My First Trip in 2014 was to San Jose California in the United States of America.

My Best Friend was due to get married on 30th May and it was time to fly on Emirates for the First time in 2014. Emirates Airlines don't fly to San Jose but to San Francisco. 

My Mother accompanied me for this trip and she was really thankful to be flying in Business Class.

The Outbound Trip was on 21st May 2014 and the Inbound on 11th June 2014.

Mumbai - San Francisco ( 21st May 2014 ) :

Mumbai now had a New International Terminal - Terminal 2 or T2 and believe me it is simply stunning to behold. Everything about this Terminal is so good. Brisk Check ins, Seamless Security Checks, Minimal Waiting at the Immigration and State of the art Facilities. This Terminal has it all!

Shots from the Business and First Class Lounges. The Airlines have a shared space for their premium travellers.

The Spread for the Early Morning Hours :

Mum enjoying her coffee :

Settled in the Business Class Seat :

Some shots of the Business Class onboard the Boeing 777-300ER :

Breakfast Service :

I chose to sleep through the rest of the Flight and soon enough we landed in Dubai on a bright and sunny morning :

Shots from the Business Class Lounge at Dubai International Airport :

Soon enough, it was time to board the Flight for the 16 Hour Long Journey.

The Menu for the Journey :

The Business Class seats :

Breakfast :

A Lavish meal and it was time to catch up on some much needed sleep :

A 6 Hour Nap and I sampled the Pad Thai :

The Air Show and Flight Information on-board :

Time for more food! Lunch :

The Lunch service got over and the plane started its descent into San Francisco International Airport. Beautiful country from above.


There was no Fast-Track at San Francisco and after waiting in a long line to complete the formalities, we were on our way to San Jose :


San Francisco - Mumbai ( 11th June 2014 ) :


The Lincoln waiting for us to take us to the Airport. A very comfortable car but I prefer the cars provided in European transfers :


A 45 minute drive and we reached the airport on time. It was a brisk check-in thanks to some really helpful staff. Security too took minimal time and we had ample time to relax in the Lounge.

Shots from the Lounge :


The Spread in the Lounge, Mouth Watering!!


Our Ride being readied for the Journey to Dubai :


Relaxing in the Lounge :


A Host of Arrivals and Departures :


Like all big airports, Boarding commenced from the Lounge and after a hassle free boarding, we settled into our seats. Emirates was the official sponsor of the 2014 FIFA World Cup and the Plane was full of livery of the same :


The Menu :


Pushback and Taxiing to the Runway for Takeoff :


Beautiful San Francisco from above :


Relaxing in our Lounge Mode Seats :


Lunch Service commences :

Passing some beautiful mountains enroute to Dubai :


I had my fill and it was time to reset the clocks and get some sleep!


As we advanced through time, we were served a quick bite :


Food never stops being served and we became gluttons by dinner time :


Emirates was running live updates for the opening game of the World Cup :


Descending into Dubai :

Touchdown and shots enroute to the gate :


Welcome to Dubai :


Shots from the Dubai Business Class Lounge :


The Lavish Spread in the Lounge. Food, Food and More Food!!

It was time to board and it was the Boeing 777-300ER again. Just 3 days after our arrival, Emirates introduced the A380 Service to Mumbai for this flight.
The Menu for the Final Leg :

I wanted to enjoy my last meal of the trip : Nuts, Fruits and some Torte!


We returned to Mumbai, our home at 2 am in the morning. Thankfully we caught up on some sleep inflight and didn't feel too fatigued.

I am thoroughly impressed by the Hospitality shown onboard Emirates Airlines. More importantly we were recognized as Gold Members onboard every flight and graciously welcomed by the cabin crew chief. The Air Hostesses and Stewards left no stone unturned in making us feel special and ensured nothing was found wanting throughout the flight.

There are more stories to be added to the Flying Diaries. However its time to update the Gallery of Memories and Paddock Club Diaries from my trip to the 2015 Austrian GP.

Watch this space. Updates coming thick and fast!

Dubai was the last destination I travelled to on Emirates Airlines in 2013.

I got the opportunity to attend the 2013 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and this time I had a co-traveller. My Mother got the first taste of Emirates' Hospitality and believe me, she was thoroughly impressed!

