5 year anniversary trip - NZ, OZ, SIN, DPS, TYO on F/J/Y
Apr 19, 2017, 2:10 pm
#31
Original Poster
Join Date: Jun 2012
Location: Toronto, Canada
Programs: Aeroplan Airmiles AMEX-MR Alaska Airlines
Posts: 692
#wesaidgoodbyetobali #helloagainsingapore
We checked out around 9.30 and hopped into the Amankila car for the 90 minute ride back to the airport. The staff thanked us for staying and saw us off.
Approaching the airport.
We pulled up to the curb where another Amankila rep was waiting. He grabbed our bags and escorted us inside to security. He wished us goodbye and we went through.
Security before check-in.
We had a one minute wait before we were helped. Checked our bags to Singapore, received our boarding passes, lounge invitation and were directed to go to security ... again ...
The lounge was busy and nothing spectacular. We were only there for 30 minutes before getting bored and deciding to go walk around the terminal.
Good thing we came through earlier as security and immigration were backed up now.
Walked to our gate where our bird was being prepped.
Meanwhile, another SQ bird just left.
Gate lice.
Boarding was called and we made our way through.
Same seats we had when coming to Bali. The J cabin was 3/4 full today.
Champagne to start.
I wont attach the entire menu - just the main course selection.
Pushback.
Both of us selected the lamb curry. Very tasty.
The flight was smooth and nothing out of the ordinary. Landed on time and taxi-ed to the farthest gate at Terminal 2.
The famous landing view.
Um, I guess AC comes here for maintenance. I do know they are starting flights to SQ this summer with the 787.
EK bound for home.
Docking next to her sister ship.
When we walked out of the tube and into the main area, we did not see the signs for immigration and judging by the looks of other passengers coming out, they were wondering the same thing. Asked a security guard and he pointed us in the right direction. Immigration was quick and our bags came out 10 minutes later. Grabbed an Uber to our hotel.
Traffic was smooth and we made it to the hotel in 20 minutes.
The bell staff greeted us as the Uber pulled up. One of them tagged our bags and requested us to make our way up to the 32nd floor where the check-in was located.
We were helped immediately as we approached the check-in desk. Since both of us are SPG Gold members, we were given points as a benefit but we could not add either of our SPG accounts to the booking because we booked through a 3rd party. Stupidest thing I ever heard as other hotels on this trip were booked through 3rd parties and the front staff were immediately able to add our membership #s to the stay. Thumbs down Westin.
The front desk had our bags delivered to the room.
I really want this bathroom in our house.
View outside our room.
This was one of the basic rooms available and it was fantastic. The location of the hotel is right in the heart of the financial district, so be warned that you will see everyone dressed in professional attire while you are in your tshirt and shorts.
Next up - touristy things in Singapore + more food pr0n.
Approaching the airport.
We pulled up to the curb where another Amankila rep was waiting. He grabbed our bags and escorted us inside to security. He wished us goodbye and we went through.
Security before check-in.
We had a one minute wait before we were helped. Checked our bags to Singapore, received our boarding passes, lounge invitation and were directed to go to security ... again ...
The lounge was busy and nothing spectacular. We were only there for 30 minutes before getting bored and deciding to go walk around the terminal.
Good thing we came through earlier as security and immigration were backed up now.
Walked to our gate where our bird was being prepped.
Meanwhile, another SQ bird just left.
Gate lice.
Boarding was called and we made our way through.
Same seats we had when coming to Bali. The J cabin was 3/4 full today.
Champagne to start.
I wont attach the entire menu - just the main course selection.
Pushback.
Both of us selected the lamb curry. Very tasty.
The flight was smooth and nothing out of the ordinary. Landed on time and taxi-ed to the farthest gate at Terminal 2.
The famous landing view.
Um, I guess AC comes here for maintenance. I do know they are starting flights to SQ this summer with the 787.
EK bound for home.
Docking next to her sister ship.
When we walked out of the tube and into the main area, we did not see the signs for immigration and judging by the looks of other passengers coming out, they were wondering the same thing. Asked a security guard and he pointed us in the right direction. Immigration was quick and our bags came out 10 minutes later. Grabbed an Uber to our hotel.
Traffic was smooth and we made it to the hotel in 20 minutes.
The bell staff greeted us as the Uber pulled up. One of them tagged our bags and requested us to make our way up to the 32nd floor where the check-in was located.
We were helped immediately as we approached the check-in desk. Since both of us are SPG Gold members, we were given points as a benefit but we could not add either of our SPG accounts to the booking because we booked through a 3rd party. Stupidest thing I ever heard as other hotels on this trip were booked through 3rd parties and the front staff were immediately able to add our membership #s to the stay. Thumbs down Westin.
The front desk had our bags delivered to the room.
I really want this bathroom in our house.
View outside our room.
This was one of the basic rooms available and it was fantastic. The location of the hotel is right in the heart of the financial district, so be warned that you will see everyone dressed in professional attire while you are in your tshirt and shorts.
Next up - touristy things in Singapore + more food pr0n.
Apr 24, 2017, 1:52 pm
#32
Original Poster
Join Date: Jun 2012
Location: Toronto, Canada
Programs: Aeroplan Airmiles AMEX-MR Alaska Airlines
Posts: 692
#shewantedsugarcanejuice #shewantedmangolassi #shewantedicemilo #shewantedamasaladosa #atleastshedidntwantanewbag
We quickly freshened up and went out for our first walk around the city. Besides the touristy stuff, our main goal was to eat as much as possible.
The main square that is part of the Asia Square complex. This is right near the hotel entrance.
The famous Lau Pa Sat food centre that a 5 minute walk from the hotel.
The Fullerton Bay Hotel.
The other side of the hotel.
And the famous Fullerton hotel on the other side.
Walking along the pier taking pics.
One of two Merlions. Pop quiz - where is the other?
The touristas.
After, we looked at the trusty tourista map provided by the hotel and decided to walk over to Chinatown.
Found it.
Souvenir stalls as far as the eye can see.
