New York (JFK) to Taipei (TPE)
On the Ground: I misjudged time and found myself on the Belt Parkway on the way to JFK with insufficient time to make the flight. Even so, I figured I would give it a try and do my best to park and go through security. I honestly thought my error meant I would stay overnight at the Hilton New York JFK Airport and catch the next flight the following day. As it happened, the team at China Airlines came to my rescue, ferrying me through security with the help of friendly TSA staff and onto the flight as the door closed behind me. My fellow passengers had no idea of my anxiety; and as I sat, we pulled back from the gate and I received all the amenities as if I’d been on the plane for 20 minutes. My colleague from Los Angeles was flying from LAX to Taipei to meet me, and she knew of my dilemma. She texted me, asking if I made the flight; I replied, “Of course, I am a professional!” The reality is, China Airlines’ ground team made me look like a professional, and that is all a frequent traveler can ask for. Bravo for all they did to get me on the fight, with no delay to our departure — and we arrived early in Taipei!
Pre-Flight: I appreciated the pre-flight snacks and selections of wine and other drinks. I am particularly impressed with China Airlines’ Champagne selection (Pol Roger 2004) and choice of Johnny Walker Blue Scotch. In addition, it serves from full bottles, an elegant touch that adds to the private club feel of its business class. The gent next to me noticed my order of JWB and followed my lead — we “cheered” each other as the plane taxied. I sat in the middle section of the business class; each seat has its own aisle exit, and I found the seat roomy and comfortable.
In-Flight: If you have not flown China Airlines’ business class in a while, I suggest you try it. The flat bed is relaxing, allowing for a good night’s sleep. Entertainment abounds, and I watched several movies, enjoyed a Chinese-inspired dinner and took a full night’s sleep. As the departure was past midnight, it made rest feel quite normal.
On my return, I was seated on the right side of the aircraft in a single window seat. Again, the meal service and crew were tops. The Taipei–New York flight offered a selection of canapés and appetizers followed by a choice of pork mushroom stew with warm rice, grilled halibut in miso sauce and grilled chicken with spicy black pepper sauce. I opted for the halibut, which was tasty and prepared me for my sleep to NYC.
During the flight, attendants offered snacks including various noodle soups. Before landing, they served breakfast, both traditional Chinese and Western.
TOP TAKEAWAYS:
◆ The wood décor in business class helps passengers feel relaxed in a club-like ambience.
◆ The great China Airlines lounge in Taipei mirrors the look of the new business class.
Read This Next
Review: Air Premia | Premium Economy
October 2024
Oct 27, 2024
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Jul 16, 2025Third Ship Announced for Holland America’s Northern European Routes
Three’s the charm, and 2027 will see Holland America Line’s introduction of Zuiderdam, its third ship dedicated to the Northern European region. That’s good news, given this part of the world — which includes both Iceland and Greenland — continues to rank as a top cruise destination.
Sponsored Content
Three New Routes from TAP Air Portugal as Airline Celebrates 80 Years
TAP Air Portugal offers three new routes to Portugal: from Boston (BOS) to Porto (OPO), Los Angeles (LAX) to Lisbon (LIS) and San Francisco (SFO) to Terceira (TER) in the Azores.
eFlyer Reviews
Jul 16, 2025Hotel Saint Augustine Review
Blending with its Montrose neighborhood like the indigenous and cultivated plants hugging the property’s walkways, the newly built Hotel Saint Augustine opened mid-January 2025. The first Bunkhouse hotel in Houston, Texas, is easily mistaken for garden apartments. Seventy-one guest rooms and suites encompass a tree-lined block. The hotel’s buildings are only two stories tall and also house a lobby, lounge, restaurant and event space. Tucked into a corner of the grounds sits a circular outdoor pool.
eFlyer News
Jul 16, 2025UNESCO Adds New Sites to World Heritage List
At UNESCO’s 47th World Heritage Convention, it announced 26 new inscribed properties to its World Heritage list, with many sites reflecting a greater focus on conservation and the natural environment.
Sponsored Content
Lech Walesa on Tour: A Conversation with a Man Who Changed the World
Some events change a nation. Some change the world.
eFlyer News
Jul 16, 2025TSA to End Shoes-Off Policy on Domestic Flights
On July 8, the Department of Homeland Security announced a new policy to allow passengers traveling through domestic airports to keep their shoes on while passing through security screening at TSA checkpoints.
Global City Guidebook: Phoenix
North America / United States
Jul 16, 2025Daily
Jul 16, 2025San Diego’s Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara Debuts Renovated Villas
Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara in San Diego sports a fresh California coastal style thanks to a recent $22 million transformation. This exclusive community specializes in Villa & Residence rentals, and offers a unique resort-like experience for travelers and locals alike.
Sponsored Content
Explore Europe with the Best River Cruise Line this November
Experience Europe from a fresh perspective with AmaWaterways, just awarded Best River Cruise Line by Global Traveler for the third consecutive year. Step aboard, unpack once and embark on a cruise through iconic capital cities and awe-inspiring landscapes. AmaWaterways' ships, which accommodate an average of just 156 guests, offer a spacious yet intimate setting. Throughout your journey, you'll enjoy exquisite farm-to-table dining; unparalleled service; and a variety of included excursions, from city tours for gentle walkers to thrilling bike rides along the rivers.
Daily
Jul 16, 2025American Express Announces Plans for Centurion Lounge at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
American Express recently announced plans to debut a new Centurion Lounge at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, set to open in Concourse E in 2026. Eligible card members will have access to more than 1,400 lounges worldwide, including 29 Centurion Lounges.
ShareThis