VS011 LHR-BOS 6 Jun 09 (Upper)
Posted: 09 Jun 2009, 19:19This is a Trip Report from the Upper Class cabin
Ground Staff
Food & Drink
Entertainment
Seat
Cabin Crew
Anyway, upon arrival at T3 it was evident that the SQ check-in desks had created bedlam as VS appeared to only have half the desks they used to have. This meant that Y check-in was rammed, there were less PE desks and 4 UC desks plus a crew bag drop. I waited for a few minutes to be checked-in by a nice young lady who was very quick and efficient. The meet and greet person for UC was controlling the queue well (there were 4 groups in it when I left) but I dont know why they cant use a barrier or something to organise it better as she kept ushering people to the back of the queue.
A quick trip in the lift to an empty security channel saw laptop/liquids/case all scanned safely. Made a dash to Smiths to get a US plug and then onto the Clubhouse, which really wasnt that busy. Deposited case with the cloakroom then had some breakfast (toast and eggs Benedict) which was very good. Portions seemed a similar size to last summer. After that spent the next 5 hours milling about the CH and taking in a Vesper, Mojito and some Champagne plus an excellent wet shave. Lunch was of course the CH burger followed by the custard cheesecake. Again, very good.
Was soon time to part with the CH and the first call for the flight came at just after 2pm. Waited a bit, grabbed a water and case and trundled off down to gate 21. Mystic Maiden was waiting for us. The gate was full when I arrived and the girl who processed the boarding pass greeted my by name. Boarding was called immediately as I was given the stub back. No one was controlling priority boarding which was a little odd. Anyway, I was 3rd on and made my way to 6K. Luggage stowed and champagne in hand we were informed of a flight time of 6 hours 41 minutes. The load in J was light less that half full Id say. The FSM came round with the bowl of goodies and greeted every passenger by name and welcomed them on board. She seemed fairly active throughout the flight.
Departure was delayed by half hour or so I think we had to wait for a couple of late passengers. The safety video was played and the crew seemed keener than normal for everyone to pay attention (in the light of recent events I suspect). Take off appeared to be at minimal thrust and the roll wasnt that long at all.
Drinks and nuts orders were taken and then lunch orders. As Id eaten well in the CH I opted for only the cheese and some bread and crackers. V:Port fired up and I listened to a few albums before spending some time at the bar. The crew were fairly chatty and were keen on having a bit of a laugh. I think there was the FSM plus 3 or 4 others looking after UC. Had a stroll through PE (which was full) and Y (which was pretty much full) and then settled back into the suite. Didnt bother with afternoon tea.
Soon it was time to buckle down for landing which turned out to be smooth (as was the whole flight).
Overall a very enjoyable first UC trip for me. I can see why some people might feel a little hemmed in in the suite (if you happen to be on the larger side) but they are very private, which I liked. In summary, the CC were excellent, I loved the suite, there WERE limes on board but I cant comment on the food as I didnt have much of it!
Return leg this afternoon to will post TR on return!