Whole lot of deep fried goodness.
We stopped by a stall for fruit juice. Lo and behold, we found Sugar Cane juice and Mrs.I went nuts for it. $2.50 with ice, $3.00 with little ice, $3.50 with no ice - Shrewd pricing.
We were close to the Maxwell Food centre. Thought I could try my luck and get some famous Haianese chicken rice from Tian Tian or Ah Tai. It was already closed, so settled on the next stall which had a line for chicken rice. If there is a line up, it must be good right?
Yum.
We walked back to our hotel and saw a Satay night market set up. One section of the street was closed but never caused any traffic problems. The moment we entered this area, we were swarmed by ninjas with menus of their satay goodness. We declined as I was in the mood for Japanese curry.
The insides of the Lau Pa Sat food centre.
Many, many, many choices to choose from.
Score! Pork Katsu Curry.
The next day, we visited the Gardens by the Bay. It was partially sunny when we left the hotel at 9.30am and it got cloudy pretty quickly by the time we reached the Marina Bay Mall. First, we went back to Lau Pa Sat for breakfast and then walked to Gardens by the Bay.
Dim Sum for brekkie.
The Holy Trinity of dim dum - Sui Mai, Har Gow and Pork Bun. Yum.
Mrs.I wanted Ice Milo - she gets what she wants.
Made it to the of the mall and it came down. After 20 minutes of waiting, the rain died down and we were able to continue to the Gardens.
We went to the Supertree Grove first. We could not go up to the hanging walkway due to risk of lightening strikes from the passing rain storm. To be honest, we were glad not to spend the money to walk up there as it was good enough to see from ground level.
Peek a boo.
Floral Clock.
We did spend money to go inside the Cloud Forest.
Hey! Look up!
On our way out.
We decided to take the MRT over to Little India for lunch.
Those damn durians. Always causing problems.
Walking down the street.
We wanted to try Bismillah Biryani but it was closed ... on a Tuesday. Odd.
Settled on the backup plan and went over to the Tekka Food Centre.
Line ups are good.
Mutton Biryani with Kingfish. Our stomach were happily satisfied.
Mrs.I saw the juice stall next door and demanded Mango Lassi. Her wish is my command.
I chose the flourescent pink drink. It was delicous - dont judge.
Walking around.
Went back to the hotel for a break and went out that evening for more food. We chanced upon Gayatris and Mrs.I wanted a masala dosa - her wish is ...
She was satisfied.
My pre-dinner snack.
We walked back to Lau Pa Sat and try out the street stalls.
Sat at a table and we were given a menu. Must be really good if it says Best Satay right? We chose Set A.
Another lady gave us a different menu and we chose the grilled sting ray. It looked like white fish but was a little chewy. Good nonetheless.
The satay action. This guy was on point the entire night.
Then we tried the Chicken Murtabak at this stall. Delicious.
Mrs.I - "All this is for us?" ... Yes, yes it is.
We called it a night before our stomachs imploded. The next day, we had another quick breakfast before checking out and heading to the airport for our flight to NRT.
$3 SGD for simple yet amazing Laksa.
She needed to satisfy her vegeterian craving with Chapatti and Potato Baaji.
On our way to the airport.
Next up - Singapore Airlines J to NRT.
We quickly freshened up and went out for our first walk around the city. Besides the touristy stuff, our main goal was to eat as much as possible.
The main square that is part of the Asia Square complex. This is right near the hotel entrance.
The famous Lau Pa Sat food centre that a 5 minute walk from the hotel.
The Fullerton Bay Hotel.
The other side of the hotel.
And the famous Fullerton hotel on the other side.
Walking along the pier taking pics.
One of two Merlions. Pop quiz - where is the other?
The touristas.
After, we looked at the trusty tourista map provided by the hotel and decided to walk over to Chinatown.
Found it.
Souvenir stalls as far as the eye can see.
Whole lot of deep fried goodness.
We stopped by a stall for fruit juice. Lo and behold, we found Sugar Cane juice and Mrs.I went nuts for it. $2.50 with ice, $3.00 with little ice, $3.50 with no ice - Shrewd pricing.
We were close to the Maxwell Food centre. Thought I could try my luck and get some famous Haianese chicken rice from Tian Tian or Ah Tai. It was already closed, so settled on the next stall which had a line for chicken rice. If there is a line up, it must be good right?
Yum.
We walked back to our hotel and saw a Satay night market set up. One section of the street was closed but never caused any traffic problems. The moment we entered this area, we were swarmed by ninjas with menus of their satay goodness. We declined as I was in the mood for Japanese curry.
The insides of the Lau Pa Sat food centre.
Many, many, many choices to choose from.
Score! Pork Katsu Curry.
The next day, we visited the Gardens by the Bay. It was partially sunny when we left the hotel at 9.30am and it got cloudy pretty quickly by the time we reached the Marina Bay Mall. First, we went back to Lau Pa Sat for breakfast and then walked to Gardens by the Bay.
Dim Sum for brekkie.
The Holy Trinity of dim dum - Sui Mai, Har Gow and Pork Bun. Yum.
Mrs.I wanted Ice Milo - she gets what she wants.
Made it to the of the mall and it came down. After 20 minutes of waiting, the rain died down and we were able to continue to the Gardens.
We went to the Supertree Grove first. We could not go up to the hanging walkway due to risk of lightening strikes from the passing rain storm. To be honest, we were glad not to spend the money to walk up there as it was good enough to see from ground level.
Peek a boo.
Floral Clock.
We did spend money to go inside the Cloud Forest.
Hey! Look up!
On our way out.
We decided to take the MRT over to Little India for lunch.
Those damn durians. Always causing problems.
Walking down the street.
We wanted to try Bismillah Biryani but it was closed ... on a Tuesday. Odd.
Settled on the backup plan and went over to the Tekka Food Centre.
Line ups are good.
Mutton Biryani with Kingfish. Our stomach were happily satisfied.
Mrs.I saw the juice stall next door and demanded Mango Lassi. Her wish is my command.
