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GCMapCPHHKGBKKAKL10.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 320 Size: 33.4 kB Date: 08/07/2010 |
So, Willard is at it again, with an epic trip including stopovers in Hong Kong, Bangkok, Auckland and (very briefly) Sydney, and First Class flights on Swiss and Thai Airways, and Business Class flights on SAS, Air New Zealand and, somewhat unexpectedly, Thai Airways. The madcap routing is shown here courtesy of the excellent Great Circle Mapper website (map is copyright © Karl L. Swartz and used with permission). |
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WillardBKKCage2009.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 275 x 404 Size: 29.4 kB Date: 08/07/2010 |
Willard had some concerns about visiting Bangkok after their problems earlier this year, and we're very much hoping that the starring role illustrated here will be confined purely to Willard's over-fertile imagination! |
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IMG_0438.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 475 Size: 33.5 kB Date: 08/09/2010 |
Since we're not limiting ourselves to the Top Gear Challenge rules this year, our journey to Manchester Airport was a lift from a friend, so, our trip starts airside at Manchester, with an unscheduled stop in the (very) new Escape lounge that has just opened at Terminal 1, and, luckily for us, accepts Priority Pass. Willard is welcomed into the lounge, as befits his VIB* status, and offered a tour of the facilities.
(* - Very Important Bear, but you know that by now, don't you!) |
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IMG_0434.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 570 Size: 38.3 kB Date: 08/09/2010 |
First stop is a quick breakfast in the bar area, to make up for the early start to catch our 10:15 flight on SAS. |
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IMG_0436.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 475 x 640 Size: 45.1 kB Date: 08/09/2010 |
The Escape lounge offers a range of seating areas, with the afforementioned bar/dining area, an area for laptop users, and lounge style seating. There is also a childrens area, and Wilard would dearly liked to have spent some time with his inner cub, playing with the Scalextric set-up, but came over somewhat shy, and was worried he'd be mobbed by some of his younger fans! |
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IMG_0437.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 539 Size: 47.7 kB Date: 08/09/2010 |
Lounge style seating, with everything looking crisp and modern, as you would expect from a lounge that has been open for less than a month! |
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IMG_0441.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 508 Size: 34.8 kB Date: 08/09/2010 |
Back to the bar (of course!), and Willard surveys the drinks options, and the innovative "two-tier" catering and bar aproach. He's tempted by the offer of Champagne by the bottle (for an additional fee), but decides to settle for a Mimosa, expertly prepared with the bar's house Prosecco (free of charge). |
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IMG_0442.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 447 x 640 Size: 47.8 kB Date: 08/09/2010 |
The Lounge's Head Chef heard of Willard's visit, and insisted he take the opportunity to inspect the kitchen! Willard took the time for a photo opportunity, and complemented him on the ability to supplement the free nibbles in the lounge with additonal paid items, cooked to order from an a'la Carte menu. Willard thinks that he will be waving his Priority Pass card around in this lounge again! |
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IMG_0445.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 480 Size: 21.8 kB Date: 08/09/2010 |
...but, we mustn't forget that not everyone has the option to lounge-hop like Willard, so we return to the Wilmslow lounge (where Willard is still recognised and welcomed back, of course) which is the official lounge here in T1 for SAS and Star Alliance Gold. |
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IMG_0444.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 459 Size: 36.5 kB Date: 08/09/2010 |
Whilst the Escape lounge has virtually everything a discerning bear could wish for, it does, alas, lack windows, so, if you, like Willard, are a bit of a closet plane-spotter (we really must get him an Anorak and Thermos flask!) then a seat here by the floor-to-ceiling windows affords a great view of the apron! |
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IMG_0447.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 480 x 640 Size: 75.5 kB Date: 08/09/2010 |
No sooner are we in our first row seats (somewhat more private than we expected, due to an equipment change, 1A/B seem to have dissapeared!) than the crew have wrapped Willard up in a blanket, and, fearing he may become bored, perhaps, provided him with (yet another!) addition to his growing menagerie! |
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IMG_0448.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 480 Size: 38.9 kB Date: 08/09/2010 |
Willard's meal on this short flight, washed down with generous helpings of Champagne, naturally.... |
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IMG_0450.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 517 x 640 Size: 51.0 kB Date: 08/09/2010 |
