It’s been years in the making, and finally I am here, thanks to my QFF Platinum/OneWorld Emerald Status.

As I enter with my partner, we are greeted by a concierge staff member on a cell phone stating welcome to me and a “…This must be your guest”, to my partner.

We enter, re-register at another desk, and take a seat at the dining area. An extensive menu is handed over and we choose a number of dishes between us including: pumpkin soup; quinoa, avocado, and fennel salad; sea bass; moroccan lamb with chickpeas; sauteed green vegetables; salt and pepper squid; and a trifle and chocolate gateau for dessert. All is nicely washed down with glasses of Taittinger and Mumm Rose, and finished with a flat white.

Although the meal and drinks are fabulous, and great service to match, I am devastated that the Spa is fully booked until 4pm. Our flight leaves at 3.30pm. So much for the Men’s pre-flight facial and massages we were so looking forward to……