View Full Version : Premium Upgrade Help with Virgin
Hi all,
Been off the forums far too long due to work and planning our wedding day in Orlando!! Good to be back and starting to get excited about our trip in April [msnsmile]
We're thinking of upgrading to premium economy with Virgin (via Virgin Holidays) and at the moment they want another £1500 on top of the existing booking for 2 adults and 1 child. We really want to go for it but it is a bit steep! Are there any advantages to waiting nearer the time ie... do they bring down the price to fill the seats? Is there an option to pay at the VH desk at Gatwick when we arrive to check in?
The reason we went via VH over Virgin Atlantic is because the flights were cheaper.
Anyone know of any tips we could throw at them to get it any cheaper at all??
The reason we want to go Premium is because Pippa (my partner) is not good with crowds in small places. We have informed VH of this and they said that they have put in a request for us to be in the front two rows of Economy but not a gaurentee.
Any help appreciated guys.
Clayton
Not sure if this will help, as, at the end of the day, only you can make the final decision. Also, not sure of your routing as that might have some small effect on availability. I always fly out of Gatwick, so can only comment on my experience.
I know an extra £1,500 is a lot of money, but, to be honest with you, if I knew I definitely wanted PE seats I would pay for them now - especially as you have mentioned Pippa's issue with crowds. Even if you are travelling at a supposed 'quieter time', it has been my experience, that the PE seats to Orlando are very popular (especially those located upstairs) and pretty much always full. I have been on a number of flights which have been half empty, but the empty seats have always been in Economy - I have rarely seen any empty seats in PE. I think you are pretty unlikely to be able to pay for a cheaper upgrade at check-in and even less likely to get a freebie upgrade, as all the seats will have already been sold or allocated, even less likely as you will be looking for 3 seats. Only you can make the decision - two flights in slightly better comfort (bit more space, leg rest, faster food service, etc, etc) or an additional £1,500 to splurge on a shopping spree in Orlando!
CLAIRE
Katys Grandad
31-01-2008, 21:04
I'm sorry to hear about your partner's problems but I think you might want to get some more information about flying in the PE cabin first. In some ways she might find it even more challenging because the upstairs cabin is actually quite a small area. While it is true that there's more leg room it isn't really that much more that it creates a significant feeling of extra space.
At the price you're being asked to pay, you might not feel it's worth it.
floridageoff
31-01-2008, 21:19
Whilst I agree that upstairs is a smaller area, we felt much less claustrophobic when travelling in PE. The aisle is twice as wide as economy and the ceiling seems a lot higher. It is also a lot quieter! We were able to upgrade from economy to PE in one of Virgin’s sale at £200 each for the outward journey and £150 for inbound. This was probably about 3 months before our date of travel.
Our daughter upgraded on the outbound journey from Manchester at check-in for £250. She was travelling on her own and luckily there was a seat available. I’m not sure I would risk leaving it until check-in with three passengers though.
Why not wait until the day, and mention you are going over to get married ;) What date do you fly- if it is in school hols you will have no chance of free upgrade -but I think thats price is steep that you have been quoted. Wait until nearer the time, or pay and upgrade on the day if necessary.
jillizzy
31-01-2008, 22:11
I think you also need to bear in mind that because there is 3 of you travelling, if you book PE and want to sit upstairs, one adult would be sat either across the aisle or behind. The seat configuration is 2-2 upstairs.
Your other option is to sit downstairs in a row of 3 but personally I don't think they are a big advantage over the small economy section which they have made a note of for you.
Personally, I would be checking in on line at the earliest opportunity to try and select row 22 or 23 (some flights also have row 24), you may even be lucky and they may even allocated you the bulkhead (row 21)if the flight isn't full. If you are flying from Manchester get there 4 hours before too, if it's Gatwick try and do twilight check in too.
If you are not satisfied with the seats offered at OLCI, get to the airport as early as possible and tell them that there are notes on your booking and they may need to release those seats for you.
Jill
Hi guys,
UPDATE - Well.... as a treat to Pippa (as she was panicking!!) I decided to book them today . I spoke to the helpful lady at VH and tried to get them cheaper. She managed to get £170 off which brought the total to just over £1300. Told Pippa tonight and I have one very happy bunny!![msnsmile][msnsmile]
Glad we booked today as we managed to get the link code to VA site to prebook our seats and there is only a handful left (luckily in the places we wanted!!).
Thanks for all the help and I [bad language filtered out] well hope its worth the money!!![msnwink]
Now off to the site to see what I've got for my extra £1300!!
Can anyone tell me if the Gatwick fleet have the new PE seats. I see on Virgin site that they are rolling these out from Jan 2008. In actual fact.... what are the new seats???
jillizzy
01-02-2008, 05:23
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Pudders
Hi Again,
Can anyone tell me if the Gatwick fleet have the new PE seats. I see on Virgin site that they are rolling these out from Jan 2008. In actual fact.... what are the new seats???
Cheers again - Clayton
[/quote]
None of the Gatwick fleet have the new seats and although it is planned for 2008 there are no definite dates released. You can see the new seats on the VA website.
