Go Back  FlyerTalk Forums > Community > Trip Reports
Reload this Page >

Cris-cros the Med & the Globe on Emirates, Qantas & Star Alliance in mix of F/C/Y+/Y

Cris-cros the Med & the Globe on Emirates, Qantas & Star Alliance in mix of F/C/Y+/Y

Old Apr 18, 2009, 11:40 pm
  #106  
Moderator, Hilton Honors
Original Poster
 
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: on a short leash
Programs: some
Posts: 71,419
He goes away to sort something out and over an hour after I'd arrived he escorts me upstairs through a (now unlocked) door into departures, and on into the lounge. I don't yet have a boarding pass because check in hasn't opened.

The "first class lounge" is a contract lounge shared by all airlines. It is fairly basic - some snacks, non-alcoholic drink, couple of computers (with Saudi Arabian firewalls blocking some sites). No additional guests allowed without paying a guest fee. The lounge alternates between crowded and empty according to the airline schedules, but mostly crowded.

When my onward flight opened for check in about 2 hours prior to departure I was given a boarding pass and my passport back.

The airport terminal had interesting architecture - that is one thing I love about major airports in this general area of the world (and yes Riyadh airport is major, indeed the largest area of any airport anywhere). Certainly can't be mistaken for the cookie cutter exposed steel beams approach so often seen today in major western airports.

Last edited by Kiwi Flyer; Apr 19, 2009 at 12:24 am
Kiwi Flyer is offline  
Old Apr 19, 2009, 12:35 am
  #107  
Moderator, Hilton Honors
Original Poster
 
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: on a short leash
Programs: some
Posts: 71,419
RIYADH to ZURICH (RUH-ZRH) on Swiss A330-200 in business class

This flight originated at Jeddah and there were very few passengers joining at Riyadh. This confused me for I'd forgotten about the JED-RUH leg and I'd seen the flight looking heavily oversold except in first for months. I figured if any flight would get an op-up this trip it would be this one. Indeed there were plenty of op-ups, including economy to business for the passenger seated beside me, but no luck for me. This continues my track record of no op-ups on M&M airlines despite 100+ flights. Priority for op-up seems to not be a SEN+ benefit.

This was my first Swiss longhaul flight and I was looking forward to it.

Prior to departure we were offered drink (water and juice only of course) and handed menus (initially given the wrong ones) plus a pen to fill in the breakfast pre-order form. An amenity kit was in the seat pocket - a little (and flimsy) drawstring bag containing socks, eye mask, ear plugs, toothbrush & toothpaste.

I was pretty tired by now and so skipped supper. I also skipped breakfast knowing I had plenty of time for that in the lounge in Zurich. The flight time was around 5 hours and I wanted to get as much sleep as possible. However the general cabin noise was quite high and so I only dozed fitfully. It seemed that supper and breakfast both took well over an hour to be consumed, leaving little quiet(er) time in between.

When I awoke we were already descending. A bottle of water had been left beside me and I was offered a juice or other drink.

We arrived at E terminal on time, with another passport check on the airbridge.
Kiwi Flyer is offline  
Old Apr 19, 2009, 12:37 am
  #108  
Moderator, Hilton Honors
Original Poster
 
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: on a short leash
Programs: some
Posts: 71,419
Swiss
Business Class menu
Riyadh to Zurich
April 2009


Menu

Midnight Snack

A mezze plate accompanied by a selection of :

Hot snack

Pumpkin soup

Selection of cheese

Chocolate mousse with mango coulis


Breakfast

To order your preferred selection, please fill in the breakfast card and hand it to your Flight Attendant.


Swiss arrival lounge

Should you prefer to sleep longer on board, freshen up and enjoy a continental breakfast in our Swiss Arrival Lounge, located in Terminal 1 at Zurich airport. Open from 5.30 a.m. until 1.00 p.m.


Wine List

Champagne

Brut Mosaique, Jacquart, Reims, France
50% Chardonnay, 35% Pinot Noir, 15% Pinot Meunier
An accessible, elegant champagne with fruity citrus notes. The perlage is pronounced and even. Known amoung champagne connoisseurs as a classic of the brut vintages.

