#905719 by hazban
19 Jun 2015, 12:21
Unfortunately due to circumstances beyond my control I have had my wings clipped somewhat and have not been able to find the time to leave this wonderful land of ours. However a small window opened up giving me a free week in which to organise something, it would however mean leaving on Election Day and missing all the fun! Hum, what should I do?
No contest, instantly onto the computer looking for availability anywhere on the Virgin network. I have a bucket full of point to use but despite searching and quizzing folk on the phone it seemed impossible to find UC seats for both an outward and return. This was probably due to the short notice.
Hong Kong seemed a possibility at one stage but the return was doubtful.
As if google understood my disappointment an email was received about a three day sale on Cathay Pacific on the MAN HKG route. Perfect.
Booking made in quick sticks, otherwise second thoughts might obtrude, seats chosen and a colourful boarding pass (SEC 59) and invitation to the lounge at Manchester printed (on card I might add!).
Sorry for the long introduction, now on to the trip.
Although the flight departed at noon I travelled down the night before and stayed at the Radisson, unfortunately they did not give me a requested runway view but I was able direct operations from the Exec Lounge.
Went to drop my bags at about 9.30 but was directed to the Business Class deck “because it is quicker”. An extremely pleasant lady did the honours and issued a new pass (SEQ 12?) and lounge invites for both Manchester and the arrivals in HKG. As mentioned on the Forum many times the Lounge facilities here are pretty basic, especially in T2. CX use the same as one of the VS departures and for some reason there is a sign directing passengers for other flight numbers to another? When the plane was ready for boarding a rep came up and escorted us past the queue and we were waved on board.
Whilst settling in with a welcome drink the CSM introduced herself to each of us by name and offered to explain how the seat and all the gadgets worked. Very impressed by the seat which are in a 1-2-1 arrangement which on 777ER allows plenty of space. As a single traveller I was in seat 18A, these are angled towards three windows which meant it was east to look out without getting a crick in the neck. There is plenty of storage, even the headphones have these own cupboard, and there is a triangular shelf next to the window. Another small attention to detail, the inflight and duty free magazines were new and sealed in a plastic bag, on the return as well, unlike some of the dog eared offerings on some carriers.
After a delay of 40 minutes due to ATC we departed 23R into a lead grey sky. Menus were passed out during the first drinks run which was done from a trolley, you might remember the type your granny used to serve afternoon tea from, this seemed a little old fashioned but it did allow for more interaction with the cabin crew who all called me by name throughout the flight.
Again lunch was served from another, more sturdy, trolley this had the advantage that you could see the choices before committing yourself. I had Chicken and Duck Terrine with quince and apricot compote and a mixed salad with wasabi and yuzu dressing starter.
Mains was either Wok-fried prawns, Braised Ox cheek, spaghetti and broccoli in carbonara sauce and my choice braised side of pork with plumb and ginger chutney celeriac mash and vegetables. Most were presented in oblong ceramic dishes, designed I suggest to fit on the trolley but not to display the food in the most attractive way.
Skipped dessert on finished with cheese selection, pot and an illy fresh brewed double espresso.
The 12 hour flight took us over Hull, Hamburg, Gdansk, Moscow, Xian and main land China. The cabin was only half full and although flying through the night most opted to stay awake watching a great selection of content on their monitors. The seats are plenty wide enough and when converted to a bed, which I did on the return, long enough with room to flail about without disturbing your fellow travellers.
Breakfast of juice, fruit, smoothie, and muesli followed by either Apple pancakes, chicken and black mushroom congee of my boring choice of cheese and red pepper frittata with bacon, baby potatoes and mushrooms.
Arrival was a little late but I noticed plenty of staff on hand at the gate to assist with connections, immigration was very quiet and after being admitted by an unsmiling official I was collecting my bag from the carousel within 15 minutes.
Having eventually found the arrival lounge I decide against waiting 40 minutes for a free shower and found the only free seat in front of the TV which was showing live feed of the election back home. 7.30 am in HKG about 12.30 am in London so the results were coming in thick and fast, it is strange how one can become hypnotised in front of a 50 inch screen but eventually I dragged myself away and boarded the Airport Express to my digs at the Conrad Hotel. Fortunately a room on the top floor overlooking the bustling harbour was ready for my early check in, what did I do when confronted with the wonderful view? Put on the TV of course to watch more results come in!
If you have reached the end thanks for reading.
#905721 by gfonk
19 Jun 2015, 12:43
Thanks for the TR. Always love a good TR.
Im becoming a fan of the Conrad. Have only stayed in St James Park and Tokyo one but both were really nice.
#905753 by horburyflyer
20 Jun 2015, 10:25
Thanks for the TR. Have heard CX are really pleased with the success of this route and loads are above expectations, so promising indeed.

Have never travelled with CX so good to have some detail on the in flight service and what to expect :D

Jon
#905781 by horburyflyer
20 Jun 2015, 19:10
hazban wrote:Yes Blacky , pilot pointed it out specially. Mentioned that they once had a Premiership Football club but the town was now under a cloud! :D


Hull was certainty under a cloud when I was there last Sunday. It always seems to rain in Hull when I visit which is rather rare it must be said... ):

Jon
#905905 by hazban
22 Jun 2015, 19:12
Good to hear that CX are pleased with the new route from Manchester.
I am sure that they had a presence there many years ago, seem to remember sharing their lounge which resembled a wood panelled gents club with Chesterfield settees? Much better than the one in use now!
Virgin Atlantic

Who is online

Users browsing this forum: No registered users and 19 guests

Itinerary Calendar