On arrival at Copenhagen, we claim our luggage, and then quickly re-check-in for our next sector(s), and, wonder of wonders, though this far from our first visit to Copenhagen airport, we're finally elligible to use the SAS Fast-Track! Not only does this give us a private security lane but, far more importantly, it gives us a sneaky way to bypass the normal route airside, that includes an enforced visit to Duty Free, and brings us out right next to the SAS lounge complex - Scandanavian Lounge here we come! |
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IMG_0453.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 480 Size: 25.8 kB Date: 08/09/2010 |
......or not! As we check-in, we're informed the Scandanavian lounge is closed today, and we're welcome to use the Business Class lounge. |
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IMG_0452.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 572 Size: 51.2 kB Date: 08/09/2010 |
So, as far as Willard is concerned, that's 0 for 3 in terms of visits to the Scandanavian lounge (it was closed last year too, as was the Scandanavian lounge in Stockholm). Willard is starting to think that this fabled lounge is actually a myth, or, perhaps some kind of holographic projection, and that the lounge complex is really only one storey high. |
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IMG_0451.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 480 Size: 37.8 kB Date: 08/09/2010 |
There's a playroom in the Business lounge, but Willard isn't going to indulge his inner cub today, and anyway, no Scalextric! |
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IMG_0454.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 457 Size: 44.6 kB Date: 08/09/2010 |
Willard surveys the, erm, extensive food selection in this, erm, flagship lounge at SAS's main international hub. He can't help but think that it is even more underwhelming that it was when he was here last year. |
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IMG_0455.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 480 x 640 Size: 68.4 kB Date: 08/09/2010 |
So, having resisted the temptation to browse around the shopping mall, er, sorry, Airport, Willard is soon ensconsed in his seat for the short flight to Zurich - but he cannot understand the notation on the seat. Surely is should say "Reserved for Willard". |
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IMG_0460.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 429 Size: 22.2 kB Date: 08/09/2010 |
As we disembark from our short flight to Zurich, I'm a little concerned that if we were told that the Swiss HON/First lounge was "closed today" we'd be witnessing an ursine tantrum, however, disaster averted, as we find our way to the new Swiss Lounge, and are welcomed in with open arms. |
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IMG_0459.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 480 Size: 37.5 kB Date: 08/09/2010 |
Plenty of catering in the main lounge area, and, wonder of wonders, a choice of five flavours of Champagne! |
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IMG_0456.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 480 Size: 39.1 kB Date: 08/09/2010 |
Willard settles down with a glass of rose' bubbles, and surveys the view, a view that will seem very familiar to people used to the original Swissair First Class lounge, as this seems to be in the same location (but a lot bigger!) |
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IMG_0457.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 625 Size: 32.6 kB Date: 08/09/2010 |
Willard makes a bee-line for the sweets, but I warn him not to spoil his appetite, after all, we will be well fed on the flight! |
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IMG_0464.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 472 Size: 40.5 kB Date: 08/09/2010 |
After a tour of various parts of the lounge, we end up in the, I guess, after dinner section of the lounge, with coffee, tea and a selection of digestifs |
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IMG_0465.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 480 x 640 Size: 38.8 kB Date: 08/09/2010 |
All too soon, we are called for our limo-bus transfer to the E terminal for our flight, and Willard rides with a new friend he met in the lounge - Sebastian is a lurker on Flyertalk, but a regular poster on it's German language equivalent: Vielfliegertreff. Unfortunately, he is on the direct flight to Hong Kong tonight, so we will have to say goodbye to him and go to our own gate for Bangkok....... |
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IMG_0466.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 480 Size: 28.2 kB Date: 08/10/2010 |
So, after our ride to Terminal E (and having cleared security before we got on the limobus), we're quickly boarded and back in Willard's all-time favourite, the Swiss/Swissair First class seat (generation 2!). Champagne and canapes are duly provided, and we settle down to enjoy the service on this (completely full in F) flight to Bangkok. |
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IMG_0467.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 480 x 640 Size: 39.1 kB Date: 08/10/2010 |
As is usual, Willard sneaks into the seat whilst I'm not looking, ostensibly to allow his readers to better judge the seats size and features (Oh WIllard, you really are a martyr to your readers...). Willard likes this seat so much because of the tremendous sense of space that the cabin layout gives, with the open plan airy feeling, and yet relatively private, with a huge amount of personal space. Of course, the fact that he gets his own spacious (for a Bear) seat on the remote controlled Ottoman (with a seatbelt) does affect his judgement as well. |
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IMG_0469.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 480 Size: 17.7 kB Date: 08/10/2010 |
