Maximising the full first class experience

Flying in first class on an international flight is something many of us would love to do if we had the chance. Luckily, thanks to many of the tricks discussed on AFF, first class flying is not out of reach. But for someone who has never experienced the luxury of the pointy end of the plane before, it can all seem overwhelming. This week one of our members asks the forum for advice on making the most of the full Qantas First Class experience, from the day before the flight right up until arriving at the final destination.

Just hoping for some advice small pieces of advice to get the very best out of the F experience from sydney to LHR and return from chauffeur pick up to lounge to cabin …

Check in advice, best use of lounge, best seats, Dubai lounge & duty free etc….

Our members are happy to offer advice to our traveller. They advise that the whole experience actually begins well before arriving at the airport. The day before the flight, a phone call from a Qantas First host can be expected to discuss seating and spa treatments in the lounge prior to the flight. Passengers can even expect to travel to the airport in style, using the complimentary chauffer pick-up service.

The acclaimed first class lounge awaits upon arriving at the airport. While it may be tempting to treat yourself to a full meal and a few drinks in the lounge, our members advise that it’s best to pace yourself. It should not be forgotten that a full meal awaits first class passengers on board the aircraft.

My one and only tip is if it’s your first time is to ‘pace yourself’ – you will see a restaurant and order everything and before ordering your meal you would be enjoying a few drinks too. Remember then u get on board and there’s more drink and food. And then at the next lounge during transit and so on

The first class flight attendants have a reputation for providing top-notch customer service. But our members advise that chatting with the flight attendants and mentioning that it’s the first time in first is a good way to ensure the service is extra-special.

Make sure you engage with and chat to the F cabin attendants. These are the cream of the Qantas crop and are at the top of their game. They will judge the type of experience you want with professional ease – but will do so even better if you are open and let them know you are a first timer and that the trip is a special experience for you.

Our members also point out that first class passengers will have access to the Emirates first class lounge during the transit in Dubai, and even to the British Airways First lounge during the connection in London onto the final destination. First class passengers even have priority in the lounge, getting the chance to skip to the front of the shower queue.

Share your tips or questions about making the most of the first class experience HERE.

The editor of Australian Frequent Flyer, Matt's passion for travel has taken him to over 70 countries… with the help of frequent flyer points, of course!
Matt's favourite destinations (so far) are Germany, Brazil & Kazakhstan. His interests include economics, aviation & foreign languages, and he has a soft spot for good food and red wine.

You can connect with Matt by posting on the Australian Frequent Flyer community forum and tagging @AFF Editor.
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