Trip Reports - a Lit.tle sPRinG.Ly JoUrney (BUDding KiwiS Can zig-ZAG around Europe)

Index to my trip reports

If you like this report, you may be interested in some of my other trip reports.

AKL-YYZ with NZ/AC in F & C (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=182293) - my first trip report

Europe to Iceland & return on Icelandair (FI) (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=312261) - somewhere different

Some FTers DO the Inaugural Worlds Longest Flight SIN-EWR vv 28 June 2004 (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=333373) - 2 long flights back to back

7 Crazy Days (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=388543) - includes an almost inaugural flight

Champagne and figure eights on ice (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=395111 ) - Antarctica flightseeing

a Lit.tle sPRinG.Ly JoUrney (BUDding KiwiS Can zig-ZAG around Europe) (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=413562) - mostly central and eastern Europe

Big DO DOs - or a Kiwi Flyer's Month of Madness (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=483205) - lots of flights

Another Manic Month for Kiwi (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=506310) - again lots of flights

Mini Tour of NZ (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=538043) - over 100 domestic flights in New Zealand covering all domestic routes (ongoing)

Across the Globe in 5 Continents (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=546261) - criss-crossing the globe

Auckland to National Park by Train (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=587740 ) - train in New Zealand's North Island

Across the Globe in 5 Continents Again (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=603485) - criss-crossing the globe, but this time mainly on One World

A Warm Embrace of the Tropics (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=628691) - short trips to the tropical South Pacific

Singapore (SQ) new first and business class, plus a medley of 12 F & C SQ flights (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=645907) - name says it all really

Across the Globe in 4 Continents (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=674391) - around the world on star alliance, including some unusual flights

Queensland And Northern Territory Aerial Sampler (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=687399) - a sampling of Qantas flights, domestic and international, in economy and business (ongoing)

Around the World in Under 60 Hours (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=692401) - around the world in a weekend

The Heat is On - another longhaul economy trip in under 60 hours (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=699422) - what a contrast, Asia and Qantas' new first class lounges

Fast on the ground and in the air - it must be Shanghai (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=703184) – a flying visit to Shanghai + Maglev

It's a Fine Line Between Pleasure & Pain: 4 wacky weeks 2 RTW C, inaugural longhaul Y (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=738003) – mostly One World

Back and forth across the Pacific on a variety of airlines in a selection of classes (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=763196) - 16 crossings of the Pacific plus some other related flights

It isn't every day that you witness a hijacking attempt + NZ's forgotten 4th island (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=788580) - a visit to Chatham Islands coincides with New Zealand's first hijacking attempt

There and back - first day Air NZ flies to Coolangatta (Gold Coast) (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=806680)

A Run Around (part of) The Axis of Evil: A Perfect *A RTW in C? (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=809334) - Axis of Evil 0 US Immigration 1 :(

Wellington to Auckland by train (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=845092) - self-explanatory title

A mad couple of days flying, including domestic international flights (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=847659) - a double longhaul inaugural, domestic international shuttle and domestic leg of an international flight

Regional C *A RTW & (hopefully) finishing flying every route (100+) for an airline (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=864638) - featuring new QF First on A380 special flight, "you have to get off now", and 105th different current route with NZ

One World Revolutions - Around Mostly the Southern Hemisphere (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=893299) - mostly Southern Hemisphere and mostly on One World on a mix of products

Cris-cros the Med & the Globe on Emirates, Qantas & Star Alliance in mix of F/C/Y+/Y (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=929302) – starting with EK First on A380 and ending with Qantas economy, with a lot of travel mostly on *A in between

An FTer flies to a Do (or Why take the nonstop when you can fly 10 flights instead?) (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=954595) - combining an FT Do with an aerial tour of northern Queensland

The Ultimate Qantas Flight (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=963562) - short report on the ultimate flight

Premium Flying Across the Ditch (Between New Zealand and Australia) (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=994896) - experiencing the forward cabins on Trans-Tasman flights (ongoing)

5 Boeings Straight to the Airbus Do - FTer feasts in first, business & economy (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=995703) - my journey to & from the *A / Airbus Mega Do (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=975877)



_______________________________________

PLANNING

Each Easter I try to get away to somewhere different. The last couple of years I visited Scandanavia. For 2005, with Easter being very early, it was time for this Kiwi to visit somewhere a little warmer, so Eastern Europe it is.

Late in 2004 it was time to put my FT acquired knowledge to the test and build a RTW itinerary that allowed me to visit some new places, grab a decent chunk of miles (regular and promotional) and hopefully also use some upgrade certificates I had that were expiring.

With the help of the *A RTW Mileage Calculator tool (http://www.staralliance.com/star_alliance/star/content/RTWMC.html) and some spreadsheets, planning my first true RTW is relatively easy. However a couple of mistakes in the tool, new *A airlines making more convenient flights available, the usual schedule changes; all conspire to take some time to resolve. After about a month of toing and froing I have the RTW sorted - a CRTWSTAR2 for the few interested in those details.

As a New Zealander I am very fortunate to have visa free travel to most countries, however China is not one of them. The passport needs to be sent to the embassy in Wellington, and will take approx 1 week to issue the visa. This is my first minor hassle - due to a very hectic schedule the earliest I can send passport away is early March, not much more than a week before I leave. Fingers crossed there are no problems! Fortunately there weren't, and passport arrived complete with China visa a couple of days before I leave.

GETTING STARTED

In the week before departure one issue had been bothering me. There are a couple of days where I have multiple short connections. Will my checked bags make it? After an unfortunate incident a few years ago when I travelled from place to place for 2 weeks without luggage, I had visions of bags being left behind and taking the rest of my trip before catching up. So I resolved to pack even lighter than normal and try to take as carry-ons a couple of bags that really are a little heavy and large for carry-ons for the many small plane flights I have this trip. Hopefully I get some slack as business class, *G status passenger.

This was quite a challenge as the long range weather forecasts for the various places I would visit ranged from snow and well below freezing, to a mild and damp spring, to the steamy heat of the tropics. We shall see how successful or otherwise I will be.

A couple of days before departure I got a call from Air NZ. I took the call, excited that it may be the upgrades clearing. But alas, it was regarding another matter entirely. After that was discussed I enquired about the upgrades - they will be checked later today. NZ clears upgrades for elite members in advance based on availability, status, whether upgrade is economy->business or business->first, and by how the upgrade is being supported (voucher, miles confirmed upgrade or miles standby upgrade which costs less). In my case the standard review is 3 days out. So the next day I get the happy news that the first and longest part of the trip, AKL-LHR (over 24 hours!) will be in first. Woohoo!

As usual for me, didnt pack until late the night before, and then didnt sleep properly. Had I arranged everything okay? Excitement over the trip, etc. The full day at work with usual last minute tasks kept me busy, until finally it was time to leave for AKL airport.

What happened to the title? Corrupt thread?

i can't wait for the full trip report!!!!

What happened to the title? Corrupt thread?

I'm guessing the intention was to capitalise PRG, LJU, BUD, KSC and ZAG? :)

What happened to the title? Corrupt thread?

Aren't there city codes hidden in there?

PRG - Prague

LJU - Ljubljana

BUD - Budapest

KSC - Kosice

ZAG - Zagreb

Clever, I thought ^

Yes city codes in the title.

Will post next section soon.