Jill
Pudders, I have to say that I think that the PE upgrade is well worth it. There has been a lot of debate pro's and con's, but even from the peace of mind benefit, I think if you can stretch to it it's worth it.
I also agree that upstairs feels roomier, principally due to the wider aisle. Plus you have your own toilets and the cabin crew upstairs are slightly more dedicated to just upstairs. We came back downstairs on the last trip, and we still didn't regret the investment.
There are two different camps in this argument - those for whom the journey is a means to and end and the cheaper the better and those for whom the journey is integral to the overall holiday experience, and value added facilities are definitely a plus. The merits between the two are too well worn to go over again, suffice to say I don't think you will regret your choice (except when you want to book again, as you will have spoiled yourself!).
Katys Grandad
01-02-2008, 08:05
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by MTP
There are two different camps in this argument - those for whom the journey is a means to and end and the cheaper the better and those for whom the journey is integral to the overall holiday experience, and value added facilities are definitely a plus. The merits between the two are too well worn to go over again, suffice to say I don't think you will regret your choice (except when you want to book again, as you will have spoiled yourself!).
[/quote]
Actually there's also a 3rd camp - those for whom the journey is an integral part of the overall experience and value added comfort and facilities but feel that these enhanced economy products don't provide either to the extent that they are worth the big difference in price.
Neatfeat
01-02-2008, 12:25
Just to add to this make sure you've signed up for the Virgin Flying Club, the miles that you will gain from this booking will more or less pay for an upgrade in the future.
I'm glad you resolved your dilemma, enjoy your comfortable flight and have a lovely wedding!
Anita
not sure if you are upstairs but here are some photos that i've posted before to give you a idea of what to expect
http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/mizzy/200821131944_upstairsa.jpg
http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/mizzy/200821132332_upstairsb.jpg
Cruella DeVilla
01-02-2008, 19:51
I'm claustrophobic, hate lifts, larger crowds and anyone too much in my space but have no probs with upstairs in PE.
The PE upstairs is much better than downstairs. Hopefully they will have the new seats by the time you fly. They are 100% better than the old ones.
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Katys Grandad
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by MTP
There are two different camps in this argument - those for whom the journey is a means to and end and the cheaper the better and those for whom the journey is integral to the overall holiday experience, and value added facilities are definitely a plus. The merits between the two are too well worn to go over again, suffice to say I don't think you will regret your choice (except when you want to book again, as you will have spoiled yourself!).
[/quote]
Actually there's also a 3rd camp - those for whom the journey is an integral part of the overall experience and value added comfort and facilities but feel that these enhanced economy products don't provide either to the extent that they are worth the big difference in price.
[/quote]
Is that really a third camp, or just a foot in each of the first two? My example was of course to polarised extremes of a spectrum, and there will be those that position themselves along the whole course of the spectrum.
Just seeing those photos of upstairs, for me, re-affirms the desire to travel with that space and sense of space. But this is the camp that I like to be in.
Katys Grandad
03-02-2008, 09:08
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by MTP
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Katys Grandad
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by MTP
There are two different camps in this argument - those for whom the journey is a means to and end and the cheaper the better and those for whom the journey is integral to the overall holiday experience, and value added facilities are definitely a plus. The merits between the two are too well worn to go over again, suffice to say I don't think you will regret your choice (except when you want to book again, as you will have spoiled yourself!).
[/quote]
Actually there's also a 3rd camp - those for whom the journey is an integral part of the overall experience and value added comfort and facilities but feel that these enhanced economy products don't provide either to the extent that they are worth the big difference in price.
[/quote]
Is that really a third camp, or just a foot in each of the first two? My example was of course to polarised extremes of a spectrum, and there will be those that position themselves along the whole course of the spectrum.
Just seeing those photos of upstairs, for me, re-affirms the desire to travel with that space and sense of space. But this is the camp that I like to be in.
[/quote]
I take your point but my dislike of these products is the strategy of the airlines who make longhaul economy travel such an unpleasant experience that they can sell 'Premium Economy' and 'World Traveller Plus' as some sort of luxury experience when, in my view, they're just a decent seat and an acceptable way to travel for 7+ hours. The price difference for 6" extra legroom doesn't justify it for me.
My original point to Pudders was that he might want to make sure it will give him what he feels his partner needs before parting with that amount of money. I sincerely hope it does but to go ahead because other people prefer it for themselves doesn't seem to be an objective basis for his decison. (I see he has booked it and is now looking at what he has spent his money on so the point's probably moot anyway).
BTW - If crowds in small places can be challenging, purchasing an executive lounge pass might be a more worthwhile investment.
FraserLynn
03-02-2008, 13:26
For me the benefits of traveling PE are not just about the inflight experience (although this is worth the money on it own), it is also about all of the other benefits:
Priority check in and boarding, priority exit (gets you at the front of the immigration queue), priority Luggage (gets you at the front of the customs and car hire queue), separate check in at down town disney, straight to the front of the queue
I think it is worth every single penny and is really a core part of the holiday.[msnsmile2].
