On the Ground: I arrived at Heathrow early to avoid the lines at security, nevertheless the terminal was crowded and I anticipated a backup. After retrieving a printout of my flight itinerary at the Gulf Air information desk, I proceeded to the check-in counter where my luggage was tagged and I was asked to wait. A few moments later, to my pleasant surprise, a Gulf Air representative escorted me through security to the Gulf Air lounge — truly an oasis in Heathrow. This was only the beginning of my premium experience. (15/20)
On Board: In the bright, fresh business class cabin, I was immediately greeted, my coat was hung, a selection of newspapers offered and my drink ordered. I noticed one flight attendant dressed differently from the rest and soon learned she was a Sky Nanny, on board specifically to assist passengers with small children throughout the flight. A relief to passengers with infants — and to the passengers around them!
The dinner selection included western and Middle Eastern fare. I opted for seared chicken with marinated Mediterranean vegetables, garlic rice pilaf, and mild chili and semi-dried tomato veloute. I started with wild mushroom soup blended with Provencal herbs, and finished with international cheese and fresh seasonal fruit. Most of the wines on offer were French.
Even though my seat did not recline to a full 180 degrees (fully flat beds are available in the new A340s), I slept peacefully and awoke to something so pleasant, I thought I was still dreaming. A handsome chef gently tapped me and said, “Good morning, Ms. Young. How would you like your eggs?” I wasn’t dreaming: I was 36,000 feet up, the sky was crystal clear and I was about to have “breakfast in bed” prepared by my own flying chef! Gulf Air is one of a handful of airlines with an executive chef on board to put the finishing touches on dinner and to prepare breakfast for premium class passengers.
Even the lavatory offered special touches: hardwood floors and a window so you don’t miss the view! (38/40)
The Experience: Gulf Air does not fly from the United States, but I would be happy to fly the airline any time my travel originates from a Gulf Air gateway. In addition to the splendid in-flight treatment, the service on the ground was so efficient I made my connection although I had just 15 minutes between flights! (39/40)
Total Score: 94/100
Read This Next
Continental Airlines Business Class
2007
Jan 2, 2013Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Mar 31, 2023Italian Mansion, Winery Locanda La Raia Available for Private Stays
Looking for luxury in Italy’s Southern Piedmont Region? In the wine hills of Gavi, north and west of Genoa, Locanda La Raia offers 10 splendid guestrooms and two apartments on a 180- hectare estate. Once a countryside inn and post station serving travelers journeying through the area on horseback, the space has been meticulously restored by the Rossi Cairo family to showcase original features such as vaulted ceilings and exposed brickwork. Each guestroom has been individually decorated and now features enormous windows overlooking the surrounding landscape of lush gardens, rolling meadows and organic vineyards.
Daily
Mar 30, 2023The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach’s Wellness Experiences
The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach offers travelers a new immersive wellness experience: Healing in Hawai’i.
Daily
Mar 30, 2023NoMo Soho Introduces New Private Event Spaces, Return of Rose Garden
NoMo SoHo recently announced the return of Rose Garden as well as the introduction of two new event spaces, The Penthouse and Nina’s.
Sponsored Content
Enter to Win $500 and Get Six Months’ Free Access to the New GT App
Now through May 8, sign up for a free six-month trial of the Global Traveler app and be automatically entered for a chance to win a $500 gift card of your choice for Amazon, Apple or American Express.
Daily
Mar 30, 2023A New Type of Art Experience: Rotterdam’s Depot Boijman’s Van Beuningen Opens
A little more a year ago, Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen, designed by architectural firm MVRDV, opened to the public in Rotterdam. At Depot, everything revolves around the interaction between the visitors and more than 151,000 works stored in various areas of the unique building.
4 Spring Hotel Openings
Daily
Mar 29, 2023Elk Cove Inn & Spa Review
eFlyer Reviews
Mar 29, 2023eFlyer Deals
Mar 29, 2023Last-Minute Spring Deals from SIXT
SIXT invites customers to book some spring and summer deals. Book a midweek deal for up to 30 percent off rentals of two–four days starting on a Sunday, Monday or Tuesday and ending by Thursday. Book the midweek offer by June 30. Blackout dates of April 2–22 apply.
Sponsored Content
Exclusive Savings: Cruise Along the Danube River with Global Traveler
Exclusive Sailing with Global Traveler
eFlyer Deals
Mar 29, 2023Andaz Mayakoba Welcomes Summer with 20 Percent Off All Suite Stays
Just in time for summer travel, Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya launches its Suites on Sale promotion. During the summer months, the resort offers travelers 20 percent off a stay in a suite.
ShareThis