Nevertheless, appreciated a sit down in a comfy chair for a couple of hours, reading the paper and watching the world go by. Walked down to the departure gate and was first to board upon 'the calling' for children, gold and business etc. Whilst this was a 777 flight, I noticed the config. was changed on-line a week before departure to include a FIRST cabin, though no reference was made to this on boarding or any other announcements. There were people sitting in there, I assume they were friends/family of staff etc.
J was almost full and as we were sitting down we were offered a paper, champagne and a ultility bag by a smiling FA. Settled down to the paper and drink as other pax did the same. Had some horrible nuts too which were left to one side. Take off was 20 mins late but soon as we were up, menus were handed out indicating a salmon salad or fresh green leaf salad (Mmmm, lettuce). Main was steak, fish or veggie and dessert was something I can't remember or cheese, which was excellent. Coffee and brandys were served (double sir? Yes please, and 2 miniatures were opened).
FSM introduced herself to a slect few - I guess since there were 35+ J's on board she only had time for Silvers and Golds. This was our qualifying silver trip, but we were not rewarded with a chat! Oh well, roll on next time to Vancouver in Aug, I can chat till my hearts content!!
Smaller than normal TV screen (old Aircraft I think) but watched Brokeback Mountain punctuated by dinner. Good film, then had a doze influenced by the nice Chilean red and the brandy. Woke a couple of hours later for sandwiches (nice fresh beef or chicken caesar), coltted cream scone and jam (VA just win here, I think), nice cup of tea and some crisps. The IFE didn't have the games on so just watched the map and snippets of other films, fed intermittently by the Raid the Larder scheme (nice touch) where you go to the galley and help yourself to soft drinks, crisps, choccies and other nibbles.(When we went to Mauritius 2 years back, there was also a flask of delicious Tomato soup - that seems to have been stopped now).
Overall, seats were comfy enough - miss the width room you get with UCS, but the full recline is always nice. Average IFE, good service with friendly FA's, food OK, similar to VA UCS, wine v.good though only 2 of each to select from, limited choice.
Captain being Scottish was kind enough to inform us of the England v Tobago score and a mixed reaction with a 2-0 score line especially with the Tobagon's going back home (a few wry smiles, so as not to upset too many!).
Enjoyable 10 hours, including the 1 hour stop over at Antigua, slightly annoying but acceptable, before a brief 1 hour flight/new crew to TAB where we had a relaxing week on sun and warm sea, just chillin' (man).