A LONG DAY

After a very busy day at work I headed off to AKL airport. Despite being after rush hour traffic was heavy and the trip took 50 minutes. As is usual for flights to US there was a security check of my bags before I get to the NZ premier check-in facility. That didnt take long - no queue as I had turned up rather early. Business, first and *Gold passengers can use a dedicated check-in facility at AKL for international flights. Sure beats the big queues at the main counters.

AKL-LHR on Air NZ by 744

I was pleased my upgrades had cleared. Not only would the flight be much more comfortable, but as Air NZ is doing away with First in June 2005, it will likely be my last chance to experience F on NZ.

I collected the BP for AKL-LHR and LHR-AMS but the onward flight was not yet opened so I would need to check-in at transit somewhere. For some odd reason my frequent flyer number wasnt already loaded so I got that added, but they were unable to add it for LHR-AMS. Quickly through immigration (bypasses the main queues) and security and off to the lounge. No stop at duty free this time as I really didnt want to be lugging too much more in my travels.

Had a refreshing shower and changed into something comfortable for the long flights ahead of me, quickly followed by a few drinks. Unless I am mistaken there has been a decline in quality and number of drink options at NZ international lounge in the past few months. I was disappointed there are no Macs Ales once again.

Eventually it is time to board. We make our way to the end of the pier, again security screening as with all US flights. Hopefully once the arrival/departure segregation is completed we wont have this extra rescreening.

Settle in to the first seat and have a pre-departure champagne and nibbles. There is a small delay due to a passenger originally scheduled for this flight changing to an earlier one. Once this is tracked down we push back. The airport is settling down for the night at this stage so very little activity. I had noticed on the departure boards that a Polynesian Airlines flight was delayed some hours and would be arriving and turning around in the small hours of the night - at a time when normally there are no arrivals or departures. I feel sorry for the pax and crew, as well as ground staff, in those situations.

Shortly after takeoff to the southwest we turn and fly over the city. It looked beautiful - lots of lights and some small low clouds were glowing in the reflected light. It was not long before we are in darkness over the ocean, as we would be for much of the long leg to LAX.

I nibbled at dinner but didnt really feel like eating, which is a shame as Air NZ has some fantastic food and great drinks. A fellow pax was incredulous when told how long the meal service would take (he wanted to get a long sleep) but I noticed he was still going strong when I went to sleep.

I watched a movie and then had a long sleep. I always seem to struggle with the best time to sleep on this long flight. After a long day it is easy to sleep long on the AKL-LAX leg, but this means not much sleep on the LAX-LHR leg which is then followed by most of the daylight hours, making me very tired. So I try to sleep only a little bit on the first leg, in order to sleep some more on the second and being reasonable fresh on arrival in Europe. Unfortunately I fail miserably.

The seat was showing signs of being near the end of its life - the small shelf between seats was loose, as was the consol, and the headphone socket was loose with a poor connection so that sound was intermittent. Its a good thing that the a/c will be refurbished soon.

We have a very nice breakfast about an hour and a half out from LAX. The fruit smoothie went down particularly well. For once we fly over the city before landing from the east, the only previous times I can recall that is on SQ and UA but never on NZ (unless my memory fails!).

When we pull up at the gate, a customs officer enters and announces over the PA that there are over 600 people in the immigration queue with an estimated 1 hour + delay. Not surprisingly, lots of groans.

Due to US regulatuions, pax continuing on to LHR on the same plane must clear immigration at a secure transit lounge. First and business pax (but not elites travelling in economy) are allowed to go landside and then back airside to visit the NZ lounge. I have done this before and taken near 2 hours to make the lounge (arriving just 5 minutes before need to board) - this with queues of maybe 100. Not wanting the hassle of long queues and the prospect of a missed flight so early in the trip, I reluctantly give up on the idea of visiting the lounge and resign myself to the transit area. I was surprised at the high proportion of pax continuing on to LHR. Only about 90 minutes were spent in the transit lounge, and it would have been much less for economy passengers seated in the back rows. Transit passengers boarded before those departing from LAX, and so there was plenty of time to enjoy another pre-departure drink.

As mentioned earlier, I did not sleep much on this flight. So I watched several movies, both on the main channels and the personal DVD. Thinking about it, the FAs on both legs neglected to mention the personal DVD which they had always done on my few previous NZ flights in F (and also the A320 flights in business). Of course this option is mentioned in the premier entertainment guide, but its not the same as being personally explained to you. Never mind. This too will be different soon, as part of the NZ refurbishment is to introduce AVOD in all classes - no more big screen down the back!

Eventually we arrive in LHR, some 24 hours after leaving Auckland. I make the long walk from NZ's gate at the end to the connection centre, where I was fortunate to catch a bus with no wait. However, it soon turned to despair as I catch sight of the huge queues for security - not only all the zigzags fill but stretching around the corner and into the main corridor :( I see only 3 machines are manned, obviously the reason for the huge delays. Oh well - lucky my connection isnt too tight. After 30 minutes or so I am through and make my way to the BMI counter to get my FFP number entered in the system, and try to get onward BP from AMS. No luck on the BP.

A LONG DAY (continued)

LHR-AMS on British Midland by A319

By the time I made the long walk to the relevant gate area (and through yet another security check) it was almost time to board. But first I make a quick visit to the BD lounge as I had not been to the LHR international lounge before. It is nice enough but IMHO not as good as AKL - no computers, showers, snacks limited to biscuits and crisps and limited drink selection. Oh yeah, also an open smoking section (as do many european lounges it seems).

We have a long taxi (as did the NZ flight on arrival), during which I see the TG *A painted 747 (and of course many other planes of various airlines from around the world). The a/c was quite empty. Perhaps this was a consequence of a lengthy delay to the earlier flight to AMS which ended up departing just 10 minutes before my flight.

So the FAs provided a very good service despite the short flight time of approx 30 minutes. No view at all due to low cloud all the way. In fact we only saw the runway at AMS mere seconds before landing. A nice snack was served and I had a couple of badly needed coffees.

At AMS the passport check and security were painless and in just a few minutes I had the next BP issued at transit desk and made my way to the service lounge.

AMS-CPH on SAS by MD80

Spend a short while in the lounge, reading and collecting my thoughts. I am relieved that the long 36 hours of travel is nearing an end. Take a walk around airside to stretch my legs once more. The flight is delayed - 30 minutes according to the departure board. But I dont bother heading back to the lounge and instead just keep on walking, which feels good. The a/c arrives not long before the scheduled departure time so I make my way to the gate, by which time boarding has commenced. This sure is a rapid turnaround - highly efficient by all the staff involved for what seems to be fairly full flights (both inbound and outbound as you'd expect at this lat afternoon hour). We end up pushing back just 15 minutes behind schedule with safety check completed as we commence taxi. And what a long taxi it is too. After some 15 minutes I begin to wonder if we are driving to Denmark instead of flying!

Eventually we take off and into the murk. This is another very short flight, but the FA still finds time to serve a nice snack (salad, roll, dessert and drinks).

We arrive to a frosty CPH and get a bus gate. Despite this, I am through the airport and checked in at Hilton CPH airport within 15 minutes.

Great stuff ^ But a terriffically long trip (that would have to be one of the longest possible!)

Great report so far ! ^ ^
Hope you got some help from my trip reports of travels around Eastern Europe.

