On the A380: am

am_klutz

On the A380

Dec 28, 2009 17:13

I woke up to a beautiful sunrise

My recent flight to Melbourne was such a treat, that I have to document it and share it :)

For some, travelling on business class is a regular affair but for me, it is rare! Whenever I travel to the States for work, it's always by coach. Yes. I think it is an American company thing in Asia - not out of Asia because that changes. But it was the same when I was working for other American MNCs. So I guess that is why each time I travel to the States, I return home skinnier- 17 hours of flight, jet-lag and what have you :P

As a kid or teen, I was privileaged to travel frequently to Europe because my Dad strongly believes in travelling as a means to educate and broaden one's horizons. So I spent much of my holidays visiting musuems, historical sites etc which I much appreciate. However, my Dad was very strict on luxuries. No branded goods when we were young and dependant (although Mom always spoilt us for the special occasions of birthdays and Christmas), and strictly economy travel. He didn't want us to grow up spoilt and pampered and have that expectation when we went out into the working force. So even till today, whilst they travel on business, my Sis and I travel on coach -tickets mostly sponsored but the minimum. Of course now that we are grown up and understand and appreciate the value of money, he does throw in unexpected gifts and luxuries. He has promised me my first paid business class ticket some time when the occasion comes :P So I am looking forward to that.

For the past few months, I have been trying to redeem my KrisFlyer miles for tickets but it is a real challenge.. Finally, I decided to give myself a treat and upgrade myself for the work flight to Melbourne. I figured, 7.5 hours is a decent time to enjoy some luxury time. I was lucky to get an upgrade on the trip to Melbourne which was perfect because it was on the A380 and a red eye flight. And by a stroke of luck, I was upgraded for free on my return trip back, also on the A380 - Thank you SQ! :)

The last time I was on business, it was on United. I was already thrilled by the flat bed and food. I have heard loads of good reviews about the A380 especially on business class so I was extremely excited. Call me a country bumpkin, but I was actually excited for this flight.

The check in process was the usual for me and I had my usual lounge access. Again, I got lucky and was upgraded to the first class lounge :) So that was a bonus. When I boarded, I was in awed of the larger than usual airplane which was a double deck. Service was top notch - I was offered a pre-take off drink and post take-off drink even before my butt was on the seat. I had a lovely crew serving me and in fact, one of the girls recognized me on my return flight and whispered to me You were on the same flight as me when we flew in right? And asked if I was ordering the same lobster dish! Impressive! She remembered. I heard that the crew are specifically trained to be on the A380 as the facilities are different.

What I loved on the A380 business flight?

The flat bed, extra storage space, noise cancelling quality headsets, L'Occitane toiletries, food service - non stop flow of food till I was so stuffed, extra pillows and more. Also, an obvious sign that the economy is bouncing back - the business class was full and there were many families on board. Kids as young as 4 were flying on business, many teens as well. I sure hope these kids know that not all planes come in seats this big!

I'll let the pictures do the talking. It was my best flight ever and I'm definitely looking forward to the next when I have the chance!