Travel test; TRAVEL.

Byline: IAN STURGESS, with NIGEL THOMPSON

WHAT: Qatar Airways Airbus A350-1000 Business Class. From PS1,993 one way. qatarairways.com

WHERE: Heathrow T4 to Doha Hamad International Airport. Flight time 6hrs 40mins.

EXPERIENCE: The new Airbus A350-1000 is billed as the quietest twin-engine aircraft in the skies with the widest seats in its class, advanced air-con and mood lights.

Qatar holds the titles of Airline of the Year, World's Best Business Class and Best Business Class Seat, so on the first leg of a trip to Phuket in Thailand I was expecting the exceptional - and I got it.

The exclusivity starts as you board via a separate door and enter your Q-Suite with burgundy and grey decor, 16in screen, ample storage space, fold-flat electric seat and a sliding door to shut yourself away. There are USB sockets, laptop power and full onboard wi-fi connectivity.

To enjoy the entertainment you get noise-cancelling headphones, plus White Company pyjamas, slippers, a Castello Monte Vibiano goody bag (skin-care products, socks, eyeshade etc), quilt and pillows. There's also toothbrushes, paste, razors and shaving foam supplied in the stylish loos.

As you'd expect at these prices the food and drink was good.

There's an a la carte menu and I dined on Arabic mezze followed by lamb kabsa with basmati rice, and ice cream to finish. There's also a long wine list, cocktails, spirits, beers and liqueurs.

QUIBBLES: Had to get off once we arrived in Doha. Shame.

VERDICT: I'll forever envy those turn-left passengers who travel the world in this manner. 10/10