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Brussels Airlines, the renowned boutique Brussels, Belgium-based airline, is Europe’s leading carrier to West Africa in 2017 for those looking for pure luxury and service. Dedicated to operating a substantial African route network, offering 17 destinations in Africa, this airline is committed to flying you to Africa the right way – in comfort and style.
On a recent business class trip from New York to Conakry, Guinea, I departed New York’s JFK airport in the evening – settling into my lie-flat business class seat. I was greeted warmly by the crew and offered a glass of Laurent Perrier champagne. I stowed my carry-on baggage in large overhead compartments and perused the delicious dinner menu. Brussels Airlines is, by far, my favorite European airline, especially because of their expertly curated menus – by “Belgian Star Chefs”. The “star chefs” is an opportunity for some of Belgium’s leading chefs to create menus for business class customers that will take them through a culinary journey of Belgium.
No longer than 30 minutes after takeoff, a welcome of warm nuts with prosciutto was followed by an appetizer of salmon, a starter of pheasant stuffed with foie gras, a main dish of marinated sole, a Belgian cheese course and chocolate mousse for dessert. A beautiful French and international wine selection was on offer – as well as coffee, tea and chocolates after the meal.
As the sun set and as I wrapped-up dessert, I opened my Mandarina Duck amenity kit, which was filled with everything from socks, earplugs, tissues, lip balm and more. I prepared my lie-flat bed and looked through the movie options on the large LCD screen – which was perfectly positioned for my viewing pleasure.
I nodded-off and awoke just before landing, when a light breakfast was served. My connection at Brussels National Airport was easy. And, as a business class passenger, I was able to utilize the gorgeous new “Loft” lounge before connecting to my flight to Conakry.
The flight from Brussels to Conakry, Guinea – which entails a quick hour-long stop in Dakar, Senegal, is easy. It’s about 6 hours and, before you know it, you’ve landed. The service between Brussels and Conakry was perfection, similar to the flight from New York to Brussels. Before deplaning in Conakry, each business class passenger was given a large box of Belgium’s award-winning Neuhaus chocolates – a lovely touch.
Guinea is not on everyone’s travel radar at the moment. It’s tourism is largely made-up of French, German and Belgian explorer-types that like countries that are a bit off the beaten path. But, let me tell you, this is about to change. The political climate has improved greatly and the threat of Ebola, has all but dissipated since an outbreak in 2014. The country is very “West Africa”, authentic, stunningly beautiful and offers travelers a look at a “lesser-developed” Africa. Even the buzzing capital of Conakry has seen scores of new hotel developments catering to international business people and tourists.
People in Conakry are friendly and willing to interact with you, if you take the time to make a connection.
And…the nature is mind-blowing.
Brussels Airlines has had this route for a very long time, even maintaining it through the Ebola crisis when most others abandoned the country. For those headed to Guinea, West Africa and beyond – look no further than Brussels Airlines. I promise you, you will not find a better experience in the sky.
