On the refreshments front, the fridge was well stocked with mini bottles of Piper Heidsieck. There was a good selection of spirits and soft drinks, although strangely I don't recall seeing any Banks? The attentive lounge attendant produced a fine selection of freshly prepared sandwiches. She even prepared some hot food for my baby daughter.

Apart from my family there was another family of 4 in the lounge, so with only eight passengers using it, it felt that little bit more special. I guess the 3 other passengers were either not aware of it or opted for the main airport terminal instead.

This was my first experience of this First departures lounge and I was very impressed with the overall experience. Surely this facility must rank as one of the ultimate departure experiences, especially when you consider how ultra quick you clear check-in/security/customs. I felt the shuttle to the front aircraft steps gave it a VIP feel, but at the same time felt a bit sorry for the other passengers, queuing from the other steps all the way back to the departure gates.

Over the past 5 years I have used the IAM Jet Centre several times for the superb CW drive through check-in facility, but always looked forward to the day when I would be able to use the First departure lounge, rather than continue my journey to the main airport terminal and the crowded shared lounge.