Flight Info

EVA Airways operates a daily Boeing 777-300ER service from London Heathrow (LHR) to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), which stops at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) before travelling onto Taipei. The flight leaves Heathrow at 21.35 each evening, taking approximately 11 hours and 25 minutes (depending on flying conditions), arriving in Bangkok at 15:30 the following afternoon.

Check-In

The flight departs from London Heathrow Airport’s Terminal 2, known as The Queen’s Terminal, which is the designated hub for EVA Airways and other Star Alliance member airlines.

Check-in desks are in Zone A within Terminal 2, and open four hours before the scheduled departure time and close one hour before flying. There are two check-in desks with one Priority Check-in indicated with gold signage available for Royal Laurel Class passengers in addition to EVA Infinity MileageLands Diamond/Gold Cardholders, and Star Alliance Gold members. Royal Laurel Class passengers also enjoy increased baggage allowance as well as a special tag to ensure expedited baggage loading and unloading.

Fast Track

Royal Laurel Class passengers can access the Fast Track security lane, which allows travellers to pass through bag check in around ten minutes. It’s worth noting that upon arrival in Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport, you also benefit from fast-track immigration using the far-right lane at customs control.

Lounge Access

EVA Airways offers access to several premium lounges in Terminal 2 for Royal Laurel Class passengers.

• Lufthansa Lounge: Located in the main terminal on Level 5, after passing through security
• United Airlines Club Lounge: Situated in the B Gates area on Level 1, near Gate B46.
• Singapore Airlines SilverKris Lounge: Also in the B Gates area on Level 1, adjacent to Gate B36.
• Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge: Found in the B Gates area on Level 1, next to Gate B36.

From passing the bag check, it takes around 15 minutes to reach the Gate; therefore, I chose to use the Singapore Airlines SilverKris Lounge, due to its very close proximity to the departure Gate.

The Singapore Airlines SilverKris Lounge has capacity for 242 guests, with 192 seats in the Business Class area and an additional 50 in the First Class section. There is a comprehensive buffet area offering a variety of hot and cold dishes which are topped up regularly, including both Asian and Western options (try the Laksa, it’s fantastic).

A manned bar service offers made-to-order cocktails, a wide variety of red and white wines, champagne, and draft beer. I opted to start things off with a Long Island Iced Tea before going back for a couple of glasses of Spanish Verdejo.

The lounge did get busy, but there is enough seating for everyone, most seats include UK power sockets along with USB-A and USB-C ports. Fast and free Wifi is available throughout. Depending on when you arrive, you may be able to secure one of the private seating pods, which offer extra privacy and a quieter space to relax or work. Around two hours before my flight, the lounge quietened noticeably, allowing me to settle into one for the remainder of my stay.

I also made use of the lounge’s shower facilities, which were a welcome opportunity after a full day of travel before reaching Heathrow. The showers are popular, particularly in the run-up to flight departures, so you are given a buzzer and an estimated wait time. I waited around 20 minutes for my turn, which was relatively quick considering the lounge was close to peak capacity.

EVA AIR Lounge Suvarnabhumi

Note if you are doing this flight in reverse from Bangkok to the EVA AIR Lounge in Suvarnabhumi Airport, which is located on the main terminal, departure hall, 3rd floor, area F. The lounge has a modern design and spacious layout, they offer a variety of delicious Chinese, Western and Thai food, snacks and alcoholic beverages, along with shower rooms and massage chairs and free WIFI.

Boarding

Boarding commenced at 20.55 from Gate B46, with Royal Laurel Class invited to board first. From having my passport and boarding pass checked to reaching my seat, the entire process took no more than five minutes.

Cabin and Seat

The Royal Laurel Class cabin features a 1-2-1 reverse herringbone seat configuration, with direct aisle access from every seat. There are 38 seats (A/D/G/K) split between two cabins, a main forward cabin and a smaller rear business cabin. Royal Laurel ticket holders access the cabins via a separate door off the air bridge from economy passengers.

The seat is a Zodiac Cirrus seat, which converts into a completely lie-flat bed at 2 meters long (76 inches) and 20.5 inches across. The seat pitch is 81 inches, meaning there is lots of legroom, even when the seat is reclined. Seats are angled away from the aisle with a high steel surround offering privacy and a cocooning sense of personal space. Central seats are ideal for couples or companions travelling together, as there is a shared table between them and the dividing screen.

Each seat comes with a side table and a large bifold tray table which swings out for dining, covering the whole seating area. Storage points are dotted throughout, along with a bottle shelf (with Evian water in it) and a literature pocket.

Intuitive seat controls with pre-set modes are available for takeoff, lounging, and sleeping, while an armrest at the aisle side can be moved up or down for convenience.

Power and USB outlets are built in, alongside a personal reading light, an entertainment remote and a TV, all within arm’s reach. Wifi is available on the flight, the first 30 minutes are complimentary, with further use beyond 30 minutes chargeable.