Mumbai - Dubai ( 30th October 2013 ) :

Shots from the Lounge :

Mum is all smiles :

The Flight to Dubai was a Brand New Boeing 777 - 300 ER and the seats were comfortable as always :

The Touchscreen Controller shaped as a Tablet adding to the Premium Feel :

Mum settled in her seat :

Breakfast time!

Time to rest :

In less than 3 hours, we had reached Dubai :

Fast Track Services meant minimal time at the Immigration and soon enough we were on our way to our hotel :

Dubai - Mumbai ( 8th November 2013 ) :

Enroute to the Dubai International Airport in a Volvo :

The Burj Khalifa towering above the Dubai Skyline :

Shots from the Lounge :

Mum relaxing after a good meal :

Boarding commenced from the Lounge and this time we were flying in the Airbus A330 - 200.

Taxiing to the runway :

The Beverage service on Emirates is always amazing :

Enroute to Mumbai in the Setting Sun :

Dinner :

This was the shortest journey during my association with Emirates. My mother was all praise for Emirates. The Hospitality shown to her was special and as a Gold Member, I always felt welcomed.

This was the last trip in 2013 but 2014 saw me completed 2 trips to the Americas with a trip to Germany in between.

There is more to come in the "Flying Diaries" Series, so keep visiting. God Bless and Take Care!

September 2013 saw me take the First Emirates Flight as a Gold Member on Skywards.

F1 travelled to Monza for the Italian Grand Prix and this gave me the opportunity to fly First Class on Emirates once again.

The Outbound journey was on 4th September 2013 and Inbound on 13th September.

Mumbai - Milan ( 4th September 2013 ) :

Shots from the Lounge :

The First Class Suite in the Boeing 777-300ER is one of the best in the Airline Industry. I also got a quick peep into the cockpit. Some stills of my seat :

Taxiing to the Runway :

The Breakfast Menu :

Breakfast. The Presentation excellent as always :

Time for some privacy and time to catch up on some sleep :

The Doors of the Suite shut to ensure complete privacy and also have a "Do Not Disturb" feature and believe me, no one disturbs :)

The Mumbai Dubai Leg is always a short flight and soon enough we were approaching Dubai International Airport :

Nearing Touchdown at Dubai :

Touchdown and we had the company of the famed Airbus A380 :

Shots from the Dubai International Airport :

The First Class Lounge offers A-la-carte dining to its guests and I helped myself to some lip-smacking Indian Starters and Delicious Desserts :

Shots from the Emirates First Class Lounge :

The 2nd Leg of the Journey wasn't as comfortable as the first as it was an older aircraft. However we only had 2 guests onboard in First Class and the crew left no stone unturned in ensuring a comfortable flight for me.

My Seat :

Taxiing for Departure :

So, What's for Lunch?

Time for a quick bite onboard :

The Flight to Europe offers some Picturesque views :

My Bed for the next few hours. Very Comfy and I immediately fell asleep

Nearing touchdown at Milan Mapensa Airport :

Touchdown at dusk :

My ride to the Hotel was a Mercedes Benz S 350.

Milan - Mumbai ( 13th September 2013 ) :

A Mercedes Benz S 350 for the pickup again :

Enroute to the Airport :

The sky looks stunning :

Milan Mapensa Airport :

A Brisk Check - in, Fast Track Security and Immigration and it was time to enjoy what the Lounge had to offer!

Dinner Time in the Lounge!

Boarding commenced from the Lounge and I quickly settled into my seat, no Suite on this flight either.

Night Flights always reward you with some amazing amenities. Who can forget the Goodie Basket!!

Dinner Menu onboard :

Time to have some dinner. The Options were brilliant and the food was really well made :

I chose to head to bed immediately after dinner and the Lie-Flat Bed does its job amazingly well.

The Time advances and after a 3.5 hours of sleep, we were nearing touchdown at the Dubai International Airport :

Touchdown on a hazy morning in Dubai and a line of Emirates Aircrafts ready for Departure.

Shots from the First Class Lounge :

The wait at the Lounge was a longer one and I really enjoyed some sleep in the Quiet Room.