I chose the flourescent pink drink. It was delicous - dont judge.
Walking around.
Went back to the hotel for a break and went out that evening for more food. We chanced upon Gayatris and Mrs.I wanted a masala dosa - her wish is ...
She was satisfied.
My pre-dinner snack.
We walked back to Lau Pa Sat and try out the street stalls.
Sat at a table and we were given a menu. Must be really good if it says Best Satay right? We chose Set A.
Another lady gave us a different menu and we chose the grilled sting ray. It looked like white fish but was a little chewy. Good nonetheless.
The satay action. This guy was on point the entire night.
Then we tried the Chicken Murtabak at this stall. Delicious.
Mrs.I - "All this is for us?" ... Yes, yes it is.
We called it a night before our stomachs imploded. The next day, we had another quick breakfast before checking out and heading to the airport for our flight to NRT.
$3 SGD for simple yet amazing Laksa.
She needed to satisfy her vegeterian craving with Chapatti and Potato Baaji.
On our way to the airport.
Next up - Singapore Airlines J to NRT.
Apr 24, 2017, 3:05 pm
#33
Original Poster
Join Date: Jun 2012
Location: Toronto, Canada
Programs: Aeroplan Airmiles AMEX-MR Alaska Airlines
Posts: 692
#ifoundtheFCentrance #imadeanewfriend #ineededmyshadesfortheflight
We arrived at Changi Terminal 3 at 11.30am for our 1.30pm flight. I did see the First Class entrance right before the curb entrance to the airport - oh well. Only one business class counter was open and the agent was helping a customer. We were motioned by the Suite Class agent to come over for assistance. Bags were tagged to HND - unfortunately, our departing flight would be out of NRT and we could not tag our bags all the way to YYZ since the arrival/departure flights were out of two different airports.
With boarding passes in hand, we headed to immigration which was smooth and then headed to the Butterfly Garden.
Its free now but this was after we checked in. :P
Past immigration and heading to the Butterfly Garden.
My new BFF.
After a quick tour, we headed over to the lounge to kill time.
Some plane spotting along the way to the lounge.
The FIDS.
It was quiet in the lounge and I assume this was due to the morning rush being done.
This lounge beats the AC YYZ Maple Leaf lounge any day of the week.
Close to departure time, we headed over to the gate. The security at the gate was awfully slow but we made it through eventually.
Our 777 taking us to HND.
View out of the tube.
We were welcomed on board and directed to our seats. Passed through the First Class cabin and snapped a quick pic with the old seats.
Business Class was full on this flight.
Our seats. Exactly like the ones on the A330 that took us to Bali but slightly wider.
We were offered PDB and went with champagne.
The menu - I will skip the repeating pages.
The Japanese menu looked good.
Mrs.I BTC-ed the chicken rice and it was already on the menu lol. I ordered the Laksa.
Traffic.
Pushed back into a semi circle.
Hello Kitty.
Started to rain as we were taxi-ing.
We approached the end of the taxiway to get onto the runway. We turned onto the runway but the engines did not spool up. Then the captain came on the comm to announce that the tower advised to switch over to the other end of the runway for take off due to changing wind/weather conditions - ok. After an eternity, we raced off.
Bye bye Singapore. Until we meet again - hopefully sooner than later.
Drinks and snacks were served. The gorgeous stewardess who was on our side of the aisle came by to introduce herself and double checked our BTC orders. Even Mrs.I commented on how good looking she was - to which I stammered something completely unintelligent .
The appetizer came out first.
Mrs.I's chicken rice. Was tasty.
My laksa. Meh.
Dessert. Delicious.
View from the wing.
The 5 hour flight was uneventful. The staff were great although a bit rushed to serve everyone as it was completely full. Pretty soon, we began our descent into HND.
Pulling up next to our neighbourino.
As we came out the tube, I saw an agent holding a sign with our names on it. She indicated that we would have to pick up our bags and then go to NRT - yes, I knew that.
Long line ups at immigration but we eventually made it through and our bags were on the belt. Went over to the bus kiosk and book the airport bus limousine to the hotel. We were in time to catch the last bus of the night - 3 minutes to spare before it left and they were punctual.
The bus had to stop at 2 other stops to pick up passengers and then made its way to Shinjuku Station. From there, it dropped us off at the Southern Century Hotel. We landed around 10pm and it was 11.30pm by the time we arrived at the hotel.
The hotel is on the top half of the building. We went up to the 20th floor for check-in.
Going to the 24th.
The glorious Japanese throne with the extra heated seat option. My butt cheeks were thankful.
Very odd spot and angle for a couch.
View outside.
Next up - Shenanigans in Shinjuku.
With boarding passes in hand, we headed to immigration which was smooth and then headed to the Butterfly Garden.
Its free now but this was after we checked in. :P
Past immigration and heading to the Butterfly Garden.
My new BFF.
After a quick tour, we headed over to the lounge to kill time.
Some plane spotting along the way to the lounge.
The FIDS.
It was quiet in the lounge and I assume this was due to the morning rush being done.
This lounge beats the AC YYZ Maple Leaf lounge any day of the week.
Close to departure time, we headed over to the gate. The security at the gate was awfully slow but we made it through eventually.
Our 777 taking us to HND.
View out of the tube.
We were welcomed on board and directed to our seats. Passed through the First Class cabin and snapped a quick pic with the old seats.
Business Class was full on this flight.
Our seats. Exactly like the ones on the A330 that took us to Bali but slightly wider.
We were offered PDB and went with champagne.
The menu - I will skip the repeating pages.
The Japanese menu looked good.
Mrs.I BTC-ed the chicken rice and it was already on the menu lol. I ordered the Laksa.
Traffic.
Pushed back into a semi circle.
Hello Kitty.
Started to rain as we were taxi-ing.
We approached the end of the taxiway to get onto the runway. We turned onto the runway but the engines did not spool up. Then the captain came on the comm to announce that the tower advised to switch over to the other end of the runway for take off due to changing wind/weather conditions - ok. After an eternity, we raced off.
