VS024 LAX-LHR 13 Sep 07 (Econ)

This is a Trip Report from the Economy cabin
Ground Staff
Food & Drink
Entertainment
Seat
Cabin Crew
Killed a few hours at the Polo Lounge at The Beverly Hills Hotel. Great hotel and restaurant would recommend to anyone. Good journey to airport, not much traffic.
Arrived at check-in only 2 people in front of us. Huge difference from checking in at Gatwick! Which as stated in my other trip report was utter chaos. Not charged excess luggage this time which was a relief and check-in procedure was quick and easy. Made our way up to departures, again not much of a queue at screening. Not much to do in the departure lounge, we had already eaten and spent all our money so that just left reading a book while waiting to board.
Boarding started on time. It didnt take long and I suspect it was a pretty full flight. Someone was sat in my seat and for a few seconds I had the hope that we might get upgraded but it was short lived! she had read her boarding card wrong. We took off pretty much on time. Drinks shortly after, followed by a meal. I went for the beef but I didnt like it, other food was fine though. Once all that was cleared away i reclined my seat, tried to get comfy with the pillow and blanket ( not easy) and slept on and off for about 5hrs.
I was woken up by the lights being switched on. I watched an episode of The Office USA and then breakfast came round. I love the cheese and egg crossiant and made a real pig of myself by eating my friends un-wanted one too! tea or coffee followed, I had 2 coffees need to get my self awake for the drive up the M40.
Smooth landing 1 hour early! Was surprised by how long it now takes to get through immigration back in UK! must have 45mins, we used to sail through. Not complaining though would prefer they take the extra measures.
Didnt have to wait too long for cases, no queue for taxis and before I knew it we were collecting the car from the Heathrow Marriott and on our way back up the motorway. Feeling rather sad that the holiday was all over but discussing what trip we would spend our airmiles on next year!
Overall flight was fine and landing an hour early was a real bonus. I found the seats really uncomfortable on our return journey but its never comfy sleeping sitting up! Food was ok, just the main meal wasnt to my taste but I dont think anything was wrong with it. Crew and service was fine, although I suppose I slept through most of it! The flight itself was smooth I didnt notice much turbulence.
As I said in my other trip report, it was a good economy flight, basic but thats what economy is. We got what we paid for, especially at the bargain price of using part miles/cash. Will hopefully make the most of this again next year.