Would be very nice if you could post the itinerary, just to get a clue of what we're impatiently waiting for... :D

There are some clues in the title ;)

Actually I could have gone LHR-AMS-HAM-CPH (http://gc.kls2.com/cgi-bin/gc?PATH=LHR-AMS-CPH%2CLHR-AMS-HAM-CPH&RANGE=&PATH-COLOR=&PATH-UNITS=mi&SPEED-GROUND=&SPEED-UNITS=kts&RANGE-STYLE=best&RANGE-COLOR=&MAP-STYLE=) for only a few extra miles (official difference is much less than GCM shows). But would have arrived a few hours later and with an early start the next day I figured I would need the sleep more!

Apologies for the short delay for the next part. I didnt think I would have time earlier, but now in between flights so here goes. Apologies in advance for any odd spelling - struggling a little bit with the keys in different places. This is where it is a disadvantage to be touch typist.

Now resuming from CPH.

LITHUANIA

I got a good room overlooking the airport which was still a bustle of activity. Thought about heading into town on the train but decided to only stay up for a nightcap.

Get up early next morning as had booked the early flight so as to maximise my limited time on the ground. This was to be repeated many times throughout the trip - wherever possible I would take early or late flights.

The hotel lounge wasnt open so headed to check-in and grab a coffee in SK's lounge, which I knew to be a good one from previous travels. Lots of people travelling with skis and other winter sporting equipment - I guess making the most of the spring conditions before the snows melt too much.

CPH-VNO on SAS by Q400

I was looking forward to this flight. Not only is it a chance to fly the Dash 8 Q400, which NZ will be replacing their Saab's on the busy regional flights, but it is also my first time to the Baltics and at last a chance to be doing stuff on the ground rather than in the plane and at airports.

Another bus gate - something I am now starting to get used to! The overhead bins are quite small and so my bags go into the locker. I am not tall but nonetheless banged my head on door getting into the a/c and again on the overhead bins getting in and out of my window seat (oops - not awake properly :o ). The underside of the bins has quite a slope and so taller pax would be more comfortable in the aisle seat. (As an aside there must be reasonable differences in the fitout requested by the airlines, as I noticed in a later Q400 flight, on a different airline, the underside of the bins was flat.) The seat itself was quite comfortable.

We had a fast taxi, although I suppose that sitting low to the ground makes the speed seem higher than it really is. The flight was about 1 1-2 hours, with a route over southern Sweden, across the Baltic sea and then inland to Vilnius. In contrast to further west, Lithuania was still in the grip of late winter. So on approach to VNO there were some good views of snowy city. Quite by chance I had managed to get a seat on the right side for the view - A side.

A very nice breakfast was served, and of course plenty of coffee to get me going for the day.

VNO is a fairly small airport with only 1 airbridge. So it was another bus gate. I wrapped up as much as I could, as the -6C temperature outside is around 20C colder than I am used to!

The city isnt far from the airport and it wasnt long before I was checked in at the Scandic (nice easter special, and as many FTers know for HHonors elites there are food/drink vouchers and also great free breakfasts included). Vilnius Neringa Scandic also includes free airport transfers, so I figure at the special rate the room was in fact free. After a nice brunch with zvezda (thanks for all your help ^ ), well just coffee for me, it was time to hit the town.

Vilnius old town is a curious mix of typical old european architecture with some more stark modern buildings from the russian occupation era. However the compact old town is very well preserved for the most part. Walk around and see the cathedral, main street in old town and some back alleys too, along the riverside where the wind is whipping the light snowfall into my face, a Zappa memorial of all things and more besides.

... to be continued ...

CZECH REPUBLIC

Enough time for another walk around before heading out to the airport. There are some quite nice statues/sculptures in some odd places. At check-in I can only get BPs as far as WAW, possibly due to simple computer system? Later in WAW about half the passengers decamped to transfer desk to get another BP. The BP are printed on the old computer paper you used to get a decade (or more!) ago with holes down the side.

VNO-WAW on LOT by Embraer 170

After getting the BP for the first leg I was stuck at passport control for about 15 minutes, due to the computer being down. The officer tried neighbouring booth that was unused, tried to use the supervisor´s log in and neither worked. Eventually the system came back up and okay to get passport checked and through to the small airside section. Up a spiral staircase to the small but okay lounge. Soon enough it is time to hop on the bus out to the a/c.

It is another day and yet another airline and another aircraft type. This was not deliberate but just the way it worked out. When I booked the a/c was due to be an ATR-72 so there has been an a/c change, and it is good.

Wow a much bigger seat and more legroom. Bins decent size so no problems stowing my luggage there. We flew directly over Vilnius after take-off, and then southwest across the snowy plains of Lithuania and Poland.

Again a nice snack on this short flight. Yup, you guessed it another bus gate at WAW. After surviving the stampede at transit desk, getting boarding pass for next leg and quick passport and security check, I explore the airport. A reasonable number of shops and waiting areas. But I head for the LO lounge where I have a refreshing coffee. There are plenty of alcoholic drinks on offer, but I'll pass this time. As with many of the european lounges (SK at CPH, LH at MUC and OS at VIE being the main exceptions so far), the food is rather limited - generally just biscuits and crisps. I guess it shows their priorities are straight!

WAW-PRG on Euro LOT by ATR42

Apologies for the delay. Its been a very busy day.

So its now time to leave the lounge and through security to the bus gate. The airport at WAW is currently undergoing a major expansion. I presume this is for international, but the domestic terminal is rather small so it could be domestic I suppose. Anway we bus out to the plane. There, one of my bags is taken into the hold for delivery by the aircraft when we arrive in PRG. I thought the bag would have fit, but who am I to argue?

This system of delivery at aircraft is a new one to me, but one I would become very familiar with on this trip. For the small aircraft, all but the smallest carry-ons are tagged to be placed in the hold. In some cases checked luggage is also tagged this way. At the foot of the stairs a baggage trolley is used to collect the tagged bags. These are loaded into the hold before take-off. On arrival we wait a few minutes in the plane while bags are unloaded onto trolley, to be collected before heading onto the bus or across the tarmac as applicable. It is a very good system if you have small/medium sized bags as no waiting around luggage belts and almost no chance bags miss the flight. However, if you dont have bags then it would add maybe 5 minutes to the deplaning process.

As the ATR boards from the rear, business class is also at the rear. I suppose this is so business class can deplane first, just like other planes with stairs at the front. However I dont quite see the point when bus gates are being used. Its not as if can exit any quicker than others when all passengers have to use the same bus.

Again a nice snack. As with most of these short flights there is a roll, salad, meat of some kind, sometimes piece of cheese, desert and drinks. Its quite good for such short flights (most of the intra europe flights on this trip are about an hour), and reminds me of the time when Air NZ used to serve meals and alcohol on the short domestic flights - gone with the introduction of Express model some years ago.

I had arranged a ride into Prague with the Hilton, which I was staying at after seeing some great reviews on FT. In fact in most places I had extravagantly pre-arranged transport, due to my limited time I fully intend making the most of it and not waste time on public transport schedules. I was lucky enough to get a fantastic suite with fresh fruit and canapes waiting for my arrival, as well as a nice wine. The food was replenished daily which was nice.

I wont bore the readers with all the details of what I got up to in Prague as this city has featured in many trip reports and more general TravelBuzz posrs. However, I will mention a couple of things. I arrived at the astronomical clock just before its hourly performance. It amused me to see the skeleton ringing the bell will townspeople looked on from above. After crossing Karluv Most (Charles Bridge) I climbed the 208 stairs to Prague Castle. It seems most tourists take the tram, but I enjoyed the exercise and fine views.

Next up, "the Slovs".

