Just a couple of points about Birmingham...

1) Does your ticket include the chauffeur drive service? Probably worth checking, although Emirates have now started to exclude this from some cheaper fares. You also may be outside of the free zone, but just paying for the extra few miles is probably still cheaper than using a local taxi firm.

2) Emirates check in at BHX is at the far right end of the terminal. They have an agent at the head of the queue and you need to tell him/her you're in business to be let into the correct queue (they check your name against a list IIRC).

3) I *think* I saw a fast track security channel at BHX, but check-in will clarify this (just passed the end of the T1 screening last month when walking from T2 to the train).

4) Wait in the lounge until the agent calls you to the gate - don't go by the monitors (although probably worth checking on arrival in the lounge that the agents do intend to call the flight that day).

5) The lounge at BHX can be a bit of a pain to find, so keep an eye open on the left hand side after you leave the security screening point. Basic point, but you are free to come and go from the executive lounge as you please. Obviously don't leave luggage unattended and I think it's worth making eye contact with the agent when leaving so you don't get hassled for your invite (which you've already handed in) when you return.

6) When you get down to the gate at BHX, they tend to channel the Economy passengers into the seating area and will board special needs/J class passengers first. Make sure the ground staff can see your blue boarding pass as I've found they tend to have a quiet word to get you onboard quickly. Timed it wrong once and they just asked us to 'hang around' near the top end of the gate lounge, so they could push us onboard first.

7) Enjoy it. I think Emirates is a great introduction to Business Class travel. It's still 'fun' IMO, rather than centred wholly around the seat.