btang

By the time I was through security, the boarding process had already begun. Good thing the priority line was empty, and I stepped on forward to present my boarding pass. Gate agent scanned it, didn't tear away the main stub and returned it to me in its entirety with a pleasant smile. Great, now I can add it to my collection of boarding passes, well not really....



Anyways, boarding my last flight of the trip, I was relieved and concurrently sad. I tried to brush aside these conflicting thoughts by getting the most out of what was left of the journey. The usual pre departure beverages were offered, and I chose to have orange juice. Newspapers were also offered, and I decided to have a copy of the International Herald Tribune.



Meanwhile, the cabin began to fill up, with last minute business travellers dashing in just prior to the closing of the doors. As advised by the captain, flight time was a quick 3 hours and 25 minutes, with perhaps a slight delay upon final approach into Hong Kong due to the weather.



During taxi, flight attendants came around to collect glasses and take meal orders. I was reassured that my pre-ordered lobster thermidor was loaded onboard, so that was one less thing to worry about.

FYI, here's the menu for the flight, a little bit more substantial than the usual early breakfast service on this leg.




After leveling off, cabin crew came around to set the table and deliver the first tray, consisting of a fruit platter and glasses for beverages. The breadbasket closely followed to which I chose my usual croissant.





The highlight I hoped was the lobster thermidor. Sadly, I was largely disappointed. Where was the shell? It could have easily been some other type of meat. The rice was fine, but I was really looking forward to the lobster. I finished brunch with the mango desert, adequate but nothing surprising. I'd much prefer the parfaits on ANA.




In the meantime, I indulged myself into a few short videos, the classic Mr. Bean and an episode of Heston's Fantastical Food. One thing that's interesting about this version of the regional business class is that the console is still the old type, and not the new one onboard the A330's.





Last look of the forward business cabin just before landing.



Basic amenities in the lavatory.



Descent into Hong Kong was really bumpy, and for sometime it was so violent that the panels looked as if they were about to come apart. It was readily apparent that there must have been heavy rain just prior to our landing, as the taxiway had large puddles of water. Luckily, we were able to occupy one of the closest gates to the immigration facility, so I was able to get through the masses pretty quickly after disembarkation.

Priority bags came out just before I approached the conveyor belts, and to my surprise all three of my bags were tagged with ANA, Asiana and Singapore Airlines priority tags. Triple priority, like that's gonna make a lot of difference in Hong Kong?

btang

Guangzhou Grand Hyatt

This was to be a short two day one night trip with my family. The only reason I chose the Grand Hyatt over the usual choice, Hilton, was because there were 10,000 points in my account that I didn't know about before. That, plus another 48 dollars to buy points, was enough for one night at that property.




I believe the CRH, Hexiehao, or highspeed train is one of the most efficient ways of traveling from Hong Kong to Guangzhou. Travel time from Shenzhen was little over 1 hour. A short subway ride led us to the Zhujiang City region, where various hotel establishments such as W, Four Seasons and Ritz Carlton, were also located. This Grand Hyatt opened in 2008, and judging from the hotel lobby, everything still seems in good condition. Although we were invited to check in the "much more comfortable" VIP check in area, which was basically the concierge desk, my family and I were too tired from the walk to care about these kinds of stuff.

The entire process was swift, confirmed upgrade to Grand Club room and access to the Grand Club lounge, in addition to the obligatory "thank you for your loyalty as a diamond member". The room was not particularly large, but the bathroom was proportionally huge. The shower area was separated from the toilet, each with its own separate basin. The room was nicely appointed and still in pretty good condition, but I do believe in a golden rule when it comes to staying at hotels in China: Always go for the newest, regardless of the brand. There are a few new big name hotel properties in the close vicinity and I do believe the Grand Hyatt faces stiff competition.




Nice view from the room



Diamond Welcome Food and Beverage Combination, the chocolate was okay but the bottle of wine was pretty nasty.




Still, service was pretty faultless. Staff actively trying to show you around the facility, holding the elevator and pressing the floor button for you, and of course the lovely ladies at the Grand Club lounge, who were more than happy to make my parents' stay in the lounge comfortable.

The evening canape spread was actually pretty good, sushi, fish and chips, cheese, various appetizers and even Cantonese dim sum/fried noodles. Drink selection was plentiful, and I happily enjoyed a few glasses of Shiraz.





