Greetings Flight Report community and thanks for stopping by. I am sharing a recent trip to Asia with JAL, Thai Airways, and ANA. The trip came about because I parked a return leg (NRT-ORD to be specific) of an ANA ticket on a random day in January, having used the outbound USA to Japan ticket back in August. When I booked the round trip in July the January return seemed so far off. Time flies when you're flying in premium cabins so January came before I know it. I could pay $50 to Virgin Atlantic to move the flight to some other date or find a way to Japan and use the ticket. The timing worked out with work and home life that I decided to use the ticket as is.
I had some Alaska Miles and some Krisflyer miles on hand in sufficient amounts so I started my search for a way to Asia using those currencies. Nothing on SQ excited me except for SQ25 but that wasn't even available for wait list on the day(s) I needed so I turned my attention to JAL and CX by way of Alaska Mileage Plan. Cathay didn't look very encouraging and JAL had space on both JFK-HND and JFK-NRT in F on the day I wanted to travel. Perfect! The Haneda departure is later so I opted for that one to allow more time to get to JFK. With Mileage Plan another 5k miles gets you an onward flight with JAL so why not keep going. HND-SIN with new (to me) business class seats was available so I tacked that one on too.
I have two holes now: Southern California to JFK and SIN-TYO. The first was easy 25k Alaska miles for Virgin America LAX-JFK. I could have done NRSA but I didn't want to sit in coach for a red eye flight. Starting out a long trip, with little to no ground sleeping time planned, already sleep deprived didn't seem like a good plan. Even though the Virgin America product is far from competitive on this route I figured I could get some sleep.
The second hole has many options. I have a small orphan balance of AA miles so that's where I started. Lots of Oneworld choices on the SIN-TYO route but I was drawn to MH. I have a soft spot for Malaysia Airlines and wanted to try them again. SIN-KUL-NRT was available at the times I wanted so I booked it. Or so I thought. You will see from map below of my final routing the flights didn't go as planned…
Courtesy of gcmap.com
Carrier, route, equipment, class, lounge, and procurement method:
Virgin America, Lounge Hopping Fail, Air France Lounge JFK T1
The LAX-JFK flight was on time and uneventful. I spent a few minutes in the LAX Boardroom. I was prepared to enter with my Priority Pass card but I was admitted by virtue of flying Virgin America Fist. The lounge was crowded and dirty.
The F cabin was full for this flight. I was in 2A.
After take off we were offered menu but it was not reflective of what was available on this flight. The flight attendant verbally told us what she had. Out of curiosity I opted for a "protein plate" pictured below. I also enjoyed a nice red wine the name escapes me. It was a nice snack and appropriate for the time of day (23:30 departure). I picked at it and went to sleep quickly.
Arrival into JFK T7 was 7:45. I had a big morning of lounge hopping planned. T7 is where you will find the BA JFK lounges so I started there by virtue of flying in Oneworld First class that day. What a bust. The Galleries First lounge was closed for renovation so I was admitted to the BA Business Class lounge. This is a colossally pathetic excuse for a lounge. I walked one lap of the place and left. I've read that the the Galleries First lounge is also quite sad but I wasn't able to make my own conclusion.
Next stop was T8 via the Airtrain. I incorrectly assumed that my boarding pass for a same day departure for JFK would allow me in any terminal but this is not the case. The contract worker checking docs wouldn't even let me get to the TSA agents to verify this "policy". I stopped into the AA check in desks and an extremely friendly AA agent verified that this is the case. She even left her post and walked across the terminal to speak with an AA supervisor, not on my request but on her own will, but I was not allowed to enter. I appreciated she took so much time trying to help someone who is not even flying American Airlines. The AA Flagship lounge will have to wait for another day.
Feeling quite defeated I sulked over to T1 to visit the Air France Lounge and at least have a shower.
I stopped by the JAL counter to get a proper boarding pass and was checked all the way to SIN.
Security was not as crazy as the evening push and I was through in about 15 minutes. A right turn after security and about 150 meter walk reveals the AF lounge.
JAL touting the HND service.
Skyteam welcome.
MU.
RAM.
Entering the lounge reveals the split level design. From what I could tell both levels had the same food and beverage spreads and restrooms. The lower level has the showers.
Media at the entrance.
Small and dim seating area to the left of the entrance. I do like the French Flag art however.
Another after-thought seating area to the right of the entrance. Probably only utilized at the peak evening departure time.
I venture upstairs in hopes of a less crowded environment. Perhaps it was somewhat less densely populated.
