Hi Bargainistas,
My first ever flights in business class (Singapore Airlines), redeemed with a Amex points, SYD-SIN-ARN (Stockholm) return.
Please help me take the maximum out of this (maybe) once in a lifetime experience.
Any tips welcome regarding Lounges, Seats, Food (Book the Cook), Drinks (Cocktails) etc.
Many Thanks!
Everyone should be doing this for economy flights too.. and life in general..
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I used to fly sq business class every couple of weeks but it’s been a couple of years. There used to be a nice book the cook lobster dish out of Singapore. Recommended.
Remember to raid the lounge bathrooms and plane bathrooms early on for any expensive cosmetics
Book the cook lobster thermidor was a highlight for me a few years back when I flew Singapore and highy recommended online. I'd probably check out the frequent flyer forums for the latest recs on food and drink. Definitely l leave home on an empty stomach, you will have sooo many food options! But as someone else said, be selective as you don't want to feel sick.
The lounge in Singapore was nice but not particularly memorable. I do remember they had TWG brand tea I think which some people rate highly. I enjoyed eating fruit loops for breakfast there and having nostalgic thoughts back to my childhood!
Definitely accept as many free toiletries as you can. Minis are always handy.
Honestly the best part though? The space and lying flat to sleep. You will never be able to feel comfortable in economy ever again. It will ruin you! Since my first business class long haul flight, I've never been able to do long haul economy ever again, I'd rather stay home than fly economy.
P.S check the plane seat configuration and make sure you pick carefully as some seats are better for couples and others better for solo travelers. Plus you want to avoid being next to the bathroom as always.
Also I disagree about having to dress well. You earned the seats, who cares what anyone else thinks! Ok so I wouldn't dress hogan in thongs but in my travels I've seen alllll types in business. Sometimes the best dressed were the rudest!
Oh and make sure you pack your cabin baggage so you can shower in the lounge in stopover. So refreshing!
use https://www.seatguru.com/ and put in your flight details. This will help pick teh right seat as GourmetFoodie mentions.
Also check https://www.loungebuddy.com.au/ to see what lounges & facilities you have access to in each of the airports (both from the business tickets as well as credit cards etc).
We went SQ business for our first time last year and have to say the lounge in Singapore is crazy. Make sure to checkout the showers and have a shave and whatnot. Get all the free stuff they have!
It's very hard going back to cattle class once you've turned left..
Mile high club
Attempting to join by oneself does not count!
Im leaving that for next time…when flying in 1st class suite ;)
1) Arrive nice and early at Sydney to indulge at the SilverKris Business lounge there. Your ticket also entitles you to visit the nearby AirNZ lounge if you want to hop around and see their different offerings. A shower at Singapore Changi Silverkris Lounge is nice.
2) Check the seating configuration for your flight and use a site like Seatguru to find the best seats. In general, SQ Business Class seats slant sideways in sleeping mode, putting your feet in a small cubby. However if you are able to book a bulkhead seat at the front of each mini-cabin, you'll get the whole width of the seat to lounge around.
3) SQ don't provide PJ's or amenity kits onboard usually. You'll find your basic amenities stocked in the lavatories. Bring your own if you need. I think they do provide basic slippers and eyemasks.
4) Definitely peruse the Book the Cook menu. About 2 weeks before your flight, you'll usually be able to browse the inflight menu through the SQ App, allowing you to decide between that menu or using Book the Cook. The level of food service you'll get will also depend on the flight times (e.g. an overnight leg will have a basic supper and brekkie, whereas a day-time leg will have a full 6-course dining experience). If you post your flight times, I'll be able to advise further.
5) You should be eligible for the S$20 Changi transit voucher during one of your stopovers.
This covers it all.
Enjoy the experience.
Thanks guys. Feeling excited already!
It is very hard to resist, but too many free alcoholic drinks may aggravate jetlag.
And you might go from "Glad I am alive" to "Wish I were dead".
But what the heck!
Im planning to go straight to a festival anyway
And significantly increase your risk of pulmonary embolisms.