The next morning, we decided to check out the breakfast spread but was a little disappointed. However, we got what we were promised, a very simplified continental breakfast. Not to worry, we were more looking forward to some Cantonese dim sum at one of the best teahouses, Tao Tao Ju.



Unlike many of its counterparts nowadays, Tao Tao Ju is one of the few teahouses left in Guangzhou that still allows you to walk out to the counters and select your own food.




This was the first tray that I brought to the table.



Quality of the food was excellent as always, but the price has gone up a little bit.

Some random statue right outside the teahouse, I had a good laugh.

btang

Conrad Macao, Sands Cotai Central

Macau was the next short trip after last week's visit to the Guangzhou Grand Hyatt. This was planned and booked months in advance, especially when the summer promotion deal was just too good to pass. However, it was only until three weeks ago that I realized this Conrad property does not have an executive lounge. #$%^#@$#@@# This threw my family off by a little bit because we were not planning on eating outside for dinner, especially when getting a taxi in Macau is one of the most arduous task(comparable to getting dinner reservations at Fernando's and winning money at the tables in the Venetian).

Not only that, the executive lounge provides for breakfast and afternoon canapes, which saves a lot of money. A few emails back and forth complaining to the manager of the property and we were offered afternoon tea and evening cocktail for two at the lobby lounge, with an upgrade to a premier city view suite. This of course was much appreciated. Apparently, this is more of a diamond benefit at this Conrad but luckily the customer relations manager was quite flexible.



Arriving from a high speed Turbojet into Macau, we boarded one of the courtesy shuttle to the Sands Cotai Central complex, which was only a short 15 minute drive. Check in lines were quite long, as many Hong Kongers were trying to check in early but informed that it was not possible. Luckily, there was dedicated counter for Hilton Gold Members and we were invited to check in in no time. Initially, we were checked in by one of the regular staff, but after a little while, he passed it on to the duty manager to check us in. We were advised that the room was ready for us, and invited us to follow her up. The suite was really big, but I am not really a fan of the decor, apparently it's a derivative from Himalayan style.






The views were gorgeous, overlooking the City of Dreams, airport and a huge park near some upscale residential complex. Of course, the usual Conrad duck was offered in the bathroom.




The signature Conrad rubber duck



Afternoon tea at the lounge was not so much a tranquil experience, as streams of loud, shouting visitors add a noticing presence to the back drop. Nonetheless, the designated tea set looked pretty elegant, and upon close scrutiny of the price revealed that it only costs $98 HKD/MOP retail price. It's no wonder there was a huge line forming just outside the lounge area.




Views to the casino floor



We didn't bother to head out for dinner, instead we took advantage of the evening cocktail and then later ordered some local delicacies from the food court, to which the quality was good and the price reasonable.



The next day, we enjoyed some breakfast at the buffet restaurant downstairs. It was very very busy but luckily we were able to secure a quiet corner. Food selection was amazing, with a vast array of international breakfast items ranging from Indian bread to Japanese soba noodles. Coffee on the other was pretty disgusting.

btang

Robuchon Au Dome



For lunch, we had made lunch reservations at Robuchon au Dome months in advance. Getting there was a pretty big issue, as taxis in Macau are pretty much non-existent, especially on a rainy day such as that day. The trick is to take one of the courtesy shuttles back to the ferry terminal, and switch over to another shuttle to the casino premise.

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The Grand Lisboa Hotel is very much like its predecessor, bathed in gold, decorated with vast amounts of glitter and an awkward design to maximize feng shui. To be honest, the restaurant should have been housed in some better location such as the Four Seasons or Grand Hyatt. The restaurant, or so we thought, was situated on the 39/F, where the entrance was not so apparent and was in fact behind sliding doors.



We were welcomed through a vast wine cellar and lead towards a set of elevators to head to the 43/F. It was only after the lunch when I was told that each table has its own elevator ride. This is not so much an exclusivity factor but rather a strategy to let staff know which set of guest is to be seated at which table.



Beautiful Grand Piano



Doors open on the 43/F, and a trolley full of bread as well as desserts instantly caught my attention. But the waiters were waiting with a smile, and led us to our table right next to the window, which had an excellent view of Macau and a little bit of Taipa. The only let down were the clouds, and the occasional downpour of rain to accompany our meal.



First order of business, to decide whether to have a 2 course, 3 course or 4 course meal. I was really tempted to try the 4 course meal, but instead only settled for 3. My parents only went with 2 course. Regardless, we would all be served dessert, coffee or tea and petite fours.