Let's take a look at the breakfast on offer.
Cup o noodles.
Crisps and cereals.
Bread crackers and preserves.
Fruit, sandwiches, and salads.
Two hot dishes: Sausages and scrambled eggs.
French food. :P
Beverage selection includes Champagne of course.
Red wines.
Spirits, etc.
A substantial Nespresso machine that, despite excellent instructions posted on the front, befuddled a number of guests.
I took my breakfast in the form of coffee and water, preferring to wait for the culinary delights on board.
I approached the desk downstairs to inquire about a shower. This was available right away but there was a catch. The locks on the shower room door (both shower rooms) were INOP. To prevent someone from walking in they have posted "Occupied" signs on the doors. I'm OK with this as it would be the hapless passenger that would be scarred for life seeing me in my native form. I can see how this arrangement would not be OK with others.
Of course I was assured the room is vacant at this time. I still knocked and waited for a response before entering.
The rooms are very basic but spacious and clean. Bulk amenities in the shower.
I appreciate a toilet in the shower room.
I am able to shower and dress without any guests.
I spend the rest of my time in the lounge wandering and checking on my flight status. It is a very foggy day so I was curious if this would effect our departure.
Looking down to the first level.
Understated and elegant AF logo on the wall.
The bridge on the second level.
A line to enter the lounge has formed.
I take an extended walk around the terminal and visit the departure gate.
There is an airplane there, I promise.
I return to the lounge for a quick espresso and then it's off to the boarding scrum.
JL5 JFK-HND
Despite only 4 passengers in F today the line for First/Diamonds is about 50 people deep. Eventually I make it to the promised land.
2K is my preferred perch.
The gentleman sitting in 1K was also an enthusiast. I noticed him in the lounge taking even more pictures than me and with a large professional looking camera. This continued on board so of course I had to introduce myself. I gave him my contact information so maybe some day I will get to see his pictures. His itinerary was even more mad than mine. He was flying JFK-HND-SGN-DOH-JFK all in succession. If you read this site William, I hope you had a fantastic journey!
A look about the cabin.
Getting settled in and meeting various crew. I was primarily taken care of by Wakiya who was about as lovely as humanly possible. Beautiful to behold and thoughtful and talented in her profession. It was an absolute pleasure to be in her company.
Amenities were set at the seat.
The familiar JAL F seat.
Wakiya delivered my pre-departure beverage of choice.
The golden ticket.
A blanket was offered as well as arrival card and wifi code.
A pillow was on the seat at boarding.
I found the slippers to be quite substantial and comfortable.
The IFE headphones are substantial and high quality.
Aircraft and crew information placard.
Eventually the cabin was prepared for departure with the poor weather delaying us insignificantly.
In between the cloud layers on climb out.
The Senior Cabin Attendant added her welcome and distributed the menu and wine list.
Service begins with the ubiquitous oshibori and a solicitation for libation.
I have adequately mourned the passing of the JAL Salon era and I am emotionally ready to embark on a new journey with this Louis Roederer fellow. Let's get formally acquainted.
Poured by the Senior Attendant.
He wears a gaudy frock.
A more traditional Champagne vessel in contrast to ANA and the wine glass.
I'll say this about the Crystal, it's very good. In reading up on the wine I found it interesting Cristal 2009 is the first time that Louis Roederer has skipped ahead to launch a vintage of its top Champagne beyond the natural chronological order. The 2009 has arrived ahead of the 2008 with the winemaker apparently wanting the 2008 to spend some more time on lees.
The Champagne was accompanied by some fairly unremarkable canapes.
The table was set for lunch and garlic bread procured. Quite a portion, I might add.
The amuse bouche is a smoked scallop and pickled portobello mushroom and marinated king crab with yuzu chili and turnip veloute. This is a substantial amuse! I have a hard time with smoked scallops. The smoke, to me, overpowers the sweet delicate flavor of the scallop as it did here. The textrue was nice though. The crab and parsnip was fine.
We did this a lot.
All of the appetizers sounded sublime but I cannot pass up caviar. It just screams first class to me in every way. I passed on sauteed foie gras and brioche french toast and seared tuna with beet cream, quail egg and red wine vinaigrette to enjoy the caviar. No regrets. The small piece of smoked sturgeon is a nice touch. Sturgeon two ways, if you will.
My selection for the main was sauteed sea bass with black truffle puree and porcini clam soup. The perfectly cooked mild fish paired well with the stronger accompaniments. I stayed with my new friend Louis for this course as well.
