If you live or have spent a significant amount of time in London, you’ll no doubt have made your way through the mire of chaos that is particular to Heathrow Airport more than once. As one of the largest and busiest airports in the world, Heathrow sees both local and international travellers on a scale many other cities could only dream of, which is a boon for business, but what about the travellers themselves? A crush of strangers, all equally intent on getting from place to place as quickly as possible. Under conditions like those, the idea of enjoying a European mini break seems like a challenge, but luckily not an insurmountable one! If you want to make the most of a short break from London to somewhere magical on The Continent, we’ve got advice that will go a long way to making the whole experience as practical, luxurious and enjoyable as possible.
1. Book The Right Flights
First class is always an excellent choice, but what if you are looking for an option that offers a little more luxury and, most importantly, a lot more privacy? The right flight isn’t always the best a commercial airline has to offer; it’s another choice entirely: a private jet flight. A private jet charter, even one that departs from a commercial airport, provides the most discerning travellers with an experience of complete comfort and seclusion in the air. Here’s why private flights are the only way to go if you’re keen to avoid the airport crowds.
- A private flight is the most exclusive way to fly, bar none. There are different jet classes, of course, which are various sizes and offer different spaces and on-board amenities, but every private jet flight that has ever taken wing is the top of the travel food chain.
- Many private airlines operate both from commercial and private airports. Operating from a commercial airport means private jet passengers will need to use common entrances. At the same time, check-in desks and boarding gates will be open only to passengers using private airlines. Private airports are, of course, only open to those making use of their services. Either option provides passengers with the shortest, most practical, and seamless airport experience, helping them steer clear of crowds.
- The flight itself is an opulent example of the world’s best travel experiences. As passengers board, they’re welcomed by their very own cabin crew—a small group, usually of about two people on smaller jets, picked by the airline operators from the cream of the crop. They’re on board the flight to tend to all your needs and desires and to walk you through all the amenities available to you. They’ll serve your food and drinks (prepared by a private chef if your jet has enough space for a kitchen), and make sure you’re comfortable in the spacious, plush seating, with blankets and pillows if you need to catch up on some beauty rest. The cabin space is designed for comfort and aesthetic value rather than to hold as many passengers as possible, so expect to enjoy yourself immensely.
- You can set your schedule entirely if you travel by private flight. Since the only passengers on board are you and your party, it’s up to you to set the takeoff time. It’s not as though your private flight can depart without you on board!
- Your luggage will be handled with far more care than it would on a commercial airline. The only luggage on board is yours, the crew’s and the captain’s, so there can be no confusion. While commercial flights may require you to catch a connection, a private jet will refuel rather than ask you to disembark, so no luggage will need to leave the aircraft, which means there is no chance of it getting lost.
2. Avail Yourself of Luxury Facilities
Both private airports and the more prestigious commercial ones have excellent on-site amenities. While public spaces in commercial airports are bustling with crowds, private, members-only lounges and clubs are far calmer. These are the perfect places to enjoy a few drinks before boarding your flight, take a breather after a long drive, or have a pre-flight meal. Many of the more prestigious airports have small spas, boutiques and the like for retail therapy and relaxation before or after a flight, too, almost all of which are far quieter than the overstuffed halls and boarding gates. Choosing the right departure and arrival airports can provide you with nearly as much relaxation and enjoyment as the holiday itself!
3. Plan Ahead
Even if you are planning to fly out of and land at the busiest airports on the planet, planning can make your European mini break far more enjoyable. Consider travelling during the shoulder seasons: Autumn and Spring. These times of year (which depend on where you are going, so take care to research your destination) often see less tourism, which may mean less crowded public spaces. Planning also gives you the pick of any festivals or other events, accommodation, experiences and destinations you would like, as it only makes sense.
Euro Trip, Anyone?
Enjoy your Euro mini-break in peace and calm rather than a crowd of strangers. Choose your airport, your destination and your mode of transportation with care, and you’ll be off to the perfect escape.