White Wine

Bianco di Merlot DOC, Chia di Luna, Angelo Delea SA, Ticino, Switzerland 2007
100% Merlot
A fresh start, reminiscent of linden blossom and peach. Delicately structured, very palatable with a flowery finish. This is a light-footed and pleasing white Merlot; a specialty of Ticino. Ideal as an aperitif, with fish or vegetarian dishes.

Friendly Gruner Veltliner, Laurenz V, Kamptal, Austria 2007
100% Gruner Veltliner
A real find from Austria; innovative winemaking at its best. An aromatic bouquet with discreet hints of exotic fragrances and "fleur de sel". Slightly peppery, with a dry, minerally quality. Highly palatable, though the finish has a refreshing resonance.

Red Wine

Merlot Ticinoi DOC, Ismaro, Angelo Delea SA, Ticino, Switzerland 2007
100% Merlot
Sister to the Chiar di Luna from the same cellar, one of the best known in Ticino. It has the fragrance and flavour of strawberry jam, with hints of pepper and blueberry. A classic that is not too heavy in the body and goes well with meat dishes, cheese or pasta.

Les Aureliens, Domaine de Triennes, Provence, France 2006
Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah
A new Swiss discovery, created by two special personalities : Aubert de Villaine of Domaine de la Romanee-Conti and Jacques Seysses of Domaine Dujac, both founders of vineyards in the South of France. A robust example of its genre, it is aromatic, redolent of red fruits and liquorice with discreet roasted notes.

TRE, Brancaia, Maremma, Tuscany, Italy 2006
Sangiovese, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon
An inviting nose, with notes of fresh plums and a touch of eucalyptus. A youthful feel on the palate, but with ripe tannins and notes of blackcurrant and black cherries. It is pleasing and juicy in the finish.

Port

Porto Niepoort Tawny, Dao, Portugal
Touriga Nacional, Touriga Francesa, Tinto Roriz, Tinta Barrroca
Delicious plum bouquet with ripe fruits. Full-bodied and concentrated on the palate with built-in sweetness and a long-lasting finish.


C-229-C2 03/09-05/09 (229)


Breakfast

Dear Passenger
We've created a special menu for you in order to enjoy maximum sleeping time. Please indicate below your favourite choice and the cabin crew will deliver it with a morning smile.

Juices / Water

Orange Juice
Grapefruit Juice
Smoothie
Water

Warm breakfast pastries with butter and jam

Croissant
Danish
Bread roll

Fresh Fruit
Fruit Yoghurt

Plain omelette, grilled chicken breast, green asparagus and sauteed tomatoes
or
Pancakes with caramelised cinnamon apples and cherry compote
or
Selection of cold cuts and cheese

Coffee / Tea

Regular
Decaffeinated
Tea with lemon
Tea with milk
Glass of milk

Yes - wake me up for breakfast
No - do not wake me up for breakfast


Please accept our apology if your first choice is not available.
Please be advised that for your safety breakfast cannot be served later than 40 minutes prior to landing or during adverse flight conditions.

DNB229
Kiwi Flyer is offline  
Old Apr 19, 2009, 12:54 am
  #109  
Moderator, Hilton Honors
Original Poster
 
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: on a short leash
Programs: some
Posts: 71,419
Zurich in transit

I was faced with an (easy choice). Stay in E terminal all day from this early morning arrival until my evening departure, or not (but with downside of 2 more stamps in passport because Switzerland is now in the Schengen zone). I chose the latter. I wanted to check out the first class lounge which hadn't been opened last time I could potentially have used it, and to grab some breakfast, catch up on work, maybe get some sleep, meet with people if I could. In short I had a busy day lined up.

Some FTers have asked why I didn't book another trip when I had so much time in between flights. I deliberately didn't because I wanted a buffer in case of problems - the TIA-VIE-RUH-ZRH bit didn't have too many alternatives and following Zurich I have several days yet of flying lined up.

