Great thread. While not a FlyerTalk newbie, I appreciate the offer to help out a clueless UA guy on some basic Thai Airways info. I have read a bunch of the Thai forum, but still have a couple of questions.
I have finally booked a First Class award ticket, going to BKK. While always great to visit Thailand, I am really jazzed about my first real International trip in FC, and my first ride with Thai Airways. While certainly not an ideal routing, it was a short notice trip so I felt lucky to find award space at all....
My return begins with TG 614 (BKK to PEK). From what I can see, this is First class in a 3 cabin aircraft, 747-400 (7442 model). I have called and been assigned 2B. It is showing as booking code First (O).
I guess the main question I have is regarding the service to expect, both on the ground and in the air. As it is a shorter / regional type length (4hour, 40 min) instead of a long-haul, is there any differentiation in service?
First class check in?, buggy to lounge / spa?, buggy to gate?, type of meal service to be expected (caviar and champagne....or tea and sandwich...lol)? My itin from United indicates "no meal service" for this flight, which I find hard to believe...
Any info you can share to help set my expectation for the regional service levels would be great.
One other question, assuming I have access to the spa at BKK, which I think I do, is there any need to make a reservation prior to arrival at BKK? if so, how?
Flight departs at 10:10, so I would probably want a massage around 7:30 or 8:00. Not sure if this is a peak time or not.
Thanks again for all info and assistance provided. If you are ever stuck on UA, I would be happy to return the favor.