This is a Trip Report from the Upper Class cabin
Ground Staff
Food & Drink
Entertainment
Seat
Cabin Crew
But I thought I’d return to a Virgin Atlantic flight because my goodness, they are getting it right.
This one was back to my beloved Boston, where there is actually a pub where everyone knows my name. And it’s not Cheers!
Found some G availability at fairly close notice and booked a week - flying into Boston and out of Newark. (Absolutely love Newark Airport - and the Clubhouse there is possibly my new favourite, although I will always have a soft spot for Boston)
The night before my flight, I opted to stay at the brand new Moxy Hotel, Heathrow, and it’s a strange combination of hipster cool and aren’t we clever touches, which, as a curmudgeon, I found annoying.
That said, the bed was very comfortable and the rooms quiet, which I guess is the main thing. I’m also a cost-conscious curmudgeon, hence I am typing this from the Moxy before my stupid o’clock flight to Belfast in the morning.
I checked out of the hotel around 11am and jumped on a free bus to Heathrow Central Bus Station, before a short walk to the hallowed turf of Virgin Atlantic at Terminal 3.
A very warm welcome at the check-in desk, and just managed to beat a rush in the Private Security channel - so was through in no time!
I went directly to the Clubhouse, where a new publication is available…
The day before my flight there were still seats in G class, and the Clubhouse was surprisingly quiet. I used the opportunity to take plenty of pics.
I was there just before lunchtime and had the soup and toastie for elevenses… this is a really simple creation but does it pack comfort!
I decided I should, in the interests of research only, try a cocktail. This Gin Fizz really hit the spot!
Later on I had a really delicious and well presented chicken korma curry. I liked that it had a little kick which could be enhanced with the chutney.
Inevitably, boarding was called and I reluctantly left the clubhouse.
Champagne was offered on boarding - my friend didn’t like it which I think chimes with popular opinion here. I’ll drink anything but didn’t ask for a top up.
Here, in yet more pictorial form (saves me typing!!) is my meal: STARTER - tomato and basil soup
MAIN - Spinach and ricotta tagliatelle, maybe? I really liked it.
DESSERT - Bread and butter pudding
CHEESEBOARD & PORT
On Vera, I watched Downsizing - which was not at all what I expected and was actually quite a thoughtful movie - I fell asleep before the end but don’t let that be my critique. The flight was very quiet, I went to the bar but the people there were fairly uninterested in the usual group conversations I have enjoyed there.
The scenery outside was stunning.
Then, the Virgin inflight burger. It’s a thing of beauty!
It was lovely to arrive in Boston in daylight, and the approach was everything I remembered.
Global Entry in Boston has improved no end, and I was waved through in seconds, dropped my bags at the hotel and was very shortly enjoying a pint of Waschusset Blueberry at Tavern in the Square - which has been poured as I walked through the door and was waiting for me at the bar.