This week I began my business travel to Singapore and Hong Kong. Although I am just a Pacific Ocean away, I traveled around the world to get here. I was able to fly Turkish Airlines from Los Angeles (LAX) to Istanbul (IST) and Istanbul to Singapore (SIN), with a lengthy layover in Istanbul. I was a bit anxious to travel east instead of west and taking almost 32 hours to get to my final destination, but I am pleasantly surprised at how easy it was. My Turkish Airlines flight from LAX to Istanbul was on a Boeing 777-300ER in business class, which offered many amenities to make my flight not only relaxing but also productive. I was very surprised our flight attendants didn’t require me to turn off my iPad during departure, and I was able to read right through take off, which was very nice. On the flight, free WiFi was available; and with the plugs for my computer, I got some work done as well. Dinner was served promptly; and with a full belly, a glass of Turkish merlot and the full 180-degree lie flat bed, I had a great night’s rest. 

 

Once at Ataturk Airport, I made my way to its Turkish Airlines International CIP Lounge. It was completely remodeled since the last time I visited in 2010, and I have to say I am very impressed. The space is huge with many large, open rooms with plenty of club chairs, tables  and couches for you to relax and enjoy the free WiFi. There are free glasses in storage lockers, private rooms to rent for rest and shower, marbled bathrooms, two bars, billiards room and a darkened theater room. My time passed quickly, and I was soon getting onto my 12:40 a.m. flight to Singapore.

Now I am here in Singapore and looking forward to my stay at the newly renovated Pan Pacific Singapore hotel. Check out my next blog for a review and some photos.

— Carly Allen, vice president