Being a Travel Agent I like to mix my airline experiences to gain a better knowledge of the products on offer. Over the years I found that the little joys in air travel often happen because of the people rather than the superior hardware. The questions to ask must of course always include "What is their safety record?", "How regularly do they fly?", "Do they fly the most direct route?" and "How old is their fleet?" but it also should include: "How is their customer service attitude?" It is all about the attitude, culture and focus on the traveller. Hot towels at the beginning and end of a long flight in all classes, regular offers of water and snacks, availability of cabin staff throughout the flight, good food and a "can do" attitude all contribute to a more enjoyable and relaxing flight. I have seen flight attendants take children for a walk and one airline even offered face painting for the younger travellers! Of course it always reduces the stress levels if someone asks if there anything they can do to help or responds with a smile and an "of course" to your request. So with that in mind, purely on the basis of superior attitude towards excellence in customer service, Singapore Airlines gets the trophy from me. 

My favourite resort has to be the Como Shambhala Estate, Ubud, Bali, a retreat like no other. Situated on a ridge above the Ayung River on one side and the rice fields and gardens of Ubud on the other it oozes serenity, beauty and style. The Resort offers various grades of accommodation in five Residences consisting of a Como Shambhala Suite in each plus 3-4 beautifully appointed Suites and rooms. Each Residence is themed around a different element: Wind, Water, Fire, Mist and Earth with its own pool and public area. The experience starts from when you check in and are introduced to your personal assistant who helps you throughout your stay, organising both complimentary and chargeable activities. This is the place to go to clear your mind, relax, reconnect with yourself and indulge in beautiful treatments and experiences such as organic food, yoga, walks, meditation, rock climbing, hiking, mountain biking, swimming and so much more. Of course after all that you can explore the lovely Ubud area with cooking schools, markets, arts and crafts. This is Bali at its very best. Situated only 45 - 60 minutes drive from Denpasar Airport.

Drift off to sleep              

Should you decide you're ready to sleep, you can slip into wonderfully soft cotton pyjamas and request a Turndown Service at any time of the day. Your fully flat bed will be made up with a specially designed single-piece quilted mattress, crisp white 400-thread Egyptian cotton duvet and pillow to help you to drift off in comfort more blissfully than ever.

Wake up refreshed

When it's time to freshen up, you can use a range of well-being products from D.R. Harris & Co., one of London's longest established traditional pharmacies that only uses the finest natural ingredients. Products include eye gel, lip balm and moisturiser, all enclosed in a stylish Anya Hindmarch bag, exclusively designed for First.