Last time I visited Switzerland they did not stamp passports on entry or exit, but Schengen rules mean my non-Schengen to non-Schengen transit with a day spent "in Zurich" gets 2 stamps, one on arrival and one on exit. The immigration officer commiserated with me.

A short stop at the transfer desk where I was given 2 more boarding passes, then upstairs to the lounge. This is very nice. Not as good as the Lufthansa FCL and FCT in FRA and MUC but not too far behind.

A restaurant area, some computers, 2 dayrooms (complete with shower inside), showers, plentiful food and drink. The food was changed every couple of hours. The drink was okay but not quite as good as I expected. There are plenty of magazines and newspapers. The service is fantastic.

When I arrived I was asked if I wanted a dayroom, and asked to book a time for the car transfer in the evening - there were 3 times offered (5 minutes apart). I declined the dayroom, had a shower and breakfast, then hit the computers to do some work and the bar to keep lubricated.

Later I managed a 20 minute nap in a dayroom before being awoken for f4freejunior's arrival. The dayrooms are well insulated - I wish I'd managed to wrap up work more quickly to have a longer sleep. We had a few drinks before heading into the city for stammtisch (okay some more drinks) which chumbawumba had arranged, and attended by Kiez and KL803. With a good 13+ hours drinking behind me I was glad that f4freejunior showed the right train to catch - I could easily have gotten on the wrong one.

I had just enough time for a quick shower and see to some messages and a couple of posts on Flyer Talk.
Kiwi Flyer is offline  
Old Apr 19, 2009, 2:59 am
  #110  
Moderator, Hilton Honors
Original Poster
 
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: on a short leash
Programs: some
Posts: 71,419
ZURICH to HONG KONG (ZRH-HKG) on Swiss A340-300 in first class

I thought I had time to deal with a couple of messages. However it turned out I missed my booked car, and the one after. The next one they hunted me down in the lounge to make sure I took it

Each transfer is in groups of 3 or 4. First downstairs for a security check. There was one seasoned traveller who was through security as quickly as I was. The other 2 were not so quick. Then immigration to get my second Switzerland stamp. The 3 other car passengers were on different flights.

We had a Merc van take us to E terminal, about 1 minute drive away under the tarmac. Then up lifts to the gate area. My flight hadn't even started boarding, so in hindsight it was good I missed the earlier rides. While there was a first/business line there was no priority for first and we were left to fend for ourselves joining the lengthy queue. It detracted from the transfer experience.

Onboard I was surprised that first class was 7/8 full. The flight had been showing at least 4 discounted first class seats available even just a few hours prior. I guess the family in the second row upgraded?
Kiwi Flyer is offline  
Old Apr 19, 2009, 3:23 am
  #111  
Moderator, Hilton Honors
Original Poster
 
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: on a short leash
Programs: some
Posts: 71,419
An offduty crew member claimed the last seat.

Pre-departure drinks with copious top-ups when I wasn't looking, plus a choice of warm nuts or amuse bouche. Slippers and amenity kit were already in the seat. Pajamas and menu soon handed out. Help ourselves to magazines in the rack but newspapers offered to seat.

The amenity kit bag is nice. Inside socks and eye mask (neither as good as Air NZ business amenities), toothbrush & toothpaste, ear plugs, shoe horn, several gels.

For takeoff a kid was allowed in the cockpit. On the monitors the forward camera view was shown.

The seat is nice and roomy. The table is large enough that a couple can dine together (other person sitting on the ottoman). There was however a problem with my seat with the headrest (which is quite hard) continually sliding down into my back. Even cushioned with the large pillow I still got a sore back and uncomfortable sleep as a result.

The service was good and meals took much less time than on Lufthansa without feeling rushed - ie perfectly paced.

The IFE was off for the first and last 45 minutes of the flight which is annoying. The avod system has a modest number of options, a few less than Qantas' IFE which is hardly leading the way.

