What’s one way to keep a girl entertained on a cross-country flight? Put on a little Johnny Depp and serve up some snacks, then throw in online shopping and a few glasses of wine and you’ve got one happy flier.
Just in time for my ‘virgin’ flight with Virgin America next week, the low-cost high-fun airline launches a whole new suite of in-flight entertainment. Here’s what is new at 35,000-feet (and what I’ll be doing next week):
Shop ’til you drop… err, land: Virgin America Elevate members can earn points toward a free flight just by shopping online in-flight. The “Red Store” has over 150 retailers including Apple, BarnesandNoble.com, BestBuy.com, macys.com, Target.com and more. This is great news for flyers who always seem to forget something.
Fine wine and flying: Virgin America was named the top domestic airline for in-flight wine by Global Traveler, and now the first-class cabin gets a new selection to choose from. Straight from the Mirassou winery in Northern California, Virgin America serves up two different varietals that are sure to please: Mirassou 2008 Sauvignon Blanc and the Mirassou 2008 Pinot Noir. (Personal opinion: Mirassou makes a great Pinot, and I highly recommend you try a glass if you’re in the mood. The combo of cherries, red currants and a hint of vanilla make for a smooth wine.) You can check out more of Virgin’s in-flight food and beverage service here.
The airline has a few new debuts coming soon, including their CW Reality Show “Fly Girls“, which launches March 24. In the meantime, this happy traveler is getting her bags ready for a little online shopping in the sky.