HAVING lived in Asia for several years before arriving to the Middle East, I used to fly with Singapore Airlines quite often, so was thrilled at the opportunity to fly them from Dubai to Singapore last month.
Singapore Airlines’ Business Class is recognised the world over as the epitome of business class travel. And I couldn’t agree more. Business class passengers from Dubai have access to a dedicated business lounge at the Dubai International Airport.
For those who would like to use the Marhaba lounge, the choice is yours. I picked the latter only for its easier access to my gate. As I had worked through my lunch, a nice snack and a read of the paper was a nice way to start the journey.
Arriving at the gate, they had already begun the boarding so I was lead straight on to the flight where I was greeted by a warm welcoming crew member who also introduced me to the chief purser on the way to my seat.
On board, I settled into the airline’s new Business Class seats that were introduced on the Dubai route early September. The new seats come with enhanced personal space, better functionality and innovation all around. Developed by Weber Aircraft LP, the regional and medium-haul Business Class seats are arranged in a forward-facing, six-abreast (2-2-2)configuration.
The inclined lie-flat seats also featured an advanced control panel that allows customers to personalise their seating preference or select from the various seat-preset options to get into a comfortable sitting, resting or sleeping position with ease. Each seat also allows for a six-way adjustable headrest and lumbar support and a fixed back shell that allows privacy. There is also the choice to use the discrete personal screens between seats.
Although I wanted to get some rest, I could not resist trying the dinner that was served after take-off. Like most business class cabins, you do have a choice of meals and Singapore Airlines serves a combination of international and local delicacies, as well as some signature dishes from an international culinary panel. I chose a beef dish that was tender and delicious. Of course, the table setting was that of a fine dining restaurant.
Though sleep beckoned, I couldn’t resist the inflight entertainment. KrisWorld had a wide choice of entertainment showing some of the most current movies and TV series, all on a 15.4-inch screen, that I didn’t have to get the glasses out! With the Phitek’s ANR anti-noise headsets, I did not have to hold the earphones up against my head to get a clear sound which I have found on some flights I have taken.
The amenity pack on the flight too is second to none with the products being designed by world-famous French fashion house, Givenchy. An impressive addition was their spacious bathrooms, large enough to change clothes without banging against sink, walls and doors! They also are stocked with L’Occitane fragrance, moisturiser and aftershave.
On my return I flew in the economy cabins. Needless to say, even in this cabin the flight attendants were so friendly and seemed to be around more so than I have seen on any other flight. I must say my overnight flight in “the back” was very comfortable and I arrived ready for a full day at work.
As the slogan says, Singapore Airlines - you really are a great way to fly!
By Kim Thomson