Getting comfortable in Suite 1E with a glass of Dom Perignon
In March I flew in Emirates First Class from Dubai to London, aboard an A380. The experience was highly enjoyable. Emirates has fantastic crew from many different countries, which reflects the international appeal of the airline.
The First Class Suites, which can even be closed if you want additional privacy, come complete with your own private mini-bar featuring 2 kinds of water. I was a little shocked it was not refrigerated, but I wasn’t complaining.
There are is also an Onboard Lounge behind business class where you can socialize and get something to nibble on or a drink, as well as an additional First Class Social Area with a bar, but with no bartender.
I shot some video during this flight and hope you enjoy it.
The seat controls for the Emirates First Suites. There are onboard power outlets too.
Left: Truth: the tea tasted like Arabic coffee. Right: My personal mini-bar
I love the I Dream of Jeannie-inspired hats and scarves worn by female members of the Emirates crew
My only issue with this flight was that I was not offered a sleep suit (perhaps because it was day time flight). I’m pretty sure if I would have asked for one, a sleep suit would have been magically delivered to my seat/suite. The flight had wifi, and I was a bit surprised that First Class passengers had to pay to use it. Fortunately it was a Saturday so it was a non-issue.
Paulo, my Italian-born Flight Attendant, made sure my Champagne glass stayed full.
Left: The caviar course Right: The Thai chicken curry
Then there is the food. It’s fine dining in the sky. From the Arabic coffee and dates prior to take off, to the extensive menu with selections ranging from miso marinated salmon to beef. The caviar portion was generous and traditional local Arabic mezze platter that were straight up good (not just “good for airplane food.”). The Thai chicken curry which absolutely the best in-flight meal I’ve ever had. It was followed by delicious Arabic sweets, including katayef and cashew nut baklava.
The Emirates Mezze Platter paired nicely with the Dom Perignon
The shower suites are off the hook– you can book a time to take your shower and are allowed 15 minutes in the suite (you get 5 minutes of shower water time, and an additional 10 minutes for using the rest of the facilities.) The water pressure is strong and the shower suites– painted with the architecture of the Dubai skyline- are jammed with amenities including a hairdryer.
The shower suites feature flattering lighting and scenic painting of the Dubai skyline
Left: The First Class Social Area Right: The Onboard Lounge, located behind business class
There is not one bar but two on board, should you not be satisfied with the fabulous service offered by the Emirates flight attendants. I felt the need to try out both the First Class Social Area (located at the front of the cabin, near the shower suites) as well as the more happening Onboard Lounge (located behind Business Class). The Onboard Lounge comes complete with a bartender and benches to sit on. I think the Onboard Lounge is the better in-flight bar option.
The First Class Social Area comes stocked with beverages and snacks
The First Class Suites come complete with Do Not Disturb Signs