But, I have to displace Willard into his customary position on the Ottoman, and once we've reached the cruise, the table is set for our meal tonight. |
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IMG_0473.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 434 Size: 25.6 kB Date: 08/10/2010 |
Starter courses, with an(other) glass of Laurent Perrier Grand Siecle (not Dom or Krug perhaps, but it will certainly do!) and our selection of appetisers (I won't list them here, if you are interested in the technicalities, look out for the quantatative trip report on Flyertalk, which will appear at some point in this thread. Note though that I've gone for an extra extra helping of the Balik salmon! |
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IMG_0475.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 451 Size: 27.8 kB Date: 08/10/2010 |
Had to skip the soup course (so much food! so little time!) so here we are with Willard eye-ing up the main course of Rack of Lamb, with a nice Chateau La Tour to go with it. If this doesn't trigger a good night's sleep, I don't know what will! |
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IMG_0477.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 480 Size: 26.5 kB Date: 08/10/2010 |
And, indeed, it does! Six or so hours later, and here we are, morning (or so!). And, it's time to introduce a new member of the WillardBear.COM team - so, let me introduce: Beeker! For some time, I've felt that Willard needs a bit of assistance, and also, after carrying him around for over five years now, I felt it was time for Willard to have someone of his own to be responsible for, and be supported by. Beeker can also assist by demonstrating some of the smaller nooks and crannies of the newer premium seats..... |
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IMG_0479.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 480 x 640 Size: 24.9 kB Date: 08/10/2010 |
So, as we strap in for landing, Beeker joins Willard on the Ottoman for the first, but I'm sure not the last time. We had hoped that Beeker would, like his Phule's Company namesake, become an invaluable assistant to Willard, not a Batman exactly (Beeker shares Willard's view that masks should not be necessary, and capes are an outdated fashion statement....), more a Gentleman-Bear's Gentleman. However, in his six months with us so far, I have to say that Beeker has shown himself to be a little mischevious, and more than a bit of a "ringleader". One of his first actions was to try to organise the rest of Willard's companions (that he has gained from hotels and airlines over the years) into the "North West (107) Local" branch of BASSA*, and started trying to press for improved benefits and working practices, such as compulsory minimum 2 day stopovers after each long-haul sector, and so on. I'm sure time will tell as to how Beeker's character develops! (* - BASSA: "British Ascociation of Small Stuffed Animals", naturally!) |
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IMG_0480.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 444 Size: 35.7 kB Date: 08/10/2010 |
I'm pleased to say that, even after the dreaded downgrade on Willards Thai Airways flight to Hong Kong, there is still a nice member of TG staff waiting, with our name up on a board, to provide the famed Thai First Class transfer service for our connection! |
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IMG_0481.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 517 Size: 31.1 kB Date: 08/10/2010 |
Since our Swiss flight had come in quite late, we're advised that going to the First Class lounge would not be a good idea, so, we take the proffered advice, clear transit security (at the dedicated VIP area) and are taken to the closest lounge to our departing gate, which is, alas, a Royal Silk lounge, there to have the shortest lounge visit ever! |
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IMG_0485.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 507 Size: 42.7 kB Date: 08/10/2010 |
Ariving into any lounge with two airline minders carrying you, and your baggage is a sure conversation starter, and we just have time to grab a soft drink and chat to a fellow passenger on our Hong Kong flight. |
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IMG_0484.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 408 Size: 29.3 kB Date: 08/10/2010 |
Again, a very rushed picture of the buffet area of the Terminal D Royal Silk lounge - Thai are already calling our flight, so we feel we'd better consider a move to the gate! |
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IMG_0487.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 542 x 640 Size: 35.8 kB Date: 08/10/2010 |
Well, no matter how hard you try to rationalise, it isn't the First Class seat we were booked and ticketed for, but, I have to say, for a 2.5 hour flight, it doesn't represent a bad Business Class option. |
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IMG_0488.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 517 x 640 Size: 31.9 kB Date: 08/10/2010 |
A very large screen, and plenty of nooks and crannies to store things (like bears!) in, makes this angled lie-flat seat a comfortable looking option on this relatively new Boeing 777-200. |
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IMG_0489.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 543 x 640 Size: 41.8 kB Date: 08/10/2010 |
And, whether it is as a result of Thai honouring our request to block the seat next to me, or just because the flight is only half-full in business, Willard gets a whole seat to himself, and, ready for take-off, it's safety first, and all Bears safely strapped into their seats! |