Once settled into your seat, you are personally greeted by name and offered a glass of sparkling wine or juice, accompanied by a cold towel ahead of departure.

Entertainment

The in-flight entertainment screen folds out from the seatback in front and can be operated either by touchscreen or via the handheld remote control. A sanitised pair of noise-cancelling headphones is provided for use. The system offers a broad selection of films and television programmes, available in both English and Mandarin.

Lights are then dimmed for takeoff and go back on once in the air.

Drinks

At takeoff, Cava is served on the ground, but once in the air, the drinks menu is awash with premium drinks including champagnes. Make sure to try the Laurent-Perrier Grand Siecle Champagne, which retails at £215.00 in the UK. Beers and spirits are available, including Johnnie Walker Blue Label Scotch whisky, Hennessy X.O. cognac and Bombay Sapphire gin. For wine drinkers, two white wines are available (a 2022 French Chablis and a 2018 German Riesling) and two red wines (a 2019 French Margaux and a 2016 Spanish Rioja).

I started with a couple of glasses of Champagne before dinner, which was served with a portion of nuts, followed by white wine with the meal, and rounded off the evening with a generous pour of Johnnie Walker Blue Label Scotch.

Dinner

Dinner service starts around 30 minutes after take-off, with the crew taking orders while still on the ground. The table is laid with a white tablecloth, cutlery and a cloth napkin.

The meal begins with a side plate set with butter, olive oil, and salt and pepper. A bread basket is offered with a selection of different breads, and the crew return for a second round of bread during the meal service.

For starters, the Grilled Scallops with Truffle and Root Salad. For my main course I chose the Pan Seared Beef Fillet with Bearnaise Sauce and Mashed Sweet Potatoes. And for dessert, fruit is served alongside Apple Crumble Cake with Caramel Sauce.

Worth noting if you need an additional snack midway through the flight they have a range of ‘leisure delights’ which include a cheese board, quiche, chicken noodle soup, instant noodles, hot chocolate and cookies.

Ammenities

Each passenger receives a Giorgio Armani amenity kit, presented in a branded drawstring dust bag. Inside, it includes earplugs, Jurlique lip balm, a dental kit, eye mask, keyring, Jurlique rosewater balancing mist, Jurlique aloe vera hand cream, and a combined brush and mirror.

Sleeping

For sleeping, a Jason Wu branded set of pyjamas is provided (previously available only in First Class cabins), with sizes available up to large. At 6’4″, the large size offered a comfortable fit. A separate pouch containing slippers is also included too.

The cabin features three bathrooms for the 38 business class passengers, with two located at the front and one positioned between the two business cabins. Each offers ample space to freshen up or change into sleepwear, and the crew keep them immaculate throughout the flight. Ideology-branded toiletries are provided, with the facial mist proving especially effective in keeping my skin hydrated.

The dinner service is wrapped up by around 11 pm, after which the cabin crew swiftly transition the space for sleep. The fully flat bed, stretching to approximately 81 inches, offers plenty of room to stretch out. A soft mattress topper is laid over the seat, along with a large pillow and a duvet wrapped in EVA Air’s signature check-patterned fabric. The crew are attentive and proactive, offering turndown service without the need to request it. The lighting dims, allowing you to unwind, and there is minimal disturbance from other passengers, thanks to the cabin layout. I fell asleep at around midnight and woke up at 7 am, giving me a full night of sleep.

Breakfast

When taking your dinner order, the crew ask you about your breakfast preference and whether you wish to be woken for it. Breakfast options include a two-course Chinese or Western selection, and the meal is served 1 hour and 30 minutes before landing.

Final Thoughts

EVA Air’s Royal Laurel Class on the Boeing 777-300ER offers a fantastic business class experience, with spacious, fully flat seats, outstanding dining options and Taiwanese hospitality. Importantly, the direct flight from London to Bangkok offers an efficient alternative to Middle Eastern flight routes, providing a non-stop option without the need for a layover.

EVA Air Info

A Star Alliance member, EVA Air was established in 1989 as Taiwan’s first privately owned international airline. It is part of the respected Evergreen Group and a sister company to global container-shipping leader Evergreen Line. It flies a fleet of more than 80 Boeing and Airbus aircraft to around 60 international destinations throughout Asia, Oceania, Europe and North America. EVA Air offers passengers choice to give them a comfortable, relaxing journey combined with a friendly, attentive service with daily flight from London Heathrow’s Terminal 2 non-stop to Bangkok, and onwards to Taipei, offering passengers three cabins of service to choose from: Royal Laurel Class (Business Class), the award-winning Premium Economy Class and Economy Class. Travellers can learn more about EVA and schedule, book and buy tickets at www.evaair.com.

The post EVA Air London Heathrow To Bangkok Royal Laurel Class Boeing 777-300ER (Business Class) Review appeared first on The Luxury Editor.

