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
Read This Next
Jamaica, Tryall Club, Chef Kai Bechinger
2011 / March 2011
Mar 1, 2012Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Jul 4, 2022$100M Reno at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua recently announced the final phase of a $100 million resort-wide transformation, set to be unveiled by the end of 2022. Located across 54 acres of pristine, wide-open space overlooking Honokahua Bay, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua is a sanctuary for guests seeking a luxurious escape.
Sponsored Content
Los Cabos Sets Your Vacation Apart
from the Rest
Whether you prefer a villa on the beach or an ultra-luxe suite downtown, you’ll find everything you’re looking for in Los Cabos.
Slideshow
Jul 4, 20226 Reasons to Put Lima, Peru, on Your Travel List
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through Lima, Peru, with us.
Daily
Jul 1, 2022Banyan Tree Group Debuts in Japan with 5 New Properties
Banyan Tree Group recently announced its first-ever expansion into Japan with five new properties across four concepts. The hospitality group’s partnership with Wealth Management Group saw Dhawa Yura and Garrya Nijo Castle launch in June, with two more properties slated to open now through 2026. Another partnership with Terraform Capital sees plans to build Cassia, a property in the ski resort of Niseko.
Sponsored Content
The State of Sustainability in Global Business Travel
Much of the global business travel industry has already made sustainable business travel a priority with a focus on reducing emissions and their environmental footprint. But the industry, as well as external stakeholders, such as policymakers, recognize more needs to be done.
Daily
Jul 1, 2022Chikagai: Tokyo’s Underground Shopping Malls
For many business and leisure visitors to Tokyo, squeezing in a few hours of shopping during the city’s wet and humid early summer months can be somewhat unpleasant.
Luxurious Getaway at Ocean Casino Resort
Daily
Jun 29, 2022Madeira Food on Foot Review
eFlyer Reviews
Jun 29, 2022eFlyer News
Jun 29, 2022Three-Day Michelin-Star Dining Experience Launches at Wilderness Reserve
Wilderness Reserve, an 8,000-acre estate of historic and charming properties, woodlands and lakes, invites visitors to its newly launched YOXMAN, a three-day, Michelin-starred dining experience. Four United Kingdom chefs come together to prepare an array of different cuisines throughout the weekend, and guests are treated to plenty of entertainment throughout the experience.
Sponsored Content
TAP Air Portugal: 77 Years Young
TAP Air Portugal, or rather Transportes Aéreos Portugueses, was founded 77 years ago, March 14, 1945, and flew its first commercial flight September 19, 1946, inaugurating service from Lisbon to Madrid, Spain, aboard a Douglas DC-3.
eFlyer News
Jun 29, 2022Rosewood Hotel Bauer to Open in Venice in 2025
Rosewood Hotels & Resorts adds to its growing collection with Rosewood Hotel Bauer, slated to open in Venice in 2025. Led by Venice-based architect Alberto Torsello and interior design group BAR Studio, the property will lie in the city’s historic San Marco district.
ShareThis