Get the A380 experience

The thought of a long trip somewhere far away is always appealing - salt in your hair and white sand between your toes and most importantly no phone or Internet access for a few days.

However before you get there you have to deal with the very long flight in cramped quarters sharing your precious space either with a stranger or someone you know well enough to fight with over an unfairly shared armrest.

That is however unless you are flying Business Class on an A380 Emirates plane.

Business Class and First Class travellers can make use of the dedicated lounge areas to catch up on emails with free wifi, or enjoy a drink or two or simply relax until its time for that connecting flight.

Flying aboard an A380 plane is quite an experience. Not only do you get individual seats that are segregated from other passengers but you get your own little cubicle, that comes with a little bar with water and soft drinks, a small desk, your own TV screen and most importantly lie-flat seats that will ensure a good night's rest to keep your energy up when you arrive at your destination.

Cabin crew are multi-lingual, and serve champagne and hot towels before take off to ensure you are feeling fresh and ready for the long flight ahead. They know each Business Class passenger by name and serve only Business Class passengers so you can be sure there is someone available to cater to your every whim.

Plane food has gone from bad to worse over the years as airlines try to cut back on costs. When flying business class, however, you may as well be eating at a restaurant. White linen tablecloths, proper glassware and real cutlery are the precursors to a truly delicious meal. There is a choice of three or four meals with vegetarian options also available. For diners with special dietary requirements, Emirates can arrange to have specialty meals provided.

Complimentary drinks of alcohol, vintage wines and champagne are served throughout the flight should you wish. Or should you be looking for something a little bit more sociable, make use of the bar where Business and First Class passengers mingle over a drink and some bar snacks.

After dinner, put your seat down, to almost flat, and watch a movie, documentary or TV programme, or keep yourself updated with the latest news on the ice entertainment system that offers 1,400 channels. You're sure to find something that suits your mood right at that second.

When you've had enough of the entertainment, push the seat back and lie flat and enjoy a good night's rest so that you arrive at your destination fresh and ready to start your travels.   

And the service does not only extend to the time you're couped up on the plane. The Emirates service begins at your door and ends at the door of your destination. The Chauffer Drive service sees a car come to your door to take you to the airport, meet you on the other side, and take you to a pre-determined destination. After a long-haul flight, the last thing you want is to be thinking about is transfers to your hotel. Add a friendly smile, information about your destination - should you request it - refreshments and bottled water and you arrive at your destination refreshed and full of the joie de vivre you need to begin your holiday.

Long-haul travel need not be a gruelling affair. Lie-flat beds, 1,400 channels of entertainment, good food, free flowing alcohol and friendly staff that look after you right up to your door will make the journey a lot more pleasant.

For more information visit www.emirates.com.mt.