Virgin America

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I've never been to NYC and have been heckled by everyone for it, but I can definitely say that it's all about timing, and I had just waited for the perfect opportunity to go

A couple of weeks ago, I received an email in my inbox asking if I would be interested in being on the first LAX to JFK Virgin America flight. It was such an amazing offer that I couldn't email yes back fast enough! As more details came to me, I couldn't wait to be a part of this inaugural flight. At this point, I had also heard that there would be a special guest onboard.

I'm not much of a flyer, so I woke up a little anxious but after packing my overnight bag, I was headed out the door. I arrived at LAX Terminal 6 where I was greeted by the friendliest faces and brand spanking new self check-in stands. Everything was perfectly new and fresh and of course, bright red. There was even a red carpet leading up to the check-in stations. That process was quick and simple and before I knew it, I was at my gate! At that gate, there was a ribbon-cutting ceremony along with a champagne toast to celebrate the Virgin America take-off.

As I got onto the new aircraft, it smells of a new car. The eye-catcher though was the mood lighting. It gave less of a DMV or library feel and more of a feel of that of a favorite lounge or bar. Virgin America is the first U.S. airline to have mood lighting. Over the speakers, rather than elevator music, a catchy tune was playing in the background.

As I find and sink into my brand new leather seat, I get adjusted to all of the entertainment options on the screen in front of me. There are over 3000 MP3s on board every flight and I found checking out my music video viewing options when up pops a message saying someone in 13C has invited you to a chat. I quickly join the chat with the name Young Hollywood, of course. While I'm chatting with other passengers, in walks the special guest I had heard about! Sir Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Empire, was a passenger on this flight! Not only was he on my flight, but he was seated directly in front of me. He kindly greets me, and I blurt out, Thanks for this opportunity, it is my first trip to NYC! We both joke about it being my Virgin, Virgin flight. He was clever and humble, and I was impressed at how friendly and kind he was to everyone and the fact that he sat in coach rather than first class impressed me the most!

Quickly, I was greeted by a flight attendant who offered me Virgin America's signature drink which featured champagne, cranberry, and pomegranate. As I become more acquainted with my options which even include ordering fresh food right from my seat, Sir Richard Branson, himself, joins the chat on my screen thanking the passengers for flying Virgin America.

After a smooth takeoff, we are officially on our way to NYC! I sip some champagne and watch Fergie's Glamorous video which features Fergie on a jet sipping on her champagne, and I begin to think this is probably the closest I'll ever be to living her life.

The flight is smooth, completely entertaining, and above all the flight attendants are actually friendly! As I look around I notice how Virgin America took notice to correcting all of the things that other airlines do wrong. For example, the trays don't move when the seat in front of you does and even if you're sitting in the back row, your seat still reclines! During this flight I had the option of 25 pay-per-view Hollywood movies on demand and listening to albums from Justin Timberlake to Billy Joel. There was also the capability of plugging in to 110 v power at every seat. After this flight, I have completely forgotten my fear of flying!

After landing at JFK, I can't believe I'm finally in NYC! I was whisked away to the Tribeca Grand where I got to freshen up then off to a Virgin America party at one of NYC's hotspots, The Box. The party included an open bar featuring all of Virgin America's signature drinks as well as entertainment including fabric artist performances.

Again, we had the good fortune of being in the company of Sir Richard Branson where the food was tasty and beverages were plentiful! After grabbing my Virgin gift bag, I hailed a cab and was off to check out Times Square. After being in Times Square at night, I felt as if I was in the spotlight of The Big Apple.

Now, I know that this city never sleeps, but this L.A. girl needed her beauty sleep. I had a lot to cover during my 24 hour stay in this city! The following morning started with breakfast at Bubby's and a lot of walking. I was fortunate enough to hit all the major landmarks in just a few short hours. After, all the excitement of my Virgin trip to NYC, it was time to head back to L.A.

Now, I knew when I read the slogan on the invitation to take the flight for my right to party that it would undoubtedly be a fun trip, but all of my expectations were surpassed and I'm even starting to like flying again only on Virgin America, of course. Young Hollywood, you've got to check this airline out! For more details on the airline, go to www.virginamerica.com.