🥇 Part Five: Returning Back To Jakarta With Cathay Pacific

Hello again!

Welcome to the fifth instalment of my British Airways Gold status adventure. Today, we're covering the return leg from Taipei (TPE) back to Jakarta (CGK) via Hong Kong (HKG). Spoiler alert: Cathay Pacific continues to impress!

TPE to HKG: A321 Bliss

After a sweltering day exploring Taipei (35°C and 75% humidity - phew!), I was more than ready for some air-conditioned comfort.

Pre-Flight Lounges

First stop: Plaza Premium Lounge using my Priority Pass for a much-needed shower. Pro tip: The Cathay lounge doesn't have shower facilities, so plan accordingly!

Next, I hit up the Cathay lounge for some sustenance. While smaller than its Hong Kong counterpart, it maintains the same vibe and impressive food and drink options. Cathay's lounge game remains strong!

The Flight Experience

Aircraft: Cathay Pacific A321 Seat Configuration: 2-2 (3 rows of Business Class)

Now, let's talk about this flight because it was a pleasant surprise:

1. The Seat: If only all short-haul business class seats were like this! Comfortable, with a touch of privacy. European carriers, take note!

2. The Service: Impeccable. From start to finish, the staff addressed me by name. The purser's introduction was a nice touch.

3. The Food: Despite being a short flight, the prawn and shallot dish was delightful. And of course, I couldn't resist another Hong Kong-style milk tea.

4. The Wi-Fi: Unfortunately, it was a no-go this time. You can't win them all!

HKG to CGK: Back to Jakarta in Style

A quick dash through Hong Kong airport meant no lounge time (the sacrifices we make for this hobby!), but the flight more than made up for it.

Aircraft: Cathay Pacific A330 Seat Configuration: Reverse herringbone

1. The Seat: This time, I nabbed a front-row seat in the second section. The extra space was noticeable and appreciated.

2. The Food: Cathay Pacific outdid themselves. The menu:

   • Starter: Smoked salmon

   • Main: Lamb shank with an incredible gravy

   • Dessert: Cheese and ice cream The wine pairings with the main and dessert were spot on.

3. The Wi-Fi: Hallelujah! Free, fast, and functional. Dear other airlines, this should be the standard for premium cabins!

Reflections and Looking Ahead

As I settle back into Jakarta for a couple of nights of R&R (Marriott Bonvoy very kindly upgraded me to the presidential suite!), I can't help but reflect on this leg of the journey. A few key takeaways:

1. Cathay Pacific's short-haul business class on the A321 is a hidden gem.

2. Always check lounge amenities in advance - that shower at the Plaza Premium was a lifesaver!

3. Sometimes, the food on planes can genuinely be something to look forward to.

4. Reliable, free Wi-Fi in premium cabins should be the norm, not the exception.

We're now past the halfway point of this tier point run, and I'm feeling both exhausted and exhilarated. The next leg will take me back to Abu Dhabi, and then who knows what adventures await?

Stay tuned for the next instalment of this airborne odyssey. Until then, may your seats always be comfortable, your meals delicious, and your Wi-Fi always connected!