Originally Posted by
burg_rtw
At the Residence as I type this … what a let down from prior experiences. So far:
- There was no one to meet me at check in. Even after asking, I was told to queue on the First Class line. That was perhaps four people long, all of which were actually in Business.
- Escort to the lounge was lovely, with the same lady that I had met in two prior trips before the pandemic (so glad she is still there).
- Lounge was good in the sense that they still prepare the VIP room. However, the rainshower was not working (only the small handheld). And lo and behold, there was no shower gel and shampoo in the dispensers. So I got wet and did not take a proper shower.
- I was the first to board and that still work like a charm. Just walk in.
- On board, things turn south. Carrot juice is clearly spoiled (as in rotten, with a strong nasty smell and awful taste). Entertainment system doesn’t work. They tried resetting three times but I gave up. As soon as you try to run any movies, the remote goes black and there is no sound. But the image is still running, giving you spoilers without a sound. Same situation in the living room and the bedroom.
- Amenities are nice, but no longer exclusive to the Residence. Small perfume similar to first and no more shaving kit, which is a shame (I really liked it!).
I asked to be met at AUH upon landing by someone who can address this complete disaster!
It is a shame, as it used to be such a great experience. The crew is lovely, but unfortunately the whole thing is not worth it anymore.
Let’s see how the lunch service goes. Waiting for caviar and lobster tail!
burg_rtw Did Etihad ever get back to you to make things right?