V-Flyer

After our work conference it was time to make the journey back to the UK. The return route from Puerto rica was via Miami.

Dropped at the American Airlines terminal area at San Juan airport. Took while to figure out where business class check in was - got to desk only to find we hadn't been through the US bag clearance which was required as we were travelling from an island back to continetal USA. Back to get bags scanned and stickered, the back to checkin. Boarding passes in hand and bag checked through to LHR we headed off to security. Very slow and only one lane open - typical Puerto Rican style! Short stop via duty free - very good priced vodka and rum before we moved onto the Admirals Club. Very nice indeed, with view over runway / apron. Range of complimentary drinks (now in all Admirals Clubs you get free local wine / beer / well drinks) and we also got vouchers for 'premium drinks' and cocktails. Food for purchase if needed, otherwise there are savoury snacks and cookies. Time passed quickly and the drinks measures were very generous indeed!!

Headed off at boarding time to gate - boarding already in progress when we got there. This time boarded through door 2 and so turned right into First. Better than trip down as newer seats on this route. We were the last to board in First. Boarding of coach was slow and offered water / juice on ground (didn't need anything after lounge measures!).

Took off roughly on time with good views over San Juan. Food and drinks orders were taken on ground and drinks and warm nuts came shortly after take off. I said thank you and the cabin crew member came back - thought i wanted something.....suppose not used to a 'thank you'. A little while later dinner was served - choice was cheese ravioli or salmon fillet with rice. Both came with salad and chesecake. Pretty good and decent sized portion.

Watched 'Shetland' on my iPad for rest of the flight - really good if you haven't seen it. I had a coffee served in a good sized mug (connecting straight through so didn't want a hangover fr the next flight) - the crew were around and about offering drinks throughout the flight for those who wanted something stronger. Some nice views of the Bahamas as we passed over head and then over South Beach and Miami. Landed a few minutes early and on stand on time.

All in all a very good flight - if on holiday there was plenty of alcohol to get you in the holiday mood!! Very attentive crew throughout.

How was San Juan - I went many years ago when sailing around the Carib. I recall a youthful romance too so it features in my fond memories! The old town is lovely, did you get inland at all?

The Conradono where the hotels are located was a bit tacky, but old town is lovely and we hired a car for an afternoon to head along the coast a bit - about an hours drive and it was so different. Much more local and more Caribbean, compared to San Juan which is just very American!