On a recent trip to Thailand with Qatar Airways to create our Luxury Thailand guide, we had the opportunity to experience Qatar’s Business Class cabin from Edinburgh to Doha and then from Doha to Bangkok. The Edinburgh to Doha route uses an Airbus A350 so the seats are the Super Diamond seating formation (read review here) while the Doha to Bangkok flight was a larger A350-1000 that offered the famous Qsuite cabin which really is an incredible experience.

Al Mourjan Business Lounge – The Garden

As we started our journey in Edinburgh (read review here) we had a three-hour turnaround in Hamad International Airport, where we were able to experience the new Louis Vuitton Lounge by Yannick Alléno (read review here) which is open to Louis Vuitton VIPs and Qatar Airways Gold and Platinum members through the Privilege Club. We also explored the new Al Mourjan Business Lounge – The Garden, which opened in May 2023 in The Garden airport extension.

Hamad International Airport

In the realm of travel excellence, Qatar Airways takes centre stage, with its singular hub, the Doha Hamad International Airport. This airport, a reflection of the airline’s commitment to luxury and comfort, offers an array of exceptional amenities, from luxury shopping experiences to a lavish airside hotel while a delightful display of modern artwork graces the airport, with two standout pieces: the renowned Lamp Bear, a majestic giant teddy bear valued at a staggering 7 million USD, and Kaws’ captivating creation, “Small Lie.”

Business Class passengers enjoy the privilege of accessing the renowned Al Mourjan Business Lounge and the new Al Mourjan Business Lounge in the Garden. These oases offer rejuvenating shower facilities, nap accommodations, and a gym.

Culinary delights abound in Al Mourjan, with a diverse selection of global cuisines on offer, spanning Middle Eastern, European, and Indian flavours. The primary dining areas present both buffet and à la carte dining options. Those seeking libations will find a plethora of bar choices, including one within the restaurant, where Champagne flows generously, featuring brands like Charles Heidsieck Champagne – Rosé and Philipponnat Champagne Royale Reserve Brut.

Boarding

We enjoyed Qatar’s Meet and Greet service the entire time while in the airport, which is complimentary to Platinum and Gold Privilege Club members. Staff greet you off the flight and take you through bag check and into the terminal and then onto your next flight. Hamad International Airport is going through a significant building process at the moment (huge as it is already) many flights arrive and then need a bus to take them to the main terminal, the new building will mean that all arrival flights will arrive at an air bridge instead.

There was a separate Business and First class bus when we arrived at the airport which then took around 15 minutes to get to the departures hall. Upon arriving at the departures hall there was a separate Business and First class bag check and it took around five minutes to complete a bag check before we arrived into the main terminal.

After experiencing the Louis Vuitton Lounge, the Meet and Greet staff collected us from the Al Mourjan Business Lounge – The Garde,n which is in Concourse C, and then took us to Concourse A via the monorail (the monorail takes a few minutes and runs frequently). From the Teddy Lamp, it was a 10-minute walk to our gate.

Meet and Greet Staff were then able to fast-track our boarding process and took us down to the plane so we could board immediately.

As this was an A350-1000 plane, there were separate entrances into the aircraft for Business customers and Economy customers, which means you enter straight into the Business Class section of the plane.

Cabin and Seat

Qsuite is unlike anything else in the sky right now and is simply incredible. Qsuite made its debut in the airline’s fleet in June 2017 during a flight from Doha to London. Since that initial introduction, the airline has progressively incorporated this cabin style into numerous long-haul routes and the Qsuite design is featured on four distinct aircraft types, specifically all Qatar Airways’ A350-1000s and Airbus A350-900s, as well as on selected Boeing 777-200LRs and 777-300ERs at the time of writing.

If Qsuite is available on a flight it will be indicated on the seat map on the app when you check-in. All seats, including Qsuite on aircraft offering them, are open for assignment, except for passengers who have purchased a “Lite” Business Class fare. In such cases, seat assignments are only available during the check-in process.

It is worth also noting that Qsuite cabins are split into two smaller cabins, this means that overall there is less footfall in the cabins which cuts down the noise and distractions further.

Image layout © of Aerolopa

The configuration follows a 1-2-1 layout with the middle section facing forward and backward. In the centre section, families or couples travelling together have the option to request a quartet of Qsuites (Quad formation), arranged as a group, meaning passengers seated in a Quad can lower the partitions, creating an open space while keeping the exterior doors to each Qsuite operational.

For couples travelling together choose centre seats, these either face forward or backward and passengers will either have the tables in the middle (Twin Seat formation) or to their side (Double Seat formation), presenting a closer seating arrangement. Solo travellers may prefer to opt for the Single Suites beside the windows.

Single Suite

Twin Seat

Double Seat

The Quad

The space itself is roomy and bigger than a standard business-class seat space and includes a fully reclining seat that changes into a bed. Standard business class seats offer adequate storage space for items like water bottles, books, and laptops. However, in the Qsuite, storage space is further enhanced with a side compartment that can be lifted to accommodate additional belongings, like clothes and shoes, and also raises up to form an armrest while you’re seated.