This exceptional feast continued with a cheese course beautifully presented with grapes, quince paste, and marcona almonds.
I ventured into the cellar to accompany the cheeses. the Argentinian red was exquisite and very comfortable with cheese.
The wine and cheese experience was so satisfying I didn't want to bother with the dessert option of tiramisu and ice cream. I'll circle back later, I'm sure.
We're up over Hudson's Bay at this point and the views are dramatic.
I'm off the the lavatory to change into the sleep wear and of course I am accompanied and presented a hangar and I will be greeted upon my exit. It's uncanny the radar this crew possesses. The sense my movement and pounce. They would be successful hunters, I reckon.
Upon returning to my seat I am presented with some male cosmetics that are in addition to the amenity kit.
I ask Wakiya if I might exchange the male items for the female so taht I may bring it home as a gift. She agrees and returns with the female equivalent but insists I keep it all. She even supplies a nice bag.
Wakiya gathers the bedding to assemble in the adjacent seat.
My new friend William gets the photos. It's as if I'm looking in a mirror as I am taking the same picture one row back.
Mattress pad set to firm for me.
Beautiful twilight.
I have a go at napping and do sleep a bit. The extreme luxury of having both a bed and a seat means that I can go back and forth as needed.
The display at door L1 as viewed on a lavatory stop.
Giving up on sleep for the time being I check in on our position.
The flight attendant radar was triggered as I moved from bed to seat and I am offered service. There is another Champagne on board that I'm eager to try…what to snack on…I know, some caviar and there was that foie gras on offer…
Bollinger Rose 2006
Round two of the fish eggs.
This was perfectly done and melt in your mouth.
All with a sublime view.
This would become a hybrid mid-flight snack and pre-arrival meal of an epic nature. To finsih it off I ask for the "assorted appitizers" plate that consists of dried fruits with grated radish, prosciutto with sesame oil and mozzarella marinated with salted rice malt. Oh, and the Bollinger is superb. I do love a 13+ hour flight in First!
The Hibiki 17 makes an appearance.
I decide to go on walk about on this 4 cabin aircraft. Most of the airplane is sleeping. I pause to peruse the Business class snack spread and I trigger the FA radar and I'm approached by a lovely younger crew member and offered snacks and drinks. She is not Japanese which is unusual on ex. USA routes, in my experience with JAL. I tell her I'm just browsing and looking around the airplane. We start to talking and she asks me where I am heading. I tell her I am on my way to Singapore and she confirms my suspicion that she is in fact Singaporean of Chinese heritage. Anyhow we have a nice chat about her home country and her work with JAL. She asks me if I have tried the foot massages for jet lag. No, I have not. She asks me to wait a moment and goes to the closet to fetch a piece of bamboo and a towel. I am instructed to stand on the bamboo and the stretching is good for your feet and therefore jet lag. OK, I'll have a go. This is a delightful young woman beaming with energy so I probably would have followed her anywhere. I can't say if it worked but I enjoyed her company immensely.
There are various, in my view, not to be missed experiences among different airline premium cabin offerings. For JAL one of those is Queen of Blue tea.
The color.
As we approach our destination I am asked if I have any unfinished business with the kitchen. I do like to tie up loose ends so I ask to have the dessert from the western meal and some coffee, please.
The tiramisu and ice cream are of fine quality.
The coffee presentation is always an event that I look forward to.
This is a long flight but still I am reluctant to embrace the end. As the cabin preparations are made to arrive both Wakiya and Tsutsumi take a moment to thank me for flying today and present me with a cute little JAL 777 model. I can't say I prefer this to the usual fine chocolate or macaroon but I suspect that those were not provisioned for whatever reason.
Stunning golden hour light as we make our way over Tokyo Bay.
Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line is visible as we line up for 34L.
It has to end, alas.
What does one do with 7 hours in Tokyo between flights? Visit the bonus section to find out!
Bonus : Click here displayhide
The window near the monorail station was offering this sunset that would seemingly not end.
The monorail into town, so easy from Haneda.
I'm a bonafide sucker for food fads and this was one that I stumbled across in the biosphere. The nearest outlet I could locate was in Tokyo station. Due to their closing time and propensity to run out of product that was my first stop.
In an effort to control the queue I am offered a time when I can come back to line up for the privilege of buying cookies.
I assumed my position at the appointed time. The cookies were up to all the hype.
My next, and final target, was a first time trip to Memory Lane (Piss Alley) in Shinjuku for yakitori.
