Post-covid, airline travel has become an expensive affair. The prices shot up, thanks to fuel surcharges & other miscellaneous expenditures. It became a logical choice for travellers to have extended holidays.

2023 was a year where I travelled extensively ( domestically ) and had the opportunity to visit Europe twice, first for the Spanish Grand Prix and 24 Hours of Le Mans and then for the Belgian Grand Prix. 

The two trips were less than a month apart & the second trip was for almost three weeks! Once again, I chose to fly to Brussels and use my friend's home as a base to explore the unexplored cities from the European continent!

My outbound flight was on 13th July and my return flight was on 2nd August. Thankfully, with my miles upgrade, I had the luxury of flying in First Class on both my journeys!

Time to revisit the memories from the past!

Mumbai - Brussels ( Emirates First ) ( 13th July 2023 ) :

Bags packed and ready!

The Chauffeur was ready to ferry me to the airport :

After a brisk check-in, security and immigration, it was time to relax in the lounge. The view was amazing as always! 

The binge journey begins :

Not many guests in the lounge in the morning :

It was soon time to board the flight to Dubai.

Shots of the First Class Suite for the first leg to Dubai :

The pushback begins :

Taking off from Mumbai ( Video Link ) :

Bye Mumbai, see you in 3 weeks!

The menu onboard, quite diverse for a short flight :

Being selective about my dietary demands :

Coco Jalila chocolates always elevate the dining experience :

After 2.5 hours, we were hovering over Dubai, preparing for touchdown :

Welcome to Dubai, the hub of Emirates :

Landing at Dubai International Airport ( Video Link ) :

An escorted buggy service to make my transit through Dubai seamless!

After breezing through security, time for some unwinding in the First Class Lounge :

A two-hour layover and it was time to board the Game-Changer Boeing 777-300ER to Brussels!

My seat :

The pushback begins!

Taxiing to the runway :

Taking off from Dubai bound for Brussels ( Video Link ) :

Up up and away! Brussels here we come!

Time to watch Minions!

The menu for the flight :

Have always been a fan of movie snacks onboard Emirates :

An extensive fare for lunch en route to Brussels :

The views from above are so beautiful, all thanks to the Almighty!

Time for a quick nap! Love how comfortable the bed is!

Hovering over the city, as we make our final approach :

 Touchdown Brussels :