By Marcia Abramson
I also learned that Continental's Business First was voted Best Transatlantic Business Class among U.S. Airlines in Conde Nast Traveler magazine's Business Travel Awards for the past six years. Their original formula called for a first-class service at an acceptable business class price. The aircraft used are Boeing 777, 767 and 757 planes with extremely comfortable extra-wide electronic sleeper seats featuring a 55-inch/140 cm seat pitch, a deep recline and adjustable winged headrests. The electronic sleeper seats are believed to be one of the widest for Business class in the world. They have 6 1/2 feet of sleeping space in the fully extended position enabling passengers and me to sleep comfortably on my side. There is a 170-degree electronic recline from seat cushion to seat back and more storage sace for personal items. Additionally, the privacy hoods and seat side wings provide privacy from surrounding travelers. The seat cushions contain memory foam that actually conforms to the body and the seat positioning features "One Touch" controls for upright, lounge and fully extended positions. I found the seats just wonderful. Believe me, I found the two seats (window and aisle) ideally spacious. The reclining seat was sufficient for me to turn on my side and drift off to sleep but not before dinner. Gracious flight attendants served drinks just after our on-time departure and prepared for the gourmet dinner to be served. The menu consisted of appetizers, a salad with a choice of dressings and a main course of either a steak, a specially prepared fish, chicken or vegetarian pasta dish. White and Red French wines were suggested and paired with each course. The deserts were very tempting, but I chose the delicious fresh fruit and imported cheese from England and France. I passed up on the ice cream and toppings. All and all, I can only describe the menu and service as excellent or "white glove." The only negative was the plastic cutlery that may be required for security reasons. No question that this is the ideal way to travel and I can understand and appreciate the accolades that Continental has been awarded. I am eagerly awaiting their new non-stop direct route from the New York area to Bristol, England for future British tours.According to Jim Summerford, Continental's vice president, International: "The Bristol flights will create easy, convenient travel options to this vibrant region for U.S. visitors and will also consolidate Continental's status as the leading airline on routes between the United States and the United Kingdom." Continental also announced plans to start daily non-stop flights to Belfast, Northern Ireland on May 26, 2005 as well as daily non-stop flights between New York and Stockholm, Sweden, to be effective June 2, 2005, subject to government approval. Berlin is also on the Carrier's agenda for daily direct non-stop flights, effective on July 1, 2005. My return flight to Newark Liberty International Airport from Gatwick/ London was as pleasant for me as the departing flight was.
Copyright by Marcia AbramsonE-mail: mascribe@aol.com`