Shinjuku station sees a fair amount of traffic ;)
Locating the alley was quite easy.
I made one pass through the smaller than expected alley and turned back.
Being a solo traveler has some perks as a spot for 1 was much easier to find. I sat at the first open seat I could find and was presented a menu. I requested the normal set.
A beer seemed like a good idea and a small salad was served as part of the "cover" charge.
The yakitori was fine. The atmosphere was unique and that enhanced the experience.
Walking the neighboring side streets to soak up the Tokyo vibe.
I was beginning to fade as I had now gone 2 nights with very little sleep so I headed back to the airport to rejuvenate in the lounge. Come back soon and join me for the trip down to Singapore, won't you?
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Verdict
Japan Airlines
8.8/10
Cabin8.5
Cabin crew9.0
Entertainment/wifi8.5
Meal/catering9.0
Air France Lounge
7.0/10
Comfort7.0
Meal/catering7.0
Entertainment/wifi7.0
Services7.0
New York - JFK
7.4/10
Efficiency7.0
Access8.0
Services7.0
Cleanliness7.5
Tokyo - HND
9.4/10
Efficiency9.5
Access9.5
Services9.0
Cleanliness9.5
Conclusion
The Ground Service: JAL offers the same disservice of many OW carriers. The lucky 4 people in First Class are in the same line to board with 50 other passengers.
The Lounge: It's an out station contract lounge. My question is where does Air France send the JFK La Premiere passengers?
The Cabin: It's tried and true. It's also extremely nice with a 4 / 8 load.
The Crew: I was genuinely sad to say goodbye. The kindness embedded in the service is so uniquely Japanese and a delight to receive.
The Food and Beverage: It's exquisite in quality, selection, and presentation. It's hard to fathom.
Overall: This is one of the more memorable experiences I've had on an airplane. I really felt so well taken care of and I can't quite imagine what could heighten the experience. JAL has some exceptional people staffing their airplanes and they are true connoisseurs in the food and beverage they present.
Thank you for reading and happy flying.
17 LIKESLIKE TO THANK THE AUTHORTHANKS ! FLIGHT-REPORT LIKED
Thanks for sharing this great report with us. A good cabin a wonderful crew and great catering and champagne : all you need to have a good time on board !
Great report yet again on one of the finest F products in the Sky. A quick question on Alaska Mileage plan redemption, how long in advance do you book these flights? They seems to be available either more than 300 days before departure or a week prior. Furthermore I tried ticketing those beyond 300 days before departure only to have Alaska tell me that JL doesn’t allow partner to redeem those seats despite them being legit.
Hello JW19 and thanks for reading and leaving a note.
"A quick question on Alaska Mileage plan redemption, how long in advance do you book these flights?" -Booked and ticketed on 12/31/17, so 13 days before departure...
"They seems to be available either more than 300 days before departure or a week prior." -I watch JL F space on Alaska quite frequently and I find no discernible pattern on availability but closer to departure makes sense. Thankfully Alaska reversed their 3 day rule really quickly this week. That would have been a significant devaluation.
"Furthermore I tried ticketing those beyond 300 days before departure only to have Alaska tell me that JL doesn’t allow partner to redeem those seats despite them being legit." -They definitely have issues ticketing things that show as available at times.
“I have a soft spot for Malaysia Airlines and wanted to try them again. SIN-KUL-NRT was available at the times I wanted so I booked it. Or so I thought.” - Would that have put you on their new A350? And were you planning to snatch an award J or F?
“I stopped into the AA check in desks and an extremely friendly AA agent verified that this is the case. She even left her post and walked across the terminal to speak with an AA supervisor, not on my request but on her own will, but I was not allowed to enter.” - She should be given something like a 300% raise
The lounge offering looks very.. meh for an F lounge :/
“There is an airplane there, I promise.” - What camera do you use? Really emphasises the length of the 77W I think..
“The smoke, to me, overpowers the sweet delicate flavor of the scallop as it did here.” - Common mistake, that. I could point a restaurant in London for you where they serve beautifully balanced smoked scallop which can make your taste buds dance with delight if you’re keen?
“This exceptional feast continued with a cheese course beautifully presented with grapes, quince paste, and marcona almonds.” - All those cheese slices look very, very young..
“To finsih it off I ask for the "assorted appitizers" plate that consists of dried fruits with grated radish, prosciutto with sesame oil and mozzarella marinated with salted rice malt.” - I thought that the appearance of plastic on a plate such as that may “cheapen” the experience.. but is that gelatine holding together the dried fruits? It’s translucent and dare I say adorably edible.
