I recently had another opportunity to attend a concert at London’s O2 Arena, experiencing it from the Virgin Red Room. Previously, I had redeemed points for the Marriott Bonvoy Suite at the O2, but I wasn’t familiar with the performing band at that time. This occasion was different, as I did know the singer JJ Lin reasonably well, making the experience particularly enjoyable.
(Credits: some photos are from my friends @哈哈 @sun @Rike)
To book a hospitality box at O2 using points you have three options: Virgin Red, Qatar Airways and Marriott Bonvoy. With Virgin Red the cost of a pair of tickets ranges from 20,000 to 75,000 points. While this might seem steep compared to the other two, its availability is a significant advantage, with (almost) all events at the O2 open for redemption and up to fourteen pairs of tickets per show.
In addition, the booking window opens very early, often sooner than when public sale starts. For example you can already book numerous shows that is scheduled for the end of this year.
I was actually meant to be here earlier – I redeemed a pair of tickets for ZHOU Shen’s concert too which got cancelled very last minute. As a result JJ Lin’s show becomes my first experience at the Virgin Red Room, and at 30,000 points it’s a great bargain.
Upon arrival at the O2, I had to store my backpack, as per the venue’s policy. The storage facility is located outside on the right, costing £10 per bag. However, presenting any American Express card grants free storage and access to the fast track lane.
That saves not only money but also queueing time, so don’t forget to bring an Amex card with you.
A friend of mine arrived by car and purchased the valet parking service (£54), which looks exclusive.
As we’ve mentioned in the previous review, all suite guests can enter the American Express lounge upon presenting the ticket. That lounge is nothing special however and we were already late, so we went straight to the Virgin Red Room, numbered 226.
Although having a different theme colour than Virgin Atlantic, the suite exudes a very similar vibrant ambiance. Compared to the Marriott Bonvoy Suite, Virgin’s room is more modern, spacious, and aesthetically pleasing.
It comprises of four rows with twenty-eight seats; the first three rows extend into the arena, while the last row functions as a long bar stand.
Personally, I found the bar’s high stools more comfortable, offering ease of movement. Seats are pre-assigned, with details indicated on the tickets.
Although the suite is situated relatively far from the stage, its central positioning right next to Qatar Airway’s NinetyThird provides a better viewing angle than some other suites.
The O2 Arena isn’t excessively large, so performers’ movements were clearly visible, although I can’t say it was close enough for me to see their faces.
The suite’s sofas are pretty comfortable, ideal for relaxing during the show, especially if you are someone who gets tired easily.
However, a downside is the lack of complimentary food: guests receive two drinks (choices include water, soft drinks, or alcohol).
This was my first time attending a concert of an artist I follow, the attendance was high and the atmosphere was electrifying. Interestingly, guests in the surrounding suites are very notably less passionate, possibly indicating they were there more for the experience than the artist, just like me.
In conclusion, both the Virgin Red Room and Marriott Bonvoy Suite offer unique advantages, and securing a spot in either is worthwhile. It’s worth mentioning that a fellow attendee purchased a last-minute ticket for the adjacent NinetyThird Lounge for just over £200, which I might explore in the future.
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