On the Ground: My transfer from Hong Kong was easy, and I was swiftly on my way to the new Asiana/Star Alliance firstclass lounge, where I enjoyed the buffet — a visiting chef from the Westin Chosun was grilling beef. Asiana recently rebuilt its first- and business-class lounges, each quite different. The firstclass lounge had a quiet and relaxing feel, while the businessclass lounge was full of passengers involved in different activities. (29/30)
Pre-flight: As I boarded the Boeing 747-400, Asiana flight attendants immediately welcomed me, putting my coat on a hanger, placing my luggage in a locker and stowing my other items without my ever touching a thing. I am fond of the Asiana firstclass seat. The configuration is 1-1 in the first three rows and 1-2-1 in the last row. As a solo traveler, I appreciate the solitude of a one-seat row. The seat converts to a 180-degree flat bed, and the provided pajamas add to the comfort. The controls are simple to operate, and flight attendants will make the bed. The video controls, once mastered, are simple to use. The screen is anchored above your feet and the seats are equipped with power outlets, all perfectly located. (29/30)
In-flight: The meal service began with a hot canapé of escargot stuffed in tomato, followed by carpaccio of fish wrapped in cucumber, green pea soup with crabmeat, a Caesar salad and ravioli stuffed with goose liver. Two main courses were offered — tenderloin with red wine sauce and vegetables or grilled monkfish wrapped in prosciutto with vegetables. The fish was tasty. A selection of cheeses, fruits and green tea panna cotta completed the meal. Chinese and Korean dishes were also options. There are plenty of movies and other entertainment choices available. Two hours into the flight, the lights were dimmed and the entire cabin tucked in. I slept peacefully for about seven hours. Pre-landing dining options included a Korean meal, seafood lasagna, roasted duck breast, sandwiches, ramen and dim sum. The dim sum was delicious. On some flights a sushi chef prepares in-flight meals. The flight landed on time, baggage came out quickly, and I was on my way. (38/40)
The Experience: Asiana’s service is tops. Little touches, like foot massages and lint brushes, set the flight experience apart.
Total Score: (96/100)
Read This Next
Diabetes
2004 / April 2004
Sep 1, 2010All Reads on This Topic
Read Them All
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedMarch 2021
Mar 8, 2021Venture Out in Vienna, a City of Opulence and Grace
Brewing long and deep at its center before radiating out to the rest of Europe, Vienna boasts an illustrious history and lasting intellectual impact. The Austrian capital dates back to Celtic and Romen rule, the latter inhabitants using the center city as a military hub among many other employments.
Sponsored Content
The Greatest Show on Earth
Step right up to the greatest show on Earth as FXExpress Publications, Global Traveler, trazeetravel.com and whereverfamily.com celebrate their 2020 award winners! Join the big top on Dec. 14 as we virtually award the winners of the 17th annual GT Tested Reader Survey awards, including the Airline and Hotel of the Year; the 17th annual Wines on the Wing Airline Wine Survey; the eighth annual Leisure Lifestyle Awards; the sixth annual The Trazees; and the third annual Wherever Awards.
Daily
Mar 8, 2021Redeem AAdvantage Miles for At-Home COVID-19 Testing
Whether taking a COVID-19 test before boarding a flight or looking up different travel restrictions before planning your trip, travel has looked a little bit different this past year. With all the extra steps for traveling, American Airlines is committed to finding ways to provide ease and more flexibility and choices for passengers when traveling.
January/February 2021
Mar 8, 2021Take Time to Indulge in Well-Being at Canyon Ranch Lenox
Even in “normal” times, folks gravitate to wellness resorts to jumpstart a healthier lifestyle, destress and be nurtured. In this COVID-19-era state of elevated anxiety, people seek even more natural beauty and caring hospitality, healthy food, fitness activities and beauty and body treatments. Canyon Ranch Lenox also provides an extensive staff of experts offering a multitude of health, wellness and spiritual well-being modalities that alleviate personal issues.
Daily
Mar 5, 20213 Recipes for Lent from New Orleans’ Top Chefs
The Lenten season continues through April 3. This year, New Orleans’ top chefs share some Lent-friendly recipes for at-home dining.
SoJo Spa Club: Tranquility with an Urban View
Daily
Mar 4, 2021Mondrian Doha Review
eFlyer Reviews
Mar 3, 2021eFlyer News
Mar 3, 2021Explore Fairbanks Highlights New Aurora Tracker Video
The lights of the aurora borealis appear frequently in the Fairbanks region of Alaska, with a growing number of Aurora Trackers in the area. A new video from Explore Fairbanks features five Fairbanks Aurora Trackers sharing their thoughts and photography on the northern lights.
eFlyer Deals
Mar 3, 2021Gaylord Hotels Announces Spring Specials
Gaylord Hotels invites guests to Spring It On at Gaylord Texan, Gaylord Rockies, Gaylord Palms and Gaylord Opryland. March 12–May 16, craft the perfect spring break getaway with Gaylord’s themed family programming and more.
eFlyer Deals
Mar 3, 2021Workcation Offer at Karisma Hotels & Resorts
Remote workers looking for an upgrade from their home offices might want to consider Karisma Hotels & Resorts’ Workcation offer. Those booking an extended stay of 10-plus nights are eligible for discounts of up to 15 percent off best available rates; those booking 20-plus nights enjoy up to 25 percent off. The offer is available at Karisma Hotels & Resorts’ diverse portfolio of properties.
ShareThis