We flew out on Monarch scheduled from Gatwick, the scheduled departure time was 1630 hours, but we were approx 45minutes late due to fog in the morning and a compounded delay during the day. The aircraft was a spotless A321 which was in perfect condition and had only just arrived in from Alicante. We were seated in row 8 a and b, and had paid GBP5 extra for reserved seating. Rows 1 to 7 were seats with extra leg room and also available at no extra cost to Vantage members. I am tall, 5ft10, and my husband is over 6ft, and the leg room and general space in economy was appalling, even for a comparatively short flight to Faro, Portugal. Very fortunately, the extremely proactive and forward thinking enthusiastic crew changed what could have been a dismal cramped experience by offering upgrade for GBP 15 to take advantage of the seats available in rows 1 - 7. We immediately took full advantage of this offer and moved to row 5 where the space and general leg room was so much better - for the sake of GBP 15 each way I would definately book it next time. We were taken down to Faro by Captain Maddox who sounded very relaxed and happy, always reassuring, I think the co-pilot was spanish or portugese and sounded quite young. The cabin crew who looked after us were a delight and worked incredibly well together, they seemed to really enjoy their job and it definately made all the difference, nothing seemed to be too much trouble for them. We had a fantastic flight, very smooth great landing at Faro, courtesy of the co-pilot and I have to say that it was the best flight and conditions I have ever experienced. I usually fly to the Balearics/Spain etc on GB Airways, who, whilst I cannot fault them, seem to be way off the mark when compared overall to Monarch.

Thanks, Monarch, I'll see you again soon.