Up-front: First Class on Emirates - New York to Dubai.
My trip with Emirates Airlines in its First Class cabin, from New York to Dubai.
Welcome aboard Emirates’ First Class offering on the upper deck of the carrier’s A380 aircraft.
In an era where most US (and indeed some other international) carriers have ditched a dedicated international First Class cabin in favor of expanded offerings in Business (to be fair, some of these are quite impressive and nearly mimic a true first class offering), having a proper First class cabin certainly stands out.
In the case of Emirates, these fully enclosed suites, 14 in total, are located on the forward upper deck of the enormous A380 (there are fewer on its 777s), while Business occupies the mid to rear section, with onboard lounge/bar rounding out the the very rear.
First passengers - not unexpectedly - are treated to some of the finest luxuries in the skies. In addition to your personal, fully enclosed, spacious suite, you’re welcomed onboard with Dom Perignon (the 2015 vintage) as a pre-departure beverage, and through your journey, comprehensive dine on demand course options (complete with caviar service), premium alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, premium snacks, lounge wear, designer amenity kit and cosmetics; and the kicker, the well appointed onboard shower spa (a personal bucket list item).
Admittedly, these aren’t the largest suites flying today. In fact its own so called ‘game changer’ suite on some refurbished 777s offer more room. Still, it’s more than generous, and the transformed bed quite comfortable. A wholly indulgent way to pass 14 hours.
As one would expect, these come with pretty impressive, eye popping, price tags. Strategic points/miles award redemptions are however possible with some schedule flexibility. At the time of booking: 163,000 Skywards miles + roughly $800 or so in fees (USD).
For customized travel itineraries, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Sonder Business Bay: A Decent Option in Dubai
One of the Sonder properties in Dubai. This one’s located in Business Bay, just outside the main downtown (Burj Khalifa) perimeter.
The property is well located in Business Bay, just on the outskirts of the main downtown loop (the Burj Khalifa complex is roughly a 15-20 minute or so walk away). The staff were quite friendly, efficient, and accommodating. Plus, I found the room and general accommodations to adequate and comfortable. I stayed in a studio apartment which was just sufficient for one and might be a little tighter for 2 - though overall spacious enough. It also had a decent sized balcony, which was nice.
There’s an outdoor pool present, plus fitness studio and adjoining spa. To note for general awareness that as these properties are more designed for longer stays, housekeeping isn’t included as a standard offering; it is upon request and carries and additional cost.
For customized journeys to Dubai and indeed around the world, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.