We arrived at Heathrow courtesy of our local limo company. I'd read the V-Flyer emails about the experiments in letting non virgin limos in to the UC dropoff, but was told that the 'experiment' was closed today (27th June) due to 'security problems (?)
So we arrived outside T3, grabbed two trollies, and headed for the UC desk. Within a minute we were escorted to the magic lift, and arrived at the virgin check in. My gold status was acknowledged, and it took only two minutes to check our mountain of luggage (we were going scuba diving, and the spare kitchen sink is needed) and we were through the security channel in a couple of minutes. Off to the lounge - Eggs Benedict as usual, And time for my haircut. After that we were preparing to board, and told that there was a MINOR technical problem with our plane. We were told that we'd be 70 minutes late departing. This developed into only 40, during which time I'd sampled the 'Readhead' cocktail - interesting!
The clubhouse now was nearly empty - our flight was called and we went to the gate. My suite was worn but perfectly serviceable. Shorlty after takeoff, the FSM came round, introduced herself, and acknowledged my gold status. The food was excellent, and I had to keep turning down refill opportunities for drinks.
When I thought about wanting to sleep, the CC read my mind, and asked whether I wanted to have my seat converted to the bed. I then slept for several hours (it had been an early start). I woke 90 minutes before landing, had a cup of tea (and the victoria sponge!)
Landing was smooth, and the FSM wished me a good trip onwards. Overall one of the best VS flights I've ever taken.
Dulles was then a zoo - 40 minutes through immigration, to only then find that our luggage had been offloaded from the belt and scattered around the belt area. Then a 30 minute line to hand over the customs declaration. Not one of the best entries into the US, but not Virgin's fault....
