CIARAN MULLIGAN takes a short break in New York, sampling the Aer Lingus Business Class service on the way- and the Dublin Airport T2 experience...

WELL it's bright, it's airy and it's something everyone who travels through I think will feel proud of. It may have been built during a period when travelling numbers have fallen dramatically but when they return (which they certainly will) then all of us holidaymakers and business travellers will certainly appreciate the space and comfort of Terminal 2 in Dublin Airport. In fact with the greatest respect it is making Terminal 1 look very drab and dare I say it .... a bit chav! So on that note let me congratulate Aer Lingus on deciding to make it their new home.

As you first arrive at check-in you will notice Aer Lingus branding everywhere. So my first experience is checking in and either as a Gold Circle card holder or Business Class ticket holder you now have your own dedicated check-in lane which just enhances your speedy access through the airport.

Tip - apply for a Gold Circle card or if they still give them out with certain visa cards pick one up or alternatively break open your piggy bank and spend €699 on one-way Business Class seats to New York ... it's definitely worth it if you can afford it!

Another advantage of the Gold Circle card or Business Class seat is the new fast track channel at security... zip in, zip through in less than five minutes and get ready to shop or relax in this vast spacious shopping and food area including the very sophisticated chocolate lounge for desert lovers. If you are feeling lucky even try to win yourself a sports car for only €10 in best of the best cars. Anyway after a quick shop it's time to get away from the locals and relax in the New Gold Circle Lounge. Another pat on the back to Ireland’s national airline - you got it very right in respect of the new Gold Circle lounge. Sophisticated, contemporary and very relaxing! Better breakfast menu and better choice in food and drinks! However, please decide on whether you are calling it Premier or Business Class, if so take the Premier mugs out of the lounge and any goodie bags with Premier on it.

To read the rest of Ciaran Mulligan's feature on his trip to the Big Apple and see all the pictures, pick up a copy of Northern Ireland Travel News...

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