Exploring the world...
May 15, 2000 | 4:23 pm
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Jan 2000
Location: Boston, MA
Posts: 613
Exploring the world...
This trip is booked as five-continent oneworld Explorer fare. I'll be taking this trip with my coworker Mike, who occasionally posts on this board under the name NY Emerald Flyer.
This trip should see my enjoy three of the new First Class suites, Qantas, Cathay, and British Airways. After all three I'll post a comparason report.
The first segment of the trip is QF to Sydney. I was originally booked on the redeye flight to Sydney (there are two of them). dgolds adviced the daytime flight because, if you stay awake, you can fall asleep right away when arriving at your Sydney hotel. I called the American EP desk and explained that I wanted to get on the daytime flight. One of the benefits of the explorer fare is that you can change the flights at any time without penalty, as long as the routing remains the same. Problem: This is after the first transoceanic segment.
The very nice agent said that she could override it, because I am an EP and have such a long trip in such a short time. It is excellent customer service like this that keeps me coming back to American. 
Problem: Mike could not get on this flight, as he did not have such a kind agent. Oh, well...
My first leg on this trip was American's 3-class service to LAX. My g'f dropped me off at Logan because I didn't want to leave a car for some three weeks. I checked-in at the AA First Class/elite counter. The agent was impressed when I presented by booklet full of ten coupons. I was quickly issued my AA boarding pass, and was told that although she could send me bag to Sydney, I'd need to pick up a boarding pass with Qantas in LAX.
I relaxed at the Admiral's Club, prior to boarding the 767-200. It was an internationally configured aircraft, so I guess I have better luck than jAAck.
I settled into the cabin and was offerred water or OJ, and the cabin eventually reached its capacity.
We departed ontime from the gate, and after only a little waiting time (remember, it's Logan!) we were skybound. Breakfast was offerred. I enjoyed an excellent omelette.
The plane had very nice Bose headsets, which made for a quiet flight. I was offered a DVD, which I gladly accepted, to view a movie. It is still annoying to have the video on your traytable, so I prefer the in-seat PTV systems. Actually, the best is when you have the regular PTV system, plus videos that you can plug into the in-seat system (like BA or even AA 777s), so you get the advantage of choosing your own movie without the disadvantage of having something on your lap.
Overall, an very nice AA transcon flight.
We arrived about twenty minutes behind schedule (combination of waiting at Logan and slow traveling). We parked very close to the Admiral's Club, so I decided to stop there to check my e-mail.
I received an urgent e-mail from Mike saying that he needed to meet with me tonight in LAX before our dinner in Sydney the day of his arrival (the day after my planned arrival).
I went to the Tom Bradley terminal and checked-in with the friendly Qantas agent. (No line at First Class check-in). I begged her to get on the later flight, she said that you are supposed to have to pay the $75 charge. I claimed that with a F ticket I should be able to switch without penalty. She told me what I already new: one of the restrictions of the fare is that you cannot change the first transoceanic segment. But, she said thanks to my oneworld Emerald status, and as there was space available, she would book me on the later flight. Another great customer service experience!
With my 10:30p boarding pass in hand and not wanting to spend 9 hours in a lounge, I called the Westin LAX to inquire about a day rate. None available for today. I called the Marriott LAX and they could give me a day room, but Id need to vacate by 6:00pm. ($100 for the room).
Im relaxing at the room now, doing a little work and sleeping and checking FT. At 6:00 Ill go back to the airport and meet Mike.
More later.
This trip should see my enjoy three of the new First Class suites, Qantas, Cathay, and British Airways. After all three I'll post a comparason report.
The first segment of the trip is QF to Sydney. I was originally booked on the redeye flight to Sydney (there are two of them). dgolds adviced the daytime flight because, if you stay awake, you can fall asleep right away when arriving at your Sydney hotel. I called the American EP desk and explained that I wanted to get on the daytime flight. One of the benefits of the explorer fare is that you can change the flights at any time without penalty, as long as the routing remains the same. Problem: This is after the first transoceanic segment.
The very nice agent said that she could override it, because I am an EP and have such a long trip in such a short time. It is excellent customer service like this that keeps me coming back to American. Problem: Mike could not get on this flight, as he did not have such a kind agent. Oh, well...
My first leg on this trip was American's 3-class service to LAX. My g'f dropped me off at Logan because I didn't want to leave a car for some three weeks. I checked-in at the AA First Class/elite counter. The agent was impressed when I presented by booklet full of ten coupons. I was quickly issued my AA boarding pass, and was told that although she could send me bag to Sydney, I'd need to pick up a boarding pass with Qantas in LAX.
I relaxed at the Admiral's Club, prior to boarding the 767-200. It was an internationally configured aircraft, so I guess I have better luck than jAAck.