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IMG_0490.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 505 x 640 Size: 26.4 kB Date: 08/10/2010 |
...but Willard manages to sneak out for a last look out of the window as we are pushed back, and say goodbye to Bangkok Airport, but even though this was a very short visit, in the words of "The Governator" - "We'll be Back!" |
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IMG_0492.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 480 Size: 21.3 kB Date: 08/10/2010 |
Champagne, nice warm garlic bread and appetisers, all helping to dull Willard's dissapointment at not being in First Class.... |
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IMG_0494.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 480 Size: 40.7 kB Date: 08/10/2010 |
Though there was some confusion over the orders, we do get our first choice of Thai Shrimp omelete. Willard decides he's getting really tired of the camera shake that plagues his in-flight photos, and he steadfastly refuses to bother other passengers by using flash all of the time, so he decides it may be time for a new camera, and, what better place to look for one than Hong Kong! |
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IMG_0496.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 480 x 640 Size: 25.5 kB Date: 08/10/2010 |
After an uneventful arrival at Hong Kong airport, we collect our pre-paid Airport Express ticket, and in no time at all we are dropped off at the Sheraton Towers Hong Kong, and are wizzing up in the express scenic lift to the Towers check-in on the 16th floor. |
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IMG_0505.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 461 Size: 43.9 kB Date: 08/10/2010 |
Willard makes a new friend, as Angela, the Assistant Manager of the Towers, takes a real shine to our little Bear! Perhaps she would consider taking both of us, as a package deal? |
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IMG_0506.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 377 Size: 15.0 kB Date: 08/10/2010 |
Sadly, delays into Hong Kong have meant we just missed the famous "Happy Hour" in the Towers lounge, but Willard can still sit down with a soft drink and enjoy the view! |
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IMG_0501.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 480 Size: 28.7 kB Date: 08/10/2010 |
Even though we're on an "instant points upgrade", the staff have very kindly given us a "sort of" harbour view room... |
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IMG_0504.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 475 Size: 14.9 kB Date: 08/10/2010 |
...and what a view it is, on this very clear night! |
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IMG_0510.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 529 Size: 52.2 kB Date: 08/10/2010 |
In no time at all, it's morning, and Willard is knuckling down to his responsibilities whilst he takes a light breakfast in the Oyster Bar, where the Towers breakfast is served. |
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IMG_0511.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 589 Size: 34.2 kB Date: 08/10/2010 |
As we chill out after breakfast, Willard is amazed to find his favourite program, Top Gear, on the TV here in Hong Kong. The spectacle of Jeremy Clarkson and the guys subtitled into Chinese is a real eye-opener to Willard! A strange thought comes into my mind as I watch Willard, and then it comes to me: "Some Say: that he never flies in Economy, and that he and The Stig have never, ever been seen together..... |
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WillStig09.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 606 Size: 39.3 kB Date: 08/10/2010 |
....but all we know is....... he's called The Bear!" (but I digress!) |
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IMG_0514.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 480 Size: 62.5 kB Date: 08/10/2010 |
So, sick of the camera shake on his in-flight photographs, Willard has decided to take the plunge and buy a new (image stabilised) camera, and takes advantage of the highly negotiable nature of the photographic market in Hong Kong to get what he wants! (Willard would not recomend this approach to everyone - in Hong Kong, you need to know exactly what you are buying!) |
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IMG_0516.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 487 Size: 35.5 kB Date: 08/10/2010 |
So, walking back along the promenade, Willard takes a last picture of the famous view across the bay to Hong Kong island with his old camera (which will now be relegated to backup camera status) on the way back to the hotel. |
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IMG_0001.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 480 Size: 46.8 kB Date: 08/18/2010 |
"Why not try a Dim Sum lunch at the Celestial Court Restaurant?" suggests a sign at the entrance to the Sheraton. Well, with hunger begining to gnaw at him (and Beeker!), and with the 20% discount that Towers guests get at (most of) the hotel restaurants, Willard thinks this is an excellent idea! |
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IMG_0004.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 480 Size: 38.4 kB Date: 08/18/2010 |
And, having selected a few choice morsels, Dim Sum duly arrives! |
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IMG_0007.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 357 x 640 Size: 34.8 kB Date: 08/18/2010 |
