Flying long-haul isn’t usually something I look forward to, but flying United Airlines’ Polaris Business Class turned my recent trip from Auckland to the UK into something I genuinely enjoyed. It felt less like a means to an end, and more like part of the holiday itself. Between cosy lie-flat beds, luxe lounges, and incredible food and service, United really knows how to make travel feel special.
Premier Perks from the Get-Go
From the moment I arrived at Auckland Airport, things felt easy. I breezed through check-in in the Polaris Premier line, occasionally glancing over at the economy queue as it began to snake further back. It was already giving “worth it”.
As a Polaris passenger, I had access to Air New Zealand’s Koru Lounge, which is a fab space to relax before a long flight, with panoramic views of aircraft landing.
Lie-Flat Beds = Luxury in the Sky
Boarding was smooth, and stepping into my Polaris Business Class seat, I instantly felt cocooned in comfort. The seat itself is cleverly tucked away from the aisle, with a personal little “hallway” of sorts, featuring a lamp, table, and storage compartment before you even reach the seat itself.
Waiting for me were a plush cushion, a cooling gel pillow, Saks Fifth Avenue bedding (which felt far superior to most business class linen), and a beautiful Therabody amenity kit, which has everything you need, from eye masks and ear plugs, to eye serum and hand cream.
Shortly after boarding, the crew came around with welcome drinks and pyjamas, while I dipped into United’s Apple TV selection and finally got around to checking out Severance and Slow Horses.
For dinner that night, I went for the seared beef fillet, accompanied by a glass (or two) of port, and some warm nuts to snack on (oo-er). The wine list was impressive, and when I asked the crew for a red recommendation, one flight attendant suggested the Shafer ‘One Point Five’ Cabernet Sauvignon, and had poured me a glass before I’d even finished asking. “You’ve only got 11 hours, no time to spare!” she grinned.
The Polaris Lounge: SFO’s Crown Jewel
Transiting through San Francisco was a dream, thanks to United’s Polaris Lounge, which easily tops my list of favourite airport lounges. Spread over two levels, it’s sleek, stylish, and has everything a tired traveller could want.
First stop: the shower suites. These are beautifully designed with dark slate tiles, rain showers, and every amenity you could think of, from toothbrushes and cotton buds to full-sized body products. There’s something so refreshing about showering mid-journey, it completely resets your body clock.
From there, you can choose your own adventure: nap in a quiet suite, catch up on work overlooking the runway, or head to the restaurant-style dining lounge. I did breakfast properly—watermelon juice, avocado toast, and Greek yoghurt with wild honey, all made to order! It was fresh, vibrant, and exactly what I needed before the next leg.
The UK Legs: Edinburgh In, Heathrow Out
Flying into Edinburgh was such a treat, United’s route network is extensive and flexible, which meant I could tailor my trip to suit my travel plans. On the return, I flew out of London Heathrow, and the United Club Lounge there had its own charms.
After eating my way around the UK, I opted for something lighter: miso vegetable curry with stir-fried greens, topped with pumpkin seeds and crispy shallots. They even had Beavertown Neck Oil IPA on tap—my fave British beer! I finished with a rhubarb juice with zinc, a little immune boost before flying.
The Flight Home
Once back on board, the food reached new heights. I started with a creamy buffalo mozzarella salad with pickled asparagus and roasted garlic vinaigrette—delicate, flavourful, and surprisingly fresh for airline food.
For mains, the garlic roasted chicken breast with caramelised carrots, fingerling potatoes, and chilli butter hit every comfort note. I paired it with a glass of French rosé (Whispering Angel, 2022) and felt like I was flying in a dream. For dessert, I may have combined the dark chocolate delice with United’s iconic build-your-own sundae service. No regrets.
Even with a shorter transit due to a delay, customs and baggage in San Francisco were a breeze, and I still made time for one last shower and dinner in the Polaris Lounge: giant prawns in citrus, asparagus mac & cheese, and perfectly cooked green beans. Bliss.
Back on the Auckland-bound flight, I skipped the meal and went straight into sleep mode, fully reclined in my lie-flat bed, snuggled up in Saks bedding (be sure to request the extra comfy mattress topper), and feeling truly rested.
United Made Travel Feel… Fun Again
If I had to sum up the Polaris experience in one word, it would be ease. Every step of the way, check-in, lounges, onboard, transit, and arrival, felt smooth and thoughtful. From the luxe little touches (hello, pyjamas and port) to the genuinely warm crew, it was an experience I’d happily repeat.
For queer travellers, and anyone who just wants to travel in a way that respects your space, your rest, and your body, it’s a standout.
Book your next trip in United’s Polaris Business Class now at united.com
