P/E or Upper?

Hi,
I'm flying LHR to Johannesberg,SA. I'm able to fly Premium Economy for around 1900 return and Upper for around 3800 return (including my j'berg - Mauritius leg). Obviously which to go for is very subjective but from the point of view of the knowledgable people on this site which represents the best value? My inclination is that Upper is not work 2000 per person more but would value other's opinions based on what they know of the two differing services.

Thanks in advance,
Craig

[Nottingham Nick]

Ah, the eternal dilemma. [8D][:D]

First of all, welcome to the site, Craig.

You will get completely polarised views here, on this oft asked question, but here is my two cents worth.

At the risk of being simplistic - the most important thing, is how much does the fare difference mean to you?

If it is money no object, then the simple choice is UC all the way. If however, like most of us, you ask yourself 'What else can I buy for that £2K per person?' then the choice is not so easy.

Assuming you are talking about a Z fare (so no CDC ). For the extra money, among other things, you will get entrance to the excellent LHR Clubhouse, a bigger luggage allowance; a much nicer cabin environment - the Suite, better food (how much better is subject to great debate here), and hopefully priority baggage handling.

Coming back you will get entrance to the JNB Clubhouse, the same on board service as out going and entrance to the Revivals Lounge at LHR when you land.

I have never been to JNB, so can't comment on the CH, but I enjoy Revivals.

You might also want to have a look at some V-Flyer Trip Reports, select VS601 or VS602 from the drop down menu, and see what others think.

Is it worth it? Only you (or your Bank Manager)can answer that question. [;)]

Nick

Welcome Craig,
Why not split the difference?

Do the day flight in the bubble, where you get the better view.
Do the night flight in UC where you get the UCS.

Then tell us all what you think of the difference in your TRs!
Get the best of both!

Bill

[Neil]

Just to say, no PE in the bubble anymore. All UC upstairs and all the PE cabin in now on the main deck just to the right of the main doors.

Craig,

2 grand ? You can do an awful lot with that.

How about getting a P/E 'S' class ticket and upgrading using 40K miles if you have them and it is available?

Keith

[honey lamb]

Originally posted by Bill S
Welcome Craig,
Why not split the difference?

Do the day flight in the bubble, where you get the better view.
Do the night flight in UC where you get the UCS.

Then tell us all what you think of the difference in your TRs!
Get the best of both!

Bill

First of all, the flights to and from JNB are both night flights.

Secondly, depending on the time of year you fly, JNB is served by a 346, so no bubble.

Thanks for the help guys. I think I am still inclining towards P/E as much as I would love to try UC. £2k per person would pay for our next holiday... I'm going to check the field reports as recommended first but assuming that doesn't change my mind I'll stick with P/E and I'll be sure to post a report when I come back and let you know how it was...

There are plenty of places you can fly with VS on a Z fare for about £1500 return all in. All you miss out on is the CDC.

Read the reviews. Interestingly the P/E reviews describe the use of the CH/Cowshed etc... Does that mean that is also included on the P/E fare? If so the UC at £2000pp extra is even less appealing...

[Nottingham Nick]

No, only VS Gold card holders (and a few other airline high tier cardholders - SQ. for example) can use the LHR Clubhouse when travelling in PE or Y.

It is possible to buy entry when you book your trip through Virgin Holidays, and several V-Flyers were fortunate enough to take advantage of a recent Matterbox promotion that was discussed in the (V-Flyer) Clubhouse, but I think that has finished now.

Nick