Bye bye Singapore. Until we meet again - hopefully sooner than later.
Drinks and snacks were served. The gorgeous stewardess who was on our side of the aisle came by to introduce herself and double checked our BTC orders. Even Mrs.I commented on how good looking she was - to which I stammered something completely unintelligent .
The appetizer came out first.
Mrs.I's chicken rice. Was tasty.
My laksa. Meh.
Dessert. Delicious.
View from the wing.
The 5 hour flight was uneventful. The staff were great although a bit rushed to serve everyone as it was completely full. Pretty soon, we began our descent into HND.
Pulling up next to our neighbourino.
As we came out the tube, I saw an agent holding a sign with our names on it. She indicated that we would have to pick up our bags and then go to NRT - yes, I knew that.
Long line ups at immigration but we eventually made it through and our bags were on the belt. Went over to the bus kiosk and book the airport bus limousine to the hotel. We were in time to catch the last bus of the night - 3 minutes to spare before it left and they were punctual.
The bus had to stop at 2 other stops to pick up passengers and then made its way to Shinjuku Station. From there, it dropped us off at the Southern Century Hotel. We landed around 10pm and it was 11.30pm by the time we arrived at the hotel.
The hotel is on the top half of the building. We went up to the 20th floor for check-in.
Going to the 24th.
The glorious Japanese throne with the extra heated seat option. My butt cheeks were thankful.
Very odd spot and angle for a couch.
View outside.
Next up - Shenanigans in Shinjuku.
Apr 25, 2017, 10:27 am
#35
Join Date: Jul 2013
Location: JNB
Programs: Flying Blue, Miles and Smiles, Hhonors, ICHotels
Posts: 1,307
I really should not read these TR's while making dinner. I have changed the menu for the week about ten times.........
Wonderful photos, keep them coming - yes, especially the food ones.
Wonderful photos, keep them coming - yes, especially the food ones.
Apr 25, 2017, 2:49 pm
#36
Original Poster
Join Date: Jun 2012
Location: Toronto, Canada
Programs: Aeroplan Airmiles AMEX-MR Alaska Airlines
Posts: 692
#latenightcurryfix #shinjuku #sakura
We had 2 missions to accomplish during our short layover in Tokyo:
1. Japanese Curry
2. Sakura
Once we freshened up, we went out for a walk around the area.
This shot was at 1am. You cant tell but the train was full.
I was craving curry and I found what I was looking for ... after getting lost in Shinjuku station and resorting to use Google Maps.
Kudos to the staff person in blue for speaking 3 languages - English, Hindi and Japanese.
We ordered the Pork and Chicken Katsu curry.
Deliciousness being prepared in the deep fryer.
Y E S ! Best Katsu curry ever! As a comparison, the curry on ANA was bland compared to this.
We called it a night because we had an early morning start. We planned to head over to Shinjuku Gyoen Park to check out the cherry blossoms.
Amazing view out of the room in the morning.
Looking down.
What a beautiful day for a walk! The park was a relatively slow 10 minute walk away from the hotel and we got in after paying the Y200 fee. There was decent crowds all over the park despite the fact that it was very early in the Sakura season and the blossoms were not in full bloom.
Once we were done with the park, we walked back to Times Square to check out the shops.
Our hotel building.
Food court in the basement of the building.
We walked around the Shinjuku station area to kill time. My bonus mission to find a liquor store for Japanese whiskey was an utter failure but it just gives me another reason to come back - I will have you Hibiki 17 and I will stop at nothing to find you. 12pm rolled around and we checked out of the hotel.
One last view before checking out.
We decided to take the Narita Express to get to the airport. After paying at the kiosk, we headed down to the platform to catch our train.
We were in car #2 .
Local trains passing by.
She approaches.
She left right on time. Gotta love Japanese punctuality.
1 hour and 24 minutes later, we arrived at NRT.
Next up - ANA Suites Lounge.
1. Japanese Curry
2. Sakura
Once we freshened up, we went out for a walk around the area.
This shot was at 1am. You cant tell but the train was full.
I was craving curry and I found what I was looking for ... after getting lost in Shinjuku station and resorting to use Google Maps.
Kudos to the staff person in blue for speaking 3 languages - English, Hindi and Japanese.
We ordered the Pork and Chicken Katsu curry.
Deliciousness being prepared in the deep fryer.
Y E S ! Best Katsu curry ever! As a comparison, the curry on ANA was bland compared to this.
We called it a night because we had an early morning start. We planned to head over to Shinjuku Gyoen Park to check out the cherry blossoms.
Amazing view out of the room in the morning.
Looking down.
What a beautiful day for a walk! The park was a relatively slow 10 minute walk away from the hotel and we got in after paying the Y200 fee. There was decent crowds all over the park despite the fact that it was very early in the Sakura season and the blossoms were not in full bloom.
Once we were done with the park, we walked back to Times Square to check out the shops.
Our hotel building.
Food court in the basement of the building.
We walked around the Shinjuku station area to kill time. My bonus mission to find a liquor store for Japanese whiskey was an utter failure but it just gives me another reason to come back - I will have you Hibiki 17 and I will stop at nothing to find you. 12pm rolled around and we checked out of the hotel.
One last view before checking out.
We decided to take the Narita Express to get to the airport. After paying at the kiosk, we headed down to the platform to catch our train.
We were in car #2 .
Local trains passing by.
She approaches.
She left right on time. Gotta love Japanese punctuality.
1 hour and 24 minutes later, we arrived at NRT.
Next up - ANA Suites Lounge.
Last edited by injian; Apr 25, 2017 at 3:32 pm
Apr 25, 2017, 3:48 pm
#37
Original Poster
Join Date: Jun 2012
Location: Toronto, Canada
Programs: Aeroplan Airmiles AMEX-MR Alaska Airlines
Posts: 692
#ihadmoarkatsucurry #wescoredkitkats
After getting off the train, we followed the signs to the terminal. Four flights of escalators later and we ended up in the North Wing. I saw the zone letters and realized that we were in the wrong side. I was looking for the Z zone since that is where you go for ANA F check-in, so turned back and made our way to the South side of the terminal.
