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Koala sanctuary added to my plans, thank you sir!
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Originally Posted by atcodave
(Post 36581086)
Koala sanctuary added to my plans, thank you sir!
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Originally Posted by socalterp
(Post 36580463)
Great report.
We went to Australia for the first time this year and once there, flew SYD-CNS, CNS-BNE and OOL-SYD. Like you, wanted to get to Uluru but couldn’t make it work with flight timing and limited days. many highlights, but a sightseeing flight over the reef from CNS was spectacular, as was the snorkeling day trip with on a “smaller” boat that went to Michaelmas Cay and one other spot. Already planning our next trip. I wish I had more time for exploring this beautiful country. There are so many place I want to visit. |
Brisbane (Meeanjin)
I boarded bus 430 at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and rode it to the Queen Street bus station. I learned that I couldn't use credit or debit cards for payment on the bus, and a local Brisbane version of the Oyster card was required.
Upon arriving at the Queen Street bus underground station, IIfollow the exit sign for the Mall and found myself near the bustling Queen Street Mall. A nearby store caught my eye with its selection of sorbets, and I decided to try the raspberry and mango flavours. I then found a comfortable spot on one of the benches and took in the vibrant energy of the area, observing the hurried pace of the passersby. https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...f9bbff78bf.jpg After finishing the ice cream, I wanted to see the Brisbane sign. Unfortunately, road work obstructed my path, preventing me from crossing the street at my intended location. Instead, I altered my plans and strolled to the Queensland Parliament and the City Botanic Garden. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a9578966e2.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...67d28304b6.jpg Brisbane City Hall https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...35ca6c3d77.jpg Albert Street Uniting Church https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...48bd380bbb.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8e08ffd19a.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ba32855b8a.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...667551e79a.jpg It was an interesting contrast between the old small buildings and new high-rise buildings. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b3b6c869db.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2730f27ef3.jpg Queensland Parliament After that, I wanted to visit Old Government House, but unfortunately, I discovered it had already closed for the day. Only then did I realise I had wandered onto the QUT Campus and was surrounded by many students. https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0b78032945.jpg Art museum https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5a56b5adfa.jpg Old Government House https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d7ee21493e.jpg One of the buildings on the campus I remained determined to visit the Brisbane Sign. I made my way across Goodwill Bridge, with separate lanes for pedestrians marked by red lines and a designated green lane for bicycles. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...bd690758bc.jpg Goodwill Bridge https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7553e8511e.jpg Queensland Maritime Museum I enjoyed taking a leisurely walk through the park. I took regular breaks to sit and watch the animals and people around me. https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d2d6089875.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...965be88973.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ebbfb59193.jpg It was nice to see the Lagoon in Brisbane and Street Beach, which must be popular in the summer. Even though it was only the beginning of spring, several people were already swimming or relaxing in the water. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...52680d0aff.jpg Street Beach https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5c0e78a882.jpg Nepalese Pease Pagoda I even found a miniature version of the Eifel Tower🙂. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...615ffdbea1.jpg Eventually, I made it to the Brisbane sign. https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4d3b726559.jpg Found it! I had no energy to walk to the hotel, but there was a solution to my problem - a riverboat that accepted card payments! https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...cd88b5d3db.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...590f5136ea.jpg view from the boat https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...535f38b150.jpg view from the boat While looking for a place to eat, I found several dining options near the hotel. Among them, HappyCrab had the most impressive reviews. Since I was in the mood for seafood, I decided to give it a try. I was particularly intrigued by the mention of them serving food in a bag, so I was eager to experience it. https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d9af5b86aa.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a15964f000.jpg Well deserved drink after walking the whole day When the food arrived, I was disappointed because I ordered a bag but got my food served on a plate. However, it was super tasty, and I almost ended up in a food coma. https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ea04e6fa9b.jpg The next day, before my flight, I decided to explore the area around the hotel. Of course, I stopped to buy my coffee. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7f576ef1a7.jpg New sign every day 😁 https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...21b29bceaf.jpg Some random art I started with the Central Station, which looked like a historic building from the outside. In front of it was Anzac Square and Memorial Garden, adorned with numerous statues and war memorials. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...748332ab3e.jpg Central Station https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...94f53082b0.jpg Anzac Square https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2659bc0aad.jpg Memorial Garden https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...12c187be5a.jpg Memorial Garden After that, I continued to the Post Office Square and the Australia Post building. Through the GPO Laneway, I proceeded towards Old St. Stephen's Church and the Cathedral of St. Stephen. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...f30fb05026.jpg Post Office Square https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...281bd72646.jpg Laneway https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ac94b86234.jpg Cathedral of St. Stephen To my surprise, I found that the Brisbane City Market was open. It's only open on Tuesdays from 8:00 to 14:00 (2pm). https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...72c6ed01c4.jpg Brisbane City Market https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...31427e55eb.jpg Brisbane City Market https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...97c6f3ec41.jpg Brisbane City Market https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...45ded8dffe.jpg Streetart https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...295808022d.jpg Coffeeshop I felt sad as I prepared to depart from Brisbane. I enjoyed my time in this city, whether visiting the koala sanctuary or walking through the city streets. |
I look forward to seeing you in your crab Alice band the next time our paths cross :D
Great photos, it all look amazing. Going to have to be my big 2026 trip. |
Great photos, sets me up nicely for next year, looks like I’ll need to work on my walking fitness in the meantime!
