Some consider first class a luxury, but most of us who travel for business know that it’s a must when on long hauls. The perks of FC vary far and wide from carrier to carrier, and while some airlines are cutting corners others are taking the first-class experience to a whole other level.
Haute Living was recently invited to visit the new Emirates A380, and the first class cabin offers amenities that go way behind a pair of slippers and a glass of bubbly.
Each of the seats in the first class cabin can be sectioned off from the rest of the cabin, providing not only privacy but also personalized service from the crew as well. The “private suites” feature a sliding door, a personal mini-bar, adjustable ambient lighting and lighted vanity table (stocked with high-end amenities), mirror and wardrobe.
At the passenger’s request, a member will convert your seat to a fully flat bed with a mattress. What to do while the conversion is taking place? How about a hot shower in one of the two full-sized luxury bathrooms, or a glass of Vueve at gorgeous cocktail lounge that joins business and first class?
Let’s take more about the restrooms, because they are amazing. In addition to the state-of-the-art shower system, the bathrooms have a classic walnut and marble design, and feature fine linens and luxury shower kits made from (of course) the finest natural ingredients.
For those traveling with a companion, the privacy divider separating the adjoining suites can be lowered, allowing passengers to share the Emirates experience together. And get ready of quite an experience: The on-demand cuisine and wine service is worthy of the world’s finest restaurants, with a range of dishes carefully selected, prepared and presented on Royal Doulton fine bone china accompanied by exclusive Robert Welch cutlery.
On-demand cuisine means that you do not need to wait for group dinnertime to eat. Feel like indulging in lobster during the entire flight? No problem!
Thirsty? Emirates offers an outstanding wine list featuring some of the world’s finest wines, champagnes and ports sourced from world-famous wine-producing regions: France, Germany and California (including Mount Eden Chardonnay 2010, Paso Robles Westside Syrah 2011 Pharaoh Moans And Dominus 2006 Napa Valley), South Africa, Australia and New Zealand are all on the list. You can also request high tea and hors d’oeuvres in the onboard lounges if you’re feeling social.
Tucked away comfortably in your cube, you can enjoy Emirates luxurious amenity kits, which include products by Bulgari. Men will find (inside gorgeous Italian leather bags) Rouge aftershave emulsion, eau parfumée, body lotion and a razor from Taylor’s of Old Bond Street.
The ladies’ amenity bags contain Bulgari nourishing face emulsion, nourishing hand cream and eau parfumée from Thé Rouge.
Want a taste of what’s waiting for you onboard? How about this luxurious chicken tikka marsala brought to you by Chef Ravi Nage, who joined Gate Gourmet (which supplies Emirates flights cuisine) in July 2009. He is now the Corporate Executive Chef of Menu Design and Culinary Training.
Chicken Tikka Masala
Preparation Time: 4-6 hours
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: 800 grams
Fresh lemon juice: 1 tablespoon
Chili powder (red or paprika): 1 teaspoon
Kosher salt to taste
Butter: 2 tablespoons
For marinade:
Whole Greek yogurt: 1 cup
Kosher salt to taste
Fresh garlic paste: 1/2 teaspoon
Garam masala powder: 1/2 teaspoon
Chili powder (red or paprika): 1 teaspoon
Fresh lemon juice: 2 tablespoons
Mustard oil: 2 tablespoons
For Tikka Masala Sauce:
Butter: 10 teaspoons)
Fresh ginger paste: 1 tablespoon
Green chilies, chopped: 4 or 5
Chili powder (red or paprika): 1 tablespoon
Kosher salt to taste
Dry fenugreek leaves: 1/2 teaspoon
Whole garam masala: 1 tablespoon
Fresh garlic paste: 1 tablespoon
Tomato puree: 400 grams
Garam masala powder: 1/2 teaspoon
Honey: 2 tablespoons
Heavy cream: 1 cup