I found you.
The agents waiting behind the doors came forward to greet us and assisted with the check-in process. Cold towels were provided which was awesome. They checked us all the way to YYZ but informed us that since we were flying to ORD, we would have to pick up our bags, clear immigration and then drop off our bags which was right out the immigration doors. I never had to do this before, so I was kind of worried that time would be wasted by checking in again in ORD but in the end, I was worrying for absolutely no reason.
We were handed our boarding passes for ANA and the connecting United flight to YYZ and then directed to take the entrance near the back to go through security and immigration. The entire process was done in 10 minutes. Once we were through, we made the long walk to the lounge.
Follow your nose ... or the sign .. whichever works best.
Entrance to the ANA lounge. The First Class lounge is the inside right of the entrance.
An agent at the front desk welcomed us, scanned our boarding passes and directed to enter the lounge through the right side.
We were welcomed by the agent you see standing on the left of the hallway.
She said we could seat anywhere and we ended up sitting on the loungers next to the windows. These seats had a good view of the tarmac. She escorted us to our seats and ask us if we would like anything to drink - champers ofcourse! She quickly came back with cold towels - double awesome! She looked after us during our stay at the lounge. There were other staff members like her would who welcome F passengers and look after their needs. Most of the passengers turned out to be older Japanese men.
Tattinger.
The decor felt slightly dated.
The self pouring beer machines.
The food buffet selection was not that great. This was more of a business class selection versus a true first class offering.
I forgave ANA for their poor food offering after eating the dessert - especially the Japanese cheesekcake on the top of the picture. WOW!
Not particularly appetizing.
The lounge also had a walk up Noodle bar where you could select from a menu. I chose the ANA Katsu curry - sorry I forgot to take a pic of the Noodle bar! As I mentioned before, the curry was decent - Coco Curry house was the hands down winner.
Finally, some pics of the tarmac.
ANA 787 pulling in.
Thai and AC pulled in shortly.
Our bird being prepped for the flight to ORD.
Before going to board our flight, we hit up the gift shops and scoring a few boxes of Kit Kat.
The ANA Suites Lounge is good but not great. There are two ANA Suite lounges at differnt points of the terminal but I read they are virtually the same. The service by the staff was great and its nice when the nice is quiet. When the lounge gets busy, the staff tends to be a bit hectic and that was our queue to leave.
Next up - ANA F to ORD + anti-climactic end to our journey *cough*United*cough*.
I found you.
The agents waiting behind the doors came forward to greet us and assisted with the check-in process. Cold towels were provided which was awesome. They checked us all the way to YYZ but informed us that since we were flying to ORD, we would have to pick up our bags, clear immigration and then drop off our bags which was right out the immigration doors. I never had to do this before, so I was kind of worried that time would be wasted by checking in again in ORD but in the end, I was worrying for absolutely no reason.
We were handed our boarding passes for ANA and the connecting United flight to YYZ and then directed to take the entrance near the back to go through security and immigration. The entire process was done in 10 minutes. Once we were through, we made the long walk to the lounge.
Follow your nose ... or the sign .. whichever works best.
Entrance to the ANA lounge. The First Class lounge is the inside right of the entrance.
An agent at the front desk welcomed us, scanned our boarding passes and directed to enter the lounge through the right side.
We were welcomed by the agent you see standing on the left of the hallway.
She said we could seat anywhere and we ended up sitting on the loungers next to the windows. These seats had a good view of the tarmac. She escorted us to our seats and ask us if we would like anything to drink - champers ofcourse! She quickly came back with cold towels - double awesome! She looked after us during our stay at the lounge. There were other staff members like her would who welcome F passengers and look after their needs. Most of the passengers turned out to be older Japanese men.
Tattinger.
The decor felt slightly dated.
The self pouring beer machines.
The food buffet selection was not that great. This was more of a business class selection versus a true first class offering.
I forgave ANA for their poor food offering after eating the dessert - especially the Japanese cheesekcake on the top of the picture. WOW!
Not particularly appetizing.
The lounge also had a walk up Noodle bar where you could select from a menu. I chose the ANA Katsu curry - sorry I forgot to take a pic of the Noodle bar! As I mentioned before, the curry was decent - Coco Curry house was the hands down winner.
Finally, some pics of the tarmac.
ANA 787 pulling in.
Thai and AC pulled in shortly.
Our bird being prepped for the flight to ORD.
Before going to board our flight, we hit up the gift shops and scoring a few boxes of Kit Kat.
The ANA Suites Lounge is good but not great. There are two ANA Suite lounges at differnt points of the terminal but I read they are virtually the same. The service by the staff was great and its nice when the nice is quiet. When the lounge gets busy, the staff tends to be a bit hectic and that was our queue to leave.
Next up - ANA F to ORD + anti-climactic end to our journey *cough*United*cough*.
Apr 26, 2017, 8:54 am
#39
Original Poster
Join Date: Jun 2012
Location: Toronto, Canada
Programs: Aeroplan Airmiles AMEX-MR Alaska Airlines
Posts: 692
Thanks for a great report so far.Sadly central sydney is quiet after 930pm with limited food options out side the very good thai chinese and korean districts north of central station. The state government through complex licencing laws encourages people to go to the casino owned and run by its political mates.
The labour laws preventing outside work at the airport apply if thunder storms with lightning are in the area. Usually a 5-10 km radius. The sight of snow in Sydney would cause 5 million people to evacuate north pronto!
The labour laws preventing outside work at the airport apply if thunder storms with lightning are in the area. Usually a 5-10 km radius. The sight of snow in Sydney would cause 5 million people to evacuate north pronto!
Thank you chongsss.
Thank you Kajjan85. Last post is incoming today.
Thank you SKYEG for reading.
LOL drminn. Mrs.I and I have already agreed to go back to Tahiti/Moorea for our 10 year anniversary. Hopefully Air Tahiti Nui will have a better J product compared to the one we flew in 2012.
