VS238 LHR-HKG 5 AUG 13 (Premium Economy)

This is a Trip Report from the Premium Economy cabin
Ground Staff
Food & Drink
Entertainment
Seat
Cabin Crew
Part one - Lhr --> HK
The chauffeur arrived early which was a nice touch. The journey time from home to airport should have been about 90 mins but traffic seas light. Door to dtci in 70 mins... A new personal best!
There was quite a queue at the dtci, so took a few minutes to get through the barriers and bollards. I was greeted by a really nice rep who whisked my bag away. Security was quick and I was in the ch within 3 mins of arriving at the airport.
Haircut and neck massage followed by dinner, showers were being fixed so had to wait for the steam rooms. A pa call later caused a bit of a rush towards the units.
Tapas starter and the chicken curry for main. Very pleasant. Grey Goose bar for a couple of long ones and then out onto the roof terrace. Saw the BA flight to Hong Kong return which had gone tec - a small welcoming party greeted it on the far runway. There followed a nervous text from the mater who saw hkg on the news and thought the worst!
Couple more cocktails at the bar and then a shower. Boarding for the 200 was called at 935 and I made my way to gate 22 - bit of a trek. On board I was greeted with a 'welcome back' (nice touch) and the took my seat. I'd forgotten that 19a does not have a window exactly. ... Sort of at an angle from the seat. Not the end of the world on a night flight but I may go. for 20 on the return leg from New York at the end of the month.
Sparkling wine was served quickly. The PE cabin was pretty full but still enjoyable. Glad to hear that the ife would be activated during taxi and take off.
Plenty of films to choose from.
As I had eaten in the club house, I settle down for the first leg. Pilot announced 11hours 35 - seemed ok.
Copious drink services along with the mail meal passed through the cabin. Although I didn't eat the main, it looked appetising. The flight itself was uneventful. We arrived into Hong Kong ahead of schedule. The trudge through security seemed a tad excessive, but such is life.
Hong Kong airport was very pleasant and the friendly VA staff pointed us back to gate 36. Only had 60 mins to wait. Quick trip to the Traveler's Lounge (Priority Pass) and then pre boarding.
Part two continued in next itinerary report -HKG--> SYD