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the highlighted chap in this statute is wearing a Dhari which is the symbol in the middle of the previously discussed Torres Strait flag, FYI
https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3899ad4656.png |
Originally Posted by JapesUK
(Post 36585163)
I look forward to seeing you in your crab Alice band the next time our paths cross :D
Great photos, it all look amazing. Going to have to be my big 2026 trip. If you go there spend there at least three (or more) weeks.
Originally Posted by atcodave
(Post 36585251)
Great photos, sets me up nicely for next year, looks like I’ll need to work on my walking fitness in the meantime!
Originally Posted by nancypants
(Post 36585527)
the highlighted chap in this statute is wearing a Dhari which is the symbol in the middle of the previously discussed Torres Strait flag, FYI
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Zl bne-syd -> va bne-syd, y
I had planned to try Rex Airlines, another Australian airline. However, on the last day of July, I received an email stating my flight was cancelled. The reason? Rex Airlines had gone into voluntary administration. In that email, they also offered me the option to rebook on an equivalent Virgin Australia flight. I used the provided link to rebook my flight. After a week, I received an email from Virgin Australia with the new flight details. The rebooking process was smooth and stress-free.
I was surprised that Rex Rex was still operating small Saab aircrafts. When I looked it up online, I discovered that they still maintain their regional operations. I wish I had known earlier. I would have tried to fit in a flight or two during my trip to Canberra. As I made my way back to the hotel after a leisurely morning walk, I realised that I had miscalculated the time I needed to be at the airport. I thought it was enough to be at the airport around 11 (2 hours before the flight), but I have no idea how I came up with that number since 12-2 is not 11. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c677778b3a.jpg You can store your bags here https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3bea4961eb.jpg Back to the airport I arrived at the airport before 11. Like at the previous airports, there were only kiosks for check-in, boarding passes, and luggage tag printing. After dropping off my luggage, I proceeded to the security check. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...69ccc0306b.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...eba3e2258a.jpg Which one was it? https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...bb83bebde9.jpg They were still using the old scanners, so I had to remove all my electronics and liquids. However, my bag was flagged for a manual check even after doing so. The staff removed almost everything from my bag and jokingly commented that I had a busy bag :). https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...12a639f2aa.jpg VA lounge entrance After completing all the necessary checks, it was time to grab some food or drinks. Since I was in the economy, I didn't have access to the VA lounge. Although Priority Pass didn't show any available lounges, it did provide a credit of AUD$36 at Graze Grill & Bar, Mezze Za Za, The Common, and The Independent. https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7e78d8fc86.jpg Arrivals and departures The Independent was the closest option to my gate, so I decided to go there. I ordered a glass of Australian Pinot Grigio and a pastry. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a03fda4b7d.jpg Menu https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...501d4188c9.jpg My view Once I finished my glass, I headed to gate 44B. Boarding began 20 minutes before the scheduled departure time of 12:08. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...af0d6ad95f.jpg The business class had two rows of seats in a 2-2 configuration, while the premium economy had more leg space but was in a 3-3 configuration. I was pleasantly surprised to find myself in the last row of the premium economy section, especially since I didn't remember paying extra for this seat. This was great news for me, as I always struggle with leg space. https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...097b5d871d.jpg Not my seat (row 3) https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ba1071a0b0.jpg My seat (row 5) https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...9c464b7883.jpg Cabin https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...468dd57619.jpg B738 safety card https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...bbb266d157.jpg And more instructions Once everyone was on board, the captain welcomed us and announced that he would be the pilot flying. The IFL announced the rest of the flight details. I missed the chatty British Airways pilots and their announcements. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3a3c9d4fe1.jpg VA menu https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...81c6268a6b.jpg VA menu https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8dd9510382.jpg Could not resist buying these During the announcement that we should expect some bumps during takeoff, my neighbour in 5C, who seemed nervous, started talking to me even though I had my headphones on. I turned off the music and engaged in the discussion, wanting to help ease their nerves. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...6598cba45a.jpg View during the flight https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e9b317cf86.jpg Somewhere on the way to SYD We took off at 12:18, and the seatbelt signs were turned off three minutes later. However, several minutes later, they were turned on again, and the pilot asked the cabin crew to stop the service and sit down. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5d85e3f8a7.jpg Sydney https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...1c7a536418.jpg Sydney It was a false alarm, but it's better to be safe than sorry. The flight was uneventful, and at 13:37, we landed in Sydney. I was lucky to sit on the better side of the plane, as I had some fantastic views of Sydney during the approach. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...27fbe4e504.jpg Welcome to Melbourne? Really? Once I got my luggage, I took a train, which was faster, according to my Citymapper app, than Uber. Sydney has its own travel card called Opal. To my joy, I didn't have to buy it, as the transport system supported card payment, as well as Google and Apple payments. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...da27f727d4.jpg Train map https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...66ae83d84d.jpg No need for Opal card https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...614f14ba09.jpg |
Holiday Inn Sydney - Potts Point
When I was looking for accommodation in Sydney, I was deciding between the InterContinental and Holiday Inn Potts Point. Reviews mentioned that InterContinental's views were not the best due to surrounding highrise buildings, while people praised the fantastic views from Holiday Inn. Therefore, I decided to book a room at the Holiday Inn.
The hotel is conveniently located above the Kings Cross train station. It is an excellent location, as it took around 20 minutes to the airport and 1 or 2 stops to the CBD. https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b6b6b873d7.jpg View from the street https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c27ad5f12a.jpg View from the street https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...98843e20b6.jpg Entrance During check-in, the staff informed me that they had upgraded me to a King Premium Harbour view room on the top (8th) floor. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5d59081707.jpg Reception area The room was typical of a Holiday Inn. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7660e97f35.jpg Bathroom on the left https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ccac3b123e.jpg Comfy bed https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e516114fca.jpg Plenty of space for hanging clothes and storing luggage https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...bf56227816.jpg Desk and TV https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e3899ef076.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4acb1f598d.jpg My best friend in the mornings https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a9b7180491.jpg Seating witha great view I had a stunning view of Sydney Harbour from the room, especially during sunrise. Probably sunset as well, but I was never around to see it. https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...389952242d.jpg Day view https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b9afcdd0a0.jpg Night view Breakfast was quite disappointing. It was always overcrowded. No matter what time I went, there was a lot of queuing and fighting for food. Every morning, I encountered different Thai Airways crew members there. There was a pancake-making machine, a toaster, a salad bar, and a hot food section. I didn't take a photo. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a121a80a42.jpg Breakfast place in the morning, restaurant for the rest of the day https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a944318c78.jpg Seating outside Two coffee machines produced undrinkable coffee for me. However, others had no issue with it. I am just too spoiled or just a coffee snob. I tried my luck at the bar, where I ordered an espresso hoping for a better coffee, but it was the same horrible coffee. Lesson learned; for the following days, I got my coffee elsewhere. At least the coffee machine in my room made okay coffee. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...957b8da3ab.jpg |
QF lounge T3 and Priority Pass
I visited Terminal 3, dedicated to Qantas, twice. The first time was early in the morning on my way to Canberra, and the second time was in the afternoon on my way back to Melbourne.