Apr 27, 2017, 9:59 am
#41
Original Poster
Join Date: Jun 2012
Location: Toronto, Canada
Programs: Aeroplan Airmiles AMEX-MR Alaska Airlines
Posts: 692
Hey CappuccinoAddict, I agree that the room was outdated - for example, the cushions for the loungers, the washroom counter/sinks and the wood decor. In terms of the resort, I never felt it was outdated.
Apr 27, 2017, 10:11 am
#42
Original Poster
Join Date: Jun 2012
Location: Toronto, Canada
Programs: Aeroplan Airmiles AMEX-MR Alaska Airlines
Posts: 692
#thegrandfinale #veryanticlimactic #thankyouforreading
We headed to gate 54 where our bird was departing from. Gate Lice were already crowding/lining up and agents were going through to check boarding passes. We were requested to stand in the F/Diamond line - some people with families lined up behind us. Hmm.
Our birdie.
Boarding was delayed by 5 minutes due to pre-boarding of passengers with wheelchair assistance and we waited in line for a total of 10 before boarding was finally called. F/Diamond passengers were called first and we quickly scanned through.
Left at the fork.
We were greeted by two staff members at the door and one of them escorted us to our seats. The F cabin has 8 seats in total - 2 rows of 4 seats. Both of us took the K window seats. The flight attendant helped Mrs.I to her seat, knelt down and offered her slippers. She even removed the slippers from the plastic cover and place them at Mrs.I's feet - Mrs.I was politely refusing the slippers as she was not prepared for this sort of attentive service provided by the flight crew.
Need more leg room.
While the cabin was cleaned thoroughly, there were signs of wear and tear.
The other seats in the cabin. We were 2 of 3 in F for the flight.
Looking down at J class.
The flight attendant helping Mrs.I earlier came by my seat and introduced herself and again welcomed us aboard. She asked if I would like a PDB and went with the usual. She also asked if I would like to change into PJs now and I accepted. Mrs.I went first, then the other gentleman and me last. She escorted me to the washroom, opened the door and closed the door when I got in. I did not take pics of the washrooms - it was the usual set up with the exception that both F washrooms had the Japanese toilet. No heated seat option unfortunately. When I came out, the flight attendant immediately took my clothes, hung them all on a hangar and hung it in the coat area behind my cube. Awesome service.
Touch screen seat controls.
Usual clunky TV controls and power sockets.
Decent headphones provided.
Looking across from my seat.
The awesome amenity kit.
Which turned out to a dud in terms of contents. Some contents were in the case while the rest was provided on a tray which the flight attendant brought over to us to select. The case is still a winner.
Boarding was done eventually and we were pushed back. As we were taxi-ing, the purser announcement that due to a delayed pushback and traffic congestion at NRT, we would be late arriving into ORD. Yay. :|
Getting into position to say bye bye. The purser came by and introduced herself - she welcomed us onboard and requested that we contact her in case we needed anything. Another thing to point out - the captain never came once on the PA to make the usual spiel. The first officer did come on the PA after take off and advised of a flight time of 11 hours and a delayed arrival into ORD. After that, all announcements were made by the purser or another member of the cabin crew.
Farewell.
Birds as we were taxi-ing.
All departing planes lining up for take off.
Yikes. Long line up.
Blurry take off pic.
After the seat belt signs went off, the crew got into action. We were presented with two menus in a thick book cover.
One menu for drinks, the other for food.
Shall we start with the food menu first? The entire menu shows the selections for NRT-ORD first and then ORD-NRT.
The Japanese Set menu.
The drinks menu for all you FT alcoholics.
Yes, I'm sure the wines are "enchanting".
The flight attendant came by to take our dinner order and I went with the Japanese menu. She look surprised that I would select that option and asked if I liked Japanese food. Er ... who doesnt?
She also asked for my drink order and I went with the sake. I asked for her recommendation and she indicated to go with the Miyakanbai Junmai Gingo Sake as it was the lightest in taste. Deal.
Stupid flash.
Showtime. The amuse bouche, which was not documented on the menu. The flight attendant asked if I wanted chopsticks or a fork - I wanted chopsticks and she was surprised again. Yes, Westerners do know how to use chopsticks.
The brown roll was sliced beef stuffed with cream cheese, while the yellow ball tasted like mango. I did not know what to make of the mousse in the shot glass and the white jello but they were all tasty.
Next was the Sakizuke (on the top) and Zensai (bottom). I could not bring myself to eat the whole fish piece - the eye starting at me was enough to wuss out.
Next up - Owan - clam fishcake, marinated bracken and butterbur. I made the mistake of breaking the fishcake as it broke up into small piece rather than halves. Made it messy to finish but I managed it.
Moving on to the Otsukuri course - sashimi. I devoured the fish and left the rest.
The next three courses were all brought out together. The flight attendant asked if I wanted the steamed rice/miso course with the rest or after and I said to bring with the rest.
At 12 o'clock is the Kobachi course, Nimono at 11 o'clock and Shusai is smack in the middle of everything. The Shusai course was grilled trout and was over cooked - I barely ate half of it. The Nimono was the steamed tilefish and it was excellent - the salted cherry blossom leaf had a good flavour and it kept the fish moist. I honestly did not know what to make of the Kobachi, picked around it and didnt eat much.
Miso soup which is as good as it can be.
Finally, the dessert course - somehow I did not end up getting the Wagashi course but instead was asked if I wanted a dessert of the International menu. I went with the Croissant Waffle with apricot jam and vanilla ice cream. It was excellent.
The service took around 1.5 hours and the crew were discreetly watching us through the cracks in the curtains. As we finished each course, she would come out to take the plate and replace it with the next course - good pacing. At end of the service, I could not keep my eyes open due to the food coma. The flight attendant asked to notify her whenever I wanted to have the bed made and I asked it to be made now. She converted the seat next to me into a bed and I crashed for the next 7 hours or so. The total flight time was 11 hours, so I was happy I slept that long.