There is plenty of space to stretch out.

Additionally, a spacious table is available for larger items such as laptops, pillows, and blankets, providing convenient storage solutions.

And below the table is a console and remote control as well as plug socket and USB charging points.

Beneath the touchscreen TV, there is a bi-fold table. This table measures 18 inches in depth, with a width that can vary between 21 and 25 inches when extended, the space beneath the table offers a spacious footwell, and it even subtly extends at the base to provide extra room for stretching out in bed.

Where Qsuite comes into its own is that every suite features a sliding privacy door as well as direct aisle access through the sliding door, guaranteeing the utmost privacy and comfort. For passengers in adjacent centre suites who are not traveling together, the privacy panels can be effortlessly retracted with the touch of a button, creating a your private space that is perfect for sleeping.

If you want complete privacy during your flight – Do Not Disturb indicators, can be turned red to let the flight attendants know that you’d prefer not to be disturbed at the moment, just make sure you don’t turn it on by accident or you will miss your meal!

Shortly after takeoff, a flight attendant distributed The White Company pyjamas to passengers. He made an initial estimation of the size each passenger might require, with the option to change sizes if desired. These comfortable pyjamas were neatly packaged in a plastic and cloth bag, which also included a pair of slippers.

The business class cabin boasts four toilets and a total of 42 Qsuites. These toilets provide ample space to change into pyjamas. Additionally, each toilet is equipped with a convenient fold-down bench, offering added convenience during outfit changes. You’ll find a well-appointed array of Dyptique amenities in each toilet, including soap, facial mist, and lotion. Dental kits and razors are stored in a designated drawer beneath the sink for easy access.

When you’re ready to get some rest, simply request the assistance of a flight attendant to prepare your sleeping area. They will provide you with a mattress pad, and a generously sized pillow, and arrange your Qatar-themed decorative pillow along with a cozy, warm blanket, which was originally placed at your seat when you boarded the flight.

Entertainment

A large 21.5 inch touchscreen entertainment screen (other Qatar Business Class is 17 inches) graces every seat which has touch-screen functionality in addition to being able to be controlled by remote control. Qatar’s Oryx One entertainment system offers a huge global selection of music, radio, Hollywood, and Bollywood movies, sitcoms, and short programming, which includes documentaries, and comedy – the list goes on and on so you won’t run out of things to watch.

Onyx One-branded Phitek noise-canceling headphones are included in every Qsuite. These headphones are waiting at your seat when you board the aircraft. Notably, the flight attendants do not collect the headphones prior to landing, allowing you to enjoy their use throughout the entire flight.

Beneath the countertop and adjacent to the seating area is a sizable remote control, equipped with a 4.5 inch touchscreen, enabling seamless control of the in-flight entertainment system.

Referred to as “Super Wi-Fi,” the A350-1000 aircraft (along with the B787, A319 and select B777, A330, and A320 aircraft) offers inflight connectivity. Qatar Airways aims to extend this high-speed option to all its planes in due course, and it is available for purchase starting at £10 for a session, however, Qatar Privilege Club members enjoy one hour of free Super Wi-Fi just by logging in with your membership details.

Amenities & Facilities

The airline has a partnership with the renowned French fragrance brand Diptyque for skincare products and every business class seat comes with an amenity kit that includes an eye mask for sleeping, socks, earplugs, hand cream, body lotion, and lip balm, and an exclusive 10ml Diptyque fragrance. Note that the amenity kit comes in a leather pouch; on standard Qatar Business Class, the kit comes in a gift box.

Qatar Qsuite Amenity Kit

Standard Qatar Business Class Amenity kit

Passengers are offered a towel, also by Diptyque, to rejuvenate their face and hands before and after each meal service and toothbrushes and razors are available from a drawer in the toilets. And worth noting that staff checked and cleaned the toilet areas each time before you used it and the toilets include Diptyque products as well.

Drinks

The flight commenced with a choice between Brut or Rose champagne, which was served while the flight was still on the ground.

The wine list is extensive and includes full-page descriptions along with photos of each bottle. Choices encompass three white wines, three red wines, a sweet white wine, and a port. Flight attendants are well-trained and capable of providing expert recommendations for wine pairings with various dishes. They also typically pour the wine at your seat, adding a touch of restaurant-style finesse to the experience and all business class cabins on Qatar Airways are absent of service carts – again underscoring the brand’s commitment to precision and attention to detail.

After take off I ordered a wine which was served with a portion of nuts.

The selection of cocktails and mocktails is extensive, featuring classics like an Old Fashioned and Dry Martini. An array of spirits is available, ranging from Grey Goose, Chivas Regal, The Glenlivet, and Hendricks Gin. Beer options often include Stella Artois and Leffe.

