TR: Weekend Trip to China
Nov 7, 2014, 10:58 pm
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Jul 2014
Location: SYD
Programs: TK*G, QR Gold, VA Gold, NZ Gold
Posts: 237
TR: Weekend Trip to China
Travel beyond First Class and Chasing Gold
Introduction and Pre-flight Logistics
The main reasons for this trip (in order of importance):
1. Mileage run for A3 *G
2. SQ A380 Suite Experience
3. China Visit - I always wanted to put a tick on Mainland China
Being a frequent traveller, it is a necessity to travel in comfort. Hence, the main objective is to finally get the highly-coveted Star Alliance Gold membership. I have been planning for months on how I can get Aegean Gold Membership. All of a sudden sometime in September they announced that A3 is changing its rules on its Tier membership.
I had to make an action if I want to attain this Tier before the planned change on 24 November 2014, which for us A3 members we call it doomsday. It is when we finally can say that Lifetime Gold cease to exist. New rules to align to other airline partners are on its way.
Having said that, I did look at all options from Hong Kong, Shanghai and finally I decided to fly to Beijing. Not knowing that even if you stay less than 24 hours - you would still need a visa.
Cutting the long story short, I booked an open-jaw SIA ticket as follows:
• SYD-SIN (B777-200) 31/10/14 1910H - 1/11/14 0020H
• PVG-SIN (B777-300ER) 2/11/14 1350H - 2/11/14 1930H
• SIN-SYD (A380-800) 2/11/14 2030H - 3/11/14 0735H
I redeemed Award Saver Suites for the following:
• SIN-PEK (A380-800) 1/11/14 0845H - 1/11/14 1450H
Finally, I booked a domestic flight via Air China:
• PEK-SHA (B747-400) 1/11/14 2030H - 1/11/14 2240H
I booked accommodation with Grand Central Hotel Shanghai via Booking.com.
Once all these are done, I checked again whether I would meet desired mileage accumulation and reach Gold. Check. Then its time to get visa, which was fairly easy because there is a Chinese Visa Processing Centre in Sydney. They are efficient and I did get my L1 visa after four working days for less than $100.
Hectic Flight Day
31 Oct came and it was one helluva marathon to reach my final destination, which is Shanghai.. Coming straight from work. I have to make sure I finish early and grab my luggage and quickly run to the airport to catch my evening flight. .I checked in using my "Suite Pass" on my second leg of the trip. I managed to checkin my luggage directly to Beijing. Also I had Express Pass. It was quick as fox and I was finished with all the clearances. I just had to get my tax refund on TRS - if only I have the express pass here… this on took a heaps of my time so I had to settle for a quick maccas for a light meal.
B777-200 is not ideal for me cos I got used to A380 when I travel from SYD-SIN. However I was dead tired from work. And I slept all through out… I needed the energy for an all-nighter.
SG on a Halloween, there's no thinking about it!! I definitely need to see what is in the scene. But I wouldn't let the time pass by not visiting the legendary TPR. Yes, it is real. The Private Room exists. It is hidden at the very end of the Silver Kris Lounge (SKL) after passing through Business Class and First Class. I was told that they close in the next 15 minutes (2am) so I did get a quick rest with a glass of champagne. Then stayed for another half hour at First Class Lounge. I got some TWG tea while I plan out how to spend the next few hours while waiting for 5am. Why? Because I want to experience the exclusive First Class Check-in and SIA First Class Departure Immigration Check.
Did some crazy wild ... party in SG - somewhere in the midst of busy Chinatown I was reminded that I have to optimise my time and be sure to get the cab to Changi. And there I was bidding for the next cab to stop and beat other needy-cabbie-drunks but you just have to say the secret word and they will come lining up to you… Just say "Changi". Apparently it is win-win for them.
First Class Departure and The Private Room
Shortly after 20 minutes, I was at SIA First Class Departures and two of the attendants were waiting for me to get off the cab. They were looking for my luggage but there was none. I have to tell them I'm just in transit. The check-in counter is exquisite like a hotel lobby with leather couch to seat on while they are printing the boarding pass. I had to reprint mine 'cos the SYD SIA check-in counter lady gave me First Class and I wanted Suites. Plus I was waiting for the formal invitation to The Private Room written in Gold invitation letter. They then escort me to an exclusive immigration officer, who in less than a minute wished me a good journey. An alley way, short of fifty steps, connected the First Class Departure to SKL where I was three hours ago. This time the attendant recognised me 'even asked me if I did enjoy my quick SG experience.