“I am instructed to stand on the bamboo and the stretching is good for your feet and therefore jet lag.” - The practice is called “Takefumi” in Japan. There lies a very interesting story behind the reason I learned of this practice..
For a 7-hour Tokyo connection I’d have gone to the nearest onsen to kill the jet lag. This is the point where I realise that jet lag’s acronym is JL, and you just got off JL..
Thanks again for the review. I look forward to the rest of the series. Cheers!
Greetings Razza_Pr and thank you as always for the thoughtful comments.
"Would that have put you on their new A350? And were you planning to snatch an award J or F?" -It would have been the A330 on KUL-NRT, so same J seat as A350, however there was some confusion with the AA telephone agent that made the booking. I didn't catch the mistake.
"Common mistake, that. I could point a restaurant in London for you where they serve beautifully balanced smoked scallop which can make your taste buds dance with delight if you’re keen?" -It is. As a backyard smoker I've done same. Do tell....
"All those cheese slices look very, very young.. " -It's not the most thoughtfully curated collection of cheese, I'll give you that.
"I thought that the appearance of plastic on a plate such as that may “cheapen” the experience.. but is that gelatine holding together the dried fruits? It’s translucent and dare I say adorably edible." -Unfortunately it was most likely a plating error by the crew.
"The practice is called “Takefumi” in Japan. There lies a very interesting story behind the reason I learned of this practice.." -Will this story grace the internet?
"For a 7-hour Tokyo connection I’d have gone to the nearest onsen to kill the jet lag." -Funny you mention that as 1K and I had the same layover and that was his plan. I'm not sure that appeals to me but I suppose I should give it a go some time.
Check out StreetXO in London, or Restaurant Pavillion in Zürich for the smoked scallops! Though I suppose that means dragging you out to Europe which I don't think will be the case anytime soon?
"Will this story grace the internet?" -Heh. I posted it on my Facebook account. It's one of those stories you prepare for when you're around the table with close friends after too much whiskey.. ahem.
"Funny you mention that as 1K and I had the same layover and that was his plan. I'm not sure that appeals to me but I suppose I should give it a go some time." -Ah, 1K has the right idea! I'm sure there's one not too far from NRT or HND.
Hi Christian, sorry for being tardy on reading your fantastic trip on JL. Sure looks like they ratchet it up out of JFK versus ORD, minus the ground service of course. Why is ground service in US so poor in first?. The meals on this flight look incredible.
Just a couple of comments:
I have a soft spot for Malaysia Airlines and wanted to try them again. SIN-KUL-NRT
-Looking forward to this adventure. Yesterday I booked SYD-KUL-NRT for 40K points on MH with KUL-NRT on the A350. Then I canceled SYD-SIN-NRT-ORD in First which I got with the old Star Alliance reduced fare. Crazy you may say? No doubt, except adding SQ 787-10, SQ new A380, and CX A350-1K in their place and flying CX back in first. It's all about new. You have 5 hours from right now to talk me out of it :)
Hi Mark, thanks for the note, it's nice to hear from you any time.
"Why is ground service in US so poor in first?" -I could write a treatise on this issue citing cultural and economic factors but I'll spare the readers. I really don't know.
"Looking forward to this adventure." -Oops. I sort of cocked this one up, but you know that from the series and the routing.
"Then I canceled SYD-SIN-NRT-ORD in First which I got with the old Star Alliance reduced fare." -You're crazy.
"Crazy you may say?" -Yes, indeed sir.
"No doubt..." -Good, we've established that.
"... except adding SQ 787-10, SQ new A380, and CX A350-1K in their place and flying CX back in first. " -Intrigued...tell me why?
"It's all about new." -I totally understand this has to be the way for a professional blogger. I don't fully understand the changes in the routing and going from Star to Oneworld flights with regards to the points currencies but I'm sure that will come out in the, now highly anticipated, flight reports/blog posts.
"So apparently more than one bottle on board?" -Must have been. And perhaps the others were not as much of a lush as yours truly.
"Kudos again on a really well done report." -Than you again for the kind words and the feedback. Happy flying.