Map of intra-europe flights so far (http://gc.kls2.com/cgi-bin/gc?PATH=LHR-AMS-CPH-VNO-WAW-PRG%0D%0A&RANGE=&PATH-COLOR=red&PATH-UNITS=mi&SPEED-GROUND=&SPEED-UNITS=kts&RANGE-STYLE=best&RANGE-COLOR=navy&MAP-STYLE=)

SLOVENIA

PRG-MUC by Augsburg Airways on Dash 8 Q300

Having completed some relatively speaking long intra-europe flights in the north, it was time for some very short flights in the warmer south-east, where spring had definitely arrived.

But, first the obligatory crazy taxi ride. For me it seems almost every trip there is one crazy taxi driver. I have had near accidents in many places around the world - Istanbul, Seoul, Athens, Toronto - I could go on. So it was no big surprise to me to yet again get a crazy driver. Despite my assurances I had plenty of time he proceeded to take several side streets to avoid busy intersections (I was travelling at the start of rush hour). Then it happened. Coming from a side street onto a main arterial road with 2 lanes of heavy traffic both ways moving at speed. All of a sudden he gunned the Skoda and took off in the narrowest of gaps imiginable. My life started to flash before my eyes and I braced for the inevitable crash. But it never happened. Somehow we got through including the hard left turn into our lane without even a tooted horn. I hope that having had the obligatory crazy taxi ride that there will be no more this trip.

The airport is very busy but check-in is quick and I am soon at the lounge. Heading through security I am beeped for the first time this trip. Of course its okay - seems the sensitivity was set too high as everybody was beeped. Once again it is a bus gate.

Bags are too small for the bins, but as the flight is fairly empty I can place in an empty row behind me. Compared with the other aircraft on this trip the seat is tighter width-wise, with the tray being between the seats on the exit row, whereas other aircraft have the trays on both sides of the pair of seats leaving an ordinary armrest in between. There is plenty of legroom, but the first row is in fact rear-facing, so if pax in both rows 1 & 2 on this right side of the a/c knees and feet may need careful placing.

I decline the offered snack having eaten at the hotel, but grab another coffee, just to make sure I am properly awake.

The short flight is mostly in cloud and we soon land in Munich. As we taxi to the bus gate we pass an Air Canada aircraft in a colour scheme I have not seen before. I am sure it is meant to be some majestic bird, but to me it appeared a garish (green and orange), demented pigeon in full flight. Perhaps someone can explain to me what it is supposed to be?

The transfer to SEN lounge is very simple in the fairly new terminal, which is highly efficient and modern looking. I dont have long here before on to the next flight. So far all my connections have worked out very well.

MUC-LJU by Adria Airways on CRJ200

I have a small delay at the bus gate as the agent spends some minutes tapping away on her computer - yes okay you dont need a visa for Slovenia (I knew that, unless this had changed in the last couple of weeks).

I was asked to put one of my bags in the hold, which seems odd as with only a mere 5 pax on the aircraft there sure is plenty of room on board. Oh well never mind.

The short hop takes us across the Bavarian and Julian Alps. Luckily for me the clouds clear (mostly) to reveal fine views.

LJU is a small airport so no need for a bus. Just walk across the tarmac and within a couple of minutes on my way across the countryside to the city.

I had read that Ljubljana is like a smaller, less touristed Prague - and from my perspective thats certainly true. I found the locals far more friendly and really enjoyed my time here. Its a shame I couldnt spend longer there.

But I am getting ahead of myself. The old town in the centre beside the green coloured Ljubljanica River is quite compact, with most locals walking or on bicycles. The riverside cafes are open-air and were a great place to while away some time talking and drinking. Fortunately it was reasonably warm, and with the sun and drink, together with not enough sleep so far in the trip, and I found myself almost drifting off to sleep. So better get walking again to waken up. Climb the small hill to Ljubljana Castle - first up a narrow alley way between nice old houses and then through a forest which had some spring wildflowers blooming. I took a different way back down, and found both ways needed good footwear (rather steep). There were even more signs of spring, with an active flower market open and many colourful flowers in planters on balconies as well as lining the streets.

The local women managed spectacularly to walk on some very high heels across the cobbled streets of the old town. Not once did I see a stiletto catch on the cobbles.

The triple bridge was unusual but rather bland. I thought the Dragon bridge was more interested with its quartet of winged dragons guarding the bridge. The Cathedral of St Nicholas has some nice friezes and an usual door decorations.

SLOVAKIA

Despite the way it looks I swear I wasnt visiting Slovenia and Slovakia based on their similar names. It just worked out that way.

Well if Slovenia is the richest Balkan state very much looking to western europe for trade and promoting its connection to the mediterranean (the sunny side of the alps), then Slovakia is a poorer country showing signs of its chequered history and with a more "eastern" feel.

LJU-VIE by Tyrolean (branded as Austrian Arrows) on Dash 8 Q400

I had another early morning flight out. At the hotel I noticed an Adria Air timetable and so perused this at breakfast. Eek the OS codeshare flight to Vienna is scheduled a full hour earlier than the time on my ticket and itinerary. What's more there are no other flights for half a day, with no telling the consequences for onward sectors. Getting no answer on the phone, I race to check out and off to the airport. On the way I mull over what I might say to try to plead my case to be allowed on the plane despite arriving at the small airport a mere few minutes before departure. Imagine my relief when I arrive and see two flights on the departure board, an hour apart. The check-in agent was no doubt relieved I didnt jump the counter and hug her at seeing this!

Boarding was quite early for this flight so not long in the lounge. Again bags into the hold. The aircraft is painted in the old Tyrolean colours, not yet having the Austrian Arrows livery applied, although the interior has already been updated. The Tyrolean colour scheme does look a bit like a 70s flash back so I like the Arrows colours better.

I notice the fit out differs a little from the SAS Q400. While we are on the tarmac I see a military plane of some sorts on the ground and also a military helicopter flying across the field at very low altitude.

The crew are in no hurry for us to depart, and it soon becomes apparent why - the captain announces a short flight time of just over 1/2 an hour. During the flight both snack and drinks are offered - I take just a coffee, and the FA even has time to go through for extra bread rolls and second round of coffee!

The flight path takes us around the 2 sets of Alps - best view from the left hand side. Again we fly directly onto the runway - so far this trip the only circling was on take-off at AKL and landing at LAX, all others being straight in or out. Again off to the bus gates. I see an NG 763 in *A colours at one of the airbridges.

Once again transfer is easy and I remember to visit the OS SEN lounge before security as past security in this part of the airport is nothing at all other than waiting areas for bus gates. This lounge is very small but nice enough with good food and drinks.

Hey, I think you even beat my intensive weird mileage runs around Europe!! :D
Flying LHR-CPH via AMS sounds like something I could as well when travelling for leisure and trying to maximise the points earned...otherwise there are like 9 direct flights a day :)

Ljubljana sounds like a very interesting city, maybe something for the next holiday.
Prague is indeed beautiful, but it's getting very touristic, and I really prefer getting "the real experience" when I travel.
I have only visited Croatia and Bosnia among the Balkan countries so far.

Okay Kiwi Flyer, now I can say that I have read your thread. I tend to review ones firstly, if they are OW (given my familarity), then places I have been to/want to go to; then popular/regular posters (like you); finally *A threads. Leumas's thread just happened to be the first one there...I'd have got around to yours in the next few.

I'l admit that the way you typed the topic heading turned me off reading it, as it was an effort to "translate" it. I didn't understand why (similar to ScottC), however now I understand the reasoning.

