Al Khulafa Al Rashiudin Mosque, Asmara

Advantages: Secure, kosher food
Disadvantages: Long queues for check-in

...I've flown on a number of occasions with EL AL, over a number of years, and have found that the quality of the service is improving. I have little doubt that they are one of the most security aware airlines around and that is one of the key reasons I have chosen to fly with them. I also think that the in-flight service has improved, with staff becoming more polite and better quality, and selection of, food on offer. Pointers from my own experiences with EL AL: * Given the focus on security, if you have anything in your baggage likely to look suspicious, either take it in hand baggage or warn the security staff when you go through the checks. They may ask you to open your bags, but it's likely to be less hassle than if they spot it on the x-ray. * Avoid 'smart' comments to the security staff - I know friends who have really... Read review

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Advantages: Good service
Disadvantages: Overbooking

...El Al have been improving their service in the last few years, and cabi crew attitudes are now excellent in most of their flights (as opposed to the past when it was: "sit down and shut up, I'm busy'). The flights from London tend to be heavilly overbooked (the airline books many more seats than it actually has, because not all passengers show up to flights). Inevitably this means that in some flights passengers are asked if they are willing to wait for the next flight for a reasonable compensation (there are always people willing to do so). Even if almost everybody boards the flight in the end it can be a very stressful experience, waiting till the last minute to know if you have a seat available, even though you paid a full fair ticket. There are several things you can do to prevent this: a. It is a little known fact... Read review

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Advantages: A peaceful desert Oasis (Not the band silly!)
Disadvantages: Very, very, very, very expensive!

...Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa is located approximately 60 minutes drive from Dubai International Airport. Transfers can be organised with your tour operator, but will be in two stages. The first stage is a transfer from the airport down the highway and into the desert and onto the perimeter fence of the resort - this should take no more than 45-50 minutes. Once at the perimeter of the Al Maha estate, you will pass through security and await the arrival of the hotels jeeps, who will then transport you up to the main resort, which will usually take another 15 mins or so. Despite the transfer time, particualrly after a 7 1/2 hour flight from the UK, this was not uncomfortable or irritating like some transfers can be, so I hardly noticed the time. The Resort truly is an Oasis in the desert and is perfect for a romantic break or to kick... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average very helpful