I am guilty of being an airline snob!
Alright, folks, gather 'round because I've got a confession to make. I used to be quite the airline snob. Yep, I shamelessly skipped over those "lesser-known" carriers and stuck to the big guns like Qantas, Emirates, Qatar, Etihad, and Singapore Airlines. Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa would occasionally make it onto my radar if they had a sweet deal going on. But you know what? I missed out on some incredible deals, and I'm here to spill the beans on my newfound wisdom.
So, picture this: a recent trip to Sri Lanka, and guess what airline I hopped on? Sri Lankan Airlines, baby! And let me tell you, I was floored. Now, don't get me wrong; I'm not saying Sri Lankan Airlines' business class is on par with Emirates on the A380. But if you find yourself in a dilemma between Emirates Premium Economy and Sri Lankan Business class, it's a total no-brainer for me!
Let's talk pros. First off, we're talking about lie-flat cocoon-style beds. Yep, you read that right. Picture yourself nestled in comfort while cruising above the clouds. The staff? Oh boy, they're a delight, super attentive, and ready to pamper you like royalty. And don't even get me started on the meals; they're nothing short of delicious.
Now, let's balance things out with a few cons. The Business class lounge? Well, it's basically the Marhaba lounge, so don't expect a swanky private club vibe. The blankets? Yep, they're a tad on the thin side, reminding you of your days in economy class. And as for the TV entertainment, it's not exactly Netflix-level variety.
Here's the kicker: the flight times are pretty darn convenient. You're looking at about 10 hours to Sri Lanka and 11 hours to London, which is a sweet spot – not too short, not too long. No more enduring those dreaded 14-hour slogs!
Now, let's talk money. Business class to London usually sets you back around a hefty $7500 with all the taxes included. But here's where it gets interesting. While other airlines are out there peddling tickets at $10-15K, Sri Lankan Airlines is quietly offering you a steal.
And hey, even if you're rolling in economy class, Sri Lanka has some goodies up its sleeve. They've got neighbor-free seats, extra legroom options, and you can even try your luck with an upgrade bid.
Oh, and before I forget, let me drop another gem on you – Bamboo Airlines to Vietnam. Business class round trip? A mere $3500! That's bang for your buck right there, folks.
So, here's the bottom line. This former princess (yeah, I'll admit it) is now all about exploring my options when it comes to flying. When you've got a business class taste but an economy budget, these hidden gems like Sri Lankan Airlines and Bamboo Airlines are your ticket to luxury without breaking the bank. Bon voyage, my fellow budget-conscious globetrotters!