Cuisine

Menus and wine lists were provided prior to take-off, and orders were collected in advance. Qatar Airways offers a dine-when-you-want service, so you can literally eat when you want and as much as you want. However, it is worth ordering, or at least picking what you want to take as they can run out of popular items.

On this evening flight, there were two appetizers, four mains, cheese and dessert and options available, along with a range of lighter snacks and breakfast.

The table is stored under the TV and comes forward with ease and is adorned with a tablecloth, mini metal salt, and pepper mills, a bread basket, and a battery-operated candle.

I started with an amuse-bouche which was a dressed scallop.

For started I went for the Smoked Salmon Carpaccio.

For mains I chose Pan Seared Cod with Yellow Thai Curry

To finish I opted for the Cheese Board and Crackers. By this point, it was around 2am and zzz was calling me so I didn’t bother with a sweet dessert.

I then got ‘into bed” and slept till we reached Bangkok. I missed breakfast as jetlag had kicked in by that point, but there was a lovely little chocolate box waiting for me when I woke up.

Final Verdict

If you are looking for what is an incredible Business Class experience, then Qatar Airways is the only way to fly and we truly enjoyed our time flying from Doha to Bangkok. Find out more about Qatar’s Business Class products here and Qsuite cabin here.

The post Qatar Airways Doha To Bangkok Boeing 777-300ER Qsuite Business Class Review appeared first on The Luxury Editor.

Renowned for its ultra-luxurious Qsuite, opulent lounges, and exceptional in-flight services and dining experiences, Qatar Airways Business Class stands as a beacon of excellence in the world of air travel. With a global network that spans Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe and the Middle East, the airline consistently gathers praise for its exceptional amenities and has firmly establishing itself as an industry leader. The Luxury Editor recently experienced the Boeing 787-8 Business Class Cabin from Edinburgh to Doha in partnership with the Tourist Authority of Thailand and Qatar Airways. Read on to discover more.

On a recent trip to Thailand with Qatar Airways to create our Luxury Thailand guide, we had the opportunity to experience Qatar’s Business Class cabin from Edinburgh to Doha and then from Doha to Bangkok. The Edinburgh to Doha route uses a Boeing 787-8 so the seats are the Super Diamond seating formation while the Doha to Bangkok flight was a larger Boeing 777-300ER that offered the famous Qsuite cabin, both of which offered an unbelievable luxury experience in the sky.

Check-In Edinburgh

Qatar Airways offers two flights per day from Edinburgh one at 08:10hrs and a second flight at 14:45hrs. We were flying on the afternoon flight so arrived around 2.5 hours early at Edinburgh Airport which was plenty of time to get through the airport.

The departure check-in desks are located immediately in front of the main entrances of the airport and there is a separate Qatar Airways check-in desk for Business, priority, and First class passengers making the check-in process fast. The queue moved very quickly and our bags were weighed and away within about 15 minutes.

Business Class and First Class customers can then use the fast-track security lane which speeds up the process further.  We travel through Edinburgh Airport frequently and the security process is relatively quick (apart from the school holidays) on average taking 15 minutes (after luggage drop) to be airside. The introduction of CT scanners is imminent, meaning you won’t need to remove anything from your hand luggage, which will speed up the process even further.

Lounge Access

Qatar Airways operates its own branded lounges in select cities worldwide, such as London, Paris and Singapore. In other locations including Edinburgh, the airline offers Business and First Class customers access to Oneworld partner lounges, and in the case of Edinburgh we were given access to the British Airways Lounge. The BA Lounge offers a selection of cold buffet items, soft drinks, tea and coffee, and snacks as well as a range of alcoholic drinks. It is located next to Gate 4 so it’s very centrally within the airport.

Boarding

Our flight was on time and Business and First Class passengers boarded promptly after families, on this aircraft size all cabin types enter via the same door (there isn’t a separate entrance for business and first) with Business immediately on the left-hand side and economy to the right once you enter the plane.

The Service

The Business Class experience offered by Qatar Airways closely mirrors the luxury of First Class on alternative airlines. Attendants warmly greet you by your name and escort you to your seat, meals and beverages are individually served to your seat (no trolley being pushed through the cabin). In fact, we were greeted multiple times by various cabin staff members throughout the whole experience and the cabin purser greeted us (as well as every other customer) at the beginning as well as at the end which really adds a personal touch to the service.

Cabin and Seat

The Business Class cabin on the A350 is laid out in a 1-2-1 configuration, with rows one to five forming a forward section, and row six forming a mini-cabin behind it, separated by the lavatories. Seats are the Super Diamond seating arrangement all offering aisle access in a herringbone formation. One thing to note is the cabin feels very spacious due to having no cabin bag bulkheads in the middle and the small walk-up bar that houses a range of snacks and drinks during the flights adds to the spaciousness.

If you are travelling as a couple you will probably prefer the middle seats as they are joined together with an adjustable privacy partition (the Qsuite has a slightly different layout, offering couples even closer proximity) which can be put up and down and for solo travellers the window seats are likely to be the best option.

