YVR

The Canadian immigration official did not like my itinerary, commenting “ do you know how awkward your itinerary is?” when I gave him the entire routing. I considered apologising for making his life difficult, but thought he might not be in the mood for jokes/sarcastic comments. This is the downside of doing turnarounds in this part of the world. On exiting I went for a walk outside the airport, it was a sunny and cool day. Having not dressed for the weather I quickly went inside and checked in at the United First counter. US immigration forms have to be filled out before departure here, as the border control is actually in the Canadian airports. This is normal in Canada and because the flights arrive in domestic terminals in the US I think, but still it feels a little odd.

The check-in agent invited me to visit the Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge. There are 3 such MLL’s in YVR, but I would only have access to the transborder one, the other ones are in the domestic and international terminals. The MLL was good, and way better than the RCC I visited that morning. Nice and airy with tarmac views. The lounge attendant told me about wifi, foods coming soon and about the drink selection, commenting that everything was complimentary. As it should be if you ask me, but all the UA customers are probably not used to that I guess.

There was breakfast service when I arrived, and a little later the lunch selection was rolled out, including cream chicken soup, breads and salads. The alcohol selection was made available at this time as well, 11.00AM so don’t expect any drinks if you arrive earlier than that. Wine, spirits and beer on tap and cans offered.

YVR-SFO
UA1137 First class
Dep. 13.14
Airbus A319
Seat 2D

Priority boarding for Global Services, 1K and First enforced, North America is usually very good at elite boarding in my experience. A319 service to SFO, in nice conditions. FA used names to take lunch orders, I chose the hot option of pastrami sandwich and a beer. No power outlet in the seats unfortunately.
The sandwich was surprisingly good, a very tasty pastrami on rye bread with melted cheese and mustard. This was served alongside some bulgur or something, and a warm cookie. White tablecloth and refills offered, this was better than expected I must admit. It probably helps that the crew was wonderful and very service minded, it can make or break a flight. Had another beer to finish things off and settled back to read a paperback.


Pictures:
Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge
MLL slumberettes
My MLL lunch
Take-off from YVR
Mighty Canadian mountains
Holding pattern over SFO