Hello

I just wanted to post my recent experience of flying with Emirates. I have received a lot of helpful info from posters on this website and I thought I would share my thoughts which I hope will benefit some people, especially those that maybe don't fly that often or haven't upgraded before.

Ek18/Ek 384 Man to Bkk
Economy seats on A380 can't complain really as both plane were packed, no spare seats. Service ok as was food. On board entertainment ICE excellent. Would always recommend the A380 if flying economy.

Ek385 Bkk to Dxb
Business class seat 16k. Got picked up from my hotel 3 hours before in an oldish silver Mercedez- drove well. Received a phone call day before confirming details. Checked in and received priority pass for security saved a bit of time. Emirates lounge located on 3rd floor with departures on 4th floor. Lounge clean and modern. Not too busy at 11pm. Two girls stood next to the drinks area chatting. Didn't really do much, so just helped myself to beer, water etc. Decent choice of hot/cold snacks replenished often. Boarded the plane and was greeted with a warm welcome. Staff took the time to introduce themselves and explain about the onboard facilities, bar, food and drink, seat functions etc. All staff were excellent and could not praise them enough. Please note that on this flight breakfast is served 2 hours before landing in Dubai. I am glad I had a proper meal prior to arriving at the airport otherwise just finger food.

Transit in Dubai fast track pass was worthless. Tip - first security checkpoint was heaving. Don't queue, just walk around the security area and there are two more checkpoints that are empty.

Ek17 Dxb to Man
First class seat 3k. Upgraded using miles. First class lounge Dubai very quiet. Didn't use the main restaurant as wasn't hungry so just took a seat, charged my phone. A young girl asked me if I would like some breakfast which was nice. Boarded at gate. Mobile phone was checked to see if device was switched on with battery charge. Also all passengers clothes/person were checked with some kind of litmus paper or spatula and then this swab was entered into a computer for checking. I asked the security guy what he was checking for but got no proper reply. None of the other passengers seemed to know what was going on either. Boarded plane and once again nice greeting from staff. Head purser came to have a chat with me as did other crew members. Food and drink was on demand and the choice was amazing. Champagne or fresh orange with dates before take off, hot macademia nuts etc. Enjoyed caviar, canapés, lamb chops, cheeses and plenty of vodka and wine. The service really was outstanding but the people seemed generally nice people. Also enjoyed an onboard shower about 60 mins before landing which was nice. Tip - 5 mins hot water supply starts when the crew close the door so don't hang about. When I got in the shower I only had about 3 mins left! Arrived Manchester and had a brand new Mercedez c class waiting for me.

Well overall I couldn't fault Emirates. If I am honest I think I preferred the seat in Business class to first class as it was easy to operate. Hope this is of benefit to someone.

PS Can anyone advise how qatar and etihad' A380 services compare?

Cheers