The seat controls were conveniently located on the side table and were very user-friendly. They allow for independent control of each aspect of the seat, with preset options for achieving a fully reclined position, an upright posture, dining mode, and comfortable lounging.

If you want to get some sleep, the seat seamlessly transforms into an expansive 80-inch (2.03-meter) flatbed, Being tall I wasn’t convinced if I could lie flat out and yes I could lie completely flat out! In addition, the seat is padded making it comfortable to sleep and a thick cosy blanket is provided for extra comfort.

To the side of your seat, there is a small side console where you can stow loose items such as mobile phones, reading materials, and laptops, although it must be kept clear during taxi, take-off, and landing. Additionally, there’s a designated water bottle holder with a 500ml bottle securely placed in it and a small reading light which is controlled via the remote control. Further storage can also be found down by your legs in a side bin, the seat also includes both a plug socket and USB sockets for charging appliances.

Entertainment

A large 17-inch entertainment screen graces every seat which has touch-screen functionality in addition to being able to be controlled by remote control. Qatars Oryx One entertainment system offers a huge global selection of music, radio, Hollywood and Bollywood movies, sitcoms, and short programming, which includes documentaries, comedy – the list goes on and on so you won’t run out of things to watch.

The remote control becomes really useful once you have reclined your seat to a lower angle for relaxing after eating dinner as you become too far away to use the touch screen functionality.

A discreet compartment to the side of your seats stores the noise-reducing headphones which offer cinema-quality sound as well as a high level of background noise reduction.

Referred to as “Super Wi-Fi,” the Airbus A350 aircraft (along with the A350, B787, A319 and select B777, A330, and A320 aircraft) offers inflight connectivity. Qatar Airways aims to extend this high-speed option to all its planes in due course, and it is available for purchase starting at £10 for a session, however, Qatar Privilege Club members enjoy one hour of free Super Wi-Fi just by logging in with your membership details.

Amenities & Facilities

The airline has a partnership with the renowned French fragrance brand Diptyque for skincare products and every business class seat comes with an amenity kit that includes an eye mask for sleeping, socks, earplugs, hand cream, body lotion and lip balm, and an exclusive 10ml Diptyque fragrance.

Passengers are offered a towel also by Diptyque to rejuvenate their face and hands before and after each meal service and toothbrushes and razors are available from a drawer in the toilets. And worth noting that staff checked and cleaned the toilet areas each time before you used it and toilets include Diptyque products as well.

Drinks

Prior to departure, you are offered a welcome drink, which includes Brut and Rosé Champagne, along with their signature non-alcoholic drink, but who can say no to a glass of bubbles!

The wine list is extensive and includes full-page descriptions along with photos of each bottle. Choices encompass three white wines, three red wines, a sweet white wine, and a port.

Flight attendants are well-trained and capable of providing expert recommendations for wine pairings with various dishes. They also typically pour the wine at your seat, adding a touch of restaurant-style finesse to the experience and all business class cabins on Qatar Airways are absent of service carts – again underscoring the brand’s commitment to precision and attention to detail.

The selection of cocktails and mocktails is extensive, featuring classics like an Old Fashioned and Dry Martini. An array of spirits is available, ranging from Grey Goose, Chivas Regal, The Glenlivet, and Hendricks Gin. Beer options often include Stella Artois and Leffe.

For tea enthusiasts, TWG Teas are served on Qatar Airways flights. Speciality coffees, such as Americano, espresso, latte, and macchiato, are also on offer.

Cuisine

Menus and wine lists were provided prior to take-off, and orders were collected in advance. Qatar Airways offers a dine-when-you-want service, so you can literally eat when you want and as much as you want. However, it is worth ordering, or at least picking what you want at take off as they can run out of popular items.

On this afternoon flight, there were four mains and four lighter options available, along with a range of lighter snacks.

The table is stored under the TV and comes forward with ease and is adorned with a tablecloth, mini metal salt, and pepper mills, a bread basket, and a cut battery-operated candle.

I had my eye on the Traditional Arabic Breakfast with Pita Bread which didn’t disappoint and much later on in the flight around two hours before landing in Doha I ordered the Afternoon Tea which came with fresh finger sandwiches, warm scones, and clotted cream and pastries.

Following dinner, before you sleep or nap a chocolate box is left on your table along with a towel.

Arrival

Upon arrival at Hamad International Airport, we had the Meet and Greet service, which is complimentary to Platinum and Gold Privilege Club members. Staff greet you off the plane and take you through bag check and into the terminal and then onto your next flight. Hamad International Airport is going through a significant building process at the moment (huge as it is already) many flights arrive and then need a bus to take them to the main terminal, the new building will mean that arrival flights will arrive at an air bridge instead. The bus from the airport has a separate Business and First bus which then took around 15 minutes to get to the arrivals hall. Upon arriving at the arrivals hall there was a separate Business and First bag check and it took around five minutes to do a bag check before we were into the main terminal.

