Originally Posted by
sleeptalker
I flew F return from LHR to JFK last week - my first F for almost exactly a year. The improvements are very noticeable, and it's great to see things on the up after several years of gradual erosion of the 'special' experience that should be First. As others have said, the crew seem very happy with the improvements, and it makes a real difference - they're proud of the product rather than apologetic. Key points:
- Nuts with the welcome drink. I'm usually pretty hungry at this point, and it's nice to have something to nibble on.
- Menu - it's much bigger, and feels more 'special'
- Canapes - a nice touch, although very protein heavy selection that was a bit more than the light bite that I wanted at that stage
- Wine - I started with a Pouilly Fuisse and then wanted to move onto a Chablis with my starter. It hadn't been loaded. Not something I've experienced before, and note that some comments above are about more expensive wines mysteriously not being available. Good temperature, though.
- New wine glasses are lovely. I do wonder how the long stems will do in major turbulence, but fortunately I didn't find out!
- Excellent main of veal and polenta. Proactively offered a choice of vegetables.
- DO&CO lemon desert tasted (and looked) a bit 'straight out of a packet' (which presumably it was ...)
- Washbag - OK: I could do without the flowery appearance - not my sort of thing. (My niece loved it, however!)
- Pyjamas - better fit (I'm small), weird neckline.
- Earphones - I thought they were good, and were comfortable for me. Alex Honnold's Free Solo didn't make for a relaxing flight, however!
- Afternoon tea - too full from dinner, so just had the sandwiches. Very good. New crockery (and tea pot!) is very attractive.
- Bed - seemed to be exactly the same. I've never got on with the mattress thingy - I only have to turn over once, and it's all rumpled beneath me. I prefer to sleep without it for this reason.
I actually liked the DO&CO lemon...! felt it was more modern than what's served on most other flights (though I usually fly CX), I agree the lemon part was probably prepared on ground, but was happy the digestive crumbs below the lemon were fresh and crispy and not soggy.
I also liked the new Meridien headphones a lot. They fit my head well, but I had it on the fully extended position and I probably have a smaller sized head. I'm guessing it won't feel too good on bigger heads.