The flight attendant saw me taking many pictures through the course of the dinner and the bed. She offered to take a pic of myself and I obliged. She asked how the flight was so far and I commented that the service was excellent so far. She also asked if it was my first time on ANA and I said yes. I commend her for making the effort to speak with me but there were awkward moments in the conversation.
Two hours before landing, the flight attendant woke me up for the refreshment service and I woke up with a start - it was a really good sleep lol. I took a look at the menu and ordered the Croque-Monsieur and ANA original curry. Yes, I want moar curry.
Croque-Monsiuer. Dry but passable.
ANA original curry. Tasty but again, Coco Curry house was the winner in the curry wars.
Soon after the meal was finished, she asked if I would like to change back into my clothes and I said yes. She brought my clothes out of the locker - removed them off the clothes hangar, folded them and escorted me to the washroom. She handed me the clothes and closed the door. Attention to detail.
Descending into ORD.
Almost there.
Smooth touch down and taxi to Terminal 5.
We had to disembark via door 2L. The flight attendant looking after us during the flight escorted us to the front of the line - no stare downs or anything of the sort. We thanked them and made our way to immigration and it took around 10 minutes in total to use the kiosk plus speak to an officer. Bags came out 10 minutes later and our bags were first on the belt. Right after the immigration doors was the bag drop off - our baggage tags were scanned/dropped off and the lady informed to head to Terminal 1. After the quick train ride over to Terminal 1, we headed through security. I dont understand the different level in service between the TSA at Term 1 versus Term 5. TSA @ Term 1 - leave shoes and belt on, TSA @ Term 2 - take everything off and go through the body scanner.
Our United flight to YYZ was supposed to leave at 5.30pm but the FIDS indicated that it was delayed to 6.30p due to traffic congestion. Alot of United flights were delayed in terms of boarding and leaving the gate - ours was no exception. We began boarding at 6.15pm and push back was at 6.45pm. During boarding, the captain came on the PA and advised that traffic control changed pushback time to 7.30pm (collective groan) but she would try for earlier.
As we started pushback at 6.45pm, the captain came back on the PA to announce that re-negotiated take off at 7.30 but we would wait on the taxi-way until then. We did take off at 7.30pm and it was a bumpy ride all the way through. When approaching, the captain came on the PA to advise that we were in a holding pattern due to bad weather at YYZ (snow) and even though there was extra fuel, there would be a chance we would have to divert to Buffalo (louder collective groan).
15 minutes later, she came on and she requested to prepare for landing (collective sigh of relief). Touchdown at 10:40pm ET.
Home sweet home. We were just happy to be home despite being delayed 2.5 hours.
Final thoughts - what an amazing journey! Mrs.I was blown away by everything on the trip and was appreciative of all the work put into planning the trip. For myself, there were many highlights. In terms of comparing First Class flights - each airline had its own strengths. Cathay Pacific had great service but was not over and above what we experienced on Singapore Airlines while the service on ANA was unique and reflective on Japanese culture. Alot of people asked us what our favourite part of the trip was but its like comparing apples to oranges. Australia had the best beach while Singapore had the best food and the culture experience in Bali was beyond parallel.
If you are reading this, thank you for staying till the end and I hope you enjoyed the TR. Until the next TR.
BONUS VIDEO:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9V9-...ature=youtu.be
Our birdie.
Boarding was delayed by 5 minutes due to pre-boarding of passengers with wheelchair assistance and we waited in line for a total of 10 before boarding was finally called. F/Diamond passengers were called first and we quickly scanned through.
Left at the fork.
We were greeted by two staff members at the door and one of them escorted us to our seats. The F cabin has 8 seats in total - 2 rows of 4 seats. Both of us took the K window seats. The flight attendant helped Mrs.I to her seat, knelt down and offered her slippers. She even removed the slippers from the plastic cover and place them at Mrs.I's feet - Mrs.I was politely refusing the slippers as she was not prepared for this sort of attentive service provided by the flight crew.
Need more leg room.
While the cabin was cleaned thoroughly, there were signs of wear and tear.
The other seats in the cabin. We were 2 of 3 in F for the flight.
Looking down at J class.
The flight attendant helping Mrs.I earlier came by my seat and introduced herself and again welcomed us aboard. She asked if I would like a PDB and went with the usual. She also asked if I would like to change into PJs now and I accepted. Mrs.I went first, then the other gentleman and me last. She escorted me to the washroom, opened the door and closed the door when I got in. I did not take pics of the washrooms - it was the usual set up with the exception that both F washrooms had the Japanese toilet. No heated seat option unfortunately. When I came out, the flight attendant immediately took my clothes, hung them all on a hangar and hung it in the coat area behind my cube. Awesome service.
Touch screen seat controls.
Usual clunky TV controls and power sockets.
Decent headphones provided.
Looking across from my seat.
The awesome amenity kit.
Which turned out to a dud in terms of contents. Some contents were in the case while the rest was provided on a tray which the flight attendant brought over to us to select. The case is still a winner.
Boarding was done eventually and we were pushed back. As we were taxi-ing, the purser announcement that due to a delayed pushback and traffic congestion at NRT, we would be late arriving into ORD. Yay. :|
Getting into position to say bye bye. The purser came by and introduced herself - she welcomed us onboard and requested that we contact her in case we needed anything. Another thing to point out - the captain never came once on the PA to make the usual spiel. The first officer did come on the PA after take off and advised of a flight time of 11 hours and a delayed arrival into ORD. After that, all announcements were made by the purser or another member of the cabin crew.
Farewell.
Birds as we were taxi-ing.
All departing planes lining up for take off.
Yikes. Long line up.
Blurry take off pic.
After the seat belt signs went off, the crew got into action. We were presented with two menus in a thick book cover.
One menu for drinks, the other for food.
Shall we start with the food menu first? The entire menu shows the selections for NRT-ORD first and then ORD-NRT.
The Japanese Set menu.
The drinks menu for all you FT alcoholics.
Yes, I'm sure the wines are "enchanting".