These are loaded into the hold before take-off.


Really? That's fortunate! :D

Great report btw.

So far they've all made the hold :D Actually the system works well for me, with so many short (40-60 minute) connections I dont have to worry about bags not making my onward flights.

SLOVAKIA

This trip is the first time I have been in VIE airport and I must say I am impressed. It is quite a lot smaller than MUC but similarly very functional and efficient. Visually the big difference is that where MUC has lots of modernistic metal finishes, VIE has wood panelling with a more alpine feel. Back to the trip.

VIE-KSC by Tyrolean (branded as Austrian Arrows) on Dash 8 Q300

The screens showed go to gate approx 20 mins before schedule departure so I head out the lounge and turn the corner. Argghhh - what a queue at security! Fortunately there is an elite line, so through in only 10 minutes. Then on the bus out to the aircraft. See 2 NG (Lauda) aircraft in *A colours parked out on the tarmac.

Bags again in the hold. During the flight offered a snack. This is different from the earlier flight so I presume OS tailors by route. The flight to Kosice is very short - we fly over what I presume is Bratislava en route. KSC airport is very small with a modern building - looks to only be a couple of years old. No bus needed this time, just a stroll across the tarmac. Unlike PRG and LJU, the airport is very close to the city and I am soon checked into Best Western Teledom (free 1 hour internet daily and included breakfast).

The old town is centred on Hlavna, which is very well preserved. The neighbouring streets are more crumbling and lived in. The Hlavna is pedestrianised and runs around both sides of the St Nicholas Cathedral and a couple of parks. St Nicholas is a fine gothic style with brightly coloured tiled roof. The main attractions are either on Hlavna or within a couple of short blocks; including old mansions, sculptures and statues (kings, zodiac, etc), the plague column, old city wall (only remnants left but also some archeological excavations), etc.

The town and neighbouring countryside is very dusty with quite a haze while we visited. It seemed there hadnt been much rain for a long time. However it wasnt yet hot but was pleasantly warm during the days and only slightly cool at night.

Hi

Sorry I have quite a lot to catch up on, but it wont be now as I have to catch a flight. Meanwhile, so you can see what is coming here are the flights to date (http://gc.kls2.com/cgi-bin/gc?PATH=akl-lax-lhr-ams-cph-vno-waw-prg-muc-lju-vie-ksc-vie-bud-vie-zag-muc-zrh-man-zrh-fra-sin-cgk-sin&RANGE=&PATH-COLOR=&PATH-UNITS=mi&SPEED-GROUND=&SPEED-UNITS=kts&RANGE-STYLE=best&RANGE-COLOR=&MAP-STYLE=)

I've been reading it when I manage to get online. Good job, KF! :) It's a very exotice route. What's the temperature like at these cities?

Vilnius was really cold - well below freezing. Prague was chilly single figures Celsius. Other places either low teens to high teens C (and over 20 for Zagreb).

This time of the year the temp can vary a lot in central and eastern europe so its a bit hit and miss. I think I was lucky not to be travelling a couple weeks earlier when it was freezing in many places.

Apologies for the delay. The last several days have been really busy with lots of travel, meetings, sight-seeing, drinking - all on next to no sleep so apologies if this rambles a bit. I will try to get up to date within the next few days. Now back to the report.

HUNGARY

KSC-VIE by Tyrolean (branded as Austrian Arrows) on Dash 8 Q300

I got the feeling Kosice is a little bit off the tourist trail and really enjoyed my time here. So I was sad to head back to the airport all too soon. The airport is completely quiet when I arrive - no aircraft at all to be seen. However it isnt long before a couple of flights arrive (CSA and Tyrolean) and the airport springs to life. Turnaround is very quick here and just 10 minutes later it is time to walk across the tarmac and board. Again bags in the hold. I get a rear facing seat which is nice for a different view and feel. Of the 6 pax in business, 2 are pilots deadheading and brushing up on something in their manuals.

For such a quiet airport it is ironic we have a couple minute delay as the OK flight departs first. When the engines start, the turning propellers caught the sun and reflected into the cabin - creating a strobe effect. As we lift off over the countryside, I notice the fields are freshly ploughed ready for spring planting. A snack is offered but I just take the coffee. We soon arrive to an overcast Vienna. I again see a NG a/c in *A colours - this time at an airbridge. This is the longest connection of the trip so grab some beers in the lounge and check my email.

VIE-BUD by Tyrolean (branded as Austrian Arrows) on Dash 8 Q400

As we bus out to the a/c I see an OS plane (Fokker I think?) in *A colours land beside us on the runway. This flight is again very short, but still snack and drinks offered.

At Budapest I stay at the Hilton which provides a free ride on the Airport Minibus (turn right when get landside). I was lucky in my timing as the minibus left only a couple of minutes after I arrived. Get upgraded to nice suite overlooking the Danube and facing the parliament.

While in Budapest it was misty but stayed fairly dry so my good luck on the weather continued. Saw Fisherman's Bastion, King Matthias church (whose roof was similar design as the cathedral in Kosice), plenty of statues of kings (many on horses), St Stephen's statue, funicular railway (very similar to Wellington's cable car but much smaller ride), Buda Castle, the old city ramparts, "lion gate" courtyard at the castle, town hall, Holy Trinity column, Vienna Gate, Chain bridge, parliament, St Stephens basilica, etc.

Gotta go for yet another flight. Will post more as soon as I can.

CROATIA

BUD-VIE by Tyrolean (branded as Austrian Arrows) on Dash 8 Q400

My good run of fine weather came to an end when I awoke to rain and very dull-looking skies, but at least it wasnt too cold and I was leaving the rain behind (hopefully) heading westward. Another early start to head out to the airport and still in a bleary-eyed state I see on the departure board a JK code-share on my flight is cancelled. My mind slowly rolls into gear thinking what alternative flights could I take - perhaps via MUC or FRA? But then I see the flight isnt cancelled, just the JK codeshare. No idea why this might be the case?

A short visit to the lounge upstairs and a much needed coffee before out on the bus to the plane. The flight is again very quick - barely enough time to hand out snack and a coffee. We arrive to a cloudy but dry VIE. On the way in from the bus gate I again see the OS Fokker in *A colours. I can just about walk blindfolded to the lounge by now, which is probably just as well as I still havent awoken properly.

VIE-ZAG by Tyrolean (branded as Austrian Arrows) on Dash 8 300

The lounge visit is very brief - just long enough to down a good strong coffee and back to bus gate. On the way out to the a/c the OS *A Fokker takes off. Again I get a backward facing seat. No views on this short flight as cloud all the way. When we arrive in Zagreb it is cloudy but dry - seem to have passed the worst of the weather, and rather warm (in the low 20s C).

ZAG is a very small airport and yet all flights use a bus to take passengers 20m or so across the tarmac. There are probably as many buses as their are daily flights!

For the first time on my trip the pre-arranged transport doesnt show and no answer on the phone number I have. So I take the Croatia Airlines bus into town (25kn) and then walk about 2km from bus station to the hotel. Actually I think I walked a bit more than that, certainly more than I needed, as the directions given to me by the hotel were a little bit off but some friendly locals put me right.

The city centre has quite a different look and "feel" to the other places I visited. Wide roads, lots of parks and squares, many museums (I counted at least 8 but they were all closed for easter) and other "public building" (town hall, galleries, etc). Saw the cathedral which is located between the upper and lower towns, botanic gardens, etc.

