FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Air Europa Business Class

Jan 1, 2011
2011 / January 2011

On the Ground: We had a long layover at JFK and were pleased to learn that Air Europa opens its check-in counters earlier than the usual three hours before flight time. There was already a line when we arrived, but a representative greeted us, scanned our passports and immediately escorted us to a dedicated Club counter. After a quick check-in, we were given directions to the Oasis Lounge, shared with several other airlines and outside the security checkpoint. The large lounge is long and narrow, located along a wall of windows, allowing lots of light and cutting the noise level. We were offered coffee (20 varieties), Tazo teas and a full range of drinks from an open bar. The complimentary buffet included fresh fruits and berries, salads, sandwiches and three hot dishes. The business center offered computers, and there was WiFi throughout. Although we were outside security, as soon as our flight was announced we went straight through the priority line and onto the plane, bypassing the boarding line as well. (30/30)

Pre-flight: Even before we were seated, our jackets were on hangers and whisked away. Attendants offered newspapers and magazines (several choices in English), along with orange juice and water. They also offered to help with the seat controls, but these were pretty intuitive, with a lighted diagram of the seat and arrows on the buttons. There was also an electrical outlet at each seat. (29/30)

In-flight: The Club Cabin has a 2-2-2 configuration in four well-spaced rows. We had individual high-intensity gooseneck lights, which we appreciated since the cabin lights were kept low because of the departure hour, 10:55 p.m. Attendants offered us the usual hot towels, menus, “do not disturb” signs and a vanity pack; since we were headed for the boisterous Las Fallas festival in Valencia, I put the earplugs in my pocket. As an alternative to a full meal (for those who wished to get a bit more sleep), a light dinner option with a good selection of Spanish wines was available, which we took advantage of before reclining our seats for the night. Although they were not 180-degree flat beds, they were quite comfortable. Throughout the flight, the cabin attendants were always available and in sight; in fact, this was the most attentive flight crew I can remember of any business-class flight. Cabin announcements were in Spanish and English, but the English was difficult to understand. Flight attendants were fluent, however, and quick to repeat anything we missed. (37/40)

The Experience: On the ground and in the air, we found the Air Europa staff to be exceptionally attentive and courteous. We were the first passengers off the plane in Madrid and were happy to find our priority-tagged luggage the first to hit the belt.

Total Score: 96/100

Introducing

FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Explore Excursions

#globility

Insta Feed
Daily
Sep 29, 2023

Spies, Lies and Nukes Weekend at La Fonda on the Plaza Hotel in Santa Fe, New Mexico

Did the new film Oppenheimer rouse your interest in the nefarious world of international espionage? You can go straight to the real-life setting for covert actions this November (Nov. 10–12), when La Fonda on the Plaza in Santa Fe hosts a specially themed “Spies, Lies and Nukes” weekend. The hotel actually served as the retreat location for Manhattan Project scientists, who stayed at La Fonda on the Plaza to take a break from the stress of their work. During the weekend, the property’s La Fiesta Lounge will make a tasty nod to those days by serving up a special Atomic Martini.

MORE TO TRAVEL

There’s more to travel than just getting there.

Daily
Sep 29, 2023

A Shucking Good Time: The Read House Introduces New Lavish Martini & Pearls In-Room Service

Ever want handcrafted martinis and freshly shucked oysters delivered straight to your room? The Read House’s New Martinis & Pearls service has you covered. Shining in 1920s-themed decor, the historic hotel in the heart of Chattanooga offers a true Gatsby-esque experience, now further elevated with this upscale amenity. Guests can now indulge in their perfectly chilled martini, made to order, and “pearls” (oysters) in the comfort of their room.

Daily
Sep 29, 2023

4 Can’t Miss New York Adventures for Active Travelers

If your idea of fun in New York City is to get the adrenaline flowing and your heart racing rather than engage in more relaxed pursuits like shopping, seeing Broadway shows and visiting museums, here are four activities that are anything but low-key:

IHG® Hotels & Resorts Introduces Effortless WiFi Connection for Guests Worldwide

IHG Hotels & Resorts is thrilled to announce the launch of a new mobile product feature for members: IHG Wi-Fi Auto Connect. This feature is now available exclusively in the IHG One Rewards mobile app for both iOS and Android users and will automatically connect IHG One Rewards members to WiFi upon arrival at more than 5,000 IHG hotels worldwide — no separate passwords or log-ins needed. This is in addition to the exciting benefits of being an IHG Business Edge member. IHG Business Edge provides small- and medium-sized businesses access to a user-friendly portal that displays comprehensive spending and savings data while providing the convenience of direct booking with a guaranteed discount.

Daily
Sep 28, 2023

Studio City: The More Mellow Side of Hollywood

There are two Hollywoods: A catch-all name for the American entertainment industry and the physical place where it was born. The latter continues to draw tourists with the original Walk of Fame; historic hotels, movie and live production theaters; and a full spectrum of pop cultural phenomena.

Daily
Sep 26, 2023

4 Sweet Spots for Vintage Clothing Lovers

Whether you call secondhand fashion treasure troves “thrift stores,” “fripperies,” “charity shops,” “vintage boutiques” or something else, shifting the paradigm from “old clothes” to “new finds,” you may find the best, most conversation-starting souvenirs inside these shops and neighborhoods located in the world’s most fashionable cities and a few unexpected places.

Why Buy Annual Travel Insurance?

One affordable plan can protect an entire year of trips: business or pleasure, short or long, domestic or international.

eFlyer Reviews
Sep 26, 2023

Viking Polaris Canadian Discovery Review

While the 372-passenger Viking Polaris expedition ship, launched in September 2022, falls midway in size between Viking Cruises’ intimate river cruise ships and large-scale ocean ships, it is operated with the same attention to detail and personalized service.