I settled into the cabin and was offerred water or OJ, and the cabin eventually reached its capacity.We departed ontime from the gate, and after only a little waiting time (remember, it's Logan!) we were skybound. Breakfast was offerred. I enjoyed an excellent omelette.
The plane had very nice Bose headsets, which made for a quiet flight. I was offered a DVD, which I gladly accepted, to view a movie. It is still annoying to have the video on your traytable, so I prefer the in-seat PTV systems. Actually, the best is when you have the regular PTV system, plus videos that you can plug into the in-seat system (like BA or even AA 777s), so you get the advantage of choosing your own movie without the disadvantage of having something on your lap.
Overall, an very nice AA transcon flight.
We arrived about twenty minutes behind schedule (combination of waiting at Logan and slow traveling). We parked very close to the Admiral's Club, so I decided to stop there to check my e-mail.
I received an urgent e-mail from Mike saying that he needed to meet with me tonight in LAX before our dinner in Sydney the day of his arrival (the day after my planned arrival).
I went to the Tom Bradley terminal and checked-in with the friendly Qantas agent. (No line at First Class check-in). I begged her to get on the later flight, she said that you are supposed to have to pay the $75 charge. I claimed that with a F ticket I should be able to switch without penalty. She told me what I already new: one of the restrictions of the fare is that you cannot change the first transoceanic segment. But, she said thanks to my oneworld Emerald status, and as there was space available, she would book me on the later flight.
Another great customer service experience! With my 10:30p boarding pass in hand and not wanting to spend 9 hours in a lounge, I called the Westin LAX to inquire about a day rate. None available for today. I called the Marriott LAX and they could give me a day room, but Id need to vacate by 6:00pm. ($100 for the room).
Im relaxing at the room now, doing a little work and sleeping and checking FT. At 6:00 Ill go back to the airport and meet Mike.
More later.
May 17, 2000 | 7:58 pm
#6
Original Poster
Join Date: Jan 2000
Location: Boston, MA
Posts: 613
After resting, browsing FT, and a little chat, I had to leave the Marriott a little after 6:00. The front desk had to call me twice to kick me out. 
I took the shuttle back to LAX and, armed with by boarding pass, bypassed all the lines and went directly to the joint Qantas/BA First Class lounge. The lounge was small and full, no doubt because of all of the flights going out (BA to London and QF to Oz). They had the annoying AT&T phones, but I had no trouble connecting to my companys 800 computer number for surfing the internet. There was a good selection of small sandwishes, alcoholic drinks, and non-alcoholic drinks (for me!), plus British, Austrailian, and US newspapers.
After about 30 minutes, Mike showed up and we had our improptu meeting. He had some important info that I needed to know so I dont make a fool of myself at the Tokyo meeting.
He also came bearing good news for me: My Tokyo meeting had been cancelled. While that means likely another trip to Tokyo next month, it also beens that I have four free days. 
I wasnt sure if an agent would come or not, but I decided to walk around the terminal. Mike joined be as well. I found the gate for the Qantas flight and boarded.
A Qantas flight attendant showed Mike and I to our seats. I was seated in a single aisle/window seat on the right side, while Mike sat in one of the pairs in the middle. I like the 1-2-1 arrangement because I can enjoy the window with access to the aisle without anyone blocking me. Also lots of privacy, great for solo travelers like me.
I took the shuttle back to LAX and, armed with by boarding pass, bypassed all the lines and went directly to the joint Qantas/BA First Class lounge. The lounge was small and full, no doubt because of all of the flights going out (BA to London and QF to Oz). They had the annoying AT&T phones, but I had no trouble connecting to my companys 800 computer number for surfing the internet. There was a good selection of small sandwishes, alcoholic drinks, and non-alcoholic drinks (for me!), plus British, Austrailian, and US newspapers.
After about 30 minutes, Mike showed up and we had our improptu meeting. He had some important info that I needed to know so I dont make a fool of myself at the Tokyo meeting.
He also came bearing good news for me: My Tokyo meeting had been cancelled. While that means likely another trip to Tokyo next month, it also beens that I have four free days. I wasnt sure if an agent would come or not, but I decided to walk around the terminal. Mike joined be as well. I found the gate for the Qantas flight and boarded.
A Qantas flight attendant showed Mike and I to our seats. I was seated in a single aisle/window seat on the right side, while Mike sat in one of the pairs in the middle. I like the 1-2-1 arrangement because I can enjoy the window with access to the aisle without anyone blocking me. Also lots of privacy, great for solo travelers like me.
May 17, 2000 | 7:58 pm
#7
Original Poster
Join Date: Jan 2000
Location: Boston, MA
Posts: 613
A FA offerred a beverage (water for me ) and nuts. We pushed back and took off on-time, and once in the sky I sampled the entertainment selections. Qantas, like BA, has one of the most impressive entertainment systems Ive seen. In addition to the normal movie channels on the PTV, you can also get video tapes to more than 50 movies! Both current hits and old classics.