SWITZERLAND & PPS RUNS

ZAG-MUC by Augsburg Airways on Dash 8 Q400

After some overnight thunderstorms at Zagreb it was a cooler day but I didnt mind as the morning was refreshing walking around town centre and later I would have an easy travel day heading to Zurich.

The lounge at ZAG was very basic - plenty of things to drink (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) but no food and no computers, limited view of the apron. The a/c was late arriving so we left 20 minutes late - will make my tight connection interesting. At least the MUC-ZRH leg has plenty of flights unlike some of the previous legs so if I have to misconnect this is probably the best one to do it on.

We get a snack and coffee - not as good as the Tyrolean snacks though. Only get glimpses of the alps en route through heavy cloud cover and arrive to bus gate at MUC some 20 minutes late. It looks as though a storm is about to break.

MUC-ZRH by Cityline on CRJ-100

No time for lounge, just a mad dash through transit and off to the bus gate. Pretty much straight onto the bus and out to the a/c. What a surprise to see I am at the plane right next to the one we just arrived on - albeit taking 20 minutes to go in and back out again.

We take off as it still looks stormy and consequently the short flight is rather bumpy. Offered meal and coffee. Over Switzerland the weather clears up and so we arrive to a warm and sunny Zurich. It doesnt take long before I am checked in to the hotel - with a free airport transfer.

Try to get an early night as the next "day" is a long one (ZRH-MAN-ZRH-FRA-SIN-CGK-SIN) with an early start, overnight flight eastbound and late finish local time the next day. However I catch news of the Indonesian earthquake and so stay up to see some reports on that.

ZRH-MAN by Singapore Airlines on 744

Awake once again to the bleat of an early wake up call. At least having already checked-in online for the first 2 legs of the day I didnt need to get up at a ridiculous hour. Nonetheless check out of hotel and get first airport bus of the day.

The SQ check in is already closed when I arrive but I collect my boarding passes and also check in for the later overnight flight on SQ. Keep the agent busy with a seat change and correction of FFP to credit the miles to. I also check in for the evening LH flight ZRH-FRA - just in case I am running late.

Eventually head off to the *A lounge which is quite nice but no computer terminals, but only a short time there and its time to head for the airtrain to the E gates. Once I arrive there I see the status has changed to delay and indeed the plane has not yet arrived from SIN. So I also visit the lounge on the floor above the gate and grab first coffee of the day - I want to be awake to enjoy the SQ flights! About an hour later its time to board - its so nice to be using an airbridge after so many buses and stairs.

The ZRH-MAN sector is almost empty (less than 100 pax total and no one else in F). Only just enough time for pre-departure drink as we soon taxi out. Being so empty and not much fuel needed for the short leg, the take-off roll is very short with a steep climb. Enjoy a light breakfast and of course some champagne. Have a nice chat with a couple of FAs who are enjoying the light load, and incidentally will be returning on the same a/c - just like me. We make up some time en route and so land only 50 minutes late. I see a BD a/c in *A colours at one of the gates. I seem to be the only one from the flight transiting and so there is a short wait before the officers open up the transfer screening.

... to be continued ...

MAN-ZRH by Singapore Airlines on 744

Quickly through security check and up to the lounge where I meet with MAN Flyer who is also on the MAN-ZRH flight. The flight leaves about 30 minutes late - quite a rapid turnaround! Spend most of the flight talking with MAN Flyer and between us we polish off a bottle of Krug :o We make up more time in the air and so arrive only a little late. This is lucky because Rudi was waiting for me after immigration, while MAN Flyer heads off for the next leg en route to a stag party.

ZRH-FRA by Lufthansa on 737-500

Have a very nice lunch with Rudi and a quick tour of Zurich city centre. Then back to the airport and to the *A lounge. Have enough time for a quick shower to freshen up, which I am glad as I know that it can take a very long time in the shower queue at FRA. Then through security and off to the bus gate.

With the larger a/c and a half full flight there is no need for bags to be stowed in the hull. We have 2 sets of stairs to choose to board, but all pax except for a couple choose to board through the front - why????

We get offered a meal which I decline and a coffee on the short flight. At FRA we have an airbridge near the lounge.

FRA-SIN by Singapore Airlines on 744

My 3rd SQ flight of the day and the 4th flight in all - the things we do for PPS sectors! I wander over to the gate area to pick up the next 2 boarding passes as have tight connection in SIN and then a turnaround in CGK. There is still plenty of time before the flight so head back to the lounge. On the way notice the RG (Varig) MD80 in *A colours at a gate.

At boarding time go back to the gate and enter the holding pen. The gate agent rushes away talking on her radio and doesnt come back for another 30 minutes. We cant board yet but at least there arent too many pax - perhaps 150 - so the pen isnt too crowded. No mention of delay on the departure board, but for the 3rd time today we are of course delayed. When it happens boarding is very quick so push back only 30 minutes late. I managed to get upper deck exit row and so was surprised that seat neighbour gave up his seat to go to the lower deck.

With the late departure it will be touch and go whether I can make the connection unless the flight time is quick, or the later flight is held for me. Fortunately it turns out our flight time is a little less than normal.

I get about 3 hours sleep after dinner, which is about what I wanted so as to ensure a good adjustment to Singapore time zone and decent sleep with another early start the next day. Watch some movies and play games, so as usual for me the flight goes quickly.

We land about 20 minutes late so it's no surprise to see on the departure boards the next flight is on final call (this comes up annoyingly early at SIN). However from experience I know if I am quick I have time to visit the lounge, but alas not enough to partake of the scrummy food and drink.

Race from our arrival gate at the far end of the terminal to the lounge. Go straight to computers to try to check in for tomorrow's flight only to see they are all down.

SIN-CGK and CGK-SIN by Singapore Airlines on A345

So I head to service desk at the lounge entrance and get checked in there. They offered to check me in for the return flight a couple days later but had problems getting the system to record the correct FFP for mileage and still hold my status so I decline, not having enough time to sort out before the flight which is now close to closing.

Race out from lounge and on the way see that we are departing from gate E28 - almost over in terminal 1 and a wee distance from the lounge. Arrive at the gate just before they close (10 minutes prior to departure) and the a/c doors are shut behind me. That was a close call!

We end up pushing back late and a long taxi. I am not worried about missing the return flight as it is on the same a/c and with the same crew. However, having been on the go for over 30 hours I am keen to get these 2 flights over with.

As usual on this route a very nice meal is offered but this time I decline.

I have done the turnaround at CGK before so know to head past the visa at entry desk and head for the stairs up to departure level (if I didnt already have boarding pass then would need to visit the transit desk which is a risk due to the lack of time - so I strongly recommend anyone doing this turnaround get both BPs in SIN). There is a screening station at the stairs which wasnt there last time. The officers seem quite puzzled as to why I would be turning around but after a few minutes questioning just let me on through. I have a couple of minutes in the lounge before it is time to head back to the gate. At the gate need to pay departure tax in cash - rupiahs (100,000), US$ (13) and Singapore$ (22) accepted - but no change given so try not to have just big notes.

The return flight is further delayed due to a pax failing to board and offload the bags - this happened the last time I flew CGK-SIN as well. So for the 5th time in less than a day & a half I have an SQ flight that is late :(

Another nice meal and drinks and by now I am really tired. We arrive back at gate E28. Spurred on by the thought of bed I race through the terminal, quickly clearing immigration and in a taxi within 5 minutes of landing. Within 20 minutes I am in my suite (upgraded with triple points bonus at Conrad).

