Two weeks ago, I was fortunate to experience Asiana Airlines for the first time. I was traveling to Taipei (more to come on my trip in the following weeks), transiting through Incheon from New York. I was excited to experience the airline’s first-class cabin for myself after reading about the airline for the many years I’ve been with Global Traveler and after watching Asiana win accolade after accolade in our GT Tested Reader Survey awards yearly. The airline was also our inaugural Airline of the Year in 2011.

With my expectations high, I can easily say the experience did not disappoint. From beginning to end, the flight crew looked after me, I was extremely comfortable, the amenities did not disappoint, the food and drink were enjoyable, and my flight was productive. First-class passengers are given pajamas and amenity kits, and my seat was spacious. My photos cannot do the cabin justice.

When I wanted to rest, my seat was transformed into a bed with a mattress pad and comforter. I had ample space to work on my laptop, and the entertainment options kept me entertained for the 13-plus-hour flight. It was interesting watching Gangster Squad, a movie about 1940s Los Angeles gangsters and the cops fighting to take down the syndicate, without hearing any curse words, as it was edited for the flight. The lavatory was straightened after every passenger, and the flight crew was always present and attentive without being overbearing. 

For my first meal, I opted for tradition and ordered the Korean bibimbap. It was delicious! While I really wanted to try the traditional meal, and I’m glad I did, I was torn between bibimbap and the lobster, the Western meal. A first-class menu for a first-class flight! The presentation was also pretty spectacular, as my tray was never without a rose. 

I slept, worked, watched movies and enjoyed gourmet meals on my Asiana Airlines’ first-class flight. What more could a girl ask for? The airline recently launched a new first class from Chicago, which is more of personal suite. I can only imagine how much this enhances an already exclusive, special experience. I hope to enjoy Asiana again very soon and perhaps someday try the new first-class cabin. 

— Kim Krol, managing editor