BACKGROUND Virgin has ordered a total of 16 A330 neo aircraft for its long-haul operations, configured, at least initially, in three classes: economy, premium economy and business (Upper Class). The 'neo' stands for new engine option (in this case, Rolls Royce Trent 7000 engines), which along with improvements to the wing deliver an 11 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency over the existing A330 aircraft in Virgin's fleet, and a 50 per cent improvement in noise.
This was the inaugural flight to Tampa, which started in November, initially four times a week before becoming daily from November 28, 2022. The normal departure time is 1330, but this flight left at 0800 to allow for a press conference on arrival.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS I arrived by taxi at London Heathrow T3 at 0600 for my 0800 departure on VS129, with a flight time of ten-and-a-half hours. I had hand luggage only and had already checked in online, so after getting my boarding card at the Upper Class check-in counter I took the lift up to the Upper Class security and was quickly airside and on my way to the lounge.
THE LOUNGE The Virgin Club House normally opens at 0630, but because of our earlier flight it opened at 0600. We had a reception with breakfast in the far left-hand corner, and though we were among the first to arrive, by the time we left to board at 0715 the lounge was filling up. As an aside, unlike some other airlines, Virgin rightly thinks there is a value in providing magazines and newspapers for its guests.
BOARDING Boarding from Gate 16 was swift with two air bridges. I entered from the front door and turned right into the cabin to get to my seat 3G.
この記事は Business Traveller UK の December/January 2022-2023 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、8,500 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
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この記事は Business Traveller UK の December/January 2022-2023 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、8,500 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
すでに購読者です? サインイン
Pan Pacific Orchard, Singapore
BACKGROUND This biophilic property opened in June 2023 and is the second Pan Pacific hotel in the city, the other being the Pan Pacific Singapore. The hotel is a member of the Green Collection within the GHA Discovery loyalty programme. It is BCA Green Mark Platinum-certified for its sustainability credentials.
The Hoxton, Lloyd Amsterdam
BACKGROUND The Hoxton brand debuted in London's Shoreditch in 2006 and is part of Ennismore, in which Accor holds a majority stake. The brand has 16 properties across Europe and North America, including two in Amsterdam - the first opened in 2015 in the city centre, followed by this property in the Eastern Docklands in August 2023.
Ruby Zoe, London
BACKGROUND Germany's Ruby Hotels launched in 2013, and operates 17 properties in locations including Amsterdam, Dublin, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg and Zurich.
London Hilton on Park Lane
BACKGROUND The London Hilton on Park Lane opened in 1963 - the first Hilton property in the UK. To celebrate its 60th anniversary last year, the hotel embarked on an extensive multi-million pound refurbishment led by the GA Group.
Philippine Airlines A321 business class SINGAPORE-MANILA
BACKGROUND Philippine Airlines operates flights from Singapore Changi Airport to Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport, using A321ceo aircraft, which stands for 'current engine option, indicating an older aircraft than the A321neo. My flight (PR502) was a morning departure at 1035, arriving 1425 local time in Manila.
Lima
Peru's coastal capital boasts colourful public parks, striking street art and generous plates of ceviche
The inside scoop
We chat to the president of luxury hotel and restaurant association Relais & Châteaux, which marks its 70th anniversary this month
Why business isn't better
Our 'columnist' this month explains why they believe economy class reigns supreme over business class
Here be dragons
For a city known for its densely packed streets and hectic pace of life, Hong Kong has a truly remarkable countryside
Provincial Provence
As Terre Blanche marks its 20th anniversary, we experience the resort's golfing and spa facilities as well as Michelin-starred food and blush rosé