🥇 Part Four: Time To Try Cathay Pacific

Hello again!

Welcome to the fourth instalment of my British Airways Gold status quest. Today, we're venturing into new territory with Cathay Pacific, as we fly from Jakarta (CGK) to Hong Kong (HKG), and then on to Taipei (TPE).

CGK to HKG: Cathay Pacific Delivers

Remember the visa drama from our last episode? Well, I'm happy to report that it was much ado about nothing. Despite my inability to check in online due to visa complications, the airport check-in process was smooth sailing. No questions asked - just the way we like it!

The Flight Experience

Aircraft: Cathay Pacific A330 (widebody) Seat Configuration: 2-2-2 (Regional Business Class)

Now, let's talk about this flight because, it was a game-changer. Here's the breakdown:

1. The Seat: Despite being a 'recliner' seat, the comfort level was off the charts. Great recline, ample space, and the cherry on top? An empty seat next to me. Business class bliss!

2. The Food: Cathay Pacific, you had me at "beef tenderloin steak". The meal was fantastic, culminating in a Häagen-Dazs ice cream dessert.

3. The Drinks: From signature cocktails to Hong Kong-style milk tea and oolong tea, the beverage game was strong. I may have sampled more than strictly necessary... for research purposes, of course.

4. The Service: The Cathay Pacific crew were phenomenal. Always ready to help, going above and beyond. This is what air travel should be like!

5. The Wi-Fi: Here's some breaking news - Cathay Pacific now offers free Wi-Fi to business class passengers! The connection was fast and reliable, making the flight zip by even quicker.

HKG Layover: The Pier Business Class Lounge

During my layover in Hong Kong, I had the pleasure of visiting The Pier Business Class Lounge for the first time. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint:

• Diverse seating areas for every mood and need

• Impressive food and drink options

• A stylish bar area

• And the pièce de résistance: Betsy, Cathay Pacific's very own pale ale. A unexpected delight!

HKG to TPE: A Quick Hop

Aircraft: Cathay Pacific A330 Seat Configuration: Reverse herringbone

This shorter flight was a bit of a mixed bag:

1. The Seat: While the reverse herringbone layout offers lie-flat beds, I found myself missing the regional setup from the previous flight. Sometimes, newer isn't always better!

2. The Cabin: I was seated in the second section, which was pleasantly quiet.

3. The Food: A bit of a hiccup here. The chicken dish came out a bit too pink for comfort, but kudos to the crew for quickly replacing it with a delicious halibut.

4. The Wi-Fi: Unfortunately, it didn't work on this flight. You win some, you lose some!

Reflections and Looking Ahead

As I write this from Taipei, I'm struck by how different each leg of this journey has been. From the near-misses in Abu Dhabi to the luxury of Cathay Pacific, it's been a rollercoaster of experiences.

A few key takeaways:

1. Cathay Pacific's regional business class is a hidden gem.

2. Always be ready to try the local brews - you might discover a new favourite (here's looking at you, Betsy!).

3. Even on short flights, don't hesitate to speak up if something's not right with your meal.

As we approach the halfway point of this tier point run, I'm feeling reinvigorated and excited for what's to come. Will the return journey live up to the outbound? Will I find another airline-specific beer to rival Betsy? And most importantly, will I ever get tired of airplane food?

Stay tuned for the next leg of our adventure. Until then, may your seats always recline and your ice cream never melt!