Pre-takeoff activities:
Two flight attendants are greeting passengers at the gate, and there was a red carpet on the entrance. On my flight to Beijing, the purser made the F/A leading me to my seat. The initial impression was good and the F/As were quite busy running around with pre-takeoff beverage – orange or apple juice, hot towel, newspaper, headset, and amenities.

Pre-takeoff orange juice and hot towel (I love the China Southern branded hot towel)


Bottled water at the holder already (but the label said that bottled waters should be removed during takeoff, landing or taxi) – local PRC brand


Amenities – slippers, shoe bags with shoehorn, and eyeshades (return flight)





Newspaper – of course there is not going to be a typical newspaper cart, but a copy of the official PRC newspaper (English version is available)


Beijing Youth Post for the return flight – for local HK residents, this cover page will bring mixed reaction but no surprise here!


Headset – looks like a Bose one, but it is just a copycat but at least a noise-canceling headset




Bedding:


Menu


Printed menus are available and they are pre-placed at each seat. However, they did not replenish them on the return flight. I got no menu on the way to Beijing and got one on the return. Very strange but at least they did not recollect them. Meals for both inbound and outbound flights are printed on the menu. Entr้e order is pre-taken prior to departure, and the F/A actually asked when did you want your meal. With only three hours flying time, the choice is whether you want the meal right after takeoff or an hour and fifteen minutes prior to landing.