A comment on the seats: They are very similar to the British Airways seats, but they seem a little different. The BA ones are curved towards the side of the plane, and you can not really see those around you without trying to look. The QF seats are more parallel to the side of the plane, so youre curved inward, not outward. Slightly less privacy, it seemed.
The three flight attendent service the full First Class cabin were excellent. The Purser actually knelt down by my seat once we were airbourn and said that if there was anything I need, to just ask her or any of the FAs.
The menu was attractively presented in a leather binding. For the dinner I had an antipasto plate and a steak filet, followed by cheese and fresh fruit, along with a constant stream of water and Diet Coke. Excellent meal. It came straight from the galley; carts were never used.
After the meal, I changed into my sleeper suit in the very nice, large lavatory, complete with a window! Not too much to see on this night crossing, though. I returned to find my seat made into the bed. I slept very well. Being able to sleep on my chest really makes a difference. When I awoke I felt as though I slept all night instead of a long nap.
I wasnt in the mood for a full hot breakfast, so I settled for more fruit and coffee.
We arrived into Sydney ontime, just after 6. I felt as though I had slept comfortably all night, and I was ready to face the day.
After clearing formalties, I caught a cab with Mike to the Park Hyatt. ($15) I booked this room only a few days before on the Hyatt website for AUD390 ($225). I checked-in with the front desk and they told me that someone in my category just checked-out, so Id be able to check-in once it was cleaned in about twenty minutes. I parked myself in the lobby and waited the twenty minutes, then checked with the agent again. In typical fashion of international Hyatts, I wasnt able to get an upgrade, even after asking, but this hotel, as with all Parks, doesnt have a Regency Club. I was still happy to get a room at this early hour.
) and nuts. We pushed back and took off on-time, and once in the sky I sampled the entertainment selections. Qantas, like BA, has one of the most impressive entertainment systems Ive seen. In addition to the normal movie channels on the PTV, you can also get video tapes to more than 50 movies! Both current hits and old classics. A comment on the seats: They are very similar to the British Airways seats, but they seem a little different. The BA ones are curved towards the side of the plane, and you can not really see those around you without trying to look. The QF seats are more parallel to the side of the plane, so youre curved inward, not outward. Slightly less privacy, it seemed.
The three flight attendent service the full First Class cabin were excellent. The Purser actually knelt down by my seat once we were airbourn and said that if there was anything I need, to just ask her or any of the FAs.
The menu was attractively presented in a leather binding. For the dinner I had an antipasto plate and a steak filet, followed by cheese and fresh fruit, along with a constant stream of water and Diet Coke. Excellent meal. It came straight from the galley; carts were never used.
After the meal, I changed into my sleeper suit in the very nice, large lavatory, complete with a window! Not too much to see on this night crossing, though. I returned to find my seat made into the bed. I slept very well. Being able to sleep on my chest really makes a difference. When I awoke I felt as though I slept all night instead of a long nap.
I wasnt in the mood for a full hot breakfast, so I settled for more fruit and coffee.
We arrived into Sydney ontime, just after 6. I felt as though I had slept comfortably all night, and I was ready to face the day.
After clearing formalties, I caught a cab with Mike to the Park Hyatt. ($15) I booked this room only a few days before on the Hyatt website for AUD390 ($225). I checked-in with the front desk and they told me that someone in my category just checked-out, so Id be able to check-in once it was cleaned in about twenty minutes. I parked myself in the lobby and waited the twenty minutes, then checked with the agent again. In typical fashion of international Hyatts, I wasnt able to get an upgrade, even after asking, but this hotel, as with all Parks, doesnt have a Regency Club. I was still happy to get a room at this early hour.
May 17, 2000 | 7:59 pm
#8
Original Poster
Join Date: Jan 2000
Location: Boston, MA
Posts: 613
I wasnt doing anything until an evening dinner, so I napped and worked on the computer. The Park Hyatt is a beautiful hotel in a beautiful city. My room is nicely sized and has a sweet view of the harbor.
Since my Friday meeting in Tokyo was cancelled, I called Cathay Pacific to see if I could change my flight to Tokyo to Friday instead of tomorrow. The agent was happy to, with no charge as a part of the Explorer fare.
Tomorrow I leave for Tokyo, via Hong Kong. I confirmed with the agent that Im due for the Project Betsy seats tomorrow, but my 1.5 hour layover may mean I dont have much time at the Wing lounge.
Mike left today for London. Ill be on my own until I meet up with him next Wednesday.