CHINA

SIN-PEK by Singapore Airlines on 772

Once again wake to a wakeup call. Still very tired, so maybe I should have tried to sleep more on the flight from FRA yesterday. Oh well.

Head back to airport and quickly through to lounge (having already gotten my BP yesterday) for a wake-up coffee or two. As I catch up on my email I lose track of the time and suddenly realise its only 20 minutes to scheduled departure - better head for the gate.

As I run out the lounge I see we are leaving from gate E28 again! Once again make the gate and board just as it closes.

The a/c has the old style business seats and wisemen 2000 IFE system (so no avod). Its been a while since I had one of these as I usually try for 744 flights on SQ (which have spacebeds and wisemen 3000 and thus avod). There are still plenty of options (movies and tv shows) but just need to coordinate with the start of the cycles (just as with QF and NZ for example).

The flight passes quickly. We have breakfast and also light lunch. Watched the aviator. Couldnt see much of China due to a thick haze. We have a long taxi at PEK to the gate. At immigration I play the line roullette - and lose. Just as with supermarket lines it always seems the other lines move faster. So it took me about 40 minutes to clear, which means my ride is waiting for me.

As we whiz down the motorway towards the city centre I notice the sun is visible only as an orange glow in the polluted murk. It seems odd to see some people flying kites beside the road and in between large apartment and office buildings.

After check in at the Hilton I decide to walk into the city, not realising the maps are very deceptive as to distance. So it takes me about 90 minutes. I quickly get the hang of crossing the busy roads, at rush hour no less. The many cars & buses arent too much trouble as everyone uses their horn liberally - just keep an ear out for close horns as opposed to the several others blasting across the intersection. Bicycles are more of a problem being so silent. I found the main thing was to walk at as steady a pace as possible.

See the huge Tianamen Square but not enough time for Forbidden Palace or other nearby attractions.

It was quite an experience though - trying my best not to breathe too deeply the terrible fumes, while the cacophony of rush hour is all around, along with a crush of pedestrians. All the while it is getting dark, and with it the temperature plummets to a chill.

Next day climb the great wall (the hawkers are quite agressive as not many tourists this time of year - but still not a touch on those in Istanbul for persistance), have chinese for lunch, see jade, porcelain and enamel stuff, see Ming Tombs.

PEK-SIN by Singapore Airlines on 772

A quick ride to the airport ahead of rush hour. At check in again a couple of goes needed to get the correct FFP for mileage entered. The agent then points out the Chinese rule of no alcohol in carry-ons unless purchased airside (mentioned something about a hijacking?). Since I dont want to check my bags the agent rustles up a carton to put my drink in and checks the box through (very helpful service ^ ). Hopefully it arrives in one piece.

There is a long line at immigration. Once again Murphy's Law strikes - after 30 minutes wait and still a couple of dozen people ahead of me in the queue and several more desks are opened, but I'm stuck in the snake and so cant make the most of it. Never mind.

Eventually through immigration and bags checked at xray. The officer checks my water bottle that is in an outside pocket - shakes it, opens it, sniffs it to see it really is water. He is satisfied so I am allowed to go. However he didnt check the other water bottle I have inside my bag!

As its taken me 90 minutes to get here I dont have long in the lounge and we are boarding. The usual pre-departure drink and we push back on time. A slow taxi (landing a/c are well spaced out and seems traffic control doesnt want a departure in the middle of the sequence).

This time the seat is newer (but still not spacebed) and get wisemen 3000 (so avod). However there are a number of problems in flight so only get to see one movie when the flight is long enough for 2 or 3. Breakfast and light meal are served.

CHINA

SIN-PEK by Singapore Airlines on 727




Brought them back from Paya Lebar for the PEK run have they ? No wonder you got the Wisemen 2000 and no Spacebed ;) :D

Great report, and cheers for the Krug ^ .

I am curious, how long was your trip. Sounds kind of rushed.

SIN-PEK by Singapore Airlines on 727
SQ Do not use 727

SIN-PEK by Singapore Airlines on 727
SQ Do not use 727

See post number 30.

Wow that is a long trip!! Must have taken ages to plan all of it...

Which hotel did you use in Zagreb?

Great trip report, Kiwi Flyer! ^

Brought them back from Paya Lebar for the PEK run have they ? No wonder you got the Wisemen 2000 and no Spacebed ;) :D

Oops. I was in too much hurry getting the post done before next flight I didnt proof read well enough :o Corrected now.

I am curious, how long was your trip. Sounds kind of rushed.

It was rushed but I pack a lot in. 16 days all up. Will try to get the rest posted within the next few days.

Which hotel did you use in Zagreb?

Westin Zagreb.

VNO is a fairly small airport with only 1 airbridge.

Actually, 2 airbridges. :)

Vilnius old town is a curious mix of typical old european architecture with some more stark modern buildings from the russian occupation era.

Actually, most of the typical old european architecture is from the Russian occupation, some was built when Vilnius was part of Poland. The stark modern buildings are from the Soviet occupation.

SIN-AKL by Singapore Airlines on 744

Have a longish stopover. Originally this was because I booked the later of 3 flights to AKL (a) because it is 744 instead of 773 or 767 (NZ flight), (b) because I both get more sleep on this flight and find it easier to stay awake until normal time on arrival and (c) flight is less often totally full. However since booking the other SQ flight has been retimed to leave much earlier in the day.

Freshen up with a nice shower, have a couple of drinks, catch up on emails and post some more of this trip report. So the time goes quickly. Thought I heard my name being paged in the lounge and for a moment wondered if I'd gotten an op-up, but no it was for someone else with almost identical name!

Managed to get the upper deck exit row again. Nice supper and also breakfast about 1 1/2 hours before arrival. Didnt sleep as much as I'd have liked - mainly due to cabin temperature being very high.

Was one of a handful of first and business pax who used the special aussie/NZ immigration line upstairs so very quickly through. As expected the officer had a few questions about my long list of countries visited in the past 30 days.

Got to the baggage belt a few minutes before bags came out - but still was impressed how quickly bags were unloaded. My drinks got through unscathed and were placed on the low bench rather than the belt. Quickly cleared customs and x-ray and on my way home within 20 minutes of landing.

Now that was a good read! The only places I've ever been in Europe are Finland and Estonia. I'd love to follow your itinerary someday.Thanks for this fine report.

SUMMARY

Map (http://gc.kls2.com/cgi-bin/gc?PATH=AKL-LAX-LHR-AMS-CPH-VNO-WAW-PRG-MUC-LJU-VIE-KSC-VIE-BUD-VIE-ZAG-MUC-ZRH-MAN-ZRH-FRA-SIN-CGK-SIN-PEK-SIN-AKL&RANGE=&PATH-COLOR=&PATH-UNITS=mi&SPEED-GROUND=&SPEED-UNITS=kts&RANGE-STYLE=best&RANGE-COLOR=&MAP-STYLE=) and zoom into Europe (http://gc.kls2.com/cgi-bin/gc?PATH=LHR-AMS-CPH-VNO-WAW-PRG-MUC-LJU-VIE-KSC-VIE-BUD-VIE-ZAG-MUC-ZRH-FRA&RANGE=&PATH-COLOR=red&PATH-UNITS=mi&SPEED-GROUND=&SPEED-UNITS=kts&RANGE-STYLE=best&RANGE-COLOR=navy&MAP-STYLE=)

16 days
18 countries
26 flights - all international
11 airlines - NZ, BD, SK, K2 (EuroLOT), LO, IQ (Augsburg), VO (Tyrolean), JP (Adria), CL (Cityline), SQ, LH
12 different aircraft types
Airports with multiple transfers - VIE (3), SIN (3), MUC (2), ZRH (2)
Flown miles 35k (33.9k on RTW plus side trip)
Earned miles - est 200k equivalent (not all posted yet)
Requalified on 3 FFPs
Earned hotel points - 2 Hilton free night certificates (C601s) + k HHonors points
Most flights in a "day" - 6
Most times through security checks in a "day" - 6 (on two occasions)
Pages used up on passport - 6

Although had a number of late flights there were no misconnects.