Another wizz up in the scenic elevator to the Towers level, and Willard thinks it is time to cool off.... |
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IMG_0009.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 480 Size: 60.2 kB Date: 08/18/2010 |
....with a quick dip in the jaccuzzi's on the top of the hotel! |
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IMG_0012.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 472 Size: 39.6 kB Date: 08/18/2010 |
But, all too soon, it's "happy hour" and since he missed it on his first night, Willard is determined to take his place for this evening's social event... |
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IMG_0017.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 484 Size: 35.2 kB Date: 08/18/2010 |
....and take in the nightly spectacle that is the "Symphony of Lights" that has now become a nightly attraction for visitors and residents alike. |
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IMG_0018.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 480 Size: 42.7 kB Date: 08/18/2010 |
As a regular at the Sheraton Towers, Willard knows that the evening Hors D'Oeuvres in the Towers lounge are a great networking opportunity. Willard discusses the finer points of frequent flying with his new friend Jason, who is in town on business (and who wasn't a Flyertalker, but probably is by now!) |
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IMG_0027.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 402 x 640 Size: 35.7 kB Date: 08/18/2010 |
But tonight, Willard has a reservation at the Hunan Garden, another of the top 10 restaurants in Hong Kong (and one of the nice things about Hong Kong is that the best restaurants are not always necessarily the most expensive!) |
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IMG_0019.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 480 Size: 48.4 kB Date: 08/18/2010 |
Willard peruses the menu in this Hunanese restaurant, famed for its somewhat spicy (read: "burning hot, hotter than eating the Sun, makes a Vindaloo curry seem like a bowl of rice pudding") cuisine.... |
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IMG_0020.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 522 Size: 40.9 kB Date: 08/18/2010 |
Spicy Hunanese appetisers are duly served - Chillies lurk ominously within..... Willard wonders if he should have planned ahead and put the "backup roll" into the minibar before he left the hotel.... |
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And Willard's selection duly arrives "Hot and Sour Soup" followed by "Beef in Pungent Sauce", perhaps he should have brought Beeker to help him with this! |
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One Bear - Beaten! (but replete!) |
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That was a great meal, and no bull!
(And for those who would like to follow in Willard's paw-prints, this is the landmark in the IFC2 square that you need to look for in order to find the otherwise virtually un-marked lift up to the Hunan Garden!) |
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Just time for a nightcap in the Sky Bar back at the Sheraton, and Willard made it back none too soon, as the heavens opened as he was returning on the MRT. The view out of the window shows that Hong Kong's humidity has escalated to the point where the water is in very big drops indeed! |
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A relatively subdued Towers breakfast for Willard (That Hunan Garden meal does seem to be "refreshing the parts other bears don't"), and Willard has also been kindly provided with a buttonhole by the ever-attentive Towers staff. |
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A last chance to admire the view from the 18th floor for this trip (and a nice cool metal handrail to sit on for a moment for Willard!) |
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And as his flunkies (ahem! - Ed/Beeker) do the packing, a last chance to admire the view from our room, as we have to say good bye to the Sheraton after this short stay in Hong Kong. |
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Time to take the Airport Express back to Chep Lap Kok.. |
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A short 15-20 minute ride, and a nice soft seat for Willard. |
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And we've chosen to check-in at the Airport, rather than the Kowloon Airport Express station this time, to fully experience the Thai First Class service. |
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...erm, that really was quite a long walk to security and immigration, followed by a train ride that seems, to Willard, to be suspiciously back in the direction we've just come. Followed by likely yet another train ride to the far gates now we are Airside.... Willard seeks clarification as to exactly why we didn't just check-in at the station and then go via the main security in Terminal 1, and he does seem to have a point.... |
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But after a seriously dodgy transit train connection, we make it to the lounge complex above gate 40-42, and Willard decides to try out the United Airlines First Class lounge first, since he has some time to spare before his flight. |
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And he is glad to see that he is welcomed in with open arms (and just a polite reminder that there are no boarding announcements for Thai flights in this lounge). This is the way that lounge access is supposed to work for First Class passengers within Star Alliance - if only all lounges could work this way! |