Whilst waiting for our food to arrive, I had the chance to marvel at this restaurant. The dome was certainly breathtaking, and close scrutiny of the chinaware revealed that these were all made in France.




Soon after, a trolley with two type of butter was rolled over for our selection. We chose to try both with our breadbasket.

First course was actually not on the menu, a chilled tomato soup with some type of biscuit, absolutely delicious.



For the appetizer, I order the foie gras, whilst my parents decided to try the other two items on the menu, a crispy egg and a crabmeat avocado with tempura concoction.





My foie gras aparagus salad was very delicious, and judging from my parents expression, they liked their dish as well.

I was the only one to try the soup, which was Champignon Blanc, translation: White Mushroom Soup. Initially, the soup came in two container, one with the mousse and the other with the hot soup. Before I had a chance to take a picture, the hot soup was poured into other bowl. I cannot fault the soup in anyway, other than the fact that there were no surprises in terms of presentation and flavor.



For main course, I had a waygu beef, whilst my parents had the guinea foul thigh and pan fried spanish pork. All of us were offered mashed potatoes, which is a signature dish. I have tried to replicate his recipe at home, but the texture is just too rough. His secret is butter, for every 2 pounds of potato he adds in 1 pound of butter. Now that is a recipe for early heart attack.




After lunch, we were all quite satisfied already but were excited for dessert nonetheless. A dessert trolley, the one I saw earlier, was brought before us. We were allowed to choose two items.



My napoleon was absolutely divine, but the other cake was pretty bland. Coffee and Tea were offered after dessert, and we happily indulged in some chocolate to go along with that.



Overall, I think this is well worth the price. However, the mashed potato was simply too heavy that I don't think I'll order that ever again. I guess that's another Michelin 3 star restaurant struck off the list.

The rest of the trip was pretty uneventful, and the next day morning we all had to take the early ferry back to Hong Kong, just in time for work.

btang

So I've just completed the return portion of the journey, I'll try to get the report up in the next day or two. Thanks for your patience!

btang

A long summer vacation was finally over, and it’s once again time to make the journey back to San Francisco. It was raining nonstop throughout the day but luckily there was a short break of miserable weather as I took the taxi to check in at Kowloon Station. Check in was relatively quick, with the only question really “So where is your final destination?” I had a good laugh, and took the liberty to tell her “ I’m not as crazy as the itinerary suggests”. The check in agent replied, “ Oh no, of course not sir, I had a passenger the other day who was flying to Frankfurt with five stops along the way”. Clearly I’m not alone in this!




Security again was a breeze, and in no time I was at the departure hall ready to make my way to the Royal Orchid Lounge, my haven/sanctuary for the next hour and a half. But I was not about to take the underground APM to the lounge. Oh no! So I did what many aviation enthusiasts would do and walked along the stretch of terminal instead, plus it was good exercise, so I wouldn’t feel so guilty after pigging out on the good food in Hong Kong for so long.

I have been to the Royal Orchid Lounge before, as always I still think it’s the best Star Alliance lounge option except for the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse, but that I think is only open to EVA Airways passengers. Food selection was good as usual, and I put together a plate with a little bit of everything on offer.




Excellent views from the lounge




Of course, my favorite part of the lounge is the Wii system on offer. I mean how cool is that?



I took the time to work a little bit on this trip report before heading down to gate 46, where TG 607 was scheduled to depart today. Lines were already forming before boarding had even commenced, but judging by the sparsely populated seats around the boarding gate, this was going to be a light loaded flight.




Although the boarding was delayed by 10 minutes, the flight still departed, as I soon was to find out, on time. Seeing as there was not much of a line, I decided to board earlier than usual. More time for some pre-departure drink, why not?





I was warmly greeted onboard and led to my seat on the upper deck. Here was something I had not expected, my 23-inch carryon was to be left on the main deck because the overhead bins on the upper deck were too small. I asked if I could be reseated on the main deck, after a little bit of checking, the inflight service manager smiled and pointed to two pairs of seats and said “Mr. Tang, would you like to take a pair of seats so that you may be more comfortable? Or perhaps you would like a pair of seats along the window to have a better view?” I happily thanked him and settled into my new seat.



The inflight service tonight started off with a choice of beverages, to which I chose the champagne. Closely after were the distribution of menu, a round of hot towel and an offer of newspaper prior to door closing. Whilst taxing, the inflight purser asked, “Do you want dinner?” in a mom telling son you-better-eat-your broccolis fashion. I was planning on doing so anyways and I let her know that I had already ordered the beef tenderloin.



