On the Ground: Having spent the better part of 50 years traveling by air, I have grown to dislike airports. Security checks are absolutely necessary; but even if one uses the fast lane, they can be frustrating. Virgin Atlantic Airways has done its best to make check-in as easy as possible by having its own dedicated check-in channel. On this journey I arrived on foot rather than via the transport provided by the airline, and it was only a matter of minutes before I was through the security check and on my way to the lounge.
Pre-Flight: There are lounges, but without a doubt, Virgin is top-of-the-class. The Clubhouse, as it is called, cannot be bettered anywhere, in my experience. As soon as I was seated, I was approached and asked if I would like a drink. It was morning, so I ordered a tomato juice and a light breakfast — delicious. Plenty of magazines and newspapers were available, and the decor was relaxing. I did not use a fraction of the services on offer. Any regular traveler must try the Virgin Clubhouse at least once in their traveling life.
In-Flight: Upper Class passengers board the plane via their own entrance, which avoids the endless standing around. I was greeted by cheerful staff who immediately showed me to my seat and were on hand to explain where the various seat controls were. Although the seat was long enough for my 6-foot, 6-inch frame, I have to say I found it too cramped. Frankly, I dislike the herringbone pattern. I happen to be a non-drinker these days — especially important when flying — so the ever-helpful cabin staff brought me sparkling water, and there was an endless supply. Both the food served and the cabin staff were excellent — no complaints. I can’t comment on the entertainment offered, as I never use it but prefer to work or read a book, which I did in perfect peace!
TOP TAKEAWAYS:
◆ After a fraught journey through London traffic, the Clubhouse is a real haven of peace. Well worth flying with Virgin for this alone!
◆ Excellent and cheerful service and, above all, a good safety record
Read This Next
Review: Air Premia | Premium Economy
October 2024
Oct 27, 2024
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Jun 24, 2025Spend a Mile High Fourth of July in Denver, Colorado
July 4, fireworks and outdoor fun — everyone’s favorite long summer holiday is coming up, and you can celebrate it a mile high (literally!) in Denver, Colorado. Here’s a selection of what’s planned:
Sponsored Content
Lech Walesa on Tour: A Conversation with a Man Who Changed the World
Some events change a nation. Some change the world.
Daily
Jun 24, 2025A 12th-Century Watchtower is Reborn as Tuscany’s Newest Stay
Castello di Vicarello, a 12th-century castle located in the countryside of Tuscany’s Maremma, introduces Villa La Vedetta. Villa La Vedetta used to be the castle's historic watch tower and is now the estate’s first standalone villa.
Daily
Jun 23, 2025Mbano Manor Hotel Victoria Falls Featured on TIME’s List of World’s Greatest Places 2025
This year, Mbano Manor Hotel Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe has been featured in TIME’s Annual List of the World's Greatest Places 2025.
Sponsored Content
Three New Routes from TAP Air Portugal as Airline Celebrates 80 Years
TAP Air Portugal offers three new routes to Portugal: from Boston (BOS) to Porto (OPO), Los Angeles (LAX) to Lisbon (LIS) and San Francisco (SFO) to Terceira (TER) in the Azores.
Daily
Jun 23, 2025Celebrate Summer in Portugal’s Algarve with Tivoli Hotels & Resorts
Tivoli Hotels & Resorts invites travelers to spend summer in Portugal’s Algarve region with a curated lineup of experiences at its three luxury resorts: Tivoli Marina Vilamoura, Tivoli Carvoeiro and Tivoli Alvor Algarve Resort.
“Amazon Explorer” Yacht Sets Sail in Peru
June 2025
Jun 22, 2025Daily
Jun 20, 2025World’s First Runway Sauna Opens at Helsinki Airport for Unique Campaign
The world’s first runway sauna opened for just one day this month at Helsinki Airport in Finland. In a country with more than 3 million saunas, this runway sauna may just be another in the country, but it served as a symbol of Finnish happiness and wellbeing.
Sponsored Content
Explore Europe with the Best River Cruise Line this November
Experience Europe from a fresh perspective with AmaWaterways, just awarded Best River Cruise Line by Global Traveler for the third consecutive year. Step aboard, unpack once and embark on a cruise through iconic capital cities and awe-inspiring landscapes. AmaWaterways' ships, which accommodate an average of just 156 guests, offer a spacious yet intimate setting. Throughout your journey, you'll enjoy exquisite farm-to-table dining; unparalleled service; and a variety of included excursions, from city tours for gentle walkers to thrilling bike rides along the rivers.
June 2025
Jun 20, 2025The Majors Make Summer Tops for Tennis Fans
The world’s four most important annual professional tennis tournaments, collectively known as the Grand Slam, take place during the warmer months, so why not tack a Major onto your vacation?
ShareThis