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The lounge provides a nicely stocked buffet and bar, and Willard has sniffed out some Champagne on offer! |
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But, after a short sojurn in the United Lounge, Willard thinks he really should go to the Thai Airways lounge, and so, here he is, being welcomed back, and, well, in the pink! |
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As the only guest in the First Class section at the moment, Willard can't fault the service, but, sitting here with his glass of chardonnay, he's already missing the champagne in the United First Lounge. Perhaps, WIllard thinks, if more passengers used their lounge access priviledges to use the United lounge in favour of this one when flying Thai, Thai airways might take the hint and upgrade the bar in their own lounge.... |
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...but, having said that, the massage chairs are a very nice benefit available in the Thai lounge (and not just in First Class either! But, having your own dedicated facilities is not to be sniffed at!) |
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A quick look at the facilities in the Business Class section of the lounge, and Willard sees the interesting situation that exists for Star Alliance passengers here at Chep Lap Kok. This lounge is undoubtedly far superior to the United Red Carpet Club, and so, regardless of which airline you are flying with, if your Star Gold status, or class of travel, allows you to use this lounge, then there is no contest - yet if you are flying First, it may well be that the right choice is in the opposite direction, the United First lounge... |
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But they are calling our flight, so it is time to go to our gate and board (and, spotted clutching his First Class boarding pass, Willard is immediately rushed to the front of the queue by the staff) |
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With only three of us (four, including Bears, reminds Willard) in the cabin, Willard quickly takes the front seats on this "old-style" 747 cabin, outdated, perhaps, but still eminently comfortable for this short flight. |
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As we climb away from Chep Lap Kok, Willard says goodbye to Hong Kong for another year.... |
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Nice starter (liberally washed down with 1999 Bollinger!) of Butterfly Prawn, Hot Smoked Salmon and smoked Tuna Fillet |
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And an interesting main course of Roast Pork in Teriyaki Sauce - not what he ordered though, and a concept Willard's furry brain is having difficulty getting around - not getting your meal choice in First Class, so, when they asked which wine, and then brought the opposite of what we asked for, it just started to seem "par for the course". |
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Nice ice-cream for desert though, and no choice, so, we got it! |
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Strapped in for descent, Willard is at least happy that he got a seat to himself in this, virtually empty, (3/14) First Class cabin. |
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Back on the ground and Thai's First Class service is back on form (at their home airport!) and there is someone waiting to whisk Willard past the other passengers and...... |
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.....straight through the "Diplomatic and VIB" immigration channel! |
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After being handed over to a Thai Airways porter, who collects our checked baggage for us, and expresses the usual confusion that a bear of such obvious refinement isn't being collected by Limosine, we embark on the Bangkok taxi experience (soon to be a ride at DisneyWorld's Epcot centre - but you'll never know how much it will cost or how it Is worked out!) |
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Willard checks in at the Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, but his usual suite is unavailabe (due to us no longer having an SPG Platinum card!) |
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Still, the Grande Deluxe room we booked isn't half bad for a Bear of Willard's size, once he's stopped trying to find out where the living room and second bathroom went! |
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There's still a walk-in wardrobe with room to hang all of a stylish young bear's wardrobe! |
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.....and the inevitable fruit-bowl in the foyer! Willard thinks that the hotel has a file on him, as the bowl seems to be stocked with only those fruits he actually consumed on his previous visits.... |
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Willard makes a bee-line to the Living Room bar and Jazz venue for the happy (two) hour free drinks that are part of the Grande Deluxe package, and he meets up with fellow flyertalkers drron and rojaan from Australia, and shares more than a few cocktails with them..... |
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All thoughts of going out of the town recede from Willard's mind as he decides to lounge in front of the TV and have a quiet night in. |
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Next morning, Willard can fully appreciate the view from his 22nd floor vantage point.... |
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.....and it only gets better as the Sun rises! |
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Time for a bubble-bath! |