The last 20 minutes of the flight were very bumpy. We landed in steady rain with no view (even the nearby hills were obscured) and very dark, almost night-like, skies. We landed to the northeast and then had a long taxi around the terminal to gate 4.

On arrival all first class passengers were escorted individually to either immigration or transfer. At this time of day there is no queues so only of value to those unfamiliar with Hong Kong airport.
Kiwi Flyer is offline  
Old Apr 19, 2009, 3:25 am
  #112  
Moderator, Hilton Honors
Original Poster
 
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: on a short leash
Programs: some
Posts: 71,419
Swiss
First Class menu
Zurich to Hong Kong
April 2009


Dinner

Gourmet Menu

First Courses

Selection of appetisers :
Marinated king prawn with Ticino prosciutto on polenta
Grilled scallop with artichoke
Bresaola tartare on fruit crisp bread
Asparagus mousse, thyme sablee and parsley jelly

Smoked salmon fillet

Main Courses

Fillet of beef and Ticino polenta with wild garlic, merlot jus and Spring vegetables

Oven-baked fillet of pike-perch with herb vinaigrette, saffron fennel, sauteed tomatoes and new potatoes

Risotto with truffled brie, white and green asparagus and Parmesan wafer

Special of the day

Choice of vegetables

Cheese

Selection of Swiss cheese

Dessert

Chocolate and vanilla lasagne with warm spiced banana

Swiss chocolates

Espresso and a selection of coffees and teas


Cheese

Vercasca
A typical specialty from the Vercasca Valley with a slightly sour flavour, made from unpasteurised milk

Gorello
A mild Ticino soft cheese with a delicate aroma

Tremola
Tremola is a naturally ripened semi hard cheese produced at the Gotthard Show Dairy from fresh mountain milk. It has an exceptionally fine aroma of herbs and a slightly sharp taste.

Robiolino
A Ticino cream cheese with a slightly sour flavour.

Emmental - selection Rolf Beeler
The original character of the cows' milk comes to the fore in this Emmental with its distinctive, nutty aroma.


Supplementary Choices

Selection of soups

Seasonal salads

Swiss cheese

Fresh fruits


Before Landing

Swiss Breakfast

Assortment of breakfast breads, preserves and honey, fresh fruits, yoghurts, muesli and cereals

Egg dish

Selection of coffees, teas and juices


Wine List

Champagne

Cuvee Louise 1998, Pommery, Reims, France
60% Chardonnay, 40% Pinot Noir
Enchanting hints of quince and brioche, long on the palate, with elegant notes of citrus fruits. Finesse and freshness in every sip. A top vintage from Pommery, with a lively finish. Perfect as an aperitif, with fish, white meat or young cheeses.

White Wine

Bianco di Merlot DOC, Convivio 2006, Monitcello Vini SA, Ticino, Switzerland
Merlot, Chardonnay
Making white wine from the red Merlot grape is a specialty of the Ticino region. The generous volume and melting qualities of this Bianco di Merlot are pleasing on the palate, with roasting aromas and notes of hazelnut and quince. An unctuous, powerful wine which goes well with white meat, cheese or a good book.

Chablis AOC 1er Cru, Vaillons 2006, Olivier Leflaive, Burgundy, France
100% Chardonnay
Chardonnay from its crisp, minerally side. A classic Chablis, with notes of peach and pear. Refreshes the palate and spirit alike. A fabulous structure and a juicy, vigorous finish. Ideal for drinking with hors d'oeuvres, fish, white meat, or when catching up with the newspapers.

Gruner Veltliner, Smaragd, Terrassen 2007, Domane Wachau, Austria
100% Gruner Veltliner
One of the top wines from the up-and-coming Domain Wachau. This pure Gruner Veltliner has a golden-yellow glow. It is pleasing on both nose and palate, with elegance and finesse. The bouquet has hints of honey, melon and peach. A good accompaniment to vegetarian dishes, fish or young cheeses. It scored 92/100 in the Wine Spectator ratings.

