Return part of our Brazilian adventure. Not everything runs smoothly…
First of all, there were several changes to our itinerary made by ITA a few weeks ahead of our trip. I called the line and demanded the itinerary change, and it was done within minutes. But! They rebooked me on a completely different flight that I did not want to. I told them they sent me the wrong itinerary immediately, as we were still on line, and they told me I had used my one-time free change, and now I have to pay. WTF? After a few stressful days, the customer service came back with an apology (they called me in the middle of the night), and we got our flights. But the approach of the call centre is disgusting.
Plaza Premium Lounge GIG
ITA Airways offers along with other carriers its customers the stay in the Plaza Premium Lounge.
The lounge is quite comfortable with showers, food and beverage bars with many hot and cold food options, including meals on order.
The Flight
A year-old aircraft was awaiting us to fly to Europe.
Boarding was organised quite well, and we soon entered the great design cabin.
Blanket (not properly cleaned), pillow, slippers, amenity kit and a pack full of skin care were awaiting us. The crew were lovely from the boarding till the very end and worked a lot above average. Point for them!
The IFE is better than on ITA’s A350, and I really liked it.
The push back was right on time, and we even arrived 40 minutes ahead of schedule.
Food orders were taken promptly after takeoff. Once again, rows 1-5 were served from the forward galley, and the 6-8 from the central one, serving also the premium economy.
I started with mimosa and nuts as an appetitive.
Followed by cod and potato’ pie with white wine.
Primi piatti were meat ravioli, which I really liked.
Secondi was a fish roll stuffed with breadcrumbs, capers, olives and raisins served with potatoes.
The fish was dry, covered by something similar to ketchup. This really did not go well.
The dessert was a hazelnut mousse, super sweet. I am glad I am back in Europe with its great food and not having to deal with America's disgusting meals anymore.
All in all, the food was a little disappointing. The crew asked me about it, and I shared my complaints, and they said they understood. The quality of food made outside FCO, especially in Brazil, is very poor. Quite sad, but nothing to blame ITA.
90 mins before landing the cabin was woken up for breakfast. During meal orders in the evening we were asked if we would like to be waken up or continue sleeping in case.
The choice was “sweet or salty”, where salty meant omelette. I sent for sweet, knowing I will have my breakfast in the lounge after arrival.