After passing through the all-to-familiar hallway, I was at The Private Room once again. I sat in a restaurant within TPR and ordered an omelette with bacon. I also ordered apple cinnamon waffles. Too bad it was brekkie time, otherwise I would have tried the scrumptious 'book the cook' meals that I often see in TRs. Then shortly after I relaxed and showered. Read my book and headed to the boarding gate. In a matter of minutes I was ready to board.
The Suite Experience
I walked my way to 'The Suites' sign where the Chief Steward greeted me warmly and escorted me to my seat which is in 3F. As expected, they addressed me as Mr Mercado, obviously they are aware of my presence, like a royalty - HRHRM (His Royal Highness RM). They gave me choice of newspaper, warm towel and most of all - a glass of Dom Perignon. I told them that I had not slept much and I needed to take a quick nap shortly after the take off. Before we the take off the Lead Stewardess (LSS) chatted for a bit. We started to get to know each other and I learnt that she's been flying for more than 20 years yet she still looks young. I did show the book I was reading which is all about flight attendants and their adventures and then she started to tell her own flight adventures and some pet peeves too.
Right after take-off, I went to lavatory to freshen up. Most of the products used at the Suites were Ferragamo or L'Occitane. When I returned to my seat, the suite in front of me has already been made to a single bed. I went in and the LSS quickly shown how to operate the lights and then I was tucked to sleep. Far above the clouds I was having the most convenient sleep I ever had.
Two hours before landing, LSS woke me up and gave me hot towel and told me that they will start preparing for my lunch. When I looked at my original suite, it was already ready with Givenchy table napkins and cutleries. For entrée they served Antipasto Platter, which was excellent. I also had salad with dash of pecans dressed with sauvignon vinegar. They offered me to taste Krüg champagne, which was a bit stronger but perfect for my mains which was served shortly after the Roasted Butternut Squash soup. For mains I pre-booked the cook with famous Lobster Thermidor, which was pleasantly presented to its finest. Then I was wowed with the Finalé - Chocolate Macadamia cake with the dry ice lava effect. Fruits, cheese and chocolate truffles followed which complemented an endless top-up of champagne.
I enjoyed every moment of the Suites experience. LSS has given me some souvenirs from Singapore Airlines (notepad, pens, extra amenities and toys for my nephew and niece). I was even spoiled when they started preparing the double bed in the middle since I missed when they were preparing my bed. I laid my SQ bears on the bed and she started taking pictures so I capture this moment. Again, I felt like a star. A model if you may.
Suites is indeed a class beyond First. They treat you like royalty and the personal touch always makes a big difference. It is an airline like no other. I have tried more than 10 other full serviced airline and I keep on coming back to SIA because they deliver beyond expectations. I did gave them great compliments on the survey that the Chief Steward gave me 20 minutes before descent.
I would never forget this experience. And definitely it wouldn't be the last.
Suites Menu
Dom Perignon
Double Bed in Suites
Below is the link of my detailed flight experience written in my blog:
http://rondztk.blogspot.com.au/2014/...sing-gold.html
Introduction and Pre-flight Logistics
The main reasons for this trip (in order of importance):
1. Mileage run for A3 *G
2. SQ A380 Suite Experience
3. China Visit - I always wanted to put a tick on Mainland China
Being a frequent traveller, it is a necessity to travel in comfort. Hence, the main objective is to finally get the highly-coveted Star Alliance Gold membership. I have been planning for months on how I can get Aegean Gold Membership. All of a sudden sometime in September they announced that A3 is changing its rules on its Tier membership.
I had to make an action if I want to attain this Tier before the planned change on 24 November 2014, which for us A3 members we call it doomsday. It is when we finally can say that Lifetime Gold cease to exist. New rules to align to other airline partners are on its way.
Having said that, I did look at all options from Hong Kong, Shanghai and finally I decided to fly to Beijing. Not knowing that even if you stay less than 24 hours - you would still need a visa.