After take off, I decided to try the red wine on offer and it tasted quite good. First course was the uninspiring salmon gravlax, along with an offer of a choice of bread. I remember when I was six or seven. I craved the garlic breads on Thai’s flights. In fact, I usually didn’t eat the main meal and instead asked for more garlic breads. Choosing to relive my childhood memories, I chose that option and it was heavenly.




The main course was the beef tenderloin. Now I know it’s a risky choice and as expected, the beef was overcooked. The mushroom sauce was okay but the duchess potato was pretty much inedible, very disappointing. The only saving grace was the constant offer of refill, both the wine and the glass of water. Today’s loading certainly helped with the more personalized service.



I dozed off before fruits and desserts were even served, and didn’t wake up until just before landing. Overall, this was a pretty good flight with good service but disappointing catering.

btang

It’s no surprise to see quite often trip reports of Thai’s first class ground service in Bangkok, and along with that rave reviews. I offer my perspective of the transit experience from the other side of the curtain. Just to clarify, this part of the trip report contains nothing about the buggy ride, the unlimited glasses of champagne, personal escort or the spa with paintings of half naked women.

Today TG 609 arrived at an apron spot, which meant that I had to lug my carryon down a flight of stairs to the buses, where I was jam-packed with the rest of the economy class passengers, unlike Qatar, which has dedicated buses for premium passengers.

Exiting the bus at the main terminal, I was left to fend for myself and to find where the Royal Silk lounges were. The confusing signage did nothing to make my life easier, but luckily I was able to locate the C lounges for a quick shower and to get something to drink before the flight to Tokyo.



The shower room was surprisingly well maintained and the shower pressure quite good. Amenities and toiletries were from Thann, which is an international luxury brand from Thailand.





After taking a shower, I took a seat in the main lounge area and checked my email for a little while before walking to the gates. I did not partake in the buffet on offer, but then again nothing seemed to take my interest.




With ten minutes to go before boarding, I left the Royal Silk lounge and made a leisurely walk towards gate C5, where ANA’s flight was departing tonight. As I approached the gate area, it seemed as though priority boarding had already begun. Seeing as there was no line, I decided to board so I could find space for storing my carryon.

btang

As soon as I stepped on the plane, one of the flight attendants offered to show me to my seat before I even had a chance to react, and to let her know that it was only a few steps away from the door. The Boeing 767 taking me to Tokyo tonight had business class arranged in a 2-1-2 configuration. There are certainly a few good things about the middle seat. First of all, those are single, aisle seats. There’s also plenty of storage space because you can put your bag on either side of the overhead bins, not to mention the side storage bin on your right to put small items.



The cabin, meanwhile, began to fill out. By the time the doors were closed, both the economy class and business class cabin were completely occupied. Probably a good sign for ANA but not so for me, because I like empty cabins. Luckily, flying ANA meant that service would be delivered in the same professional and courteous manner regardless of the load.

Before taxiing, the flight attendants came in succession to offer pre-departure drinks, amenity kit and also a choice of Japanese or Thai newspapers.

This was the menu for the flight. As you can see, it is a light affair after takeoff and a breakfast is offered just before landing.

Light Dishes
We have light dishes available for you to enjoy anytime you like upon request

Broiled freshwater eel and simmered egg over steamed rice
The king of rice bowl cuisine. Piping hot rice crowned with a regal and substantial topping of grilled eel and painstakingly scrambled eggs.

Hot Japanese udon noodles garnished with Japanese leek
Japanese leek into this bowl of hot noodles and enjoy a luscious new dining experience.

Soft roll sandwich-Smoked salmon
Our gourmet smoked salmon sandwich, featuring a long and soft bread roll specially baked for this delightful offering.

Hot consomm� soup
Experience soup that has richness and refined flavor

Post-nap Comfort
Wake up to Japanese or International Cuisine to start your morning off fresh.

Japanese Cuisine
Set order of assorted snacks and sumptuously healthy rice porridge

Kuchidori
Deep-fried salmon marinated in piquant-vinegared sauce
Simmered octopus in sweet soy sauce Grilled congee eel rolled with burdock roots

Shusai
Mix grain rice porridge with minced sea bream and shrimp

Miso Soup

Mizugashi
Fresh Seasonal Fruit

International Cuisine
Scrumptious quiche featuring a posh blend of strictly selected bacon, onions and cheese ingredients. Enjoy with your choice of freshly baked bread.

