Airline Review: Flying High with Air France Business Class - A Tall Traveler's Dream from SFO to Athens

As a 6'5" traveler, long-haul flights can often feel like a contortionist act. But my recent trip from San Francisco (SFO) to Athens, Greece, in Air France's Business Class on their Boeing 777-300 was an absolute game-changer. Not only did I arrive feeling refreshed and ready to explore, but the entire experience, from the incredible food to the impeccable service, was a testament to the value of my Flying Blue points.

Let's talk about the points first, because snagging this experience for 50,000 Flying Blue points on the outbound and 60,000 points on the return felt like a steal. It just goes to show that with a little planning and point-savvy, luxurious travel is well within reach.

A Serene Start at the Air France KLM Lounge at SFO

Before even stepping onto the plane, the journey began in style at the newly renovated Air France KLM Lounge at SFO. The Business Class ticket included complimentary access to the lounge before my flight. You can access the lounge as early as 3 hours before your flight's departure and what a treat! This wasn't just a place to wait; it was a serene oasis. The design was sleek and modern, a true reflection of French elegance. I found plenty of comfortable seating areas, perfect for relaxing or catching up on emails. The food selection was impressive, offering a delightful array of hot and cold dishes, with a clear nod to French culinary artistry. And of course, the bar offered a fantastic selection of wines and spirits, perfect for unwinding before a long flight. It was a remarkably peaceful and pleasant space, a fantastic way to transition into vacation mode. You can read about my full experience and review of the Lounge here.

Unbeatable Comfort for the Long Haul

Now, for the main event: the comfort. I cannot emphasize enough how truly comfortable the lie-flat seat was. As someone who often struggles to stretch out, being able to fully recline and extend my legs without touching the seat in front was pure bliss. I'm talking about genuine, uninhibited stretching out – a rare luxury for me on an airplane. I managed to get several hours of uninterrupted sleep, something that's usually a distant dream on an airplane. The bedding was plush, feeling more like a hotel bed than an airline seat, and the privacy of the pod-like seat made the long journey feel surprisingly intimate and relaxing. No more bumping elbows or accidental knee-kicks from fellow passengers; just my own cozy sanctuary in the sky.

A Culinary Journey Above the Clouds

Beyond the comfort, what truly elevated this flight was the food and service. Air France has a reputation for its culinary offerings, and they absolutely lived up to it. Each meal felt like a gourmet experience, not just airplane food. From the elegant presentation to the delicious flavors, I savored every bite. The amuse-bouche was a delightful start, whetting the appetite for what was to come. The multi-course meals, expertly crafted and presented, were a true highlight. I'm talking about proper dishes, not just trays, with fresh ingredients and nuanced flavors. And of course, the fantastic selection of French wines perfectly complemented each course. I particularly enjoyed the attention to detail in the meal service, which felt more like a fine dining restaurant than an airplane, complete with proper silverware and real glassware.

Service with a Genuine Smile

And the service? Simply outstanding. The cabin crew were incredibly attentive, always with a warm smile and ready to assist. They anticipated needs without being intrusive, seeming to know exactly when I might want another drink or a warm towel. Their genuine hospitality made me feel truly cared for throughout the entire journey. Whether it was an extra pillow, a refill of my drink, or just a friendly chat, their professionalism and warmth were consistent and impressive. They made the long flight feel effortless and enjoyable.

The return journey was just as enjoyable, reinforcing my positive first impression. Arriving back in SFO after another comfortable and well-fed flight, I felt no trace of the usual travel fatigue.

In conclusion, my Air France Business Class experience on the 777-300 from SFO to Athens was nothing short of exceptional. For any tall travelers out there seeking true comfort, and for anyone who appreciates excellent food and top-notch service, I wholeheartedly recommend redeeming your Flying Blue points for this fantastic journey. It's an investment in comfort and well-being that pays dividends long after you've landed. Have you had a similar incredible experience with Air France Business Class?