-ok, here goes. It all started out as a trip to hang out in Australia. Couple days in Cains, Brisbane and Sydney. I get grief from people "did you see anything other than an airplane". (I'm sure you get the same) Me, yes but planes are more fun. Anyway, this trip meant to do that. Then, Singapore's 787-10, new A380, Malaysia A350 and Cathay A350-1K showed up. Too much to resist
KL 747 ORD-AMS QR Q-Suites CDG-DOH QR A380 FC DOH-SYD
Old trip SQ Old A380FC SYD-SIN (Still mad at myself for booking the wrong A380 when the new one was available) SQ B777 FC SIN-NRT NH B777 FC NRT-ORD
Or New
MH A330/A350 SYD-NRT BC (36K AA points!) SQ B787-10 BC / New A380 BC (FC W/L) KIX-HKG CX A350-1K BC RT HKG-TPE CX B777 FC HKG-ORD 40K more miles for this and all x-CX home are day flights. Plus I've been to Australia and still will spend a couple days in BNE and can avoid Sydney which is nice but ridiculously expensive. Haven't cancelled the FC on SQ yet so you have time :)
And thanks for the "professional" comment however I'm not so sure.
Hi Mark - This is why this points thing is so darn fun. You get to have these choices and play with all the permutations. I can do it all day (and do).
"Q B787-10 BC / New A380 BC (FC W/L) KIX-HKG" -KIX-SIN-HKG I assume?
"Now wouldn't you do this route?" -I totally get it now. I would be very tempted and probably would succumb to the seduction of the new and shiny airplanes, yes. I'd be hung up on giving up so much SQ and NH F but the excitement of the unknown would win the day. Good onya man.
Actually I'm throwing in a couple 20 minute A350 rides so its: KIX-SIN-KUL B787-10/A350 KUL-SIN-HKG A350/A380 If I remember correctly you flew down to SIN to take that original ride on the A350 to KUL as did I back a couple years ago. That 20 minute flight was so much fun!
This is why this points thing is so darn fun. You get to have these choices and play with all the permutations. I can do it all day (and do).
-How true, me too!
Here is the original plan I had. ORD-AMS-CDG-DOH-SYD-CNS-BNE-SYD-SIN-NRT-ORD then I found this from Australia to fly the new SQ787 plane: CNS-SYD-KUL-HKG-SIN-PER-SYD-SIN-NRT-ORD. KUL-HKG was Malaysia A330, then a sweet spot on the SQ chart HKG-SIN (A380) - PER (B787-10) is only 32,500 points!, PER-SYD VA A330 (33K EY points) and then the original SQ/NH FC back. But after looking at the route on a map the total 41,298 miles made me tired just thinking about it. (Not to mention the points!) Then CX A350-1K came along and the deal was sealed with MH A350 thrown in for a $65 Jetstar flight to Osaka. (AA charges 40K from Australia to Asia 2 AND Asia 1 so the A350 flight was no charge, if fact less as the taxes were less). Finally who can complain about 15 hours of CX FC? And I can get ANA anytime so while the SQ/ANA trip was perfection, this will be more fun! I hope ;)
Mark, you are a Jedi at this stuff. Is this Mark Hamill? Seriously, I'm not even aware of these routes and what equipment is offered on them. I have some work to do.
"Actually I'm throwing in a couple 20 minute A350 rides so its: KIX-SIN-KUL B787-10/A350 KUL-SIN-HKG A350/A380 If I remember correctly you flew down to SIN to take that original ride on the A350 to KUL as did I back a couple years ago. That 20 minute flight was so much fun!" - I see those tags are just free rides. Yes I did the A350 turn too. It was fun. Puzzling to the crew but fun!
" Finally who can complain about 15 hours of CX FC? And I can get ANA anytime so while the SQ/ANA trip was perfection, this will be more fun! I hope ;)" -No one ought to complain about such. This is an epic adventure. How many days are you allotting to this grand tour?
Yes this is an epic adventure which will last 12 days. Other than the bookend ocean crossings and the flight ti SYD all are day time flights so hopefully that will take some of the jet lag out of it. 37,644 miles, 16 flights, 353K points. Do or Do Not, there is no Try. :)!
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173 reviews
14 Comments
"A quick question on Alaska Mileage plan redemption, how long in advance do you book these flights?"
-Booked and ticketed on 12/31/17, so 13 days before departure...
"They seems to be available either more than 300 days before departure or a week prior."
-I watch JL F space on Alaska quite frequently and I find no discernible pattern on availability but closer to departure makes sense. Thankfully Alaska reversed their 3 day rule really quickly this week. That would have been a significant devaluation.
"Furthermore I tried ticketing those beyond 300 days before departure only to have Alaska tell me that JL doesn’t allow partner to redeem those seats despite them being legit."
