FX Excursions

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

United Airlines | First Class

Mar 1, 2010
2010 / March 2010

On the Ground: I arrived at Cointrin International Airport, delivered by Geneva’s unfailingly punctual bus system, in plenty of time for my noon flight. Cointrin is petite, and lines are typically quite short, even on weekends. From check-in, I proceeded through security to the Swiss business lounge, which United shares as a Star Alliance member. I checked my email on the computer terminals (gratis), snacked on cheese and croissants from the hot and cold buffet, and read the paper in the calm of that sanctuary. But I nearly missed it entirely — the lounge isn’t well marked, and it’s easy to pass through customs before you realize your mistake. (29/30)

Pre-flight: I was booked in business class for the roughly nine-hour direct flight, and I was looking forward to the ride. In addition to launching the daily, non-stop service between Geneva and Dulles, United had given the Boeing 767 aircraft flying the route a multimillion-dollar makeover. The best part: true flat beds in all 26 business-class seats and six first-class seats (ahhhh …). And though United cannot guarantee this, you may well find yourself, as I did, seated next to an employee of the Geneva-based Nestlé Corporation with 20 kilograms of milk chocolate in his carry-on luggage. Needless to say, we made fast friends. (30/30)

In-flight: The superb service that began on the ground — my jacket removed, my Champagne in hand, all within seconds of boarding — continued into the sky. When it was discovered, for example, that my seat would recline a mere 150 degrees rather than the 180 advertised, an exceedingly friendly flight attendant named Paul insisted that I move to the only first-class seat still available. And, purely in the name of research, I did. With the press of a button, full flatness was mine, along with the unrivaled comfort of the United First Suite, a kind of living-room-in-the-sky: Backcycler Motion system for lumbar support, power outlets, WiFi and high walls for privacy. Fruits and cheese were offered up with a long list of wines and steaming Starbucks coffee, and the five-course meal — I opted for the tenderloin, which was moist and cooked to perfection — was served on china with silverware and cloth napkins. (39/40)

The Experience: From the food to the service to the entertainment system, United seems to have turned a corner. Arriving in Washington, I wished I could stay aboard. Nine hours flew by, probably because I did more work and slept as well as I ever have in the air. You can’t ask for much more than that in a trans-Atlantic flight.

Total Score: 98/100

Introducing

FX Excursions

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

#globility

Insta Feed
Daily
Mar 22, 2023

Austrian Airlines to Bring Back Flying Chefs

Austrian Airlines plans to bring back its Flying Chefs program this summer, returning after a three-year break due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In partnership with its caterer DO & CO, chefs employed by the catering company will offer a complete gourmet experience to passengers traveling in Austrian’s business class on long-haul flights.

Share Your Travel Preferences with Global Traveler in a Short Survey & Win

Learning more about our readers’ travel habits and preferences ensures Global Traveler delivers the content you desire. As the travel industry has adapted and changed over the last few years, it’s more important than ever to connect. To best meet your short- and long-term travel content needs, please help us!

Daily
Mar 22, 2023

Bucket List Blooms: Best Places to Witness Spring Blooms

With spring on our doorstep, the world prepares to see bursts of color, from bold bluebells to vibrant cherry blossoms. While every destination welcomes spring, these places not only see beautiful flowers blossom but also celebrate these blooms with festivals and floral-themed offers from local hotels.

eFlyer Reviews
Mar 22, 2023

Pendry Washington DC – The Wharf Review

Among the handful of hotels in the area, Pendry Washington DC – The Wharf is the newest. I was excited to check in for a little staycation — and even more excited when I checked into my room just in time to see the sun set over the boats docked in the Potomac River.

Exclusive Savings: Cruise Along the Danube River with Global Traveler

Exclusive Sailing with Global Traveler

eFlyer News
Mar 22, 2023

Meadow Homes, New Boutique Vacation Rental Platform in New England, Launches

A new upscale vacation rental platform invites travelers to enjoy boutique properties across New England. Meadow Homes debuts with more than 20 properties in the countryside of upstate New York, New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Vermont, with a keen focus on large, private homes close to popular lake and ski destinations.

Daily
Mar 22, 2023

Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese Offers Unique Photography, Romantic Proposal Experiences

Through tailored experiences, guests at Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese embark on a photo tour around Rome led by Ryan Neeven, the @DoorsofItaly founder, to not only see historical sites, culinary highlights and modern marvels, but also to learn how to professionally capture them.

FXExpress Traveler of the Year

FXExpress Traveler of the Year Contest 2023

Daily
Mar 21, 2023

Salem, Massachusetts, Announces 2023 Festival Schedule

The town of Salem, Massachusetts, may get a lot of attention come October and Halloween, but this year-round destination offers a full schedule of festivals perfect for any season.