Red Wine

Merlot Riserva la Prella 2006, Tenimento la Prella, Ticino, Switzerland
100% Merlot
A glowing, ruby-red colour. Flavours of cloves, black pepper and plum jam. This Merlot has an impressive structure. THe bouquet has hints of firewood, forest floor, wild strawberries and blackcurrant. A complex, very deep wine - one of the finest from Canton Ticino. Good with meat, pasta or cheese.

Smith Haut Lafitte 2004, Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte, Bordeaux, France
55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot
One of the best wines from the Pessac-Leognan region, it has notes of dense, dark forest berries, blackcurrant, liquorice and a hint of roasted aromas. The tannins are delicate, gracefully embracing the concentrated fruit. A pure pleasure to drink. It goes well with meat dishes or cheese, and does not overwhelm, despite its strength.

Excellent 2005, R&A Pfaffl, Weinviertel, Austria
40% Blauer Zweigelt, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot
A dense ruby-red colour. Undertones of berry and fat on the nose. Charming on the palate, a very modern example of its type. Notes of cedarwood and blackberry come to the fore. Excellent when accompanying red meat and pasta, or as a digestif. Innovative winemaking from Austria.

Dessert Wine

Sous l'Escalier, Petite Arvine du Valais 2007, Mont d'Or, Valais, Switzerland
100% Petite Arvine
Domaine du Mont d'Or is one of the top labels for dessert wines. For years, the producers of the Valais region have been vinifying sweet, nectar-like wines. This Petite Arvine reveals a concentrated bouquet, with hints of honey, quince and rose. Pleases the palate and soothes the spirit. Perfect with dessert or cheese.

Port

Porto Calem 20 yearts old, Portugal
Touriga Nacional, Touriga Francesa, Tinto Roriz, Tinta Barroca
A fine and elegant bouquet with nuances of nut and dried fruit. Typical barrique notes. Sweet and well structured with a prolonged finish.


Beverages

Beers

Appenzeller Quollfrisch
Heineken
Non-alcoholic beer (0.5% vol)

Aperitifs

Campari
Bacardi White Rum
Bombay Sapphire Gin
Grey Goose Vodka

Liqueurs and Digestifs

Single Malt Whisky
The Macallan Fine Oak 18 years

Blended Scotch Whisky
Chivas Regal 18 years

Cognac
Remy Martin XO Excellence AOC Grande Champagne

Grappa di Moscato Monovitigno Nonino

Zuger Kirsch 1995 Etter

Williams Etter


Soft Drinks

Soft Drinks

Still water
Sparkling water
Tonic water
Coke
Diet Coke
Sprite

Juices
Orange juice
Apple juice
Pink grapefruit juice
Tomato juice
Spicy mixed tomato juice

Tea

Darjeeling Superieur
High quality blend of Darjeeling, Assam and Ceylon teas, ideal for afternoons

Earl Grey Superieur
High quality blend of Yunnan and Keemun teas, perfumed with Bergamot oil

Assam
Tea with golden tips, rich in tannins, malty taste, powerful but free of bitterness

Rooibosh Bourbon
South African tea with bourbon-vanilla, caffeine free, natural vitamin C, delicate

Gunpowder "Temple of Heaven"
Chinese green tea with rolled leaves, bitterly refreshing

Medina
Green tea mixed with peppermint, North African specialty, very refreshing

Citronelle
Lemongrass, very thirst quenching and energising


Coffee

Nespresso coffee selection
Nespresso takes nothing for granted in their quest to bring you the perfect cup of coffee. The journey begins with the selection of only the finest green coffee beans and ends with the thick "crema", rich aroma and marvellously intensive taste of Nespresso Grand Crus. Enjoy your cup of espresso, cafe au lait, cafe creme, cappuccino or an iced coffee.

Capriccio
It's an espresso with a rich bouquet. Its "crema" is very dense and so delicate that it reflects the light.

Vivalto
An intense Lungo which combines pleasantly roasted and floral notes. It is also delicious prepared with milk.

