## Farewell, Landlubbers! Our Journey to Paris Aboard Avianca Business Class Begins!
We’ve all dreamt of soaring above the clouds, leaving the mundane behind and embarking on an adventure. But what if that adventure began the moment you stepped onto the plane?
Gamestanza is trading in controllers for boarding passes as we take flight with Avianca Business Class on their Boeing 787 Dreamliner, navigating the skies from Bogota to the City of Lights, Paris!
Bedding and Amenity Kit: The Good, the Bad, and the Missing Toothpaste
Avianca gets some brownie points for the quality of its bedding. It’s a standout feature, with a thick pillow, a plush duvet, and a mattress pad that transforms the seat into a reasonably comfortable sleeping surface. While it might not reach the lofty heights of some top-tier airlines, it’s definitely in the upper echelon. However, the amenity kit, while decent, had one glaring omission – toothpaste. A toothbrush was provided, but no accompanying toothpaste. This is an unusual oversight, especially considering the standard inclusion of toothpaste in most airline amenity kits.
Entertainment and Connectivity: Limited Options on the 787
Avianca’s 787 business class seats come equipped with seatback entertainment screens, which offer a selection of movies, TV shows, and music. While the selection isn’t extensive, it’s adequate for a short to medium-haul flight. However, for a lengthy transatlantic journey like the one I took, it felt somewhat limited. Adding to the frustration, Wi-Fi access is not currently available on Avianca’s 787 fleet. While the airline has plans to implement Wi-Fi in the future, it seems that progress has been slow. This lack of connectivity can be a major drawback for business travelers who rely on internet access for work or leisure.
Meal Service: A Step Back From Expectations
Perhaps the most disappointing aspect of the Avianca business class experience was the meal service. Given the length of the flight and the airline’s positioning, I had anticipated a more refined and satisfying culinary experience. Unfortunately, the food fell short of expectations. It was basic, uninspired, and lacked the finesse one would expect from a premium cabin. The presentation was also unappealing, lacking the attention to detail that elevates the dining experience.
Is Avianca Worth It? A Gamer’s Perspective
So, is Avianca worth it for the discerning gamer traveler? It depends. If you’re looking for a luxurious and pampering experience, Avianca’s business class might not be the best choice. However, if you’re on a budget and prioritize value for money, Avianca could be a viable option.
Value for Time and Miles
Avianca’s business class fares are generally competitive, and the airline offers a generous mileage program that can be used to redeem for flights and other rewards. This can make Avianca a good choice for gamers who want to maximize their travel points and save money.
Avianca vs. LATAM: A South American Business Class Showdown
Comparing Avianca to its regional rival, LATAM, shows a clear disparity in the experience. LATAM consistently delivers a more polished and refined business class product, with better food, service, and amenities. While Avianca might offer competitive pricing, LATAM’s superior service and overall quality make it a more compelling choice for discerning gamers who prioritize quality over cost.
The Overall Experience: A Forgettable Flight for a Forgettable Price
In summary, my experience on Avianca’s 787 business class was underwhelming. While the pricing was attractive, the shortcomings in the soft product, particularly the lackluster meal service and limited entertainment options, detracted significantly from the overall experience. The airline’s bland cabin design and the omission of toothpaste in the amenity kit added to the feeling of indifference. Avianca is a perfectly acceptable choice if you’re on a tight budget and need to fly on a specific route, but it’s not an airline that will leave a lasting impression.
Conclusion
So, did Avianca’s Business Class on the Boeing 787 from Bogota to Paris live up to the hype? The answer, in a word, is a resounding “almost.” While the seats offered a decent amount of comfort and privacy, the lackluster meal service and inconsistent entertainment system left us wanting more. The onboard Wi-Fi, while functional, felt more like a trickle than a flood, proving a frustrating experience for those hoping to stay connected during their journey.
However, Avianca’s commitment to a modern fleet and the generally positive service from the crew shouldn’t be overlooked. This flight serves as a microcosm of the evolving landscape of long-haul travel, where budget constraints often clash with passenger expectations. As airlines strive to offer competitive fares, the experience in premium cabins can sometimes feel like a compromise. But, it also raises the question: are passengers willing to sacrifice certain amenities for a more affordable price? This tension between value and experience will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of air travel, forcing airlines to find innovative ways to balance their bottom line with passenger satisfaction. The journey to the perfect long-haul flight may be ongoing, but Avianca’s Business Class on the Boeing 787 is a step in the right direction, albeit a hesitant one.
Now, the real question: will you take the leap and experience it for yourself?