Main plate
Quiche Lorraine with herb pork sausage

Bread
Croissant, Laugen roll

Fresh Seasonal Fruit

Yoghurt

I chose to have a bowl of udon noodles after takeoff and the full Japanese breakfast before landing. This request was of course obliged. I didn't really bother with the entertainment system as I knew beforehand it was not very inviting.



Right after take off, an array of canap�s in plastic cups were offered and I chose a few, some were pretty good, like the wasabi beans, but the tomato pesto was pretty disgusting. I was really tired but managed to stay awake for my noodles to arrive. Taste was as good as always, and a glass of cold green tea was offered along with it.




I wanted to use the duvet for sleep but found it unnecessary because the cabin was far too warm for my liking. I did manage a few hours worth before being woken up by one of the FA’s for breakfast.

In all honesty, I don’t really like how breakfast is served 2 hours before landing, especially when the flight time is just over 6 hours. It would be phenomenal if they could deliver it 1 hour or 1 hour 15 minutes before landing. I wasn’t particularly hungry and the Japanese congee didn’t look too appetizing, so I ate all the side dishes except for the main affair.



Just before landing, flight attendants came around with hot towels and personally thanked each passenger for flying with ANA. On the whole, I think crews on these regional flights simply are not as good as compared to those working on international long haul routes. Don’t get me wrong, they were perfectly adequate, but nothing more.

Annalisa12

There's some great looking hotel pics there. Great report.

btang

With such a long layover in Tokyo, it just doesn’t make too much sense to stay in the airport for the entire duration. However, heading into the city was far too long, in fact it takes 2 hours each way, so traveling into Tokyo doesn’t make too much sense. So what should one do with a 6 hour connection? I think it should be a visit to Narita city.
Immediately after landing, I headed through transfer security to get to the departure level. I wanted to use the ANA lounge for a quick shower after that red-eye flight, and to get a cup of coffee before heading out.

I have reviewed the shower area many times so I won’t bother doing it again. When I was done, I headed to the concierge area to check in for my San Francisco flight, print out my boarding pass and to ask her to take me back to the Arrivals level. The agent was very polite all the way, but here was when things turned for the worse. Apparently, although she was able to print out my onward boarding pass, her records show that I did not take the Thai Airways flight from Hong Kong to Bangkok. What? I was definitely caught off-guard, since I couldn’t find my boarding pass stub to prove that I took the flight. Words of wisdom: Definitely keep your boarding pass until you are completely done with the trip.

I tried to reason with her and say that if I had not boarded the flight, then my bags would not have been loaded due to security reasoning. She was apologetic and sympathetic, but calls to the Thai Airways Tokyo office yielded no result in my favor. After maybe 30 minutes, she simply took my word for it and said it would be all right, not before apologizing at least seven times throughout the conversation. She also took the liberty to take me back through connection security and to the arrivals level right at the immigration counters. I must commend her every effort in averting the crisis and doing everything possible to fulfill my request.

Immigration lines were not long, but the trouble really was to fill out the form which I didn’t do so on the plane. I stored my luggage in the temporary luggage area for a very reasonable 200 yen per day. I just needed to store it for a few hours.



I took the Keisei Main Line to Narita City, with the ticket costing 250 yen each way. Not particularly expensive but not cheap either. The ride took 15 minutes, and was operated with one of the older style subway cars.



Arriving at the Narita City station, the heat was immediately apparent. The streets were not busy and the city exuded a sense of calmness, perhaps because it was still office hours anyways.




I walked a little bit and found a shop selling Hokkaido milk biscuits. I was tempted to buy some but figured it might melt before ever making back to the U.S., so instead I tried a bottle of milk. What an odd move, I said to myself, but it was surprisingly very delicious. I got back 10 yen just for returning the bottle.



I guess it was time for the long awaited lunch at Edokko Sushi. This was recommended both on Tripadvisor and by some of my friends. I walked in and was immediately asked (at least that’s what I thought) whether I wanted to sit along the sushi bar or the tables, to which I chose the former. The restaurant was relatively empty at this point, but I would later find out that many Japanese funneled in during office lunch hours. I was first offered cold towel, and I chose to have the standard set with an additional piece of uni and hamachi.



I really like watching sushi chefs prepare sushi, the way they handle each with the utmost attention, accuracy and speed is simply amazing.

First, I was offered some gari (ginger) and wasabi.

