On the Ground: My husband and I arrived in Madrid for our connecting flight to Boston hoping we had been cleared for a space-available upgrade. Anticipating a 7.5-hour flight, we grabbed a quick snack, just in case we didn’t make it into business class, and approached the gate agent with our fingers crossed. A cursory glance at the flight list showed that we had not been cleared. Disappointed, I asked her to check one more time. The double-check did the trick: We made it. (27/30)
Pre-flight: I made myself comfortable in my spacious seat and, before I even had my seat belt buckled, a pleasant flight attendant was at my side offering a choice of water, orange juice or Champagne. I selected a newspaper, checked out the amenity kit (hairbrush, socks, eye mask, moisturizer — everything I would need to ensure a comfortable trans-Atlantic flight — and proceeded to peruse the in-flight menu. (30/30)
In-flight: Once airborne, flight attendants circulated about the business-class cabin offering warm towels and beverage service. I accepted a glass of Merlot and placed my order for honey-stung chicken with rice and assorted vegetables, accompanied by warm rolls. Following dinner service, I switched on the overhead light, reclined my seat into a comfortable position and opened my book. The flight attendant assigned to my section of the cabin offered me a cup of tea and a blanket; throughout the flight she acted as if I was her only passenger. I read for a while then decided to watch a movie. The service was great, but the comfortable seat was the icing on the cake. (40/40)
The Experience: Our Iberia flight was more of an extension of our vacation than simply transportation. We landed in Boston, and my husband joked that he’d like to bring the seat home with him.
Total Score: 97/100
Read This Next
All Reads on This Topic
Read Them All
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Mar 5, 20213 Recipes for Lent from New Orleans’ Top Chefs
The Lenten season continues through April 3. This year, New Orleans’ top chefs share some Lent-friendly recipes for at-home dining.
Sponsored Content
The Greatest Show on Earth
Step right up to the greatest show on Earth as FXExpress Publications, Global Traveler, trazeetravel.com and whereverfamily.com celebrate their 2020 award winners! Join the big top on Dec. 14 as we virtually award the winners of the 17th annual GT Tested Reader Survey awards, including the Airline and Hotel of the Year; the 17th annual Wines on the Wing Airline Wine Survey; the eighth annual Leisure Lifestyle Awards; the sixth annual The Trazees; and the third annual Wherever Awards.
January/February 2021
Mar 5, 2021Indulge in the Seductive Splendor Bora Bora
I had just taken off my sandals, stepping onto the white-sand beach for a late-morning walk to a secluded spot I heard about from a front desk clerk, when I glanced down and saw the time on my phone. It had just turned 11 a.m., which meant it was only 7 am back home, the perfect time to call and say good morning to by husband before he left for work. Not quite ready to head back to my room, I decided I’d test the WiFi signal and made the call as I continued walking toward the shoreline.
January/February 2021
Mar 4, 2021Set Your Sights on San Antonio’s Art, Culture and Green Spaces
San Antonio celebrated 300 years of progress in May 2018. With a clear vision following that anniversary year, the Texan city set its sights firmly on 300 more. While commemorating this milestone, the city underwent a major overhaul to prepare for the next phase in its history.
Sponsored Content
What To Expect When Flying: oneworld Debuts Information Portal
Though air travel slowed as airports temporarily closed and borders shuttered to stifle the spread of coronavirus, the airline industry — led by oneworld alliance member airlines — enacted enhanced protective measures to reduce risk and protect passengers.
Daily
Mar 4, 2021SoJo Spa Club: Tranquility with an Urban View
When you think of a relaxing spa day, mountains, rivers and view of gorgeous landscapes pop in your head; a place to get away from the hustle and bustle of any city’s booming music and honking taxis. SoJo Spa Club and Hotel gives you the relaxing feeling of being away while still staying close to the busy center of Manhattan.
Mondrian Doha Review
eFlyer Reviews
Mar 3, 2021Gaylord Hotels Announces Spring Specials
eFlyer Deals
Mar 3, 2021eFlyer Deals
Mar 3, 2021Mackinac Island’s Grand Hotel’s Reopening Offers
Dance the night away with Grand Hotel’s Ballroom Dance offer, available May 16–18. Dancers of all skill levels will experience a diverse range of ballroom dance styles, alongside daily breakfast and dinner, a welcome reception and complimentary golf green fees.
eFlyer Lead
Mar 3, 20214 Travel Experiences for Women’s History Month
March marks Women’s History Month, and there are a number of ways to celebrate through travel. Here are just a few ideas to honor women in history.
ShareThis