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Volumes 1 and 2 of the breakfast buffet - there is more round the corner and also out of shot! |
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Breakfast of champions! Including apple juice - as in, one apple, inserted whole into juicer..... |
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But Willard is a seasoned international traveller, he can't sit in the Hotel hiding for two days, so it's time to brave the Bangkok BTS and go into the centre for a shopping expedition |
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Willard can't find anything that reallly turns his eye, so he just looks around the shops. However, he does find a colleague who appears to be employed in a promotional role...Perhaps he should introduce him to Beeker, who may have some strong opinions on his pay and conditions..... |
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Back to Sukhumvit, and when his paws give out on him, Willard pops into a local hostelry for a much needed stretch out and a beer. |
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But nothing soothes quite like a relaxing soak in the Jacuzzi! |
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After drying off, it's back down to the Living Room, to meet up with our Flyertalk friends again, and, at their recomendation, enjoy tonights live Jazz set. |
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That is, if we can keep Willard away from the staff (or is it the staff away from Willard, we're not sure, but the bear is definitely making friends here!) |
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No rest for the wicked (and Willard does seem to be in wicked form tonight!) so it's time to log onto the hotels WiFi service and update the website. |
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I can see dragging Willard away from here is going to be difficult..... |
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....but we've got plans for dinner, and the plans are just around the corner at Cabbages & Condoms, authentic thai food, at resaonable prices, for an authentic Thai charity! |
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Of course, Willard was here last year, so he can explain the menu to Beeker with some authority (or, actually, bluff it, as the menu has completely changed since last year!) |
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Thai spring rolls, just like Ken makes at home! |
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Spicy minced Crab and Chicken served in Crab Shells, which is nothing like anything Ken makes at home! Now, dear readers, shortly after this photograph was taken, there was a loud bang outside followed by a short power cut, and, very shortly thereafter, some digestive disturbance for two bears and one human! Time to pay the bill and leave, we think.... |
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Appetite returned and the two bears are down for their second (and last) SGS buffet breakfast, before we head off on the next stop of the trip. |
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But as we get to the room, some hand-made chocolates are delivered, a gift from the management! Since our next stop is New Zealand, via Australia, we don't think we can take them with us, so, what is a poor bear to do? Munch, Munch... |
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....all too soon, we're packed up and doing the Bangkok Taxi theme park ride all over again! |
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Arrival at Suvarnabhumi Airport is a little more organised than last year, and beckoning from inside the taxi quickly brings the Thai Airways premium porters over to collect us.... |
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...and, after confirming our booking in F, were sat down by the check-in desk whilst the paperwork for our flights is sorted out (not quite sure about the umbrella though, I'd heard that there had been problems with the roof of the new BKK airport, but I didn't think things were that bad!) |
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Willard, sat on the F transfer buggy, wizzing past passengers in the Thai Royal Silk lounge, on our way to the paradise that is.... |
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..our private booth in the (virtually empty) Thai Royal First Class lounge. Willard dilligently works on the website, whilst sipping a cup of Earl Grey. |
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A light lunch of Pad-Thai didn't survive long enough to be photographed, but we can see the evidence... |
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It doesn't take long for a Bear to return to type - after lunch, Willard decides to swap Tea for Champagne (Moet, we're advised).... |
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..and then Herbal Tea, as Willard waits for his full body massage in the Royal Orchid Spa |
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All ready for action! |
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...perhaps if Willard had longer, a nice relaxing bath, in this rather snazzy looking Whirlpool would ease the aching muscles.... |
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...and I think Willard has worked out exactly who he would like to come in and scrub his back! Yet again, Willard appears to be a furry hit with the staff at the Royal Orchid Spa! |
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After a relatively short relax in the lounge after our massage, we join two other passengers also booked on the Sydney flight (more of them later...) and start yet another buggy ride through the airport to our waiting flight... |