Airport Excellence

In the realm of travel excellence, Qatar Airways takes centre stage, with its singular hub, the Doha Hamad International Airport. This airport, a reflection of the airline’s commitment to luxury and comfort, offers an array of exceptional amenities, from luxury shopping experiences to a lavish airside hotel while a delightful display of modern artwork graces the airport, with two standout pieces: the renowned Lamp Bear, a majestic giant teddy bear valued at a staggering 7 million USD, and Kaws’ captivating creation, “Small Lie.”

Business Class passengers enjoy the privilege of accessing the renowned Al Mourjan Business Lounge and the new Al Mourjan Business Lounge in the Garden. These oases come complete with rejuvenating shower facilities, nap accommodations, and a gym.

Culinary delights abound in Al Mourjan, with a diverse selection of global cuisines on offer, spanning Middle Eastern, European, and Indian flavours. The primary dining areas present both buffet and à la carte dining options. Those seeking libations will find a plethora of bar choices, including one within the restaurant, where Champagne flows generously, featuring brands like Charles Heidsieck Champagne – Rosé and Philipponnat Champagne Royale Reserve Brut.

If you want to take the luxuries even further the new airport extension, The Orchard is home to Qatar Airways Al Mourjan Business Lounge – The Garden, which opened in May 2023 at Hamad International Airport, is a 7,390 sqm haven exclusively designed for Premium passengers that combines natural light, lush greenery, and stylish decor, mirroring the tropical garden and water features of the new new impressive space. Within the new lounge, you will find the Louis Vuitton Lounge by Yannick Alléno which you can read about here as we visited it during our time in the airport.

Final Verdict

If you are looking for what is an incredible Business Class experience, then Qatar Airways is the only way to fly and we truly enjoyed our time flying from Edinburgh to Doha. Find out more about Qatar’s Business Class products here.

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A first of its kind collaboration between Louis Vuitton, Michelin-star chef Yannick Alléno and Qatar Duty Free has created a luxurious retreat within Qatar Airways’ Al Mourjan Lounge at Doha’s Hamad Airport.
Discover more about our recent visit to the Louis Vuitton Lounge by Yannick Alléno en-route to Thailand with Tourism Thailand.

Qatar Airways continues to set new standards in luxury travel, and its latest offering at Doha’s Hamad International Airport is no exception. In a groundbreaking collaboration with the iconic fashion powerhouse Louis Vuitton, the airline has introduced an exclusive lounge within its already award-winning Al Mourjan Lounge, taking luxury travel experiences to unparalleled heights. This new addition, known as the “Louis Vuitton Lounge by Yannick Alléno,” offers travellers a level of sophistication and indulgence that is simply unmatched.

The Garden: A Testament to Luxury

The new airport extension, The Orchard is home to Qatar Airways Al Mourjan Business Lounge – The Garden, which opened in May 2023 at Hamad International Airport, is a 7,390 sqm haven exclusively designed for Premium passengers that combines natural light, lush greenery, and stylish decor, mirroring the tropical garden and water features of the new new impressive space.

This lavish space offers an array of amenities designed to cater to traveller’s needs in style. From a rejuvenating day spa and 24-hour quiet rooms to a fully-equipped gym, The Garden leaves no stone unturned when it comes to ensuring a remarkable travel experience.

Louis Vuitton’s Signature Touch

For those who want to take the lounge experience that one step further, the Louis Vuitton Lounge achieves just that. Accessible through a special elevator at the rear of the Louis Vuitton duty-free store below and from within the Al Mourjan Lounge – The Garden.

This glass-enclosed haven exudes opulence and sophistication paying homage to Louis Vuitton’s rich heritage in travel with iconic Louis Vuitton elements, such as stacked trunks and adorned with gold-hued, cafe-style seating, including designer pieces like the Costela armchairs by Martin Eisler, India Mahdavi low tables and vibrant Quetzal bird creations by atelier oï.

A Michelin Star-Rated Culinary Experience

Yannick Alléno’s menu has conjured a gastronomic symphony, where a “multilingual” concept unfolds to delight discerning clientele throughout the day and night. This luminary chef celebrated for achieving the pinnacle of culinary excellence with his three Michelin-starred Alléno Paris at the Pavillon Ledoyen and Le 1947 at Cheval Blanc Courchevel.

Paying homage to local ingredients, with international flavours the menu caters to a diverse array of palates and dietary preferences, ensuring that every diner finds their culinary nirvana. From the first light of morning to the elegant brunch hours, guests are greeted with a selection of Parisian viennoiseries, artisanal baked goods and lighter bites like Louis Vuitton embalmed finger sandwiches and exquisite melt-in-the-mouth mini toasties.

For mains why not try their freshly prepared sushi, or tender confit lamb shoulder kissed by the exotic notes of yuzu, served alongside a fragrant pilaf rice embellished with dried fruits and spices.

