A class act from Emirates
Dubai airline joins the premium-economy club. Does that excite you?
For those who like a little extra room and an elevated level of service when they fly, but don’t want to shell out for (or simply can’t afford) business class, premium economy is an increasingly popular option.
I’ve had mixed experience with premium economy flights. One British Airways flight from London to Miami, in a Boeing 747, had the benefits of being in the bubble up the top of the plane, and some pretty good food and service (I’ve always liked BA service), but my seat felt a little more cramped than it should.
I’ve had good times with Cathay Pacific and Alitalia, so I’m certainly keen to know more about Emirates’ iteration of premium economy, which is being launched on its newest Airbus 380.
Here’s what Emirates has to say about the product: “Sink into soft leather seats, stretch out on raised leg rests and relax into a deeper recline. The adjustable cushioned headrest helps you get your comfort just right.
”Indulge in delicious Premium Economy meals served on Royal Doulton chinaware, and let our cabin crew pour you a glass of your favourite drink from our extended list.”
The new cabin class will be available on services from London, Paris and Sydney from August, and Christchurch from December.
Are you a fan of premium economy? Maybe you think it’s just poor person’s biz class, or maybe you’re happy to be right up the back. Let me know!
LOUNGING AROUND
On the subject of airline extras, Singapore Airlines has announced the reopening of its lounges at Changi Terminal 3.
As frequent travellers know, Changi is already an attraction in its own right, so the premium lounges have to offer a little extra to compete with the standard traveller experience.
Among the attractions of the Kris lounges is something very special for the particularly well-heeled traveller.
According to an airlines media release, “Customers flying in Suites or First Class can also enjoy exclusive access to The Private Room, a luxurious sanctuary within the SilverKris Lounge, and the only lounge that offers fine dining experience.
“Customers are in for a treat with SIA's signature a la carte waited service that comes with a curated selection of local and seasonal offerings.”
SONG SUNG BLUE
Without wishing to get into a monarchist versus republican debate, I will note that the British Royal Family, and all the things associated with it, are (mostly) and asset to the nation’s tourism industry. Without the royals, there’d be no historic castles, grand palaces and other heritage sites of the type I like to visit when I travel to the UK.
But I must say, the recent controversy over Rod Stewart singing Neil Diamond’s Sweet Caroline at the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee concert in London made me think of another type of holiday altogether.
I used to run, mostly in my own mind, a game called Cruise Ship Song Bingo, where I allocated points to myself every time I heard certain songs being sung by shipboard entertainers.
At some point on every cruise, I would hear that song. And, of course, it is an earworm, so I’m sorry if this has triggered you …
GO FOR GOLD
Just in time for winter, Queensland’s Gold Coast has launched a campaign styling itself as “the only destination where you can surf world-class waves, hike through ancient rainforests, sip cocktails by a luxurious pool, squeal on a rollercoaster, discover diverse wildlife and savour the finest of dining … all in the same day”.
Details here at the Destination Gold Coast website.
I did premium economy with Delta a few years ago, LA to NY and return. Hate to see regular economy.