I almost turned down my invitation to The Retreat, the amazing trip I took to Ireland this summer, because I had been traveling so much and, honestly, the actual traveling part is sometimes so difficult, I wasn’t sure if I was up for another 12 hour flight even to one of my favorite places in the world.
But then Tourism Ireland offered to fly me in business class so I could test the new Ethiopian Airlines direct flight from Los Angeles to Dublin, and I was in! This is the only airline flying direct from Southern California to Dublin, so I was eager to check it out.
I know it sounds so random to be taking Ethiopian Airlines to Dublin and I have to admit it was fascinating to see the eclectic group of passengers boarding the plane, but Dublin is apparently a perfect stopping point between Los Angeles and Addis Ababa.
And the flight itself was awesome, in large part because of these little buttons:
Yes, I loved seeing the flight attendants in their beautiful African uniforms but, most of all, I loved seeing those seats that lie flat. I can never sleep on planes unless I am lucky enough to be in business class with seats like these, and it makes all the difference.
There was lots of room in front of my seat for my new Eagle Creek bag, plus a pocket for my book and journal, and a little cubby for my shoes.
With a big grin on my face, I settled in for a movie and my first meal. It was so good that I apparently finished it before even thinking about taking a picture.
Because the flight leaves LAX at 11:45 p.m. I was pretty tired after eating so I wrapped myself in my blanket, adjusted my seat and went to sleep.
And, yes, it was as easy as that.
When I woke up for breakfast, I felt surprisingly refreshed. I pulled out the beautiful amenities kit they provided each of us and headed to the restroom.
Why do I have three of these cute little kits, you may ask? Well, I got the yellow one on the way to Dublin and the green one on the way home. When I saw the businessman next to me leaving his red kit in the seat pocket, I asked him if I could have it to complete my set and, although he probably thought I was crazy, he happily handed it over. So now I have all the colors of the Ethiopian flag!
These are actually great kits, and I used the socks, eye mask, toothbrush and toothpaste on both flights. I also kept applying the macadamia lip balm, and am still using it weeks later.
The flight arrives in Dublin at 6:30 p.m. so, if you haven’t gotten enough sleep on the plane, you can eat dinner and go right to bed.
Coming home, the flight leaves Dublin at 6:15 a.m. (hello!) but I was back in Los Angeles at 9:15 a.m. and feeling ready to go.
I hope this direct flight encourages more West Coasters to start planning a trip to Ireland. Because the schedule is so new, you can find some really great deals — which will leave you more money to spend on those gorgeous Avoca blankets.
Oh, that sounds divine! I can’t stand flying on most airlines with no leg room and no food. Amenities? Good food? Leg room? Ethiopian Airlines sounds amazing. So glad you had such a great trip, Lois!
I have to lie flat, too, and I mean flat-flat and not that “almost flat” most airlines give you. Iwouldn’t ordinarily consider Ethiopian but you make it sound lovely. I think you mean a nonstop vs a direct flight–direct flights make stops along the way … while nonstop is the gold standard for those long flights! Aren’t you glad you went?
For long distances this sounds ideal. I know if I had a seat like that I would sleep the whole time except for meals. So glad it worked out for you, Lois!
I’ve never been on a plane for more than six hours, and they were always domestic coach seats so I have to remember that if I flew somewhere else, it might be totally comfortable. And awesome!
That looks more relaxing than being on the ground and home with two screaming kids!
Well, this is VERY interesting! Ben and I are planning a trip to Dublin this coming May and I WILL suggest business class on Ethiopian! Anything for those adorbs amenities kits! ps: Are you EVER home? Hahahaa
You had me at ‘lie flat.” I’ve never heard of this airline before. I will look into it next time to Dublin.
Wow how fabulous was that. I want to come be your travel buddy when I grow up.
Ireland is not on my list at all, but Scotland sure is 🙂 Close, right?
Hi Robin. It’s less than an hour to Edinburgh or Glasgow from Dublin and you can get really cheap flights for under $100 return from Dublin.
Try Ryanair.com or AerLingus.com
Wow that sounds like a wonderful flight! The pics alone were convincing! Glad you had a wonderful time and trip!
I have not heard of this airlines but it sounds like they do everything to make a comfy flight. What a great experience.
That looks like an amazing airline! You really need the extras when you’re going to be on a flight this long!
It looks like a comfy seat and there was so much leg room! Comfort is one of the most important things when taking those long flights. You got a lot of Goodies!
This sounds like a really pleasant flight. I’m glad they make it really comfortable considering the distance!
Sounds like you had a very comfortable flight. It’s nice that they make it easy for their passengers. I love that you can lie down and still have room for your stuff.
You travel more than anyone I know! Can I come along on your next trip? I’ll carry your luggage for you.
WHenever I hear of someone going to Dublin I am recommending this post to them – I despise flying but know I have to do it for work. To lie down wowza
Wow, I can’t imagine how wonderful it must have been to be able to get some good sleep on a plane! I have yet to visit Ireland, but when I do I will be hopefully flying Ethiopian!
Wow, I think that’s the fanciest sets I’ve seen in a long time. I like all the room and cubbies under the seat. And those amenities bags are fantastic.
I love the little kits too. And hurrah for flying business class!
My brother has taken this flight too! He gave my son the the kit and I stole the face mask!
Since I usually travel with the kids we usually fly coach because it’s more economical for us that way. When I travel by myself I always upgrade and Ethiopian Airlines sure does look luxurious.
Ireland is at the top of my bucket list. I have always wanted to go there.
Hello leg room! I am going to remember this the next time we fly!
This flight looks super comfy! Those kits would sure come in handy here as well
Sheeah! The flight looks so roomy and comfortable! Not like the air sausages I’ve been in. Ugh! I would have asked for the red bag too. Cute set!
Wow what a great sounding airline – it really looks like they have tried to cater for long haul flights! x
Wow that’s pretty cool. I haven’t ever heard of Ethiopian Airlines before. But it looks like you had a pretty great ride. I love the little kits they give you, that’s pretty awesome!
Sounds like a great flight. Glad that gentleman was nice enough to let you have his sets so you could have all the colors!
How nice! That looks like a great airline with some good perks! Haven’t heard of this one before, but I’ll take note for sure!
I can not believe how much room you had. This would be a great way to fly. I love the little bathroom kit they give you.
I love an airline that gives such attention to its customers. It’s important to travel this way.