New York (JFK) to Istanbul (IST) to Dubai (DXB)
On the Ground: Before this trip, most people were surprised to hear I hadn’t experienced Turkish Airlines, as I’m Turkish. I was excited to arrive at the airport early enough to relax in the lounge before take-off. With no one in the business line, this may have been one of my quickest check-ins to date. I would say it took less than two minutes. Off to the lounge I went.
Pre-Flight: I took a quick walk through the lounge to see what was available. The lounge — clean with plenty of food and drink options — featured a crisp design and comfortable chairs. With dependable WiFi, I sat down with a plate of food and a Bloody Mary and dove into some emails. Because it was a late flight out of JFK, I knew I would be getting some shuteye on the plane unless the entertainment was too good to pass up.
In-Flight: The plane boarded on time. I immediately reached my window seat, offering plenty of legroom as well as storage space for my bags. As soon as I sat down, I was served a juice option. I noticed an actual bar up front with an attendant concocting drinks to everyone’s liking. I grabbed a refreshing lemonade. I wanted to get comfortable under the thick blanket and check out the entertainment available. Shortly after takeoff, I started one of many movies I planned to watch during the long haul. One of the previews introduced Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, which Turkish Airlines promoted. Almost everything was designed to promote the film — even the menus were in the shape of a bat opening its wings — and I think the marketing team did an excellent job.
The chef on board took our orders immediately. I thoroughly enjoyed a glass of Chablis Premier Cru Les Joyaux 2013 to complement my grilled Chilean sea bass. The wine list featured many vintages I wanted to taste. Did I mention the cute electronic candle for each passenger? Romantic dinner, party of one. Such a thoughtful detail! Full from the plethora of delicious food options, I found it easy to fall asleep on the fully flat bed right after dinner.
The Experience: There is a reason Turkish Airlines wins best airline awards across the globe. The service is impeccable, the food provides a great representation of the culture, and the staff is famous for its first-class hospitality. During my layover in İstanbul, I visited the new business lounge, a destination in itself. It featured a pool table where travelers could enjoy friendly competition and safes big enough to hold luggage. These were apparently popular, as I couldn’t find an empty one among about 50 lockers. The lounge also offered massages and even beds for catching a quick nap. Of course, the food was amazing. My favorite? The display offering all Turkish desserts. Everything exceeded my expectations, and the Turkish carrier represents the country well. I hope to enjoy another Turkish flight soon.
Read This Next
Review: Korean Air | Prestige Class
March 2024
Mar 8, 2024Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Nov 1, 2024Check Out The Beach Terrace, The Only Carlsbad Hotel Directly on the Sand
Looking for the perfect destination to unwind and savor the final days of fall or first weeks of winter? Check out the sunny California town of Carlsbad. Located just 45 minutes north of San Diego, Carlsbad embodies the classic Southern California lifestyle for those looking for that winter escape without the chilly temperatures. The 48-room Beach Terrace is Carlsbad’s only hotel directly on the sand, and with November and December weather still in the 60s and 70s, it is an oasis of relaxation to soak up the sun without the summer crowds.
Sponsored Content
Experience Next-Level Travel with Condor Airlines’ New A330neo Fleet
Condor Airlines completely renewed its long-haul fleet, featuring its new Airbus A330neo. Designed to elevate your travel experience, the A330neo is equipped with cutting-edge technology and offers unrivaled comfort, ensuring an exceptional journey for every passenger. With its striking signature striped livery, the A330neo not only promises a memorable flight but also enhances the start of your vacation from the moment you step aboard.
Daily
Nov 1, 2024SWISS First Lounge Named World’s Best Airline Lounge for Dining
Swiss International Air Lines recently ranked No. 1 in the World’s Best Airline Lounge for Dining category for its first-class lounge in Terminal E at Zürich Airport in the 2024 World Culinary Awards.
Daily
Nov 1, 2024Embark on Chile’s Lakes & Volcanoes Route
While Patagonia, the Atacama Desert and Torres del Paine are already well-known Chilean destinations for U.S. adventure travelers, the more recently established Lakes & Volcanoes Route is an up-and-coming circuit distinct for its breathtaking fusion of landscapes shaped by active volcanoes and glacial lakes.
Sponsored Content
Pick Your Paradise: Experience Bali at 3 Incredible Hotels
Bali is a name synonymous with island bliss. But there is more than just one side to this incredible place. Get a sense for the variety of experiences Bali offers by learning about three hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with distinctive opportunities for adventure and relaxation. With the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Card, earn points for free nights at each of these properties.
Daily
Nov 1, 2024Peter Sommer Travels Launches New Aegean Türkiye Tour
Guests on Peter Sommer Travels’ new land-based Exploring Aegean Turkey Tour will explore the county’s winding coast south on an exploration through the ancient world. Along the way, enjoy the finest local and traditional cuisine, as well as luxury accommodations including a grand merchant’s house dating back to the 1800s, a winery and a rustic guesthouse.
Experience Next-Level Travel with Condor Airlines’ New A330neo Fleet
Sponsored Content
Make The Londoner Hotel Your West End Base
Daily
Oct 31, 2024Daily
Oct 30, 2024Things to Do in Santa Barbara’s ARTS District
Formerly known as the Historic Theatre District, the recently renamed ARTS District in Santa Barbara, California, offers travelers an array of cultural attractions.
Sponsored Content
Royal Air Maroc Relaunches Direct Casablanca–Beijing Route, Debuts Toronto Flight
As part of its international network expansion, Royal Air Maroc will reinstate the direct Casablanca–Beijing route initially launched in January 2020 and suspended just a few weeks later due to the health crisis.
eFlyer Reviews
Oct 30, 2024Art Hotel Villa Fiorella Review
Perched on the hillside town of Massa Lubrense, just beyond Italy’s Amalfi Coast, Villa Fiorella Art Hotel brings modern sensibility to an ancient town, emphasizing artistic expression throughout the property. Less than 5 miles from the more crowded town of Sorrento, Villa Fiorella is a refined escape in an idyllic region.
ShareThis