Arpeggio
This is a Meditteranean blend "par excellence". The highly roasted blend has a strong character, intense body and long exquisite aftertaste. Its hint of cocoa and its rich, thick "crema" remain to the last drop.

Decaffeinato
This is a light and delicate decaffeinated variety which strikes a good balance between mildness and acidity. Decaffeinato's "crema" is distinguished by its hazelnut colour and consistent texture in the mouth.

F-138-C2 03/09-05/09 (138)
Kiwi Flyer is offline  
Old Apr 19, 2009, 6:19 am
  #113  
 
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Agoura Hills, CA USA
Posts: 2,659
This is a wonderful trip report.. It seems that LX first class menu is quite consistant and reminds me of my recent first class trips from LAX-ZRH and ZRH-JNB...
RTW4 is offline  
Old Apr 19, 2009, 8:25 am
  #114  
 
Join Date: Sep 2005
Posts: 1,760
Great read as always Kiwi Flyer, thanks for sharing ^
view is offline  
Old Apr 19, 2009, 9:40 am
  #115  
 
Join Date: Aug 2005
Location: ZRH
Programs: LX HON Circle
Posts: 3,227
Originally Posted by Kiwi Flyer
Zurich in transit

Later I managed a 20 minute nap in a dayroom before being awoken for f4freejunior's arrival. (...). We had a few drinks before heading into the city for stammtisch (okay some more drinks)
Thank you again for the invitation! It was a pleasure to meet you and spend a couple of hours in the FCL with you.

Originally Posted by Kiwi Flyer
With a good 13+ hours drinking behind me I was glad that f4freejunior showed the right train to catch - I could easily have gotten on the wrong one.
no problem. I think I also managed to drink quite a lot because later on f4free joined us for further drinks in Winterthur. We reached home at 6am...

Originally Posted by Kiwi Flyer
For takeoff a kid was allowed in the cockpit. On the monitors the forward camera view was shown.
^ When I was a kid, I once was allowed to do the same on a former SR flight ZRH-MIA op. by an MD11. An awesome experience.

Originally Posted by Kiwi Flyer
There was however a problem with my seat with the headrest (which is quite hard) continually sliding down into my back. Even cushioned with the large pillow I still got a sore back and uncomfortable sleep as a result.
I think I told you to move to row 2...@:-)
How would you rate LX's onboard product (F Class) compared to LH?
f4freeJunior is offline  
Old Apr 19, 2009, 6:30 pm
  #116  
Moderator, Hilton Honors
Original Poster
 
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: on a short leash
Programs: some
Posts: 71,419
Hong Kong in transit, again

I walked to the TG lounge where I was welcomed back. I did some work on the computer. As I was getting tired of sitting around I made frequent trips to the bar to stretch my legs - that is my excuse and I'm sticking to it.

I had a shower around 10pm since the lounge closes at 11pm. Then I left and walked to the gate 16 lounge (operated by oneworld airline Dragonair) used by Asiana. The lounge bouncer didn't know Asiana uses the lounge despite the logo appearing on a card at the desk and had to call someone to confirm. I tried to do some more work but lost it when the computer reverted to some odd unidentified script (not chinese, japanese, korean, thai or arabic).
Kiwi Flyer is offline  
Old Apr 21, 2009, 12:52 pm
  #117  
Moderator, Hilton Honors
Original Poster
 
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: on a short leash
Programs: some
Posts: 71,419
HONG KONG to SEOUL INCHEON (HKG-ICN) on Asiana 767 747-400(Combi) in business class

I'd noticed the day before that the aircraft operating this flight had been switched from 767 to 747 and was glad I had a seat in the nose as a result. When I arrived at the gate boarding had not long commenced and it was apparent the load was very light overall (and also in the nose with just 3 passengers).