The flight attendant came by to take our dinner order and I went with the Japanese menu. She look surprised that I would select that option and asked if I liked Japanese food. Er ... who doesnt?
She also asked for my drink order and I went with the sake. I asked for her recommendation and she indicated to go with the Miyakanbai Junmai Gingo Sake as it was the lightest in taste. Deal.
Stupid flash.
Showtime. The amuse bouche, which was not documented on the menu. The flight attendant asked if I wanted chopsticks or a fork - I wanted chopsticks and she was surprised again. Yes, Westerners do know how to use chopsticks.
The brown roll was sliced beef stuffed with cream cheese, while the yellow ball tasted like mango. I did not know what to make of the mousse in the shot glass and the white jello but they were all tasty.
Next was the Sakizuke (on the top) and Zensai (bottom). I could not bring myself to eat the whole fish piece - the eye starting at me was enough to wuss out.
Next up - Owan - clam fishcake, marinated bracken and butterbur. I made the mistake of breaking the fishcake as it broke up into small piece rather than halves. Made it messy to finish but I managed it.
Moving on to the Otsukuri course - sashimi. I devoured the fish and left the rest.
The next three courses were all brought out together. The flight attendant asked if I wanted the steamed rice/miso course with the rest or after and I said to bring with the rest.
At 12 o'clock is the Kobachi course, Nimono at 11 o'clock and Shusai is smack in the middle of everything. The Shusai course was grilled trout and was over cooked - I barely ate half of it. The Nimono was the steamed tilefish and it was excellent - the salted cherry blossom leaf had a good flavour and it kept the fish moist. I honestly did not know what to make of the Kobachi, picked around it and didnt eat much.
Miso soup which is as good as it can be.
Finally, the dessert course - somehow I did not end up getting the Wagashi course but instead was asked if I wanted a dessert of the International menu. I went with the Croissant Waffle with apricot jam and vanilla ice cream. It was excellent.
The service took around 1.5 hours and the crew were discreetly watching us through the cracks in the curtains. As we finished each course, she would come out to take the plate and replace it with the next course - good pacing. At end of the service, I could not keep my eyes open due to the food coma. The flight attendant asked to notify her whenever I wanted to have the bed made and I asked it to be made now. She converted the seat next to me into a bed and I crashed for the next 7 hours or so. The total flight time was 11 hours, so I was happy I slept that long.
The flight attendant saw me taking many pictures through the course of the dinner and the bed. She offered to take a pic of myself and I obliged. She asked how the flight was so far and I commented that the service was excellent so far. She also asked if it was my first time on ANA and I said yes. I commend her for making the effort to speak with me but there were awkward moments in the conversation.
Two hours before landing, the flight attendant woke me up for the refreshment service and I woke up with a start - it was a really good sleep lol. I took a look at the menu and ordered the Croque-Monsieur and ANA original curry. Yes, I want moar curry.
Croque-Monsiuer. Dry but passable.
ANA original curry. Tasty but again, Coco Curry house was the winner in the curry wars.
Soon after the meal was finished, she asked if I would like to change back into my clothes and I said yes. She brought my clothes out of the locker - removed them off the clothes hangar, folded them and escorted me to the washroom. She handed me the clothes and closed the door. Attention to detail.
Descending into ORD.
Almost there.
Smooth touch down and taxi to Terminal 5.
We had to disembark via door 2L. The flight attendant looking after us during the flight escorted us to the front of the line - no stare downs or anything of the sort. We thanked them and made our way to immigration and it took around 10 minutes in total to use the kiosk plus speak to an officer. Bags came out 10 minutes later and our bags were first on the belt. Right after the immigration doors was the bag drop off - our baggage tags were scanned/dropped off and the lady informed to head to Terminal 1. After the quick train ride over to Terminal 1, we headed through security. I dont understand the different level in service between the TSA at Term 1 versus Term 5. TSA @ Term 1 - leave shoes and belt on, TSA @ Term 2 - take everything off and go through the body scanner.
Our United flight to YYZ was supposed to leave at 5.30pm but the FIDS indicated that it was delayed to 6.30p due to traffic congestion. Alot of United flights were delayed in terms of boarding and leaving the gate - ours was no exception. We began boarding at 6.15pm and push back was at 6.45pm. During boarding, the captain came on the PA and advised that traffic control changed pushback time to 7.30pm (collective groan) but she would try for earlier.
As we started pushback at 6.45pm, the captain came back on the PA to announce that re-negotiated take off at 7.30 but we would wait on the taxi-way until then. We did take off at 7.30pm and it was a bumpy ride all the way through. When approaching, the captain came on the PA to advise that we were in a holding pattern due to bad weather at YYZ (snow) and even though there was extra fuel, there would be a chance we would have to divert to Buffalo (louder collective groan).
15 minutes later, she came on and she requested to prepare for landing (collective sigh of relief). Touchdown at 10:40pm ET.
Home sweet home. We were just happy to be home despite being delayed 2.5 hours.
Final thoughts - what an amazing journey! Mrs.I was blown away by everything on the trip and was appreciative of all the work put into planning the trip. For myself, there were many highlights. In terms of comparing First Class flights - each airline had its own strengths. Cathay Pacific had great service but was not over and above what we experienced on Singapore Airlines while the service on ANA was unique and reflective on Japanese culture. Alot of people asked us what our favourite part of the trip was but its like comparing apples to oranges. Australia had the best beach while Singapore had the best food and the culture experience in Bali was beyond parallel.
If you are reading this, thank you for staying till the end and I hope you enjoyed the TR. Until the next TR.
BONUS VIDEO:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9V9-...ature=youtu.be
Apr 27, 2017, 10:22 am
#43
Join Date: Sep 2012
Location: Hong Kong
Programs: BA Gold, DL PM, , Hilton Diamond (from being in a bed), SPG Plat, MR Plat
Posts: 922
Ah good ole Coco curry. Some solid curry that. Always a delight in the small hours after a few too many somewhere in Tokyo!
Great report. Loved reading it!
Great report. Loved reading it!