These culinary marvels can be experienced à la carte, celebrating individual preferences, or as part of a meticulously crafted multi-course tasting menu, an embodiment of Alléno’s philosophy that the menu should be as multifaceted as its patrons.

And to finish, you can’t leave without indulging in something from the cake trolley, which is shaped like a signature Louis Vuitton trunk, whilst sipping a coffee topped with a Louis Vuitton emblem – you can even pick the one you want!

A Testimony to Excellence

While Louis Vuitton has established stores at numerous airports worldwide, including two at Hamad Airport, this marks their first-ever airport lounge. The luxury fashion house has been diversifying into hospitality in recent years, with the airport lounge being their ninth culinary project since 2020.

Exclusivity and Access

While the broader Al Mourjan Lounge offers complimentary food and beverages, guests will need to pay for their indulgences at the Louis Vuitton Lounge. The Louis Vuitton Lounge is open 24 hours a day to Louis Vuitton VIPs and Qatar Airways Gold and Platinum members through the Privilege Club.

A Unique Culinary Oasis in the Orchard

Located within the Orchard, a verdant shopping area in Concourse C that opened in November 2022, the Louis Vuitton Lounge is more than just a dining space. It’s an experience that immerses travellers in the art of luxury travel, offering a blend of Louis Vuitton’s heritage and Chef Yannick Alléno’s culinary expertise. From the vibrant ambience to its fine dining menu, this lounge-restaurant hybrid is destined to leave a lasting impression on globe-trotting connoisseurs seeking an extraordinary lounge experience.

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Pre Boarding

Dubai Airport is the main hub for Emirates, meaning that the airport is completely geared up for business and first class travel. I left from Terminal 3, which has a number of business class lounges to relax in.

If you are entering the airport at Dubai there is a separate business and first class entrance so you can very quickly pass through customs. I travelled from Glasgow to Dubai and had a stop-off in Dubai, so I used the business entrance to access the airport.

The lounges (there are separate first class and business lounges) run along the upper level of the terminal and you look down over the main concourse. The lounge I used was huge and split into different areas – work, relax, quiet, rest as well as a bar and large dining area.

Food in the dining room is presented in different ranges; salads, hot food, sweets and breads. I took a selection of salads (artichoke, greens, hummus with some flatbread) the hot food was mainly meat orientated which I can’t eat, but it did look delicious.

For drinks they serve wines, all spirits you can think of,  Moet champagne, soft drinks and tea and coffee. I took Moet and a glass of Voss mineral water. After that I had a selection of cakes and coffee.

The lounge has free wifi as you would expect and the one thing that makes all the difference… access to showers so you can freshen up, which is amazing after a long flight and you are already feeling jetlagged.

The Flight

Boarding is quick and you have a separate airwalk entrance onto the plane and you are checked in before other people. You are quickly settled into your seat and offered a glass of champagne (which I would never refuse).

The Seat

Seats on this flight (Boeing 777-300ER) not one of the Airbus A380’s in business are in the formation of 2-3-2.  (you can see the layout on Seatguru). If you are travelling on your own then I would recommend taking one of the outside seats in the middle three formations and then you will have less chance of having someone climbing over you which will happen if you take a seat in either of the 2 formations.

Seats recline right back into beds and even being 6’4 I was still able to stretch right out. there is a large TV in front of you with a pocket and a water bottle.

You have a reading lamp, noise cancelling headphones and there is also a wireless touchscreen remote to control everything once you have taken off.

The Flight and Food

Before takeoff staff come around and take your cocktail order (I had a bloody mary), which they serve once the flight is off the ground. Wine is served with dinner and there are after dinner drinks too.

For food there are three courses, I opted for a vegetarian mezze and salad to start, I then had a vegetarian curry for mains and then a cheese board for dessert, which was huge.

(this picture didn’t turn out too well, either the turbulence or my hand after my 4th drink made a mess of the plate)

I was completely stuffed when I had finished eating and was into my 4th episode of the Fargo boxset on the ICE entertainment system so was slowly drifing off. A member of staff came over and made my seat into a bed (fully 180 flat), which has a soft mattress that goes over it and super soft pillow and duvet. The rest of the flight was taken care of by sleeping and I woke up as they were about to make their descent.

The Other Extras

Some other little extras you get with a business flight – chaffer to the airport up to 70km from the airport, which is ideal for me as they will pick you up from Edinburgh and take you to Glasgow airport.

Access to the premium customs lane once you arrive at your destination to save time at customs.

The TLE Verdict

I love Emirates and have been a frequent flyer with them for many years. I think the service and price point cannot be matched by other airlines I have flown with.  The downside as some people will point out is that for routes to Asia it does take longer than flying direct from Heathrow as you need to change at Dubai. As I am based in Scotland, I find it more convenient to leave via Glasgow than get myself down to London first and I quite like the journey being broken up as well.

The Price

Internet prices on the Emirates website for business class from Dubai to Bangkok are £1627 return.

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