On the Ground: My trip to Belgium came just a few months after the tragic terrorist attacks at Brussels Airport in March 2016, so extra security measures were in place. My bus transport was required to drop off a certain distance from the airport’s entrance, meaning I had a longer walk to the terminal and I passed through an additional ad hoc security screening prior to entering the airport, but I was not pulled aside for any screening at that checkpoint. After a bit of a wait to check in, I was on my way through the priority security lanes. The airport was crowded, but everything ran smoothly and without disruption, despite the number of people.

Pre-Flight: While I intended to pass my pre-flight time at The Loft lounge, my flight departed from the B Terminal and I was directed to The Suite lounge. Both offer superb airport experiences to premium passengers. The Suite can accommodate more than 150 passengers, and it was full on the day of my visit. Once I found seating, I helped myself to a light morning snack and caffeinated beverage and chatted with my travel companions until it was time to make my way to the gate for boarding. By the time I walked to the gate, boarding was underway. I used the priority lane to board quickly.

In-Flight: As my flight departed in the late morning, my ultimate goal was to stay awake in flight and arrive back in the United States prepared to adjust accordingly to the time change. The lie-flat seats with integrated massage functions sure tempted me to snooze, though. Overall, the in-flight experience offered everything a premium traveler craves in a business-class experience: a large, 15.3-inch, touchscreen entertainment system with a variety of options; a Star Chef menu; a range of wine and beer options; a well-stocked amenity kit; and attentive service. I settled in, prepared to pass the time dining and watching movies, which included an old favorite, The Town. And I did rest my eyes for just a short time. As my flight was longer than seven hours, a snack was served in addition to lunch.

TOP TAKEAWAYS

◆ If possible, select one of the “king seats,” considered the lone seat in the 1-2-1 configuration, for even more space and enhanced privacy.

◆ I found the presentation of my snow crab snack and sliced veal starter particularly lovely and visually appealing.

◆ After we reached cruising altitude, the flight attendants set up an area at the front of the cabin where passengers could help themselves to chilled Champagne throughout the flight — a nice touch.

◆ Each flight features a Star Chef and a wine and beer of the month. Dimitri Marit was the Star Chef featured on my flight. I quite enjoyed my cod in a Parmesan crust, as well as the Blanche de Thines Belgian beer, the highlighted beer.

◆ Another nice touch? Business-class passengers receive a gift box of Neuhaus chocolate.