It was time to board the afternoon flight to Mumbai for the Final Leg and the Boarding commenced from the Lounge.

Settling into my seat :

Dubai International Airport is a big hub for various airlines and here are some sharing airspace with Emirates :

Various Emirates Flights leaving for different destinations across the world :

Takeoff from Dubai and bound for Mumbai :

Lunchtime :

No Mattress or Duvet onboard this flight :

Mumbai and we are home :

There is definitely a difference between the services offered in First Class and Business Class . However one must opt to fly First when First Class Suites are on offer.

Emirates Airlines strive to ensure that their guests have an enjoyable flight and it was nice to see the crew recognize my Gold Status. Offering Personalized Services is a hallmark of Emirates and I would like to thank them for all the Hospitality shown to me.

Next post? - Emirates Business to Dubai and this time I have a co-traveller. Watch this space! 

July 2013 was my First Business Class Experience on Emirates Airlines.

I flew to Düsseldorf to attend the 2013 German Grand Prix.

The Outbound journey was on 4th July 2013 and the Inbound on 13th July.

Mumbai - Düsseldorf ( 4th July 2013 ) :

A Prompt Transfer service to the airport, a brisk check in and breezy completion of the formalities characterize the service of Emirates on-ground.

I quickly settled into my seat as we waited for pushback :

The Flight to Dubai was a Brand New Boeing 777-300 ER and the control console was a fantastic looking tablet. The Tablet has a plethora of functions from controlling the Personal TV Screen to activating the in-seat massager. Lighting Options and Seating options add other value additions.

ICE - Information, Communication and Entertainment, the award winning Inflight Entertainment of Emirates offering programs for all ages :

Business Class Seats :

The Menu Onboard :

Taxiing to the runway :

Breakfast time! Emirates pampers their Business Class Guests!

Keeping myself entertained during the journey :

Nearing Touchdown at Dubai International Airport :

A Journey of 1948 kms and we have arrived at Dubai!

Dubai International Airport boats of dedicated lounges for its Business and First Class passengers and numerous lounges are spread across the 3 different terminals.

Enroute to the Business Class Lounge :

View from the Lounge :

Shots from the Lounge, Boarding commences from the Lounge itself!

After a restful 3 hours in the Lounge, it was time to board the flight for Düsseldorf.

The 700-300 ER to Düsseldorf was an older aircraft but then this isn't the most frequented sector.

Personal TV Screen :

The Seat Console :

My Seat in Business Class :

Enjoying Apple Juice as I settle into my seat :

Waiting for Pushback :

2009 F1 World Champion Jenson Button and his partnership with Tag Heuer.

Takeoff for Düsseldorf!

Some Sprite and Assorted Nuts in the Beverage Service :

The Menu for Lunch!

The Lunch Service Commences :

After a fantastic 3 course meal, I chose to catch up on some sleep and the 3 hour nap was extremely comfortable in the Lie - Flat Bed!

6 Minutes to Touchdown :

Arriving at Düsseldorf. An Amazing City from the Sky :

Emirates Chauffeur Services in Europe are top - notch and I had a BMW M5 waiting for me in the arrivals hall to take me to Cologne!

Enroute to Cologne :

It was a very comfortable and smooth 1st leg of the trip and I was taken care of very well by Emirates!

Düsseldorf - Mumbai ( 13th July 2013 ) :

I always opt for the late evening flight and the return leg was no different.

Emirates never fails to impress me and this time they had a BMW 750 Ld waiting at the hotel to take me to Düsseldorf.

The Exquisite Luxury of the BMW 750 Ld!

Enroute to Düsseldorf, spotted my personal car, the Passat on the Autobahn :

Düsseldorf Airport :

Brilliantly built Airport :

Shots from the Emirates Lounge in Düsseldorf :

A Lavish Buffet spread in the Lounge :

Boarding commenced from the Lounge and I quickly settled into my seat. This time the Boeing 777-300 ER was the new aircraft!

The Sunset nearing at Düsseldorf Airport and we wait for the pushback :

Taxiing to the Runway :

Takeoff Time :

Video Link of the 777-300 Takeoff :

Enroute to Dubai in the setting sun :

The Console for Seat and the Joystick to make calls :

Dinner Service on-board. I had my fill in the Lounge but the spread on-board is too much to resist. Gluttony!

