wine experts.
Why book a seat when you can book a suite?
Luxury suites provide privacy and comfort that is evocative of being home in your lounge. All the basics are
included: TV, privacy doors, personal wardrobe, and seats that convert to flat beds. But airlines haven’t
stopped there.
Emirates’ private suites are equipped with ambient lighting, personal mini-bar, a mirror and vanity table,
and a seat that has a built-in massage system that can be converted into a flat bed with a mattress (which
the flight attendant will convert for you).
Perhaps the most luxurious suite is found onboard Singapore Airlines A380. These are the largest airline
suites, providing a standalone bed (not converted from your seat), a hand-stitched armchair from master
Italian craftsmen, a turn-down service, and full-size pillows.
Virgin Atlantic’s suite is more like privacy seating when compared to the suites available on other airlines.
There are no doors creating a private room, rather extended panels create small walls between the seats. For
those who prefer less enclosure, you get privacy with all the personal luxury touches such as an
entertainment system, soft leather seat which reclines (even during takeoff), and the seat flips over to a
flat bed (with just the press of a button).
Emirates has a Shower Spa onboard, meaning you can arrive at your
destination showered and refreshed. Choose from the Timeless Spa product kits that are designed to relax and
revive you.
Singapore Airlines provide pyjamas and linen designed by Givenchy, with Ferragamo toiletries to
freshen up in front of the full-sized Hollywood mirror in the restrooms.
Being confined to your seat (or suite) is no longer necessary on some airlines. Emirates and Virgin Atlantic
offer onboard lounges to enhance the socializing experience. Get up and out of your seat to meet fellow
passengers at the bar for drinks and a bite.
Though luxury services aren’t confined to the air, that’s where the greatest advancements have been seen.
Take a look at Etihad’s
complimentary stopover or British Airways’ concierge service.
Mood lighting, cotton pyjamas, personal suites with a bed, restrooms with showers and spa kits, turndown
service, and Michelin Star-inspired dining only add to the decadence found in first class.
Raise a glass to luxury at 37,000 feet in the air. •
Photo Courtesy: Virgin Atlantic Multimedia Press Office/ ©
Digital News Agency 2010
