This is a Trip Report from the Premium Economy cabin
Ground Staff
Food & Drink
Entertainment
Seat
Cabin Crew
We got the train down to Gatwick the night before and stopped off at the BLOC hotel, which was more than adequate for us with it being very close to a landslide pub and also very close for the shuttle the following morning to get over to the north terminal.
We headed over quite early to check in and then made a line for the premium security channel. We didn’t realise we had this with the ticket so that was nice surprise and we were in duty free in no time.
Headed for the NO1 lounge next - we used the two free passes from my AMEX gold lounge club card, but must add that I paid £5 each to ‘guaraantee’ our place. It’s a little cheeky for my liking but I was glad I did it as we saw quite a few people getting turned away.
I’ve read quite a few bad reviews of that lounge but I have to say that it was great for us. It was nice and clean, the breakfast buffet was all really fresh and we grabbed a nice table by the window. I probably wouldn’t pay the standard entry of £32 (I think?) but for £15 with Amex gold/lounge club I’d be more than happy.
We headed down to the gate at about 11:40. Boarding took quite a while due to a few passengers needing special assistance, so no issues there. Once we did get on the plane (pretty woman I believe) we headed straight upstairs and into our seats which were 24 H and K.
I’ve had the pleasure of sittting in the bubble before, in economy, and I liked the quiet cabin. Then the back row of PE seemed like the best idea for the guilt free reclining. With 418 people on board I really did think we had some offf the best seats on the plane for the 9 & a half hour flight.
Firstly I should say that I’ve only ever flown economy, so this was my first time in a premium cabin.... and I was super impressed!! I thought the hard product was great. I had more enough room in every direction, and once I’d reclined my seat it was even better.
The meal service happened pretty much as soon as the seat belt sign was off, which was a little early for me after my big breakfast in the lounge, but, I didn’t say no! Lasagne and a sticky toffee slice were served up and they were both really good. I’ve never been a fan of airplane food but I really enjoyed the PE dining experience. The little things like using actual cutlery, and proper glasses and plates really did make a difference for me. After this I settled in my seat to watch a few films and have a few whiskeys whilst the next 8hours passed by.
It was a really smooth flight and it passed in no time -no doubt it was due to the seat! Landed on time (I think) and was soon in sandals lounge awaiting our ride to Montego Bay.
Overall it was a great experience, both on the ground and in the air. The two crew who looked after us upstairs (M**** and C**** I believe) did a great job of making sure we were looked after at all stages.
Obviously it’s a price sensitive thing, but for the money I paid for the upgrade, I’d do it again in a heartbeat!
Last edited by honey lamb on 16 Apr 2018, 19:04, edited 1 time in total.
Reason: Edited to remove staff names as per forum rules