Another nice meal and drinks and by now I am really tired. We arrive back at gate E28. Spurred on by the thought of bed I race through the terminal, quickly clearing immigration and in a taxi within 5 minutes of landing. Within 20 minutes I am in my suite (upgraded with triple points bonus at Conrad).

Are you serious? How?

Excellent trip report, and a great, (imo hasty) trip.

Edited to add:
Just finished the whole thing and it really was worthwhile. ^

Should SIN be added as a multi transfer?

I had no checked bags, and know my way around Changi Airport very well - I speed walk/jog. No queues at immigration or at taxi line. The driver sped, unusually for Singapore. And hotel check-in was ready for me - just needed to sign and get key. So plane to hotel suite was quicker than normal but not much quicker.

The 3 transfers at SIN was to maximise PPS credits (within other constraints). CGK and BKK are useful quick turnaround trips to get 2.5 (or 3 if in first) sectors within a short amount of time and not too much mileage used up.

SUMMARY
Flown miles 35k (33.9k on RTW plus side trip)
Earned miles - est 200k equivalent (not all posted yet)
Requalified on 3 FFPs


Excellent trip report! Really whets my appetite to get my own RTW off the ground this year. :)

However, I wonder how you figure the 200k equivalent of earned miles. Even with the many short segments and minimum mileage of 1,000 on each of them, I'm hard pressed to come close to even 100k. Then again, I'm not familiar with the NZ FFP, so that might be it.

How many sectors to Lifetime Solitaire? ;)

The short flight is mostly in cloud and we soon land in Munich. As we taxi to the bus gate we pass an Air Canada aircraft in a colour scheme I have not seen before. I am sure it is meant to be some majestic bird, but to me it appeared a garish (green and orange), demented pigeon in full flight. Perhaps someone can explain to me what it is supposed to be?
Are you talking about AC's new livery? This greenish scheme (http://www.airliners.net/open.file?id=809816&WxsIERv=Nveohf%20N340-313K&WdsYXMg=Nve%20Pnanqn&QtODMg=Ybaqba%20-%20Urnguebj%20%28YUE%20%2F%20RTYY%29&ERDLTkt=HX%20-%20Ratynaq&ktODMp=Znepu%202005&BP=0&WNEb25u=Nyrknaqre%20Tvyy&xsIERvdWdsY=P-SLYH&MgTUQtODMgKE=Qrcnegvat%20va%20qenzngvp%20snfuvba%2 8pbzcnerq%20gb%20Fbhgunzcgba%20ng%20yrnfg%21%29juv yr%20bcrengvat%20gur%20rneyl%20nsgreabba%20syvtug% 20gb%20Crnefba.Obgu%20cvybgf%20ivfvoyr%20ntnvafg%2 0gur%20terl%20onpxqebc.&YXMgTUQtODMgKERD=2090&NEb25uZWxs=2005-04-04%2019%3A27%3A36&ODJ9dvCE=906&O89Dcjdg=179&static=yes&sok=JURER%20%20%28nveyvar%20YVXR%20%27Nve%20Pnanqn %25%27%20NAQ%20nveyvar%20ABG%20YVXR%20%27%25Jneqnv e%25%27%20NAQ%20nveyvar%20ABG%20YVXR%20%27%25Wnmm% 25%27%20NAQ%20nveyvar%20ABG%20YVXR%20%27%25Gnatb%2 5%27%29%20%20BEQRE%20OL%20cubgb_vq%20QRFP&photo_nr=3&prev_id=810111&next_id=809789) is what they're replacing their current colors with -

Are you talking about AC's new livery?

It didnt look like that. The "bird" was large and obvious on the fuselage.

However, I wonder how you figure the 200k equivalent of earned miles. Even with the many short segments and minimum mileage of 1,000 on each of them, I'm hard pressed to come close to even 100k. Then again, I'm not familiar with the NZ FFP, so that might be it.

How many sectors to Lifetime Solitaire? ;)

The least miles (or miles equivalent) I got for any sector was 2000 but almost all were much, much more than this due to promos. Judicious selection of crediting to various FFPs helped to maximise. Also I am including miles earned from hotel stays and paying for the ticket on credit card.

PPS Lifetime Solitaire is 1000 sectors or 1.8 million miles - only SQ business and first count - (each eligible flight earns between 1.25 and 6 sectors depending on class and length). For more info visit the SQ forum. PS I am a looooong way short of that.

Kiwi Flyer,so you re-qualified PPS and *G Elite (Air NZ?), but what was the third FF program you re-qualified?? (sorry, dumb question from a OW flyer)...

Also, how much did the trip cost - ballpark will do.

And how long did you spend planning it?

Great report, Kiwi Flyer, but once again a truly crazy itinerary. Any non-FTer would consider you certifiably insane!

It didnt look like that. The "bird" was large and obvious on the fuselage.

There's a fairly dodgy looking bird around which I think is a hangover from the old days of Canadi>n. Is this the one?
http://www.airliners.net/open.file/766382/M/
http://www.airliners.net/open.file/800227/M/
http://www.airliners.net/open.file/748423/M/

Yes thats it.

...

The old town is centred on Hlavna, which is very well preserved. The neighbouring streets are more crumbling and lived in. The Hlavna is pedestrianised and runs around both sides of the St Nicholas Cathedral and a couple of parks. St Nicholas is a fine gothic style with brightly coloured tiled roof...

I just spotted this thread - funtastic :D

Anyway, I have to correct you here: the cathedral in the centre of Kosice is St Elisabeth Cathedral. But the chapel next to it is St Nicholas Chapel ;) (In fact, it is even older than Cathedrale)

KIWI FLYER
Seems with all your travelling you do not have time to answer your e-mails :mad:

Hi

You guessed right. I have been offline the past couple of days travelling, during which period you sent me an email. Lets keep this by email.

Thanks

Hi

You guessed right. I have been offline the past couple of days travelling, during which period you sent me an email. Lets keep this by email.

Thanks
My apologies.
Thank you for your e-mail response :)

I too have just discovered this thread for the first time. An amazing trip, a fun read and, best of all, it is sparking off lots of @:-)@:-)@:-)s ;)

... a truly crazy itinerary. Any non-FTer would consider you certifiably insane!Absolutely! Many of my friends thought my own recent big trip was just a succession of flights and airports, yet it was thoroughly relaxed compared to this :D But then, we are FTers, so we can see the attraction and be suitably jealous!

I would love to do a *A RTW one of these days, but the trick will be how to do it without losing my OW status :confused:

I would love to do a *A RTW one of these days, but the trick will be how to do it without losing my OW status :confused:

Well you could nest a *A RTW with a OW RTW, each starting from a "cheap" origin. From the examples I have seen and played with, this works best if they are in opposite directions.