<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by nrr:
I am thinking of taking a trip to Tokyo (departing on a non-stop flight from jfk.) I would be traveling in coach. Since the flight is over 12 hours long, has anyone who has flown in a "sardine can" for so long "really" survived? I'm interested in learning (1)what the actual flight is like(what do you do to relieve boredom?) (2)what is the recuperation period after landing (and adjusting for jet-lag)?
[I've noted over in the mileage run section people who have done MR's in a short period, but they were in general not going to Tokyo for a vacation--only to get miles!]</font>
I've flown JFK-NRT numerous times, once in coach and the rest in Business Class.
The flight can be 13-15 hours long, depending on wind and ATC delays over Japan.
I tend to read, watch DVDs, listen to music, eat and sleep. Before you know it, you're in Tokyo. I enjoy having large blocks of time to myself, since they can be a rare occurence.
I don't suffer from jet-lag (whatever the hell that is); the term was coined by the terminally self-important many years ago so they could tell everyone that they just flew in from somewhere else. Pity the poor rich traveler. Traveling makes you tired, regardless of the number of timezones you cross.
Running marathons or riding bicycles 200+ miles in one day makes me tired as well, and usually I stay within the same county (and almost always within the same state).
Drink lots of water (I mean lots), get some rest, and drink alcohol in moderation, and you should be fine. If the flight is lightly loaded (hit or miss), snag a middle section for yourself, lie down and take a nap.
And try to figure out a way to make the next trip in Business Class so you'll get a seat that reclines and better food.
Good luck and have fun in Tokyo.