Words: Gentleman's Journal
A gentleman travels. What’s more, he travels in luxury. Jet-setting around the globe, the only way a true gent flies is first-class. So how better to take-off, cruise and land in style than by checking in to some of the most deluxe and luxurious first class cabins in the world.
So relax and get ready for lift off, gents, for we’ve rounded up the best first class cabin experiences in the world. Let’s begin with the best…
As you step into Emirates First Class, you will be given a Bulgari amenity kits – featuring Bulgari’s woody floral fragrance – Eau Parfumée au thé noir. Emirates’ designer kits are also filled with skincare essentials to keep you feeling fresh and pampered throughout your flight – even down to a moisturising lip balm.
Pajamas, too. And get this – “Our new pyjamas for First Class customers travelling on overnight flights use Hydra Active Microcapsule Technology to keep your skin soft while flying. The fabric gently releases naturally nutrient rich sea kelp as you move around, preventing dehydration and stimulating circulation.”
Sheepskin blankets, a personal mini-bar, and your very own vanity table and mirror complete the experience, and the food comes in the form of regionally inspired dishes, created by Emirates’ chefs using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Dine from Royal Doulton bone china plates with exclusive Robert Welch cutlery – and of course make use of the in-flight sommelier to match your meal with a fine wine.
Recently, Etihad Airways launched their first Apartments onboard the A380. Completely private living areas, these suites contain large leather armchairs and a separate bed of 6 feet and 10 inches, and there is even space to walk around after closing the privacy doors.
Six of the apartments are interconnecting, and guests can invite a travelling partner from First Class to join them in their apartment for a meal or a meeting. Inside the apartment, guests will also find a vanity unit with lit make-up mirror with complimentary loungewear and a full-length wardrobe to hang clothes. The First Class bathroom has an energising shower using exclusive amenities, before landing.
First guests can also make use of The Lobby, located on the Upper Deck of the A380. Inspired by intimate spaces found in boutique hotels, it offers the perfect place for First and Business Class guests to relax or socialise. The luxurious lounge features two comfortable leather sofas and a staffed bar serving a selection of snacks and refreshments, as well as a widescreen TV where guests can watch a live game or sporting event.
From preflight champagne, to restaurant quality meals timed to suit your body clock, Virgin’s Upper class cabins (that’s as high as it goes) are as good as it gets.
3-foot wide, fully flat beds are super-comfy, even if you’re a light sleeper – and the elegant, designer linen will help you drop off too. And, if you’d rather stay awake, there’s lots to keep you entertained, as every suite has its own 10.4” screen, with a plethora of TV shows, movies and games to enjoy during the flight.
Fine materials, timelessly elegant design and a customised lighting scheme on board typify your luxury Lufthansa First Class experience. After being whisked to the plane in a Porsche – the two German brands have a partnership – get ready for a flying experience like no other.
The seats turn into beds, the entertainment systems are unrivalled and the food is something else. A delicious meal – elegantly arranged on fine china tableware. An unusual wine known only to connoisseurs. And, if you’re feeling especially fancy, the caviar service is as much a part of Lufthansa’s First Class service as their iconic red rose – a single flower will be placed by your seat.
From celebrity chef signature dishes to luxurious amenity kits and ultra-comfortable pyjamas and slippers from The White Company, Qatar Airways First Class Experience is as good as they get.
Purple-tinged and a mile high, the fully lie-flat bed comes with Frette linen and a duvet. Seats are huge, with power ports, WiFi and up to 3,000 entertainment options on the vast personal screen in front of your seat. Armani cosmetics, a flower-filled bathroom and on board bar just add to the feeling that – even though you’re being whisked away – that your feet never left the ground.
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