On the Ground: Just into my fifth week with Global Traveler, I was fortunate to take my first business-class trip to Dubai — a long-held bucket-list destination. On travel day my colleague and I met at GT headquarters and took a car service to Washington Dulles Airport. The three-hour ride got us to the terminal shortly before check-in for our 10:15 p.m. direct flight. Self-check-in was smooth; after dropping our bags we headed to the United Club lounge to relax with snacks and drinks before boarding.
Pre-Flight: The United Club staff greeted guests warmly and provided attentive service. I only had time to enjoy one Bloody Mary and a small plate of hummus and cheese before the gate call, but that was enough to start the trip on a pleasant note. I also packed a few pieces of fruit to enjoy later on the plane.
In-Flight: We departed on time and soon after service began with a chilled smoked-salmon appetizer topped with chive crème fraîche, followed by a fresh salad with vinaigrette. Both were flavorful and set a high bar for the meal. I chose the fillet of turbot from three entrée options because I wanted to try something new — it turned out to be an excellent choice and was well prepared.
During dinner I briefly questioned whether I could ever return to economy after such a comfortable experience, though I managed to restrain myself until a pungent wedge from the cheese plate signaled it was wise to skip that bite. That restraint lasted only until the ice cream cart arrived: vanilla ice cream with fudge and chocolate sauce required no persuasion. I finished every spoonful.
I often plan to sleep on long flights but then get pulled into the in-flight movies, and this trip was no exception. I watched three films: Man Up, The Clouds of Sils Maria and Max. I started Max shortly after takeoff and found it emotionally affecting. Still, I made time to test the lie-flat bed and slept soundly for four to five hours, which made the journey much easier.
The Experience: Overall, this ranks among the best flying experiences I’ve had in more than 20 years of travel. Thirteen hours in the air felt effortless thanks to comfortable seating, attentive service and thoughtful amenities. I left Dubai refreshed and eager for my next business-class trip.
GT CHECKLIST
[checklist]
[item check=yes]Less than 10 minutes for check-in[/item]
[item check=yes]Friendly and helpful agents[/item]
[item check=yes]Priority tagged baggage[/item]
[item check=yes]Airport lounge[/item]
[item check=yes]Complimentary in-lounge food[/item]
[item check=yes]Priority boarding[/item]
[item check=yes]Helpful and courteous flight attendants[/item]
[item check=yes]Pre-flight beverage service[/item]
[item check=yes]Pre-flight newspapers and magazines[/item]
[item check=yes]Extensive on-demand entertainment[/item]
[item check=yes]Amenity kits[/item]
[item]Slippers[/item]
[item check=yes]Lie-flat seat/bed[/item]
[item check=yes]Turn-down service[/item]
[item check=yes]In-flight menu with three entrée choices[/item]
[item check=yes]Top-shelf wines and liquors[/item]
[/checklist]