From Clubhouses to the Caribbean: Relax and Unwind with Virgin Atlantic
If you’re thinking of jetting off to the Caribbean, then there’s one place you need to begin your journey in style - Virgin Atlantic’s Gatwick Clubhouse.
Complete with gourmet cuisine, sumptuous cocktails and VIP service, Virgin Atlantic’s Clubhouses have a laid-back atmosphere that can only be described as like that of a private members club. If you’re travelling as an Upper Class passenger or Flying Club Gold member, then these are the places to be before your flight.
No matter what time you arrive or whatever you needs may be, take a seat at the bar and watch the Clubhouses’ mixologists create your signature cocktail, dine on a delicious selection of cuisine, beginning with a waiter-serviced complimentary meal or explore the indulgent Clubhouse spas, each with their own luxurious treatments - from haircuts to manicures - to kick start your Caribbean holiday.
Where will you begin your journey?
London Gatwick Clubhouse
Enter Gatwick’s Clubhouse for a sense of luxurious relaxation and friendly service, beginning with the welcoming reception and helpful concierge area. All you need do is ditch you belongings and discover what makes this space a firm favourite with Virgin Atlantic passengers.
While away the hours in ultimate luxury whether you want to work or play – check up on those important e-mails with unlimited Wi-Fi, ease yourself into your holiday with a freshly-cooked breakfast and a newspaper or let the kids blow off some steam before your flight with the latest consoles.
The Snug
If you’re travelling as a large work party and you need a little privacy to nail that presentation or pitch then opt for Gatwick Clubhouse’s The Snug. Enjoy complimentary refreshments, flexible screens and a whole lot of extra space before starting your journey.
Entertainment Lounge
If you’re a keen gamer or you need somewhere to entertain your kids, then the Entertainment Lounge is just what you need. Enjoy a session on the Nintendo Wii, play a few rounds of Guitar Hero or make the most of the Wi-Fi and catch a few Pokémon – the choice is yours!
London Heathrow Clubhouse
If flying to North America with Virgin Atlantic, we welcome you to a serene escape away from the hustle and bustle of the Duty Free concessions and rows of suitcase-laden seating. At the UK’s busiest airport, you’ll want to kick back and relax before your flight, with a range of facilities to keep you amused.
At Virgin Atlantic’s Heathrow Clubhouse, you’re only a short walk away from your gate, meaning you can maximize your time without the fear of missing your flight – there’s even an in-house Concierge who’ll let you know when to board.
Clubhouse Highlights
The Den
If you’re a fan of the latest consoles or films, then you’ll love the Den. Take some time out to play as many games as you like – both new and retro - or catch up on the latest TV, films and news on the Clubhouse’s state of the art multiscreen showings. Failing that, opt for a round of pool with an ice-cold pint and the Clubhouse’s Speciality Burger to get you in the holiday mood.
The Lodge and Viewing Deck
With an après-ski vibe, visit The Lodge for a little comfort, peace and quiet before your flight, offering a specially designed Viewing Deck of the rising or setting sun. If you’d like a little nap before you jet off, then this is the place for you.
The Loft
If you’re looking for indulgence all the way on your next trip, then you may want to consider visiting the Clubhouse’s Loft. Climb a white marble stairway through the ‘clouds’ to watch each plane taking off through full-width windows underneath a specially designed skylight. Match this with a complimentary Champagne cocktail, prepared just for you, from the lively 14 metre long cocktail bar.
So, where in the Caribbean will you jet off to?
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Worldwide 2020/21
Barbados
From the moment you step off your aeroplane, you’ll be coaxed into a slower way of life that’ll leave you grinning from ear to ear, with a spicy Rum cocktail to top it all off. From this island’s UNESCO-listed capital of Bridgetown, with its charming naval influences to its lavish ‘Platinum Coast’ with world-renowned resorts and premium cuisine – there’s truly something for everyone in Barbados. Whether you want to head to lively St Lawrence Gap where you’ll hear calypso music around every corner, take advantage of the South Coast’s exhilarating water sports or grab a board and revel in the East Coast’s surfing mecca – it’s easy to see why so many travellers return to Barbados year after year. If you’re craving a little adventure once you’ve done all that, then we recommend hiring a Mini Moke, taking in a number of fantastic photo opportunities everywhere you look.
