Luxury Airlines: Virgin Atlantic has been a leader in its class since founded in 1984. As Britain's second largest carrier to serve major cities worldwide, the London-based airline knows a thing or two about first-class service.

Long before you even step foot on the tarmac, Virgin Atlantic takes you from here to there in style by offering complimentary chauffer-driven cars. Take it one step further and arrive at Heathrow via limousine and avoid the lines as you are escorted through the hotel-style lobby and breeze through the Private Security Channel.

Virgin Atlantic believes that your time could be better spent unwinding at the Heathrow Clubhouse, a $10 million flagship lounge, which was recently voted the world's best business lounge. The 8,000-square-foot Clubhouse offers travelers a relaxing arena complete with complimentary meals, cocktails, wireless Internet access and even grooming services provided by Bumble & bumble.

The first-class experience continues onboard as you settle into your own private Upper Class Suite. Offering some of the largest business class seats and beds in the sky, the Upper Class Suite provides adequate space to take care of any last-minute business or catch up on some well-deserved sleep. Each suite is self-contained to ensure complete privacy and offers direct access to the aisle.

Unlike other airlines, Virgin Atlantic offers travelers two unique features, including the option to recline during takeoff and landing as well as the Snooze Zone, which allows undisturbed sleep during meal service. When not taking advantage of the on-flight turndown service, travelers can enjoy four-course gourmet meals from the Freedom Menu as well as an award-winning wine selection. Additional entertainment options include a 10.4" adjustable widescreen TV with more than 30 first-run movies available on demand.



Committed to reducing its carbon footprint, Virgin Atlantic leads the way by working to reduce its carbon emissions, providing lighter aircraft alternatives, implementing an onboard recycling program, and improving the availability and reliability of fixed ground power. These ongoing efforts have recently earned Virgin Atlantic an award for being the "Most Eco-Friendly Green Airline."

With one "green" award already under its belt, and another for "Best Business Class on a Trans-Atlantic Route," Virgin Atlantic is the clear choice if you're looking for first-class service at a business class rate.

For JustLuxe Christina Stewart