I’ve flown Virgin Atlantic Upper Class SFO - LHR a handful of times now. I purchased my Upper Class experience this time with earned miles. Unfortunately, due to the lack of mileage offered flights from SFO I was forced to fly from Las Vegas to London. I know, there are worse places to have a layover, right?
Still, the “Virgin Experience” is something I look forward to. While United offered similar features, I was reminded just how much I don’t like United on my San Francisco to Vegas (1st class).
I’ve been traveling United Airlines internationally since I was 4 years old and the service and hospitality have always been atrocious. From coach to business to first class, each experience had been lacking. The flight attendants are usually in a piss ass mood (pardon my French !!!) and your hearded on and off like cattle. When in United first class, if I asked for something I was instantly questioned back. For example, “ May I have a glass of champagne?” The United First Class steward frowns at me and asks “You want a glass of champagne?” Every question I asked was met with a question and a look and tone of inconvenience. It’s like if you purchase first class with mileage, they’ll let you know you’re not as important as the $$$ payers on this flight. If I got up to go the dang bathroom I was questioned, “where are you going?” I felt like I was constantly on watch. The First Class experience shouldn’t feel like you’re imprisoned.
Then steps in Virgin Atlantic. From their red lipstick, perfectly tailored bright red uniforms, and mod chic Coiffeurs, the tone for luxury is set. The stewards and stewardesses are friendly and warm. Their service is impeccable. And if you’re lucky enough to be spoiled with one of their lounges, take full advantage of the premium open bar and made-to-order food.
Unfortunately, McCarran Airport lacks a real Virgin Atlantic lounge. However, the headquarter lounge at London Heathrow tops them all. It’s swanky and fun, with pool tables and outdoor seating that you can relax and watch the planes land and take off. Also, you can indulge in a huge bar, take a shower and…. fancy a massage or haircut?! Yep, there is that too. Virgin knows luxury and the ratio of quality to price tag is really not one you can’t beat.
On board you’ll be greeted by a posh attendant. You can even sit at their onboard bar and indulge in a cocktail and a chat. You will be welcomed with bubbles and “crisps” (potato chips for you Americans). Sitting on your lie-flat seat is an amazing amenity kit and two menus: one that contains cocktails, dinner and a huge curated wine list, and the other to order a full English breakfast if you so choose.
The cocktails are fabulous, the food has an amazingly large selection including afternoon tea or cheese and port after your meal.
Breakfast is similar to selecting room service. You’re provided with a little card to check off the entire menu if you wish to. You can order food around the clock with their “feeling peckish” portion, where if you aren’t completely stuffed from their 3 course menu, you can order even more. Also, if you’re traveling with someone else and prefer not to dine alone, your footrest is also a seat. Your companion can come dine with you at your table or socialize over a cocktail.
Now after you’ve eaten to your hearts desire, you maybe feeling a little tired. No problem! Let your flight attendant know you’re ready for bed, and they’ll turn down your bed, comforter and pillow. A little pack is tucked behind your seat when you board. I forgot to mention you can lounge to your hearts desire even during take off. Unlike other classes,
you aren’t forced to be in the “upright position.” Also, if you are taking a night flight, you’re given a complimentary pair of pajamas. This consists of a black v-neck long sleeve top and black sweatpants.
Not tired? No problem! Take advantage of the onboard entertainment with a huge selection of movies, TV and games. Or pop by the bar to socialize a bit. Cheers!
As you wake up from your comfy lie flat seat, your bedding is whisked away and the breakfast your ordered upon boarding the flight is now served. Finish that show you’ve been watching an in no time that 10 hour flight you were on now feels like 2!
My advice to you? Jump ship from your United mileage card (or other airline affiliates) and sign up for the Virgin Atlantic MasterCard and start saving those miles! Also a perk, my one way United business class seat was a whopping 150,000 miles. Virgin Atlantic on the other hand was 77,500 miles for a one way Upper Class experience. Give the Virgin Experience a chance. I promise you, you won’t regret it. It sure beats the miserable United Airline personnel any day.
Immerse yourself in affordable luxury. You deserve it!
Update: A special thanks to Andy Kelly on flight VS156 from Las Vegas to London so very warm and special. Top notch service as usual. Virgin Atlantic continues to impress me each and every time I board. Keep up the great work!