https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e6c8339945.jpg T2 or T3? Qantas flights right, the rest left https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e0adde3ac0.jpg Departure hall The Priority Pass app informed me that there was no access to a lounge in T3, but I could get AUD$36 credit at two places: Luke's Bistro and Wok on Air. I only visited Luke's Bistro during my second T3 visit. Customers can either sit at a table, scan a QR code, and order, or order at the counter like me. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...113466c55e.jpg Luke's bistro https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...9cbcab067d.jpg PP info I ordered a shrimp sandwich and a glass of pinot grigio. I enjoyed the fresh and fruity taste of the Australian Pinot Grigio. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...f9ea0150ae.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3d7754e9e2.jpg As for the QF lounge, the entrance was near Gates 5 and 6, and it was for the Business Lounge and Qantas Club. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...92b48cdc40.jpg Signage in the departure hall https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...438e8404f9.jpg This entrance was closed https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e062c56e1d.jpg Qantas Club I was curious about the Club as it was my first time seeing it. The lounge dragon rudely informed me that it's only for Club members, and I don't have access there. Probably not her best day, and she didn't want to be there. On the other hand, the lounge dragons at the business lounge were very friendly. https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...6d1bb0dc19.jpg Business lounge direction https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...372f65be0b.jpg Business Lounge When I visited the domestic business lounge on Thursday morning, it was full of people in suits. Many of them were queuing for something, so I couldn't resist and walked by. To my pleasant surprise, they had an actual barista making real coffee. Everyone was here while the beans-to-cup coffee machines were abandoned. Of course, I joined the queue. It was still early in the morning, and I needed my caffeine. Once I had my ristretto (yes, they knew what it was and actually made it), I walked around a bit. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...1fb86bf2a5.jpg Solid fruit for breakfast, and baristas The lounge is spacious, with several sections where people can work without being disturbed. https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7c29f73952.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...bf8ac3afe2.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c171aa6c86.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c011485b2b.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b4f00d81fe.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a78509f5ac.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b466f9a303.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...01db065aff.jpg There is a smaller section in the middle where the baristas and food are located. The offerings were much better than in the VA lounge in Melbourne. Visitors could choose from apple or orange juice, fruits, yoghurts, toast, scrambled eggs (with milk, meh), beans, bacon, and so on. https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...531cf30268.jpg The only photo of food I took :) There were too many people When I visited the lounge on Saturday afternoon it was almost empty. It was snack or tea time, so only some finger foods were available (vegetables, nachos, baba ganoush, ham, salami, cheese, dried fruit), cakes (carrot and poppy seed), and wine. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5cfb64df7d.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...efdfce1074.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ba9637b7a8.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...1fb62b6bab.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...57f2cbcce7.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e516a1b41b.jpg Liquid fruit in the afternoon The view from the lounge was not bad https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4d274fd3d2.jpg A heavy going for a check into one of the hangars |
I just found on oneworld website that The Qantas Club is listed among the lounges where OW status holders should have access to
https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...25e579d32e.jpg No idea why I was told I don't have access (without scanning my BP) or is it for Qantas FF only? |
Qantaslink SYD-CBR, B717, Y
I visited Canberra Airport briefly, but it wasn't B2B. I flew on a different aircraft back. I did it just to experience flying on a new type of aircraft.
My day started with a lovely morning view. https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5eb7c5b88c.jpg Good morning, Sydney It only took 30 minutes from my hotel room to the airport security. I wish every journey to the airport was so short. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...f50165befe.jpg Arrivals https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...841700f326.jpg Departures Before heading to the gate, I had a quick breakfast and coffee in the Qantas lounge. Boarding started at 7:20 for business class passengers and groups 1 and 2. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2a42d1d096.jpg Here it is, waiting for me... https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...00b771d5f9.jpg The reason for my crazy action this morning was this 20-year-old Boeing 717-2BL (VH-YQS). The aircraft had two rows of business class seats in a 2-2 configuration, and the economy cabin had seats in a 2-3 configuration. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3029523054.jpg Business class seats https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...43ed74ee4a.jpg Business class seats https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3ffe189c18.jpg Economy cabin I sat in the exit row and found a leaflet waiting on my seat. The cabin crew gave a thorough briefing and checked if we were prepared to open the door in case of an emergency. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0031562016.jpg So much space I can stretch my legs https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...f7b92871da.jpg Special card for the emergency row https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...390241681c.jpg Special card for the emergency row https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...01403cf6ab.jpg Regular safety info https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...522463901d.jpg Regular safety info After a long taxiing to the runway, we took off at 7:58, a little later than the scheduled time of 7:35. I had a fantastic view of the city. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b579ca8225.jpg Airport https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...db5115596a.jpg Sydney The flight was short, around 40 minutes, and the cabin crew offered everyone in economy class banana bread, coffee, or tea. I took the banana bread but declined the coffee. I tend to forget about the snacks I put in my bag and find them several weeks later when they are in an unrecognisable form :). But this time its destiny was better, I ate the banana bread later in the day. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...860fc939a1.jpg Snack onboard As we approached Canberra airport, I confirmed that I don't enjoy flying on small planes due to the turbulence. I felt like a leaf in the wind, completely powerless. I knew that the pilots had everything under control. I was not looking forward to the way back when I was in a smaller aircraft. We landed at 8:41, only 11 minutes later than scheduled. We disembarked at gate 11, and passengers for the return flights were already queuing. It was an easy B2B trip. Would I fly on the same aircraft again? I don't think so as I prefer not to repeat the experience. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3619fa0d6c.jpg Geting ready back to SYD |
Qatas lounge CBR
After taking a clear photo of B717 parked at the gate, I tried to locate the lounge in the Qantas terminal at CBR. Despite the relatively small terminal, with only a few stores and 14 gates, I struggled to find the lounge on my first attempt. I followed the arrows straight ahead, expecting a bright red sign for the lounge, but I ended up near gate 14 at the end of the terminal. At least I found my departure gate.