Up next was each piece delivered in succession, tuna roll, scallop, crab leg, fatty tuna, jumbo shrimp, egg roll, uni and a serving of eel.




In addition, I was offered a bowl of miso soup. Not the cheap American ripoff, but properly with fish and tofu inside. Desert was offered after that, but I didn't really know what it was, probably some green tea jelly of some sort.




Each sushi was delicious, probably the best sushi lunch I have had, and the price was definitely reasonable. The chef spoke little English, and so I thanked them with “Arigato Gozaimasu” which is “Thank you very much” in Japanese. They were surprised and judging by the smile on their face I would say they appreciate being thanked for their work, but I mean what kind of chef doesn’t?

After lunch, I took a leisure walk around town, looking at some souvenirs and visiting the temples. Nothing extremely exciting but nonetheless was a good way to pass time. At around 2:30 p.m. I decided to head back to the airport.

I have never checked in at Tokyo in the South Wing Terminal 1, so was curious to see the whole Star Alliance operation. Actually, I walked up to one of the business class counters for ANA and double-checked to see if my bags made it through. The check in agent was extremely polite and immediately scrambled on the phone to confirm that indeed my bags were in their hands.



Going back through security to the departure level, I bought some Japanese goodies from the Fa-So-La duty free shop before going back to the ANA lounge.

Time passed by quickly, especially when I rotated between checking email, watching some television drama and typing up this trip report. 30 minutes before departure, I finally decided to bid farewell and head to the gate for boarding.

goodo

Great report. I'm doing a similar routing to you next year (LGA-ORD-NRT-ICN-SIN-MEL with NRT-ICN on UA) and it was great to be able to see the whole thing in pictures!

goodo

btang

Boarding was at Gate 51, and judging from the size of the crowd, it was going to be a busy flight. First Class and Diamonds had their own line, which I think makes sense given that if ANA can charge $7000 for a first class ticket, they can surely make the boarding experience more exclusive, instead of just lumping all the premium cabin passengers, Star Gold and ANA elites into one big bunch that comprises more than half the plane.



Luckily, the whole affair was very civilized, with many staff on duty to make sure everyone was accommodated. I boarded the flight earlier so I could have more time to store my belongings and change into my sleep suit. I was very tried after all the hassle and good thing this was the last leg of the journey.




The crew was a cheerful bunch, as they came around to offer newspapers, a choice of pre-departure drinks and menu for today�s flight. I didn�t bother looking at it, as I knew I would be picking the Japanese option.

I chose a glass of sparkling wine, instead of the not so tasty cold green tea option.



Always go for the Japanese choice, I say, it is always the safe choice. Ultimately, it was delicious as expected. I never really know what I�m eating for appetizer, but I am always amazed by the huge variety of flavor presented in that small little dish.

Today�s appetizers were no different, and the main course, which is usually a type of seared Japanese fish, was very well cooked. To go with the meal, I chose a glass of cabernet sauvignon. ANA�s wine selection is not particularly outstanding, but it isn't completely undrinkable either. I mean I shouldn't expect Chateau Haut Brion or Margaux 95? I can dream right haha?




I especially loved the quick seared salmon




The desert was some sort of mocha ice cream with strawberry sauce.



In terms of seating, I don�t think I need to explain any more, as I have reviewed the seat extensively before. What I will say is that it is better to sit more towards the front, because you get your meal choice. Apparently starting from September, passengers will get amenity kits and bed paddings, but for now these amenities were lacking.



Right after dinner, I immediately dove right in to get some much needed sleep, jet lag was starting to kick on, just as I had hoped so I can wake up in sync with the California time zone.

By the time I was conscious once again, the flight was coming to an end. It�s a shame that I couldn�t take more advantage of the experience, but the well rested me was a good sign that the seats were indeed very comfortable.



I started the morning off with another Japanese meal and some soothing jazz to really wake myself up. It was another type of fish, but I can�t seem to get tired of the lack of variety. But I mean, why bother changing, when the taste is phenomenal?




A cup of warm lemon tea to end the flight on a good note



Our plane was beginning to descent at about 30 minutes after nine in the morning, and with that the cabin crew did their customary walk around to greet each passenger. Of course, when of the lovely ladies came by, I was asked if the flight was most enjoyable, and whether her colleagues have taken good care of me. I replied with a definite yes, and sincerely thanked all their efforts. Up until now, I think ANA has one of the most consistent service delivery and products in the transpacific market. There is no doubt in my mind that their 5 star Skytrax award is nothing out of place.