<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by ErthCrclr:
Due to AA's having posted the 20/20 promo bonus already, my family is now able to go to JNB on CX instead of BKK for only 10K miles more each. So, that is where we are headed. The flights are looking like miserable ones, though: 15.5 hours + 13 hours, approximately. Has anyone survived this trip? How can I verify the type of aircraft? I did not see this info on the CX site. I am considering joing Marco Polo just for a respite on the ground... </font>
YES, THIS ROUTING IS DOABLE
I've travelled about 6 times in all classes from USA-HKG-JNB on CX. I find it a great way to go from the West Coast. I usually suggest a layover of at least 6 hours to get a room at the Regal Airport Hotel. I love to run into town to see friends, shop, have tea at the Penisula; it's a great way to break up the trip.
I'm actually leaving this Wed night on that exact trip with the entire family. I'm concerned about my two year old son. It's going to be a long trip. I'd love to be able to give him some Krug Grand Cru and have him sleep most of the way like I do when I'm alone!
If you make this trip in Economy, drink lots of water THE WHOLE way. I've even heard people taking two aspirin to thin their blood to avoid clotting.
If you don't have children, try my tried and true method of two drinks and two Excedrin PMs. I sleep like a baby.
AIRCRAFT
CX uses 747s from LAX and NYC to HKG and 340s from SFO. During high season (NOV-MAR) they fly 747s HKG-JNB. During low, it's a 340 with OLD first class.
MARCO POLO CLUB
Joining Marco Polo Club will NOT give you Wing access with Econ tkts. When you join, you are given GREEN status which does NOT have lounge access. Only the higher silver, gold and diamond can use the Wing. You do get 15% duty free on board with your MPC card which makes it worth it if you like to shop. The other MPC benefit is that they will block off free seats next to you. I've had them block off an entire middle section on a 747! I'd rather have 4 econ seats than 1 biz seat any day!
South Africa is a wonderful destination. The current exchange rate makes this country as cheap as Thailand right now! The Rand has taken a beating lately.
[This message has been edited by olafman (edited 10-15-2001).]
[This message has been edited by olafman (edited 10-15-2001).]