In the spirit of FlyerTalk
MILEAGE COUNTER
SEGMENT 1 (BOS-LAX)
Actual Miles (Elite qualifying): 2,604
AAdvantage Miles Earned:6,510
Elite-qualifying points: 3,906
SEGMENT 2 (LAX-SYD)
Actual Miles (Elite qualifying):7,509
AAdvantage Miles Earned: 18,773
Elite-qualifying points:11,264
TOTAL
Actual Miles (Elite qualifying): 10,113
AAdvantage Miles Earned:25,283
Elite-qualifying points: 15,170
More later.
[This message has been edited by BostonBoy (edited 05-17-2000).]
Since my Friday meeting in Tokyo was cancelled, I called Cathay Pacific to see if I could change my flight to Tokyo to Friday instead of tomorrow. The agent was happy to, with no charge as a part of the Explorer fare.
Tomorrow I leave for Tokyo, via Hong Kong. I confirmed with the agent that Im due for the Project Betsy seats tomorrow, but my 1.5 hour layover may mean I dont have much time at the Wing lounge.
Mike left today for London. Ill be on my own until I meet up with him next Wednesday.
In the spirit of FlyerTalk
MILEAGE COUNTER
SEGMENT 1 (BOS-LAX)
Actual Miles (Elite qualifying): 2,604
AAdvantage Miles Earned:6,510
Elite-qualifying points: 3,906
SEGMENT 2 (LAX-SYD)
Actual Miles (Elite qualifying):7,509
AAdvantage Miles Earned: 18,773
Elite-qualifying points:11,264
TOTAL
Actual Miles (Elite qualifying): 10,113
AAdvantage Miles Earned:25,283
Elite-qualifying points: 15,170
More later.
[This message has been edited by BostonBoy (edited 05-17-2000).]
May 17, 2000 | 8:10 pm
#9
Join Date: Sep 1999
Location: Agoura Hills, Ca USA
Posts: 470
Great trip report. I did a similar trip last January, but actually flew RTW in 6 days. Great service. Incidentally, I thought CX had the BEST first class of any of the ONE WORLD airlines. Betsy aircraft is superb. ENJOY
May 17, 2000 | 10:32 pm
#10
Original Member
Join Date: May 1998
Location: Kirkland, WA
Posts: 6,932
Excellent. I'll be flying FC on CX in a few weeks LAX-HKG-BKK... can't wait!
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May 18, 2000 | 5:04 am
#12
Original Member
Join Date: May 1998
Location: CH-3823 Wengen Switzerland
Programs: miles&more, MileagePlus
Posts: 27,043
wouwwww (my shortest rtw was 10 days - to meet the minimum rules for a StarAlliance rtw ticket).
[This message has been edited by Rudi (edited 05-18-2000).]
(my shortest rtw was 10 days - to meet the minimum rules for a StarAlliance rtw ticket).[This message has been edited by Rudi (edited 05-18-2000).]
May 18, 2000 | 10:07 pm
#13
Join Date: Nov 1999
Location: Tucson, AZ USA
Programs: AA Exec Plat / DL-Silver / Hyatt - Glob / Hilton-Gold
Posts: 1,594
Wow! Great post so far 
I'm thinking about cashing in my hoard of AAdvantage miles for a RTW first class award on as many OneWorld carriers which I can manage. So I'm watching you closely!
I feel ashamed to ask this since I thought I was the world's biggest airliner nut ... but ... what is a "Betsy aircraft" ??
I'm thinking about cashing in my hoard of AAdvantage miles for a RTW first class award on as many OneWorld carriers which I can manage. So I'm watching you closely!
I feel ashamed to ask this since I thought I was the world's biggest airliner nut ... but ... what is a "Betsy aircraft" ??
May 18, 2000 | 10:52 pm
#14
Join Date: Oct 1999
Location: Don't know....
Programs: BA LTG, SQ TPPS, CX DMP, AA EXP, Bonvoy LTT, ALL PLT, Hilton DM
Posts: 4,035
BostonBoy,
Great report...
steve64,
Betsy aircrafts are the Cathay Pacific aircrafts fitted with the new first class suites (Betsy seats).
Hope you get to try them with your miles!
[This message has been edited by bagold (edited 05-18-2000).]
Great report...
steve64,
Betsy aircrafts are the Cathay Pacific aircrafts fitted with the new first class suites (Betsy seats).
Hope you get to try them with your miles!
[This message has been edited by bagold (edited 05-18-2000).]
May 19, 2000 | 2:44 am
#15
Join Date: Aug 1999
Location: SNA, LAX
Programs: UA 1K, SPG Plat, Hertz P Circle
Posts: 1,628
Great report BostonBoy! And a great trip so far!
Next time you have that much time to kill at LAX, send me a note! I've stayed out of chat since the board came back up because of the password situation...
Enjoy the free time in Tokyo!
Next time you have that much time to kill at LAX, send me a note! I've stayed out of chat since the board came back up because of the password situation...
Enjoy the free time in Tokyo!