This flight was almost a mirror image of the same flight I'd taken less than 3 weeks prior. There were a few minor differences. Much better service - my glass wouldn't even get half empty before it was topped up. We had a delay in pushing back due to ongoing congestion at Hong Kong from the heavy rain earlier in the day. The flight time was also longer, so the combined effect was we arrived some 45 minutes later than last time. There was moderate turbulence the whole flight. I managed to get about an hour's sleep.
Kiwi Flyer is offline  
Old Apr 21, 2009, 12:58 pm
  #118  
Moderator, Hilton Honors
Original Poster
 
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: on a short leash
Programs: some
Posts: 71,419
Asiana
Business Class menu
Hong Kong to Seoul
April 2009


Asiana Bar

Aperitifs

Campari
Medium dry sherry sandeman

Spirits

Scotch whisky Chivas Regal 18 years
Scotch whisky Ballantine's 17 years
Bourbon whiskey Jack Daniel
Vodka Smirnoff
Gin Beefeater's

Cocktails

Beers

Non-alcoholic Beverages

Coffee

RA (Rainforest Alliance certified) coffee
Decaffeinated coffee
Espresso
Cappuccino
Cafe-latte

Tea

Champagne & White Wines

Champagne Cattier Brut
Since 1763, Cattier has been devoted to the culture of vineyards. Cattier Brut has gold with amber color and aromas of flowers, nuts and some touches of citrus fruits. On the palate, the champagne shows fresh and vinous, as an aperitif but also with white meat, poultry and seafood.

Sancerre Les Grands Champs 2007
Sancerre, Loire, France is the epitome of the crispy Sauvignon Blanc. On the lightly undulating limestone hills, the grapes will enjoy a slow maturation and contribute with fresh, zesty and herbal characters. This fine cuvee is a fine ambassador for the appellation and the wine is showing a nose of fresh grass, citrus, gooseberries, and a very crispy palate, filled with green fruit, kiwi and a long crispy aftertaste; a very enjoyable and vivid wine to enjoy with spicy flavours.

HESS Moneterey Chardonnay 2007
This is a fine example of modern Californian Chardonnay where the emphasis is not oaky and roasted flavours, but purity, fruit and freshness. The nose is showing some dinstinct and tropical fruit aromas of pineapple, green apple and lemon and some discreet hints of spicy oak and vanilla. The palate is full bodied and delivers a lot of flavor; ripe fruit and a well balanced acidity. The aftertaste is very unctious and fruity with a long and fine persistence.

Red Wines

Chateau Bel-Orme Tronquoy-de-Lalande 2002
A purple colored wine with a garnet red hue. The nose is very complex and displays flavors reminiscent of sweet elderberries, spicy blackcurrant and ripe plums. In addition, the flavor is enhanced by a touch of mild spices, cedar-wood and tobacco, with slightly toasted overtones. On the palate, ripe tannins, well expressed flavors and mild spices add character and complexity to this excellent, very classic Cru Bourgeois.

Givry 1er cru, Cellier aux Moines 2004
The Cote Chalonnaise is found in the southern parts of Burgundy where the slightly warmer and drier climate can give very generous Burgundies that also have the advantage of maturing a little earlier than their northern coutnerparts. This example is Pinot Noir at its best, from the gently undulating slopes of Givry. The wine has a good ripeness yet a classical freshness. The nose is very elegant and displays aromas of red citrus, wild berries and spices. On the palate the wine is well structured with hints of red fruits, very smooth tannins and an elegant and long aftertaste.

Artesa Elements 2004
The Artesa winery is found in the cool-climate Carneros region that straddles both Sonoma and Napa Valleys, the wines are well made and mirror the Californian sun and show a fine combination of ripe fruit and serious structure. Specifically blended from many varietals, or elements, this wine is brimming with lively black cherry and black berry fruit wrapped in mocha, fudge, and some spicy undertones of vanilla and wood. The palate is rich with a plethora of dark fruit, ripe tannins and a long and fruity finish.

Dessert Wines

Blandy's 10 Years Old Malmsey Madeira
Blandy's Malmsey Madiera is the best known fortified wine of Madeira Island, Portugal. Its scent harmonizes with the flavors of chocolate, tangerine and vanilla and caresses the palate. Rich in apricot aroma, its elegant sweetness is best enjoyed with desserts or on its own after a meal.