IMHO, if you can afford it do it, if you can't then don't let it stop you going to florida anyway, after all this is the point of the flight
Katys Grandad
03-02-2008, 13:55
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by FraserLynn
For me the benefits of traveling PE are not just about the inflight experience (although this is worth the money on it own), it is also about all of the other benefits:
Priority check in and boarding, priority exit (gets you at the front of the immigration queue), priority Luggage (gets you at the front of the customs and car hire queue), separate check in at down town disney, straight to the front of the queue
I think it is worth every single penny and is really a core part of the holiday.[msnsmile2].
IMHO, if you can afford it do it, if you can't then don't let it stop you going to florida anyway, after all this is the point of the flight
[/quote]
Of course it's a matter for individual choice but if the economy product was up to scratch there wouldn't be a need for a lot of these high priced 'extras'. For example, the reason it takes such a long time to check in and board is because the airlines' know that most passengers will put up with the wait and they could solve it by allocating more resources. A few more check-in staff and facilities at DTD would eliminate the need for a seperate line.
If people think it's worth the extra then good luck to them - I just can't agree!
FraserLynn
03-02-2008, 14:58
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Katys Grandad
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by FraserLynn
For me the benefits of traveling PE are not just about the inflight experience (although this is worth the money on it own), it is also about all of the other benefits:
Priority check in and boarding, priority exit (gets you at the front of the immigration queue), priority Luggage (gets you at the front of the customs and car hire queue), separate check in at down town disney, straight to the front of the queue
I think it is worth every single penny and is really a core part of the holiday.[msnsmile2].
IMHO, if you can afford it do it, if you can't then don't let it stop you going to florida anyway, after all this is the point of the flight
[/quote]
Of course it's a matter for individual choice but if the economy product was up to scratch there wouldn't be a need for a lot of these high priced 'extras'. For example, the reason it takes such a long time to check in and board is because the airlines' know that most passengers will put up with the wait and they could solve it by allocating more resources. A few more check-in staff and facilities at DTD would eliminate the need for a seperate line.
If people think it's worth the extra then good luck to them - I just can't agree!
[/quote]
Whilst I agree with you about the differences in the product I suspect you can't split the two. I am sure the airlines carefully balance the service they can provide at a cost people are willing to pay, in other words as there is such a demand for cheap flights the airlines have only one choice, meet this by reducing costs and as safety and mechanical upkeep are non negotiable the only choice is reduce service.
So if they were to provide the level of service you want on the economy product they would have to support this with a PE cost, something which would be equally unpalatable and so they go for the only sensible option, three levels of service and three separate prices This way everyone can make their own choice about what is most important to them price or service(s)
That said, the thing that always annoys me is bad management, i.e. when you see loads of desks open when no one wants them and then they all go on a break when people want to check in. [msnmad] It is in this area that the airlines could really differentiate themselves.
Katys Grandad
03-02-2008, 15:34
I completely agree - the airlines are fully aware of what people will pay and target fares on that basis. As you say, at least the present set-up allows people to make a choice between low level service at low cost and something better at a premium.
I wonder if Tesco have thought about a premium check-out where people could pay extra to avoid a queue?
Ermmmm...Now I might just have something there.[msnwink]
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Katys Grandad Posted - 03 Feb 2008 : 11:34:58
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I completely agree - the airlines are fully aware of what people will pay and target fares on that basis. As you say, at least the present set-up allows people to make a choice between low level service at low cost and something better at a premium.
I wonder if Tesco have thought about a premium check-out where people could pay extra to avoid a queue?
Ermmmm...Now I might just have something there. [/quote]
You could apply it to all sorts of things; I would pay extra for a gold oystercard for use on the northern line on Monday mornings, which would whisk me past the queues onto a carriage with more space.
Fantastic idea - starbucks at lunchtimes, pay double to get your coffee made before everyone else!
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by FraserLynn
For me the benefits of traveling PE are not just about the inflight experience (although this is worth the money on it own), it is also about all of the other benefits:
Priority check in and boarding, priority exit (gets you at the front of the immigration queue), priority Luggage (gets you at the front of the customs and car hire queue), separate check in at down town disney, straight to the front of the queue
I think it is worth every single penny and is really a core part of the holiday.[msnsmile2].
IMHO, if you can afford it do it, if you can't then don't let it stop you going to florida anyway, after all this is the point of the flight
[/quote]
I agree 100%[high5]
erowlands
04-02-2008, 01:28
We just got back yesterday after two lovely weeks at the villa, when we were at Manchester checking in we asked abour PE upgrade, as there was plenty of room they offered us £219 each, we took it but as Ann does not like the upstairs cabin we asked for the downstairs section, they were not too keen but relented saying we would be on our own in the cabin.
When we boarded the cabin service manager asked us if we would like to go upstairs, again it was no thanks, so then it was would you like to come with me as we have two seats here in upper class would you like them? What can I say? it was a great start to our holiday.
Eric
KarenScott
04-02-2008, 01:58
Eric
How lucky for you and Ann:D What a fab start to your holiday! We can all dream one day[msnembarrased]