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...well actually, a short buggy ride followed by a really really long walk (our Airbus A340-600 was parked at the very last of the E gates tonight - we did wonder if we were walking to Sydney!). But, Willard is back in his favoured position in seat 1A! |
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...I don't know, I get up to use the facilities for just one minute, and when I come back, Willard has not only usurped my seat, but also ordered a glass of Dom Perignon, and warm nuts! (that's my boy!) |
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So, it's back to the Ottoman for Willard! |
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....Appetisers arrive, and look decidedly Willard-sized! |
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Champagne and Caviar - you know you're in the right cabin when your next course consists of Champagne and Caviar! |
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Dimensions: 640 x 480 Size: 31.5 kB Date: 08/18/2010 |
More starters! Marinated Lobster, and Tuna Carpaccio - no-one is going hungry on this flight! |
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Dimensions: 640 x 420 Size: 31.6 kB Date: 08/18/2010 |
Our main course tonight is a Thai Airways "book the cook" speciality - an idea borrowed (and extended) from Singapore Airlines, Thai allow First Class passengers to select (sometimes even online) from a wide selection of custom meals prior to the flight, so that regular travellers don't get bored with the normal menu. We've chosen "Tornedos a la Sompote", the signature dish of Thai's head Chef, a fillet of beef in a distinctive Thai-Style Tamarind and Red Wine sauce. |
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IMG_0152.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 435 x 640 Size: 23.5 kB Date: 08/18/2010 |
After a film and a good night's sleep, we awake well on our way to Sydney, and, over breakfast, we (somewhat belatedly!) exchange introductions with our nearest fellow passenger, who turns out to be Flyertalker mhen! (and it was, in fact, she and her traveling companion, who we shared a buggy with last night, but I guess we were too engrossed in our route march to the end of the E-Pier for pleasantries!) She advises us that the approach to SYD generally affords a wonderful view of Sydney Harbour, and, sure enough, Willard looks out of the window, and the Harbour Bridge is right there below him! |
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IMG_0156.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 453 x 640 Size: 40.7 kB Date: 08/18/2010 |
On arrival at Sydney, we find buggies waiting, but sadly none of them are for us. Willard hopes very much that this fellow ursine companion is acting as a mascot for the Airline, as, if this is an example of how errant Bears are punished in Australia, Willard is not sure he wants to stay here! |
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IMG_0157.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 480 Size: 43.4 kB Date: 08/18/2010 |
After a bit of a kerfuffle over boarding passes (why is Sydney airport the only one in the world that refuses to accept a boarding pass printed by anyone but themselves?!) and a trip to the Air New Zealand transit desk, we're back in the Air New Zealand lounge in Sydney - definitely the best Star Alliance business class lounge in the airport (and, since United Airlines closed their lounge complex, virtually the only one as well, hence, somewhat crowded at the moment!) |
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IMG_0159.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 435 Size: 39.9 kB Date: 08/18/2010 |
A great morning buffet, and in great demand, as the passengers for the United Flight fill up prior to boarding. |
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IMG_0160.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 462 Size: 47.6 kB Date: 08/18/2010 |
...and Willard seems to have found an opportunity to "fil up" as well...... |
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IMG_0162.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 532 Size: 34.0 kB Date: 08/18/2010 |
Priority Boarding does it's magic and Willard is seated and ready for his flight to Auckland on this Air New Zealand 767. |
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IMG_0164.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 456 Size: 33.3 kB Date: 08/18/2010 |
Yum! Nice smoked salmon starter! If only the turbulence would stop for long enough to eat it! |
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IMG_0165.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 567 Size: 37.2 kB Date: 08/18/2010 |
Not sure if it's the jet-lag, the turbulence, or the (many, many) glasses of Champagne, but Willard is, well, done! |
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IMG_0166.jpg View Now "Never Say DOWNGRADE Again" - Good to see you Mr. Bear. Things've been awfully dull 'round here... |
Dimensions: 640 x 480 Size: 53.4 kB Date: 08/18/2010 |
A nights sleep, and Willard is back on form, but, he does seem a little overdressed for breakfast in "the Inn of the Yellow Crescent" doesn't he? Could this, perhaps, be due to the fact that our luggage decided to stop-over in Sydney yesterday? Will we soon see pictures of it posing with the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge? Willard is starting to wish he didn't pack all of his clothes in the hold (but Willard doesn't have to carry the hand-baggage, does he? Ed) ....to be continued |
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