Emirates replicates the Constellations seen in the sky within the plane during a night flight. They leave no stone unturned in ensuring that you sleep under the stars :

A 4 Hour Nap and it was time to land into Dubai. Emirates AV welcoming their guests into Dubai International Airport :

The Business Class Lounge next to the gate :

Buffet Spread for Breakfast :

The Last Leg was in an Airbus A330-200 and this plane seemed to be a generation old.

Pushback :

Takeoff Time :


I chose to sleep the final leg of the trip and returned home after a refreshing trip.

A Big Thank you to Emirates Airline for all the Hospitality showered on me. The Business Class on Emirates Airline is a fantastic product offering but once you have travelled First.. you will forget all else.

The Next Update would feature the First Class Experience to Milan in the month of September ( 2013 ).

God Bless everyone!

July 2012 was my maiden flight on Emirates Airlines. I have always dreamt of flying First Class on Emirates A380 and the wish came true in July 2012 when I visited the UK for the British Grand Prix.

Soon enough, I drew up new plans to visit the United Kingdom again but this time it was for Football. I would attend games at Old Trafford ( Manchester United ) and the Camp Nou ( FC Barcelona )

It was time again to fly First on the Emirates A380 to London Heathrow!

Mumbai - London Heathrow ( 20th November 2012 ) :

I flew out on 20th November 2012 but this time took the First Flight out of Mumbai which would help me reach London at 1:30 in the afternoon

My Ride to the Airport :

A Brisk Check-in, Easy Immigration and Hassle-free security ensured a restful time in the Lounge before boarding commenced.

Shots from the Lounge :

An Elaborate Spread :

The Boarding commenced and I was ushered into my Private Suite :

The 24" LCD :

Minibar, Makeup Kit and the Writing Kit :

The Touchscreen console which controls all the features of the Suite :

The Suite :

The Bed :

The Suite lights up in brilliant blue during takeoff :

The Breakfast Menu :

Breakfast :

A Slight delay in landing meant a quick switchover to the A380 which was bound for London :

Video Link to the Emirates A380 Taking off from Dubai :

The Goodie Basket featuring Chocolates, Crisps, Gums, Mints!

Post Lunch, I decided to take a stroll down to the Business Class Lounge at the back of the Business Class!

The Lounge offers Canapes, Hors D'oeuvres, Sandwiches and Drinks :


What can I serve you sir?

After spending sometime in the Lounge, I returned to my Suite to find my Bed ready. Time to relax before heading for a shower prior to landing at Heathrow!

An Hour before landing, I was woken up by a crew member. It was time to head to the Shower and freshen up prior to landing :

A refreshing shower and I was all ready for arrival into London


Video Link to the Emirates A380 Nearing Touchdown at London Heathrow Airport :




Emirates A380 landing on a cold and rainy afternoon at Heathrow :


Fast Track ensured a quick completion of the arrival formalities and I had my ride waiting for me at Heathrow!

A Mercedes Benz S-Class courtesy of Emirates Airlines!!


London Heathrow - Mumbai ( 12th December 2012 ) :

I always prefer late evening flights.


My Ride, another Mercedes Benz S Class courtesy of Emirates Airlines :

Night falls early during winters in London :

There was a considerable amount of passenger traffic at Heathrow. However Fast Track made the experience a lot easier.

Shots from the Emirates Lounge at Heathrow :


The Emirates A380 being readied for the Journey to Dubai :


Food, Food and More mouth-watering food!!


Emirates offer a plethora of drinking options :

Boarding commenced from the Lounge and it was a breeze!

Shots from my Personal Suite!!

Emirates offered us some amazing amenities!

The Aircraft taxiing to the Runway :

Video Link to the Emirates A380 Takeoff from London Heathrow :



The Flight Path to Dubai International Airport :

The Elaborate Dinner Menu for First Class :

Dinners are always special on Emirates Flights and this one definitely didn't disappoint :

Gluttony isn't good and going to bed immediately after a meal is worse...but in an Emirates A380 First Class, all should be forgiven.

