Planning a trip to Orlando from the UK? If you’re considering a premium travel experience, British Airways Club World from London Gatwick to Orlando offers a taste of luxury. This is a Brit’s experience flying BA Club World in 2018.
Mrs. Modernlifeisgood had always championed premium travel. This time, traveling with a larger group made the decision to opt for British Airways Club World a unanimous one.
The British Airways Club World Experience: London Gatwick to Orlando
Our flight was on a recently refurbished Boeing 777. While the BA refurbishment was controversial due to increasing the number of seats in economy, the Club World cabin saw more subtle improvements, including a modernized entertainment system. While BA pioneered flat-bed seats in business class, some travelers find their cabin layout less private compared to competitors.
Seamless Check-in and Lounge Access
The dedicated Club World check-in at Gatwick made the process incredibly smooth and fast. Even though we had checked in online beforehand, the bag drop queue was minimal.
One potential downside: British Airways charges for seat selection, which can add a significant cost to your ticket.
Before boarding, we relaxed in the new Club World Lounge at Gatwick South, opened in 2017. The lounge offered complimentary food and beverages in a comfortable setting.
Comfort and Entertainment Onboard
The Club World seat was comfortable with plenty of legroom. The seat controls were intuitive, though reaching all storage compartments when the seat was fully reclined proved challenging.
The in-flight entertainment system was user-friendly and offered a wide selection of movies. The provided headphones were noticeably better than those in economy. A quality amenity kit featuring White Company toiletries was a welcome addition.
Food and Drink: Exceeding Expectations
From the welcoming glass of champagne to the complimentary snacks in the Club Kitchen, the food and drink options surpassed expectations.
Two meals were served during the flight. Lunch, served about an hour after takeoff, featured pre-ordered main courses. The mozzarella and tomato salad and fillet steak were excellent. While the steak was well-done and slightly resembled stewing steak in texture, it was still very tasty. Prior to landing, afternoon tea with warm scones was a delightful treat.
The kids’ meals were also a hit, with generous portions of children’s favorites.
Exceptional Service
The staff in Club World were attentive and pleasant, likely due to the higher staff-to-passenger ratio. The highlight for the children was being invited to visit the cockpit after landing in Orlando.
Final Verdict: Is British Airways Club World Worth It for Your Orlando Trip?
Overall, the British Airways Club World experience was impressive. The added comfort and enhanced service are certainly worth considering for a more relaxing flight to Orlando.
While Club World is a definite upgrade, a bargain economy flight would still be an acceptable alternative. However, Mrs. Modernlifeisgood still prefers the premium experience!