Port Sandeman 20 Years Old Tawny Porto
Specially selected Portos are chosen for aging in wooden casks, which concentrates their fruit and flavor. It has a rich yet elegant combination flavors of dried apricots, honey, nuts, spices, vanilla - creates an endless scent of the wine that unfolds and develops smoothly in the mouth.

Cognac & Liqueurs

Camus XO
Baileys irish cream


Snack

Western

Appetizer

Smoked Chicken, Grilled Zucchini and Eggplant

Mixed Salad

Vinaigrette Walnut Dresshing

Main Course

Beef Lasagna 330kcal
Served with Tomato Sauce

or

Deep Fried Cod 530kcal
Served with Chili Plum Sauce

Accompanied by Vegetables and Steamed Rice

Assorted Cheese and Fresh Fruit

Dessert

Coconut Panna Cotta

Coffee & Tea


Korean

Pumpkin and Seabass Porridge 217kcal
A Famous Korean Healthy Porridge

Accompanied by Assorted Side Dishes

Assorted Cheese and Fresh Fruit

Dessert

Coconut Panna Cotta

Coffee & Tea


OZ 723/724
SEL/HKG/SEL
B/C
2009C1 - 20090301
Kiwi Flyer is offline  
Old Apr 21, 2009, 1:16 pm
  #119  
Moderator, Hilton Honors
Original Poster
 
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: on a short leash
Programs: some
Posts: 71,419
Seoul Incheon in transit, again

With a later arrival (still early enough at 5am) I expected long queues at transfers so I walked fast. However there was no queue and I was soon through and up 2 levels to the Asiana transfer desk which had already opened. There was a short queue. I was given my onward boarding pass, but not without being quizzed by the agent who was puzzled that I was flying back to Hong Kong.

The first class lounge doesn't open until 7am so I went into the business class lounge, grabbed a drink and got to work. Around 7am one of the lounge staff came to collect me and take me over to the first class lounge (not that you could get lost as it is almost next door).

The first class lounge looked similar to the business class lounge, but more spacious and less populated. The business centre however was more cramped. I did some more work and got a lot done. I lost track of time and was soon called for my onward flight.
Kiwi Flyer is offline  
Old Apr 22, 2009, 12:44 am
  #120  
Moderator, Hilton Honors
Original Poster
 
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: on a short leash
Programs: some
Posts: 71,419
SEOUL INCHEON to HONG KONG (ICN-HKG) on Asiana 747-400 in first class

We got a ridiculous escort to our gate, which happened to be the closest one to the lounge, and they insisted that we bypass the boarding queue.

This time I had the new Asiana first class seats. They are similar to the Qantas 747 F seats - very comfy, not leading edge but far more than you strictly need for such a short flight.

The cabin was half full. I didn't notice how full the rest of the aircraft was or wasn't.

Pre-departure drinks. Unlike some other airlines, Asiana doesn't mind which of the 2 champagnes on offer are opened pre-departure, or even if different passengers ask to have the different bubbly. There was also a couple of top-ups ^ Nuts were served, slippers and menus handed out. No amenity kit for such a short flight.

The flight was bumpy as expected. If anything it had gotten worse with a half full champagne glass acting like a fountain at times - the bumps forcing liquid well above the rim. The cabin crew solved the problem by only half filling glasses and seemingly spending much of the flight coming back to the seat to top-up some more.

The combination of my tiredness (having spent the last 3 nights in a row in the air with very limited sleep each time) and my drink intake the flight is a bit of a blur. Please excuse my lack of details.

The skies near Hong Kong were clearer and this time we landed from the northeast, which I can't remember doing at Hong Kong for a long time. We taxied back to gate 15.
Kiwi Flyer is offline  

Thread Tools
Search this Thread

Contact Us - Manage Preferences - Archive - Advertising - Cookie Policy - Privacy Statement - Terms of Service -

This site is owned, operated, and maintained by MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands. Copyright © 2024 MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands. All rights reserved. Designated trademarks are the property of their respective owners.