Today's blog is sponsored by Emirates

Hello business class! Oh, how the other half live!
Today I had the pleasure of a rare jolly from work; a press trip to Auckland in New Zealand, courtesy of Emirates. I was picked up in a chauffeur-driven car at 6.30am (not so good) and taken to the airport, where I passed quickly through check-in, what with being business class 'n all. Then a comfortable flight to Auckland, French champagne (hideously expensive in Oz), yummy brunch, excellent cabin crew and a good film. At the other end we were taken to the Villa Maria winery for some fabulous food courtesy of the chef at Auckland's top restaurant and matching (and even better than the food) wines. Delightful! That was topped off by getting to see my friend Jo, former colleague from Newham who now works for Tourism Auckland. Small world.
Then it was back to the airport for a tour of a new A380 before anyone else got on it, which was interesting in itself, having the run of a big empty plane! Then back to the lovely Emirates lounge for more food and general swanking around before boarding the plane again. The problem is, ungrateful as this sounds, once you've seen first class (particularly Emirates' new A380 first class which has showers and everything!), business class doesn't quite cut it! But of course, it does really!
Back at Sydney Airport, my chauffeur was waiting to whisk me home, a very tired, but very happy girl who enjoyed seeing how the other half live. Note to self: must work on finding rich husband!