This is a Trip Report from the Upper Class cabin
Ground Staff
Food & Drink
Entertainment
Seat
Cabin Crew
Well, they did. We arrove at the new terminal, expecting as per the website, to have a greeter show us exactly where to go. We didn't, but nevertheless found our UCS check in desk quite easy. It looked a bit untidy, clearly not quite finished yet, but a friendly lady told us where to go after giving us our invitation. Up the elevator, we found ourselves 2 among 7 staff chattering around by the security. Fantastic! Straight in and out into the main terminal, no fuss, queues or hassle - bliss!
First time in the new lounge for me had me agog. Wonderful oasis of tranquility and sanctitude. Because of our early flight we wouldn't get too long to take advantage of the amenities (we have a SanFran flight in June with later time slot, so we will make most of it then...). Had a lovely full english, champagne and lovely strong coffee to start our holiday, soon wiping away those memories of yesterday. Gulped it down a bit for my facial was at 7.30, the wifes at 7.45. Had to take my top off, which have never done before for such a treatment, though my wife didn't. Wasn't sure whether to be flattered or not! Spent a relaxing 20 minutes, almost snoozing off in a bid to catch up on some of the sleep! Then had a quick dash to duty free to get my mandatory 2 bottles of XO cognac before rushing back for one more champagne. Really impressed with the whole lounge, seating, ambience, range of facilities, snacks, food, amenities etc. Will do more next time - certainly if ever there was a persuader between BA or VA, this may well clinch it (though I have a First BA trip to China/Japan in September from the new T5, so that will be interesting to compare).
We made our way to the gate where we sat down. There appeared to be a delay of some sorts, which meant half hour delay in boarding. Was one of the first on, with a welcoming smile. My wifes name was used, not mine, as we were shown to our seats towards the left of the plane where we were not facing anyone (latter 1/3 of UC), which was ideal. Soon got our champers and found a tiny amenity kit on our seat containing bare minimum. However this was topped up shortly after by a crew member offering razors, polo's, a very nice pen, lip balm I think. Took a few bits and settled down. The entertainemnt system was working surprisingly so had a sneaky game of Millionaire.
We were advised this was a full plane and would be half an hour late taking off - hour delay in total. Didn't bother us as we had a 3 O'Clock check in, so no hurry to JFK. Took off fine and drinks order was soon taken. G&T for me with some Kettle crisps. The beauty therapist came round taking her orders. Since I had the CH treatment I wasn't expecting anything else, but was pleasantly surprised where half way through out flight I was called up for a Heavenly Hands treatment - a rare treat for me - followed by my wife. Very nice lady and had a chat about this and that.
Anyway, English menu lead to me having the pie. Nice, but not 'wow - what a pie' nice. Not sure if it was what I expected on a UC flight, although anticipated it from previous reports. Enjoyed it certainly, as I did the treacle tart (mmmmmm!!!) and the coffee/cognac that followed. The sandwiches and clotted cream warm scone for tea were OK too, though a tad dry for my liking, and they had ran out of crisps! Still, 7 1/2 for food I would guess (where I would give BA 8/10 for Club and 9 1/2 for First). Wine was good, with a tasty red from Chile I think.
CSM came round and introduced herself to all. I missed her first time as I was in the loo, but she mad a point of coming around again, which was a good touch, using my name and enquiring about our trip. Nice lady with a genuine interest. In fact, we had a good crew. You read alot about differing standards of crew, but here they were fun, attentive, genuine and caring - 10/10.
IFE was running well, though picked a couple of dud movies. Spent time dozing, Millionaire and the new flight map interactive thing. All went well throughout the flight, apart from the delay, with nothing much else to report. I noticed they had flaced a template over the controls of the seating and tables. Before hand my knee used to knock open the table regularly to my annoyance but this little device stopped this which was good.
We landed about 1.30, one of the first off the plane. Luckily the immigration was quiet and we were the first in. Unluckily, I was placed by the 'hostess' behind an agent who thought he was Jimmy Carr, keeping each of the 3 parties in front of me engaged in 'jovial banter' for ages. Yes, it made a change for some frivolity by such a person, but it did go on...'So, are you Ian?' - 'Yes' (Obviously) -'Well, who is this in the photograph?' - ha ha!! And so it went on finally 'Well, I suppose I will have to let you into the country then...'. Bless You.
Anyway, our luggage was waiting for us on the carousel already which was brilliant (a tribute to JFK, unlike LHR et al.) and we were soon off to get our cab to the Jumeirah.
A quick question re taxi fares and tips. Last time we were there we got a cab and I gave him a tip (I cannot recall how much) I got challeneged with a 'is that it - all the way from JFK??' This time I didn't want to be embarrassed, so as well as the standard $45 and $6 toll I gave him $70 in total. Is that too much, just right or am I being a member of the taxi drivers benevolent Xmas fund? Just interested to know what other people get away with?
Anyway, that concluded out hassle free trip there, ready for 3 nights in NY, 5 in Florida and 4 in Vegas (excellent!!). Return trip to follow.
Thanks.