Cutting the long story short, I booked an open-jaw SIA ticket as follows:
• SYD-SIN (B777-200) 31/10/14 1910H - 1/11/14 0020H
• PVG-SIN (B777-300ER) 2/11/14 1350H - 2/11/14 1930H
• SIN-SYD (A380-800) 2/11/14 2030H - 3/11/14 0735H
I redeemed Award Saver Suites for the following:
• SIN-PEK (A380-800) 1/11/14 0845H - 1/11/14 1450H
Finally, I booked a domestic flight via Air China:
• PEK-SHA (B747-400) 1/11/14 2030H - 1/11/14 2240H
I booked accommodation with Grand Central Hotel Shanghai via Booking.com.
Once all these are done, I checked again whether I would meet desired mileage accumulation and reach Gold. Check. Then its time to get visa, which was fairly easy because there is a Chinese Visa Processing Centre in Sydney. They are efficient and I did get my L1 visa after four working days for less than $100.
Hectic Flight Day
31 Oct came and it was one helluva marathon to reach my final destination, which is Shanghai.. Coming straight from work. I have to make sure I finish early and grab my luggage and quickly run to the airport to catch my evening flight. .I checked in using my "Suite Pass" on my second leg of the trip. I managed to checkin my luggage directly to Beijing. Also I had Express Pass. It was quick as fox and I was finished with all the clearances. I just had to get my tax refund on TRS - if only I have the express pass here… this on took a heaps of my time so I had to settle for a quick maccas for a light meal.
B777-200 is not ideal for me cos I got used to A380 when I travel from SYD-SIN. However I was dead tired from work. And I slept all through out… I needed the energy for an all-nighter.
SG on a Halloween, there's no thinking about it!! I definitely need to see what is in the scene. But I wouldn't let the time pass by not visiting the legendary TPR. Yes, it is real. The Private Room exists. It is hidden at the very end of the Silver Kris Lounge (SKL) after passing through Business Class and First Class. I was told that they close in the next 15 minutes (2am) so I did get a quick rest with a glass of champagne. Then stayed for another half hour at First Class Lounge. I got some TWG tea while I plan out how to spend the next few hours while waiting for 5am. Why? Because I want to experience the exclusive First Class Check-in and SIA First Class Departure Immigration Check.
Did some crazy wild ... party in SG - somewhere in the midst of busy Chinatown I was reminded that I have to optimise my time and be sure to get the cab to Changi. And there I was bidding for the next cab to stop and beat other needy-cabbie-drunks but you just have to say the secret word and they will come lining up to you… Just say "Changi". Apparently it is win-win for them.
First Class Departure and The Private Room
Shortly after 20 minutes, I was at SIA First Class Departures and two of the attendants were waiting for me to get off the cab. They were looking for my luggage but there was none. I have to tell them I'm just in transit. The check-in counter is exquisite like a hotel lobby with leather couch to seat on while they are printing the boarding pass. I had to reprint mine 'cos the SYD SIA check-in counter lady gave me First Class and I wanted Suites. Plus I was waiting for the formal invitation to The Private Room written in Gold invitation letter. They then escort me to an exclusive immigration officer, who in less than a minute wished me a good journey. An alley way, short of fifty steps, connected the First Class Departure to SKL where I was three hours ago. This time the attendant recognised me 'even asked me if I did enjoy my quick SG experience.
After passing through the all-to-familiar hallway, I was at The Private Room once again. I sat in a restaurant within TPR and ordered an omelette with bacon. I also ordered apple cinnamon waffles. Too bad it was brekkie time, otherwise I would have tried the scrumptious 'book the cook' meals that I often see in TRs. Then shortly after I relaxed and showered. Read my book and headed to the boarding gate. In a matter of minutes I was ready to board.
The Suite Experience
I walked my way to 'The Suites' sign where the Chief Steward greeted me warmly and escorted me to my seat which is in 3F. As expected, they addressed me as Mr Mercado, obviously they are aware of my presence, like a royalty - HRHRM (His Royal Highness RM). They gave me choice of newspaper, warm towel and most of all - a glass of Dom Perignon. I told them that I had not slept much and I needed to take a quick nap shortly after the take off. Before we the take off the Lead Stewardess (LSS) chatted for a bit. We started to get to know each other and I learnt that she's been flying for more than 20 years yet she still looks young. I did show the book I was reading which is all about flight attendants and their adventures and then she started to tell her own flight adventures and some pet peeves too.