-They definitely have issues ticketing things that show as available at times.
Thanks again and happy flying.
“I have a soft spot for Malaysia Airlines and wanted to try them again. SIN-KUL-NRT was available at the times I wanted so I booked it. Or so I thought.”
- Would that have put you on their new A350? And were you planning to snatch an award J or F?
“I stopped into the AA check in desks and an extremely friendly AA agent verified that this is the case. She even left her post and walked across the terminal to speak with an AA supervisor, not on my request but on her own will, but I was not allowed to enter.”
- She should be given something like a 300% raise
The lounge offering looks very.. meh for an F lounge :/
“There is an airplane there, I promise.”
- What camera do you use? Really emphasises the length of the 77W I think..
“The smoke, to me, overpowers the sweet delicate flavor of the scallop as it did here.”
- Common mistake, that. I could point a restaurant in London for you where they serve beautifully balanced smoked scallop which can make your taste buds dance with delight if you’re keen?
“This exceptional feast continued with a cheese course beautifully presented with grapes, quince paste, and marcona almonds.”
- All those cheese slices look very, very young..
“To finsih it off I ask for the "assorted appitizers" plate that consists of dried fruits with grated radish, prosciutto with sesame oil and mozzarella marinated with salted rice malt.”
- I thought that the appearance of plastic on a plate such as that may “cheapen” the experience.. but is that gelatine holding together the dried fruits? It’s translucent and dare I say adorably edible.
“I am instructed to stand on the bamboo and the stretching is good for your feet and therefore jet lag.”
- The practice is called “Takefumi” in Japan. There lies a very interesting story behind the reason I learned of this practice..
For a 7-hour Tokyo connection I’d have gone to the nearest onsen to kill the jet lag. This is the point where I realise that jet lag’s acronym is JL, and you just got off JL..
Thanks again for the review. I look forward to the rest of the series. Cheers!
"Would that have put you on their new A350? And were you planning to snatch an award J or F?"
-It would have been the A330 on KUL-NRT, so same J seat as A350, however there was some confusion with the AA telephone agent that made the booking. I didn't catch the mistake.
"Common mistake, that. I could point a restaurant in London for you where they serve beautifully balanced smoked scallop which can make your taste buds dance with delight if you’re keen?"
-It is. As a backyard smoker I've done same. Do tell....
"All those cheese slices look very, very young.. "
-It's not the most thoughtfully curated collection of cheese, I'll give you that.
"I thought that the appearance of plastic on a plate such as that may “cheapen” the experience.. but is that gelatine holding together the dried fruits? It’s translucent and dare I say adorably edible."
-Unfortunately it was most likely a plating error by the crew.
"The practice is called “Takefumi” in Japan. There lies a very interesting story behind the reason I learned of this practice.."
-Will this story grace the internet?
"For a 7-hour Tokyo connection I’d have gone to the nearest onsen to kill the jet lag."
-Funny you mention that as 1K and I had the same layover and that was his plan. I'm not sure that appeals to me but I suppose I should give it a go some time.
Take care Razza and happy flying.
Check out StreetXO in London, or Restaurant Pavillion in Zürich for the smoked scallops! Though I suppose that means dragging you out to Europe which I don't think will be the case anytime soon?
"Will this story grace the internet?"
-Heh. I posted it on my Facebook account. It's one of those stories you prepare for when you're around the table with close friends after too much whiskey.. ahem.
"Funny you mention that as 1K and I had the same layover and that was his plan. I'm not sure that appeals to me but I suppose I should give it a go some time."
-Ah, 1K has the right idea! I'm sure there's one not too far from NRT or HND.
Have a great weekend!
Just a couple of comments:
-Looking forward to this adventure. Yesterday I booked SYD-KUL-NRT for 40K points on MH with KUL-NRT on the A350. Then I canceled SYD-SIN-NRT-ORD in First which I got with the old Star Alliance reduced fare. Crazy you may say? No doubt, except adding SQ 787-10, SQ new A380, and CX A350-1K in their place and flying CX back in first. It's all about new. You have 5 hours from right now to talk me out of it :)
-Understatement
-So apparently more than one bottle on board?
Kudos again on a really well done report.
"Why is ground service in US so poor in first?"
-I could write a treatise on this issue citing cultural and economic factors but I'll spare the readers. I really don't know.
"Looking forward to this adventure."
-Oops. I sort of cocked this one up, but you know that from the series and the routing.
