Originally Posted by MaxFlyer
In a few days I'll be travelling to Abu Dhabi via Muscat with Gulf Air.
I've never flown with GF (normally fly BA) and as I'll be flying in First I was hoping that someone could advise on how to make the most of the whole experience (check-in, lounges, airport, plane, food, amenity kits etc). I don’t have a fully flexible ticket so I understand that I'm not eligible for the chauffeur service.
I've searched FT, GF's website and the Internet in general and I have the basic information but I would be extremely grateful for some inside knowledge from those of you who travel GF regularly.
I know that the LHR-MCT sectors, both outbound and return will be on A330s so I should expect the new SkyBeds.
On the LHR-MCT leg I have about 4 hours to kill in MCT before my connection to AUH on a A320 (business class - not sure what to expect if anything on this short sector).
On the return flight I have a 90 minutes connection from the AUH-MCT flight landing and the MCT-LHR flight departing. I hope the AUH-MCT flight isn't delayed!
I've heard great things about the GF lounge in Bahrain but sadly I couldn't find a routing through BAH that suited my timings.
Also, is my understanding correct that as a UK citizen I do not need to purchase a visa, as my passport will be stamped with a free visa on arrival.
On a side note, I plan to go to Dubai from Abu Dhabi by car to see my brother. I understand that this journey by car should take about an hour? Would you recommend I take a taxi or is there a shuttle-bus service? Also, any ideas on cost.
Thanks to all in advance
I recently flew in F (A class ticket) on GF on a 'mistake' fare (originating in DEL) and I received Chaufer transfer in LHR x 2 and in MCT x 1 - must be booked in advance though.
The GF lounge at LHR is good with waiter service for both food and drinks - IIRC Mezze is very nice in the lounge. Sky Beds are excellent on the A330s and some A340s now have even newer beds. (not sure if they are doing the LHR - MCT/BAH route yet). The amenity kit consists of socks and eye mask (nothing special even for F class passengers) - you can ask for a sleep suite to change into. A lovely caramel and brown colour and quite tight fitting.
The lounge at MCT is disappointing - very dimly lit anfdthe food is bland. BAH lounge is excellent - shame you can't route through there.
Hope this helps