Right after take-off, I went to lavatory to freshen up. Most of the products used at the Suites were Ferragamo or L'Occitane. When I returned to my seat, the suite in front of me has already been made to a single bed. I went in and the LSS quickly shown how to operate the lights and then I was tucked to sleep. Far above the clouds I was having the most convenient sleep I ever had.
Two hours before landing, LSS woke me up and gave me hot towel and told me that they will start preparing for my lunch. When I looked at my original suite, it was already ready with Givenchy table napkins and cutleries. For entrée they served Antipasto Platter, which was excellent. I also had salad with dash of pecans dressed with sauvignon vinegar. They offered me to taste Krüg champagne, which was a bit stronger but perfect for my mains which was served shortly after the Roasted Butternut Squash soup. For mains I pre-booked the cook with famous Lobster Thermidor, which was pleasantly presented to its finest. Then I was wowed with the Finalé - Chocolate Macadamia cake with the dry ice lava effect. Fruits, cheese and chocolate truffles followed which complemented an endless top-up of champagne.
I enjoyed every moment of the Suites experience. LSS has given me some souvenirs from Singapore Airlines (notepad, pens, extra amenities and toys for my nephew and niece). I was even spoiled when they started preparing the double bed in the middle since I missed when they were preparing my bed. I laid my SQ bears on the bed and she started taking pictures so I capture this moment. Again, I felt like a star. A model if you may.
Suites is indeed a class beyond First. They treat you like royalty and the personal touch always makes a big difference. It is an airline like no other. I have tried more than 10 other full serviced airline and I keep on coming back to SIA because they deliver beyond expectations. I did gave them great compliments on the survey that the Chief Steward gave me 20 minutes before descent.
I would never forget this experience. And definitely it wouldn't be the last.
Suites Menu
Dom Perignon
Double Bed in Suites
Below is the link of my detailed flight experience written in my blog:
http://rondztk.blogspot.com.au/2014/...sing-gold.html
Last edited by scrappydog; Nov 7, 2014 at 11:44 pm
Nov 7, 2014, 11:03 pm
#2
Original Poster
Join Date: Jul 2014
Location: SYD
Programs: TK*G, QR Gold, VA Gold, NZ Gold
Posts: 237
China Trip
Stayed for an hour in Beijing. Initially I was planning on seeing Temple of Heaven but given the hectic layover. We sticked to nearby Temple.
Went to Lama Temple. Then there was this Hutong which is like a historic walkway with various shops mixture of East and West. I found it really nice. I met the cutest cat that has the chubbiest cheeks. We took a cab around Beijing and this is where I truly believed that the traffic was horrendous. On a positive note I was able to see Bird's Nest Olympic site whilst on the cab.
I arrived late at night in Shanghai via Air China and landed at a nearby city Airport (Shanghai Hongqiao). I literally ran my way to the last train and was able to reach my hotel before midnight. I was frustrated that they do not have skyline lights at midnight over at the Bund.
The next day I visited People Square, Yuyuan Garden (which includes City God Temple) and markets along side. And of course The Bund, which you can see the famous Shanghai landmark - Pearl Tower. You can also see other icons like Jin Mao Tower and the odd-shaped Shanghai Tower. Finally, I walk back to my hotel through the busiest shopping district called Nanjing East Road.
That was my less than 24-hour stay in PRC. It was literally Taste of China, and I shall be back for more.
Some pictures
Jin Ding Xuan - Fine dining Chinese restaurant in Beijing
Yu Garden - This is the City God Temple in Shanghai
The Bund overlooking Shanghai Skyscrapers with iconic landmarks
More detail on my China Trip below:
http://rondztk.blogspot.com.au/2014/...-of-china.html
Went to Lama Temple. Then there was this Hutong which is like a historic walkway with various shops mixture of East and West. I found it really nice. I met the cutest cat that has the chubbiest cheeks. We took a cab around Beijing and this is where I truly believed that the traffic was horrendous. On a positive note I was able to see Bird's Nest Olympic site whilst on the cab.