"Then I canceled SYD-SIN-NRT-ORD in First which I got with the old Star Alliance reduced fare."
-You're crazy.
"Crazy you may say?"
-Yes, indeed sir.
"No doubt..."
-Good, we've established that.
"... except adding SQ 787-10, SQ new A380, and CX A350-1K in their place and flying CX back in first. "
-Intrigued...tell me why?
"It's all about new."
-I totally understand this has to be the way for a professional blogger. I don't fully understand the changes in the routing and going from Star to Oneworld flights with regards to the points currencies but I'm sure that will come out in the, now highly anticipated, flight reports/blog posts.
"So apparently more than one bottle on board?"
-Must have been. And perhaps the others were not as much of a lush as yours truly.
"Kudos again on a really well done report."
-Than you again for the kind words and the feedback. Happy flying.
-ok, here goes.
It all started out as a trip to hang out in Australia. Couple days in Cains, Brisbane and Sydney. I get grief from people "did you see anything other than an airplane". (I'm sure you get the same) Me, yes but planes are more fun. Anyway, this trip meant to do that. Then, Singapore's 787-10, new A380, Malaysia A350 and Cathay A350-1K showed up. Too much to resist
KL 747 ORD-AMS
QR Q-Suites CDG-DOH
QR A380 FC DOH-SYD
Old trip
SQ Old A380FC SYD-SIN (Still mad at myself for booking the wrong A380 when the new one was available)
SQ B777 FC SIN-NRT
NH B777 FC NRT-ORD
Or New
MH A330/A350 SYD-NRT BC (36K AA points!)
SQ B787-10 BC / New A380 BC (FC W/L) KIX-HKG
CX A350-1K BC RT HKG-TPE
CX B777 FC HKG-ORD
40K more miles for this and all x-CX home are day flights. Plus I've been to Australia and still will spend a couple days in BNE and can avoid Sydney which is nice but ridiculously expensive. Haven't cancelled the FC on SQ yet so you have time :)
And thanks for the "professional" comment however I'm not so sure.
Now wouldn't you do this route?
"Q B787-10 BC / New A380 BC (FC W/L) KIX-HKG"
-KIX-SIN-HKG I assume?
"Now wouldn't you do this route?"
-I totally get it now. I would be very tempted and probably would succumb to the seduction of the new and shiny airplanes, yes. I'd be hung up on giving up so much SQ and NH F but the excitement of the unknown would win the day. Good onya man.
This looks like really happy flying, Mark.
Actually I'm throwing in a couple 20 minute A350 rides so its:
KIX-SIN-KUL B787-10/A350
KUL-SIN-HKG A350/A380
If I remember correctly you flew down to SIN to take that original ride on the A350 to KUL as did I back a couple years ago. That 20 minute flight was so much fun!
-How true, me too!
Here is the original plan I had.
ORD-AMS-CDG-DOH-SYD-CNS-BNE-SYD-SIN-NRT-ORD
then I found this from Australia to fly the new SQ787 plane:
CNS-SYD-KUL-HKG-SIN-PER-SYD-SIN-NRT-ORD. KUL-HKG was Malaysia A330, then a sweet spot on the SQ chart HKG-SIN (A380) - PER (B787-10) is only 32,500 points!, PER-SYD VA A330 (33K EY points) and then the original SQ/NH FC back. But after looking at the route on a map the total 41,298 miles made me tired just thinking about it. (Not to mention the points!)
Then CX A350-1K came along and the deal was sealed with MH A350 thrown in for a $65 Jetstar flight to Osaka. (AA charges 40K from Australia to Asia 2 AND Asia 1 so the A350 flight was no charge, if fact less as the taxes were less). Finally who can complain about 15 hours of CX FC? And I can get ANA anytime so while the SQ/ANA trip was perfection, this will be more fun! I hope ;)
"Actually I'm throwing in a couple 20 minute A350 rides so its:
KIX-SIN-KUL B787-10/A350
KUL-SIN-HKG A350/A380
If I remember correctly you flew down to SIN to take that original ride on the A350 to KUL as did I back a couple years ago. That 20 minute flight was so much fun!"
- I see those tags are just free rides. Yes I did the A350 turn too. It was fun. Puzzling to the crew but fun!
" Finally who can complain about 15 hours of CX FC? And I can get ANA anytime so while the SQ/ANA trip was perfection, this will be more fun! I hope ;)"
-No one ought to complain about such. This is an epic adventure. How many days are you allotting to this grand tour?
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