The Bed ready!

As always, I was woken one hour before touchdown in Dubai to enjoy my Customary Shower On-board, an experience I can never get enough of!


Nearing Dubai :

Dubai from the Sky - Simply Stunning :


Video Link to the Emirates A380 nearing Touchdown at Dubai International Airport :



Dubai International Airport :


The Emirates First Class Lounge at Dubai International Airport ranks among the best and one can never get tired of visiting it over and over again!


Savour the Spread..simply amazing :


I made the most of my time at the Lounge - had a wholesome meal, got a massage & caught up on some sleep!

The Final leg to Mumbai was in a Boeing 777-300


The First Class Seat in a 777-300 ( not much difference compared to the Business Class barring the Lie-Flat Bed ) :

Shots from Pushback and Taxiing to the Runway :

Video Link of the Emirates Boeing 777-300 taking off from Dubai International Airport :



Final Shots of Dubai :

The Lunch Service to Mumbai :


Emirates Airline leaves no stone unturned in taking care of its guests and as a First Class Traveller, I was really pampered.

It had been another memorable trip in the First Class Suites of the 777-300ER and the famous Emirates A380!

I even earned promotion to the Silver Tier at the end of my First Leg of the Trip! The Extra Baggage allowance came in handy during the Return Leg!

I want to thank Emirates for all the hospitality and care showered on me throughout the journey.. it was an experience that is still etched in my mind.



Next up is my first "Business Class" Experience on-board Emirates ( Mumbai - Düsseldorf - Mumbai ) .. so watch this space.

My London Trip will always be remembered as a trip that fulfilled many dreams.  2 years have passed since the day I read about the A380 Private Suite of Emirates Airlines.

The Opportunity to fly to London for the Silverstone GP arrived and I knew it was time for the FIRST EMIRATES EXPERIENCE!!

So the Tickets were booked and I flew on the 4th of July.

Emirates Airlines know how to pamper their Passengers. An Elegant Mercedes C - Class was sent to drive me down to the International Airport.

The Check-in, Immigration & Security Procedures were like a breeze and I was ushered into a Plush Emirates Lounge!

The Lounge is very well planned as it ensures complete privacy for guests.

Emirates Airlines are famous for their hospitality!! Savour the Spread!!

A Few more stills!

 

The time had come. It was time to embark on a memorable journey.

MUMBAI ( BOM ) to DUBAI ( DXB ) - Boeing 777 - 300 ER First Class ( 4th July 2012 ) :

2 seats were all that was occupied in First Class. However I was disappointed by the Absence of Private Suites ( what was promised ). The Lack of Travellers seems to be the only reason. 

The Seat was quite comfortable though with a full-flat bed and many other optional configurations. The Massage function did a commendable job.

The Rains refused to budge and we were stuck at the Gate for almost an hour.

 

ICE - The Award Winning Entertainment system has loads of options to choose from. Never seen such a Huge Entertainment In-Flight.

 

The Breakfast on borad was Outstanding! Special Dietary Requirements were adhered to inspite of a short notice. Words are not enough...

 

Some More Stills of the Feature-laden seat :

 

It takes only a couple of hours to reach Dubai. Dubai is more than just beautiful. Here are some shots :

 

Touchdown and Dubai Airport - ENJOY!!

 

The De-boarding was efficient and the Transfer Procedure caused no delay!

I was simply awed by what I saw at Level 1 of the Airport. 2 Lounges - One for First and Other for Business Class Passengers and both almost a Mile Long!!

Emirates Airlines had redefined what a Lounge is supposed to mean!! The Lounge was more like a Hotel!!

Have the choice to sit near fountains and marvel at the Architecture or occupy a sofa and admire the efficiency of the Airport Services who handle large number of Departures and Arrivals everyday.

Emirates Airlines deserve 5 Stars for their Hospitality. The staff is prompt and courteous in Service and leave no scope for complaint. The Buffet was fantastic encompassing dishes from various parts of the world.

 

The Transit time was only 3 hours. My desire to spend more time would be fulfilled on the return leg.  Now for the BIG JOURNEY!!

