ANOTHER OVERNIGHT FLIGHT

I hadnt properly appreciated the magnificent view from the room on checking in, but I have to admit I spent several minutes just looking out the window before getting started for the day. Ground zero immediately in front (and a long way down), the river and across to Jersey, Statue of Liberty, many tall skyscrapers in the vicinity of Wall Street, the other other river and some bridges. Breaking out of the reverie, a short stop for breakfast at Church & Dey and then out to explore. Did the usual touristy things but had fun despite the near freezing temperature and occassional snow and rain showers.

After a couple of days it was time to head out to JFK on the train. I was seeing someone off on the LH flight so visited the lounge there despite not having checked in. The Senator lounge at JFK is okay but not great - selection of rolls, food and drinks. No computers. Could get crowded but not today. Some newspapers and magazines. Then I wander over to terminal 4 which Singapore uses. Check in still isnt open, but I can use the Virgin Atlantic clubhouse anyway. Wow! I'd say the best feature to be the food and drink - with actual meals cooked to order (from a selection - see below). Some of the bar staff actually wandered around the lounge asking folk for drinks orders, and indeed insisted on the consumption of several glasses of champagne.

So after several hours, with a brief interlude outside the lounge to check in, I had had enough food and more than enough drink to keep me going for a while.

FREEDOM MENU

Here in The Clubhouse, you can order from today's menu at any time. As soon as you're ready we'll take your order from your table - or simply help yourself to our selection from the snack bars. Plus, if you'd like to plan what to eat during your flight, just ask our staff for a copy of today's onboard Freedom menu. And remember, Freedom gives you the flexibility to eat in before your flight or dine out at 35,000 feet.

Daily specials

A selection of daily specials are on offer to complement the set menu, please ask a member of the team or see a copy of our specials card at the bar.

Lighter bites

Soup of the day served with a selection of fresh breads

Jumbo pesto shrimp with arugula and prosciutto

Pear tomato salad with baby greens and crumbled blue cheese served with grilled bread wedges and sherry vinaigrette

Bigger bites

Flying club sandwich - a frequent flyer on the menu. Tortilla wrap with tofu, corn and garlic and herb mayonnaise

Bourbon baby back ribs with three cheese macaroni

Pan seared salmon served with warm quinoa, tomato and asparagus salad and lemon and chive dressing

Naughty but nice

Seasonal fresh fruit creme fraiche

Warm granny smith apple cobbler

Selection of international cheese with accompaniments

Snack bar

Just help yourself!

Wines

A selection of fine wines are available, please ask a member of the team

Cocktails

If its on the bar we'll mix it the way you like it! Just ask!

Hot 'n' herbal

Choose from cappuccino, espresso or one of our herbal or fruit infusions

Better bytes

If you're more interested in bytes than bites, you'll be pleased to know The Clubhouse is now a hot spot with high-speed wireless internet connection. Details and charges will display when you access the hot spot provider. You can easily check your email, surf the web, or book your next flight with Virgin Atlantic from the convenience of your comfy chair.