https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...54b7c5d551.jpg As I walked back, I paid attention to my left side, as the gates were on my right. I then noticed a white and light green wall near the terminal exit, which took me by surprise. It blended well with the surroundings, almost like a chameleon. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3172608f91.jpg I expected it to be red. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7a8fdf0be4.jpg I went up the escalators and found two entrances: The Club Lounge and The Business Lounge. I headed straight to the Business Lounge but still inquired about The Club, as the OWS signage was a bit confusing. I wondered why it was only OWS and not OWE. The lounge staff seemed annoyed by my questions and simply stated that the lounge I was in was better. Thankfully, I was dressed appropriately, not in gym wear, beachwear, sleepwear, or rubber thongs, as otherwise, I might have been denied entrance. https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...91af1b3992.jpg The Club Lounge https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...45fc924907.jpg The Business Lounge https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...695c2a4f32.jpg Dress code The entire lounge was one large room with plenty of seating options. Hardly anyone was there. https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...508c7db488.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e4d28dc929.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...198d6f795b.jpg There was a big dining table and a counter with warm and cold food for hungry passengers. I wanted to try scrambled eggs, so I checked the allergen list. Although milk was not listed, I decided to confirm with the staff. The person I asked seemed annoyed by my question and immediately responded, "Why would it be there? Of course, it's not there, it's never there." Despite this, I persisted and requested to ask the chef. A minute later, the staff member returned and confirmed that indeed, the scrambled eggs contained milk. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...bd19150e6c.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4be19da6aa.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7b3ae36dbf.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...62979a1f3a.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...06e8e4c579.jpg Fed up with the attitude of the staff, I decided to leave for the lounge. It was time to board. |
Qantaslink CBR-SYD, Dash8-400, Y
When I arrived at the gate, the ground staff informed a passenger that their carry-on wouldn't fit in the overhead bins because it was a baby plane. When I saw it, I gritted my teeth and boarded. I was not looking forward to this flight.
https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...22305333a5.jpg Terminal https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4b56510b3d.jpg Departure gate https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...f31d3b6e71.jpg Dash8 waiting for me There was a special ramp for boarding. I wasn't paying attention as I stepped onto the aircraft and only heard "Watch Out!" I quickly ducked as I entered the door. The cabin crew complimented my fast reflexes, as they were worried I would hit my head due to the tiny door. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c3953763f5.jpg Seats https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...23891bcaae.jpg Cabin https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e21d221962.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...9205079bb1.jpg This flight (QF1432) was operated by Sunstate Airlines with a scheduled departure time of 9:40. After everyone (around 15-20 passengers) had boarded, the crew closed the door. A ground staff member checked the right wing before giving the pilots the okay to depart. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7b34046d9e.jpg At 9:43, we left CBR, and I started counting the seconds until landing. I felt the wind was causing the plane to sway from right to left and back. I could see other passengers gripping the armrests. Fortunately, it only lasted a few minutes, and 4 minutes after takeoff, the pilots switched off the seatbelt sign. The cabin crew then started to serve snacks, coffee, and tea. This time, we were given small chocolate muffins. The rest of the flight was smooth. Thirteen minutes into the flight, the captain asked the crew to prepare the cabin for landing. At 10:15, we landed smoothly in Sydney. I was glad I didn't book a flight with Rex's tiny Saab. I was tempted to book some flights when I saw it in Brisbane.https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c279610cc6.jpg Back to SYD I also wanted to mention the crew. They were very professional and helpful but somewhat distant and could have been more approachable. It may be due to the short duration of the flight. |
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