Having expendable income makes traveling by aircraft that much easier — and more fun.
With airlines battling to create the best first-class amenities, they are achieving the unthinkable. Inclusive of the already spacious sitting area, beverage service, and comfortable recliners, aviation companies are going above and beyond with spa treatments, apartments on board, and chef tasting menus to name a few. With our curiosity of just how immense first-class accommodations have become, we did a little research and found four incredible experiences that will not only make your journey feel like a hotel experience but will also have you feeling rested and relaxed once your flight lands.
1. Etihad Airways
The national airline for the UAD goes above and beyond to achieve the ultimate first-class experience. Known as a “first apartment,” Etihad Airways’s opulent accommodations include your own living space with a leather armchair crafted by Italian luxury furniture maker Poltrona Frau, a large bed, and personal shower filled with luxury toiletries for your convenience. After being greeted by name and escorted to your apartment, their signature welcome is put in place involving a hot towel, a bowl of dates, a signed welcome letter from the Cabin Manager, and your choice of a beverage. Your living area is big enough to host two other people, whether it be a cocktail party or meeting, and consists of soaring ceilings compared to most airplanes. The built-in vanity is comprised of socks, hand and face creams by Le Labo, toothbrush and toothpaste, and two tiny bottles of essential oils that promote sleep. Other incredible in-flight accommodations include a chef onboard to customize your meal, an onboard lounge where guests can relax with an after-dinner cocktail in hand, complimentary Wifi, and a large television to watch your favorite films.
2. Qantas
The Qantas first class experience begins before you take off with a complimentary chauffeur service and a one-of-a-kind airport lounge encompassing a signature menu, a complimentary treatment at their luxurious Aurora Day Spa, private business suites, and a library. Once you board the flight, your ultra-private suite offers a cozy seat with an ottoman that transforms into an entirely flat, extra-wide bed with deluxe pillows, blankets, a duvet, and a sheepskin mattress for added comfort. For your onboard dining, Qantas offers a unique restaurant-style experience with menu options that are made to order only using the most exceptional ingredients. Sommeliers advise you on a selection of award-winning wines that pair perfectly with your meal (the airline has won Best First Class Sparkling, Best Presented First Class Wine List, and Best Overall Cellar at the Cellars in the Sky Awards 2012). To ensure optimal comfort, the airline offers Martin Grand designed sleepwear, slippers, and amenity kits filled with Aurora Spa products, travel socks, a dental bag, earplugs, an eye mask, and deodorant.
3. AirFrance La Première
The moment you arrive at the airport, AirFrance creates an effortless and stress-free travel experience by taking your luggage and handling all of the check-in procedures for you as you relax in the lounge. While waiting for your flight to take off, the La Première lounge provides an array of snack items, HD televisions, WiFi, and a lavish spa to recharge before you take off. Granted priority boarding to get you through security swiftly, you are escorted by the staff and taken in a prestigious car to board the aircraft before anyone else. The La Première cabin exudes elegance and style with leather, suede, wood, and metallic finishes. Your private space includes a range of services including an individual cloakroom, storage space, bedside lamp, a large table and comfortable ottoman fit for two. Your seat transforms into a bed measuring six-and-one-half feet in length and 30 inches in width. The memory foam mattress, luxury pillow, and large duvet provide extra comfort so you can sleep soundly without any distractions. The Air France travel kit contains everything you need to feel refreshed during and after your flight highlighting a variety of Carita facial and body care products such as hydrating facial cleansers, cream, anti-fatigue eye patches, and lip balm along with a comb, eye mask, and earplugs. Your trip wouldn’t be complete without a high-quality cotton bathrobe, slippers, and socks to enjoy every moment of relaxation 38,000 feet up in the air.
4. British Airways 787-9 Dreamliner
The first-class cabin on the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner radiates luxury and privacy with only eight first class seats available. Once you enter the aircraft, a flight attendant escorts you to your exclusive, black leather upholstered seat, which is enclosed and outfitted with a 23-inch display screen that is managed by a touchscreen remote control. Your personal section includes a locker and mirror for in-flight touch-ups, an ottoman that turns into an extension of your seat creating an entirely flat bed with the addition of a mattress topper, thick pillow, blanket, pajamas, and an amenity kit to stay refreshed on your flight. Don’t expect the usual dining list when flying on this plane either. The menu serves an array of options inclusive of a starter, soup or salad, a main, and dessert. Before the wheels are up, you will be welcomed with a beverage and post take off a hot towel will be served before your meal service begins. You can order a drink anytime from your flight attendant and an hour and a half before you land expect tea in good British fashion along with sandwiches, patisserie, and scones.
Feature Image: www.cntraveler.com
