New Partnership with Virgin Atlantic : London

PHOTO: Virgin Atlantic courtesy of Virgin Atlantic

Despite the slushy D.C. snow, today I am off to London for another great adventure as I research a magazine piece I am working on entitled “The New London.” Many thanks to my airline partner of choice for this trip Virgin Atlantic.

Flying out of Dulles International Airport -- economy parking is $10 for every 24 hour period and you can also take a bus from the Rosslyn Metro straight to the airport -- Virgin Atlantic has a new 787-9 Dreamliner providing direct service for this quick seven hour flight to London Heathrow.

Features of the 787-9 Dreamliner include larger windows, vaulted ceilings, more cabin humidity, quieter engines and improved storage with larger overhead bins for those passengers who blatantly ignore the one carry-on bag per passenger requirement -- your purse, plus your laptop, plus an overhead bag, plus a bag for newspapers, PLUS a bag for food does not equal “one” in any sense.

Additionally, mood lighting has been installed throughout all cabins of the 787 to create a relaxing ambience onboard. The lighting changes color throughout the flight to help passengers relax and unwind, fall asleep and even adjust time zones.

While boarding the aircraft, a soft “rose champagne” color has been chosen to de-stress passengers, encouraging them to relax into their journey. This changes into a “purple haze” which is designed to be cozy and comfortable before transforming into “amber warmth” which creates a candlelight environment for passengers while dining.. Then to help passengers drift into a deep sleep, “silver moonlight” is introduced to reflect a beautiful moon-lit sky.

Since I am flying economy, I don’t envision any sleep in my future; thus, I am particularly looking forward to my on-board entertainment. Movies such as Gone Girl and Fury. Full list here: http://virginatlantic.mymovies.net/. Also binge-ing on Nashville, one of my favorite television shows, and Modern Family: http://www.virgin-atlantic.com/us/en/the-virgin-experience/inflight-entertainment/whats-on-tv.html.

Thankfully I will get to experience the Virgin Lounge at Dulles so I can get my fill of good food and drinks before boarding! Cheers to a successful and safe cross-Atlantic flight!