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Antigua
A tropical home from home, on this relaxed Caribbean island you’ll find the quaint Nelson’s Dockyard National Park, locals playing cricket on the beach and colonial-style hotel’s offering only the finest Afternoon Tea. Visit the capital of St John’s for its bustling farmer’s market and Baroque buildings as you watch the yachts in the harbour, especially if it’s Antigua Sailing Week in April, or if you have a head for heights, venture to Shirley Heights for incredible views of the island. But if you’d rather relax, take in the sea breeze and work on your tan, then you’ll be glad to read that this island alone has 365 beaches, each ideal for snorkelling and diving as a couple on their honeymoon or as an active family looking for exploration – we’d highly recommend the white sands and glistening waters of Dickenson Bay.
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St Lucia
With a natural landscape that’s filled to the brim with beauty, you’ll find that there’s plenty to see and do on this Caribbean island. Whether you’d rather sink your toes into golden shores, trek through verdant rainforests or try your hand at a chocolate workshop, you’ll never be at a loss for how to make the most of your time. Climb Morne Fortune for views over the capital city of Castries before heading down to sample its exotic produce in the Central Market or hike the well-known Pitons for views over vibrant Soufriere. Enjoy parasailing, diving and snorkelling off the coast of beautiful Reduit Beach before dancing the night away in Gros Islet’s bars, nightclubs and street parties, held every Friday night. If you’re a real adrenaline junkie, then we’d suggest the island’s zip line challenge through the rainforest canopies or a 4WD buggy tour along this island’s rugged coastline and rolling hills.
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Cancun
Whether you’re a keen history buff, an experienced diver or always up for a party, you’ll love the Mexican beachfront haven of Cancun. On Zona Hotelera, you’ll find the infamous strip of clubs, bars and live music venues – perfect for enjoying the sunshine, partying by day or night and enjoying an array of colourful cocktails – do be aware that it can become quite busy from mid-March to early April. If you’d rather opt for an underwater world, then you’ll love exploring the magnificent reefs, vibrant coral gardens, freshwater caverns, as well as the copious shipwrecks and underwater sculpture museums to discover. We recommend heading to the waters between Cancun and Isla Mujeres and the nearby island of Cozumel for the best dive spots. But if you’d rather stay on dry land, you can always soak up the Mayan culture in the local area with a day trip to the mysterious Chichen Itza or nearby Tulum ruins.
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Havana
With streets lined with 1950s American-style cars, crumbling pastel buildings that each tell a story and local bars selling only the finest and freshest Mojito, Havana is Cuba at its finest. Upon arrival, you’ll want to wander the colonial heart of the city in Old Havana to feel the unique atmosphere that this city has to offer. Discover hidden courtyards, browse the local Artisan Market in the Plaza de Armas or learn about Cuba’s history in the Museum of the Revolution. Once you’ve explored, cool off at the waterfront district of Vedado with a stroll along the Malecón – lined with shops and restaurants, you’ll get to taste the true, authentic flavours of Cuban seafood as the sun sets over the bay. We recommend finishing off your holiday by experiencing the local music, with sounds of salsa, jazz and rumba, head to Tropicana Cabaret which has been delighting audiences since 1939. With an unprecedented numbers of visitors now travelling to Cuba, hotels get booked up far in advance. We highly recommend that if you wish to travel to Cuba you book early to avoid disappointment.
Travel to Havana with Virgin Atlantic >Inspired?
If you’re keen to take a trip the Caribbean, starting with Virgin Atlantic’s Clubhouses, then you may want to know a little more about what else this extraordinary airline can offer you.