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Written by Helena Melton
So you’re booking your next bucket-list-worthy escape and preparing for a lengthy flight. Then that tempting button appears: ‘upgrade to business class’. We’ve all thought about it, but is it really worth it?
We break down why this particular upgrade is worth every dollar.
Business class seats: bed-like with extra storage
There’s a very real possibility of getting an excellent night’s sleep in business class, as the seats extend backwards to lie completely flat for maximum comfort. Not only that, you’re also in your own little pod (sometimes a suite) for that extra touch of privacy to get some shut-eye. Plus, there is generous in-seat storage for your books/laptop/12-step skincare routine.
Couples are spoilt for choice – choose to snuggle up next to your partner in two beds next to each other in the Qatar Airways QSuite, or do your own thing and open your dividing screen when you want to chat on Singapore Airlines. Either way you’ll arrive refreshed and ready for adventure.
Business class dining: restaurant style with chef residencies
Is it a restaurant, is it a plane? No, it’s business class dining. You’ll forget you’re in the air with meals served on porcelain plates with proper cutlery and a tablecloth on your tray table. Perhaps you’ll pick your favourite dish from an impressive a la carte menu served by flight attendants or, in the case of Turkish Airlines, have it delivered by onboard chefs after being seasoned to perfection. Oh, and did we mention that the drinks are free flowing?
Qatar Airways has a roster of acclaimed chefs curating menus for different routes, including favourite Curis Stone on flights between Doha and LA. With the Singapore Airlines ‘Book the Cook’ program, you can pre-select your gourmet main dish before you fly. For a luxurious change of scenery, Emirates flights even come with a fully-fledged bar and lounge area for Business Class guests to relax with their favourite cocktail shaken on the spot.
Business class service: the personal touch
One of the best perks of flying business class is the unparalleled level of service you get. Flight attendants get additional training to work in this section and it shows. With a higher passenger-to-attendant ratio onboard, the staff know your name and work their hardest to make sure that your every need is catered for.
As you enter the plane you’ll be warmly welcomed and personally shown to your seat, plus you can order your favourite cocktail right away. Pick exactly when you want to eat and staff will bring your hot meal to your tray table on schedule. Cathay Pacific and Emirates even offer an onboard turndown service complete with pillow spray to get you ready for a deep sleep.
Business class lounge access: complimentary dining & hot showers
Your VIP treatment begins before you even step on the plane with exclusive Business Class Lounge access. No waiting around at your gate, no wandering the food court looking for a snack, just sitting back, relaxing before your flight in ultimate comfort and enjoying dinner and drinks while you wait.
Business lounges will always have internet access so you can download movies or music before the flight. For those who have to actually do some ‘business’, there are usually private spots to settle down and lock in. Some even feature showers which are a huge perk on a layover between long-haul flights, so you can freshen up with body wash, shampoo and towels provided.
Business class priority boarding: skip the queues
When you book a Business Class ticket, the special treatment starts before you even get on the plane. From the moment you arrive at the airport, you’ll skip the queues and check-in at a priority counter, then head through security straight to the comfort of your airport’s chic lounge. Now this is living.
But it keeps getting better. You’ll be one of the first to board the plane, meaning that you won’t have to wait in line and can start taking advantage of your incredible perks (like ordering a glass of wine) right away. Landing is a breeze with priority baggage as your bag will be one of the first on the carousel.
Business class amenities: designer brand luxuries
It’s the small details that can turn something from an ordinary experience to a luxury one and that’s what you’ll find at your business class seat. Turkish Airlines offers a premium pair of Denon noise cancelling headphones to business class passengers on select flights, while Cathay Pacific Aria Suites have wireless device charging – simply place your phone on a small table in your suite and you’re good to go.
Let’s face it, everyone loves getting complimentary treats and in business class there are freebies galore. Along with the usual suspects like an eye mask, socks, pillows and blankets, your onboard business class amenity kit can be stacked with premium skincare products and hand creams from designer brands like Diptyque, L’OCCITANE, Marimekko and BVLGARI, to keep you feeling and looking fresh on your flight.
Our exclusive Maldives charter
You’ve probably heard about our direct Maldives private charter flights between Melbourne and Malé, but did you know that we also have Business Class seats available? Arrive at Melbourne Airport and be whisked through check-in and security to the lounge where you can wait for your flight in absolute comfort. Not sure which outfit to pick? Bring them all with an increased baggage allowance of 46kg, no compromises needed. With priority boarding you’ll skip the queues and settle in your seat to test our your lie-flat seat, start digging through your amenity kit, check out the movies on your handheld streaming device or flag down a flight attendant for a glass of bubbles to start your journey the right way. Soften the blow of leaving paradise and returning to normal life with getting all these perks on your flight home, including access to the serene airport lounge at Velana International Airport.Services and inclusions vary per airline. Feature image: Emirates.