 

 

DUBAI ( DXB ) to LONDON HEATHROW ( LHR ) - AIRBUS A380 - FIRST CLASS ( 4th July 2012 ) :

 

First Impression? - Airbus A380 is Huge!

The Private Suite is out of this world!! A room for the Traveller who likes to travel in an exquisite way, the Suite has it all - from Knick-knacks to features that simply humble the Competition.

Featured here is a teaser to what a Suite is and the preparation for Take-off.

 

Travel Kits, Writing Kits, Goodie Basket ( Replenished as you consume ), Nightwear, Cosmetic Kit, Eye-shades, Slippers; the list goes on!

 

Burj - Khalifa Towering above the rest! The King of the Dubai Skyline!

 

Salted Nuts and Carrot Juice was followed by a wholesome meal of Salad, Soup, Main Course and Dessert. Lip - Smacking!

 

While my meal was being prepared, I decided to stroll down to Business Class. A380 has 14 First Class Suites and 76 Business Class Seats. Quite a Number!! Highest for any aircraft.

Business Class isn't a bad prospect.... but First Class is worth it!

The Aircraft also houses a Bar at the back of the Upper - Level. A Deal-Clincher for those who love their drinks. 

 

Post Lunch I decided to have a quick Siesta. The Pillow, Mattress & Duvet in place. Sleeeep.

 

A Couple of hours sleep was relaxing. Now to get Refreshed. London was still an hour away and I was fortunate to get the last appointment for the Shower Spa!

Taking a Shower at 40,000 Feet!! Yes a Shower on-board!! 2 Treatments were Available - RELAX and REVIVE... depending on the Guest's need!

Only 5 minutes of water though, so have to be wise in usage.

 

Tea and pastries were waiting for me after I returned from the Shower.

 

Nearing Touchdown. London from above.

 

Fast - track service ensured minimal delay in getting out of the Airport. The Chaffeur Service Arrangement took some time though. However the Pick - up was the World-renowned, Luxury Redefining Three-pointed Star - MERCEDES S - CLASS!!

A Memorable Journey!!

 

THE RETURN LEG :

LONDON HEATHROW ( LHR ) to DUBAI ( DXB ) - AIRBUS A380 - FIRST CLASS ( 13th July 2012 ) :

 

The Pick-up was punctual and the S - Class was as elegant as ever. 

 

Priority Check - In and Fast - track hastened the procedures, however finding the Emirates Lounge took some effort. Its quite a walk but I was impressed when I was informed that Boarding would commence from the Lounge itself - Sweet!

The Business and First Class Passengers shared this lounge.

 

The Buffet was exceptional!

 

I enjoyed the push - back of these Huge A380s from the Terminal from the comfort of the lounge. Emirates isn't the only Airline that boasts of A380s.  A Qantas rolls into the Terminal here.

 

The First Class was fully occupied this time! The Flight was completely booked! Clearly shows that the travellers appreciated the quality of Service offered by the Airline.

The Private Suite!! A Class of its own!

 

The Dinner!

 

This was a Night Flight and the Steward was kind enough to provide me something comfortable to change into ( Goodies! )

 

We Traversed different time-zones and Morning dawned sooner. Time for a shower just before arrival into Dubai!!

 

Breakfast! Bread Basket and Cut Fruits - Simple and Filling.

 

Descent into Dubai!

 

The Glory of the A380s. Emirates Boasts of the Largest A380 Fleet in the World. Here is a glimpse...

 

A Longer Transit - Time helped me to catch up on some sleep. Enjoyed a Back Massage at the Timeless Spa in the Lounge. Very Relaxing!

 

DUBAI ( DXB ) to MUMBAI ( BOM ) - BOEING 777- 300 ER - FIRST CLASS ( 14th July 2012 ) :

The First Class was more populated this time.

Some more shots of First Class.

 

Lunch featured a traditional Indian Meal - Nice. It was time for a quick nap post lunch.

The Arrival was brisk and a Mercedes C-Class was waiting to take me home.

 

Fantastic Experience. Words fall short in describing the level of efficiency and excellence this airline has shown.

Will I want to experience it again??? - You Bet!!

PLANS DRAWN for the NEXT TRIP!!

 

HELLO TOMORROW!!