I see aviation as much more than a simple conveyance. For me, flying is an important part of the travel experience and one that I love almost as much as exploring new destinations. How I get to a new place is incredibly important for me and that’s one reason why I always enjoy flying Virgin Atlantic when I hop the Pond to London. One of the world’s most popular flying routes, there’s a lot of competition among airlines from the US to Britain, but here are a few reasons why I almost always choose to fly with Virgin Atlantic if I have the option.
Amazing Service
Service is key in all areas of the travel experience, and that’s especially true when we fly. Since I take to the skies so often, it’s easier for me to compare and contrast airlines when it comes to service and I’m pleased to say that the onboard staff and crew on Virgin Atlantic is amongst the best I’ve ever seen. The one thing I noticed on all of my Virgin Atlantic flights was the attitude of the flight crew themselves. There were happy, pleasant and nice to the passengers, a sad rarity nowadays. It must be thanks to the corporate culture, which speaks volumes and means that the end line passengers receive an experience found on few other airlines.
Quirky and Fun
Providing amazing travel experiences is both an art and a science. For example, a hotel can buy all the best linens and toiletries, but if their staff is rude then it’s all for naught. There is an intangible element to travel, we just know when something does or does not feel right to us on a very personal level. For me, whenever I fly with Virgin Atlantic everything just clicks. Whether it’s their lighthearted and good-humored corporate personality, or the care they’ve clearly taken in crafting a luxurious Upper Class flying experience, it all just works. It’s nothing I can put my finger on exactly, but the good vibes I get whenever I’m onboard one of their flights, relaxing on my Upper Class bed, I am in my happy place and it’s rare travel phenomenon that makes me return to them whenever I find myself looking for flights to London or beyond.
Great Premium Options
Over the last few years, I’ve had the opportunity to fly with Virgin Atlantic in every class of travel: Economy, Premium Economy and Upper Class. It’s based on this experience that I can say I think they do a great job in providing a memorable experience no matter where in the plane you sit, their business class or Upper Class option is amongst the best in the business. Their lounges alone may be reason enough to fly in this premium class of travel, but of course it’s the onboard experience that matters the most. Set up in a herringbone pattern, the lay-flat beds and seating areas may be compact, but retain a high level of privacy and comfort. From the service to the food and ultimately the ability to relax, I couldn’t find anything wrong with my flying experience in Upper Class. For overnight flights they also offer sleep suits, an amenity usually only reserved for top-tier First Class products. Upon arrival into London Heathrow, passengers are given fast track through immigration and there’s even an arrivals lounge where you can get a quick shower and a bite to eat before heading out.
The Lounges
I was so impressed with Virgin Atlantic’s lounges, that I even devoted an entire post to them, which is a rarity for me. But it’s also a well-deserved accolade as they are certainly amongst the best lounges I’ve ever had the good fortune to patronize. While their regional lounges are relaxing and accommodating, it’s their flagship lounge in London’s Heathrow Airport that really steals the show. The London Clubhouse is enormous and among many other features includes a spa and salon, hot tub, great viewing areas, a full bistro restaurant and any number of other ways to relax and enjoy your time waiting for the next flight. One of my favorite perks in the Clubhouse lounges is the food. Instead of the dry and usually tasteless meals served in other airline lounges, Virgin Atlantic features a full menu from which guests order. That means everything is made fresh and to order and from my own personal experience, is usually delicious. The last time I was in the London Clubhouse I also took advantage of the complimentary spa services and enjoyed a 15-minute facial, helping me look my best before my flight home. An airport lounge may not be enough reason to book an entire flight, but it’s a wonderful perk to an overall amazing premium flying experience.
Although there are many ways to reach the UK from America, choosing an airline like Virgin Atlantic not only ensures a restful and productive flight, but it adds a lot to the overall travel experience as well. From the lounges to the in-air service, Virgin Atlantic ticks all of the proverbial boxes, which is why I try to fly with them whenever I can.
