What a year this has been – especially for the travel industry. After exactly one year I have boarded my first longhaul flight (well, 6.40h used to be just a normal flight for me, pre covid. But today I definitely call it a long-haul flight) from Zurich to Dubai to visit Art Dubai and enjoy a bit of freedom and a well-deserved vacation.

 

Dubai is and has been for many years one of my favorite winter destinations, which I visit at least once a year. For many reasons: because actually it’s not that far away from any city in Europe. It’s one of the most organized, safest and cleanest destinations you could fly to – especially in times like these.

Due to the strict testing rules and a large population being vaccinated, there is also no lockdown anymore – a sense of freedom and new normality is in the air – and you can truly enjoy your holiday, your business trip and eating out in restaurants!

Knowing of the very high standards of Emirates Airlines – today and always – I had not doubts that this flight to Dubai will be as smooth and comfortable as always. And it was! Besides having to wear a mask for the times I did not eat or drink in my business class seat, the level of comfort and the luxurious flight experience was as great as always.

 

Of course this level of luxury in times of a global pandemic, is only possible because there were a lot of safety and hygiene measures going on in the background. From my Emirates limousine pick-up (the driver even sanitized the handle of the door and of my suitcase after he touched it) to the super safe check-in and the fully double-masked flight attendants wearing sanitized uniforms to keep passengers as safe as possible.

The inflight entertainment was extraordinary as usual, containing the delicious 4 course dining menu with several fine wine & champagne options, my favorite mocktails and sweet snacks in between – as well as some really cool movies that I watched and in between writing another chapter of my book (soon to be published). I skipped the wiFi-option on board, to have 6.40h of peace and time for myself – that’s what I love about flying too.

I cannot wait to fly again with Emirates this year – to visit the upcoming EXPO 2020 in Dubai.