FX Excursions

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

Gulf Air Business Class

Jun 1, 2007
2007

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

 

Introducing

FX Excursions

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

Explore Excursions

#globility

Insta Feed
Airlines
Apr 30, 2025

LOT Polish Airlines Unveils Redesigned Polonez Business Lounge

LOT Polish Airlines recently completed the renovation of its Polonez Business Lounge at Warsaw Chopin Airport. Its color scheme of deep navy blue, copper tones and amber aligns with the carrier’s Dreamliner cabin retrofit project and the newly opened LOT Business Lounge in Chicago.

A Summer Sojourn Along Europe’s Rivers with AmaWaterways

This summer, elevate your vacation experience with award-winning AmaWaterways. Offering a seamless blend of unparalleled luxury, authentic cultural experiences and unrivaled service, AmaWaterways cruises are the perfect way to uncover the heart of Europe during the sunniest season with itineraries that glide along the continent’s most iconic rivers, including the Danube, the Rhine, the Seine and the Douro.

April 2025
Apr 30, 2025

Breathe in the View and Sip in the Moment in Puerto Vallarta

Mindful drinking with an eye on wellness can mean ordering a zero-proof or low ABV cocktail instead of one that’s boozy and stirred, or slowly savoring one glass of wine instead of tossing back two or three. But sometimes, where you’re sipping a beverage can have just as much of a positive effect on your mind, body and spirit as what’s in your glass.

Daily
Apr 30, 2025

Get a Sneak Peek at New TEMPO Hotel in Brazil’s Santa Catarina

London-based architectural firm Foster + Partners revealed the design for TEMPO Hotel and Residences, scheduled to open in the southern Brazilian state of Santa Catarina. The hotel project is designed to capture the best views of Praia Brava, a spectacular beach with mountain views frequented by surfers. The project is being developed by MUZE real estate development group, committed to creating timeless and artistic spaces that transform everyday life.

Find Your Perfect Escape with Paradisus by Meliá — More Than Just All-Inclusive

Luxury travel today is about more than just beautiful accommodations — it’s about experiencing the destination. Paradisus by Meliá takes traditional all-inclusive resorts to the next level by offering indulgence with immersion, experiences and authenticity. Each resort is shaped by its location, local flavors and curated Destination Inclusive® experiences that bring you closer to the heart of the destination.

eFlyer Reviews
Apr 30, 2025

Relais Villa Porta Review

Tucked into a Lake Maggiore enclave overlooking the Gulf of Colmegna, Relais Villa Porta is an idyllic place to take in a side of the Italian Lakes region that’s different from buzzy Lake Como during high season. In 1820, it was built as a hunting lodge, and by the end of the century, was transformed into an inn by Leopoldo Casnedi. Over time, the surrounding parkland was further enhanced with rare plants collected by Pietro Porta, its second owner and botanist, as well as regular guests wanting to support his efforts. This ensured the inn would ultimately sit pretty within a 10,000-square-meter park surrounding the main villa, a 19th-century Liberty-style greenhouse and original Villa Porta mosaic.

eFlyer Lead
Apr 30, 2025

Spain, Portugal Suffer Widespread Blackout

On April 28, around 12:30 p.m. (CEST), a massive power outage swept across Spain and Portugal, bringing the countries to a standstill and disrupting airport and train service. Spain remained in a state of emergency for April 28 and 29, but more than 99 percent of energy demand in Spain had been restored, while all power was restored in Portugal.

Royal Air Maroc Introduces Groundbreaking Safety Video: A Captivating Invitation to Discover Moroccan Heritage

Royal Air Maroc continues to elevate the passenger experience with the launch of its new in-flight safety video — a cinematic journey that seamlessly blends essential safety instructions with a celebration of Moroccan cultural heritage.

Daily
Apr 30, 2025

Guesthouse Lake Tahoe Debuts This Spring

Guesthouse, a collection of new, members-only rental houses combining the comforts of a rental home with the amenities of a boutique hotel, announced the opening date of its inaugural property. Guesthouse Lake Tahoe, set to open this spring, is now available for booking for travelers visiting Northern California’s Truckee-Tahoe.