I arrived late at night in Shanghai via Air China and landed at a nearby city Airport (Shanghai Hongqiao). I literally ran my way to the last train and was able to reach my hotel before midnight. I was frustrated that they do not have skyline lights at midnight over at the Bund.
The next day I visited People Square, Yuyuan Garden (which includes City God Temple) and markets along side. And of course The Bund, which you can see the famous Shanghai landmark - Pearl Tower. You can also see other icons like Jin Mao Tower and the odd-shaped Shanghai Tower. Finally, I walk back to my hotel through the busiest shopping district called Nanjing East Road.
That was my less than 24-hour stay in PRC. It was literally Taste of China, and I shall be back for more.
Some pictures
Jin Ding Xuan - Fine dining Chinese restaurant in Beijing
Yu Garden - This is the City God Temple in Shanghai
The Bund overlooking Shanghai Skyscrapers with iconic landmarks
More detail on my China Trip below:
http://rondztk.blogspot.com.au/2014/...-of-china.html
Last edited by scrappydog; Nov 7, 2014 at 11:19 pm
Nov 7, 2014, 11:38 pm
#3
Original Poster
Join Date: Jul 2014
Location: SYD
Programs: TK*G, QR Gold, VA Gold, NZ Gold
Posts: 237
Grand Central Hotel Shanghai
Double thumbs up to this 5-star hotel located centrally between Nanjing East Road and 10-minute walk to The Bund Shanghai.
Hotel Lobby and Hallway
Bedroom Area
Hotel Lobby and Hallway
Bedroom Area
Nov 10, 2014, 6:39 am
#4
Original Poster
Join Date: Jul 2014
Location: SYD
Programs: TK*G, QR Gold, VA Gold, NZ Gold
Posts: 237
I just receive an email that I'm GOLD!!
By the way, it is best to experience Suites if you are the only passenger. They let me sleep in the double bed on my left as well as use the suite in front for my dining experience. Thereby leaving my original suite as my living room.
By the way, it is best to experience Suites if you are the only passenger. They let me sleep in the double bed on my left as well as use the suite in front for my dining experience. Thereby leaving my original suite as my living room.
Last edited by scrappydog; Nov 12, 2014 at 2:01 am
Nov 11, 2014, 1:12 am
#6
Original Poster
Join Date: Jul 2014
Location: SYD
Programs: TK*G, QR Gold, VA Gold, NZ Gold
Posts: 237
It was crazy short, esp in Beijing I didn't even get a decent meal.
But Shanghai was lovely. I did enjoy short stay.. I would definitely be back and do some serious shopping.
But Shanghai was lovely. I did enjoy short stay.. I would definitely be back and do some serious shopping.
Nov 12, 2014, 7:37 am
#7
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: May 2008
Location: San Francisco
Programs: GM on VX, UA, AA, HA, AS, SY; Budget Fastbreak
Posts: 27,573
TR: Weekend Trip to China
Kudos on making Gold. You'll love the LH Sen lounges when you're in Germany. I think you can also use ual clubs in USA, which are much inferior.
Glad you had a fun intro to China!
Thanks for the fun TR! Sq suites are pretty sweet!
Glad you had a fun intro to China!
Thanks for the fun TR! Sq suites are pretty sweet!
Nov 12, 2014, 8:05 am
#8
Join Date: May 2009
Location: SIN (with a bit of ZRH sprinkled in)
Posts: 9,451
Nov 17, 2014, 12:01 am
#9
Original Poster
Join Date: Jul 2014
Location: SYD
Programs: TK*G, QR Gold, VA Gold, NZ Gold
Posts: 237
One thing to note though, if its less than 7 hrs flight it is not considered long-haul flight so no amenities
I am thinking of doing another first class redemption with TG maybe in 2016
has anyone tried this? would love to see TR..I found this TR from Chris Kilroy who made an amazing TR on 747 using TG redemption Class F.
http://www.flyerguide.net/trip-repor...ew-first-class
Nov 17, 2014, 12:05 am
#10
Original Poster
Join Date: Jul 2014
Location: SYD
Programs: TK*G, QR Gold, VA Gold, NZ Gold
Posts: 237
Which lounges are the best pick then in EU? Honestly after trying this TPR in SIN I don't think I can find another best lounge ever.