Flying 100,000 KM in First Class
2019 has been an amazing year. Four transcontinental trips, 8 first class flights and a bunch more for a total of almost 110,000 kilometers. This is a quick summary of some of the highlights this year.
Redemption Highlights: Flights
Emirates A380 First Class
This is probably the most luxurious flight I’ve had in my life. I flew 20 hours on the A380 over two flights from Toronto to Dubai and Singapore. From the amazing seat, the airplane shower and their full service first class lounge, Emirates has shown why their first class product is so sought after.
Japan Airlines 777–300 First Class
My go-to flight between the US and Japan; JAL has some of the best food available in the air. I’m talking caviar, lobster, foie gras, steak and gold covered desserts to name a few of their extensive long haul menu. Their seats are extremely comfortable, and the service lives up to the expectation regardless of what class you’re flying.
All Nippon Airways 777–300 First Class
ANA flies similar routes from US to Tokyo as JAL, and offers a first class experience that is also superb. I prefer JAL due to their in flight menu and the availability of the coveted Mori Izou Shochu for first class passengers. That’s not to take away from ANA, as both their soft and hard products are top notch. Flying through the US on ANA also grants access to cool experiences like the United Polaris Lounge.
Redemption Highlights: Hotels
Al Maha, Dubai
2 words, desert luxury. The Al Maha from Marriott’s Luxury Collection was hands down the most grand redemption I’ve made so far, and though I was with a friend, the amenities made me feel like a prince. A stay at the Al Maha comes packed with multi course dining, your own suite and pool looking into the animal reserve the property is situated in, and fun and engaging activities throughout the day.
JW Marriott South Beach, Singapore
Great rooms, five star service and an infinity pool peering out into the city, what more can one want out of a hotel? From the moment we checked in, the staff at the JW Marriott ensured our experience would be stellar. The rooms were large and clean, and the lounge offered an abundance of juices and cakes throughout the day. Unfortunately, some of my pictures did not sync properly, so here are a bunch from the pool!
Programs to look out for in 2020
2020 will be an interesting year, particularly due to the completion of Air Canada’s takeover of their loyalty program Aeroplan. Foreshadowed changes to the North American fixed rate redemption may see travelers paying a premium in order to fly some of the popular NA routes on Air Canada metal. Fortunately, there has not been any significant pending changes with any of the partner airline redemption plans, which will continue to grant Canada based travelers some of the best value in the market.
Alaska mileage plan is also one to watch, especially for those who want to experience Singapore Airline’s A380. After the addition of SQ redemptions in the latter part of the year, Alaska mile collectors have been able to redeem flights on the coveted Singapore Airline planes for as little as 35,000 miles in first class. Japan Airlines also continues to offer it’s first class from US to Tokyo at a steal; 70,000 per way and includes a free stopover when booked.
Although Marriott is still the leading hotel brand for Canadians due to its large footprint, their loyalty program has taken many devaluations and their offers are becoming more and more lackluster due to the lack in competition. The introduction of Category 8, as well as a few other key changes (Seasonal rates) have left loyalists frustrated. Nonetheless, Marriott remains ahead of Hilton and IHG for Canadians, as they are the only company with competitive co-branded cards from American Express.
Thanks for checking out my 2019 summary; Hope to see you on board this year!
