Splurging on a business class ticket? Frequent flier TAN MIN YAN shares the simple rules she lives by to get the most out of the experience.
Splurging on a business class ticket? Frequent flier TAN MIN YAN shares the simple rules she lives by to get the most out of the experience.
BEFORE YOU BOARD
#1 Check out the seats and check in early online
You may be flying business, but the seat configuration and type can vary depending on the aircraft model and airline. For example, some airlines offer a 1-2-1 seating arrangement for business class, while others have 2-3-2 – which means less privacy. I always make it a point to do research beforehand – on the airline’s website or travel blogs (I like www.seatguru.com ) or from Youtube videos – for an idea of what my seat options are so that I can pick the best (the ones away from the toilets or bassinets). Also, I always check in online as soon as the service is available so that I can get my preferred seat.
#2 Relax in the business class lounge
It may seem counterproductive to check in online and still go to the airport early, but I love having time in the airline lounge to unwind before the flight. Also, it gives me a chance to get some chow – especially important before redeye flights where you may not be getting a full meal immediately. The sprawling lounges with spa facilities at London’s Heathrow Airport are probably among my favourites in the world.
DURING THE FLIGHT
#3 Go easy on the alcohol
It’s always tempting to go crazy with the boozing, but one too many glasses of alcohol can dehydrate you and cause a vicious headache – Splurging on a business class ticket? Frequent flier TAN MIN YAN shares the simple rules she lives by to get the most out of the experience. UP IN THE SKY the last thing you want when you’re trying to enjoy your business class seat! As a rule, I have just one glass on day flights (and then drink loads of water after), and none at all when I’m on a red-eye so I don’t wake up with a parched throat.
#4 Use the amenities kit and the pyjamas
Most business class flights offer decent amenities kits and some, even pyjamas, for overnight flights. I hunker down and make myself at home as much as possible – whether it’s by slathering on body lotion or changing into baggy pants. Most people flying business are corporate types who just want to catch some sleep before their meetings, and couldn’t care less about looking “unglamorous” for the duration. Wearing the PJs helps keep your nice clothes clean and crisp for arrival too!
AFTER YOU LAND
#5 Make use of your business class privileges outside the aircraft
Some airlines offer a free chauffeur service to and from the airport for their business class passengers – you can book these up to a day before your flight. If you’re transiting, make use of the airport lounge’s shower facilities to freshen up – this will do wonders for you mentally and physically.
MY FIRST CLASS EXPERIENCE
A combination of fate and luck saw me getting bumped up to first class on the new British Airways A380. These are the things that left the greatest impression.
The service: Naturally, you don’t expect anything less than excellent service on first class, but the hospitality I received was so warm, genuine and welcoming that it felt like I was at a favourite relative’s home rather than on an aircraft.
The amount of space: The suite-like seating area meant I had loads of privacy. I could also lie completely flat in the ergonomic seat and still have all my stuff within arm’s reach.
How quiet the aircraft was: It was such a smooth and quiet ride that I went out like a light – a rarity for me.
For more information, visit www.britishairways.com.
