How to survive a long haul flight + A visit to Cathay’s Business Class lounge

BY ONEIKA RAYMOND

What I do to cope on interminably long flights, as well as a review of Cathay’s lounge in Hong Kong’s airport.

Liebling’s recent move to New York City means that I have been doing a lot of long haul flying go see him. Like, A LOT.  Case in point: I was in New York City over Christmas, will be flying over there this coming Friday to spend Valentine’s Day/Chinese New Year, AND just recently confirmed a THIRD trip over Easter. Oh, the things we do for love!

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With the time in the air nearing 16 hours (and that’s a one-way, non-stop flight!)  it’s in my best interest to ensure I am at my most comfortable when I fly.

Now, I wish I could fly business class, but the harsh reality is that I’m not balling out of control like that — I simply don’t have the cash flow to spend upwards of $4000 USD on a ticket from Hong Kong to New York City.  Flying Premium Economy is probably more affordable, but let’s face it, when I’m flying so often and tickets for plain old economy are already burning a hole through my wallet, I really can’t fathom coughing up an additional $200 USD for more legroom. #nope

But, as usual, I digress. What I hoped to offer here were some of my tips and tricks for flying long haul.  So let’s get on with it, shall we?

Don’t eat heavily before the flight

As much as I love a good burrito or a slamming curry, I try to abstain from eating things I know will disturb my delicate digestive system. Nothing worse than experiencing gastrointestinal distress at 35,000 feet (you *have* seen those bathrooms, right?)!

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Bring a scarf

I am slightly anemic, which translates into a propensity for feeling cold (particularly when inactive for long stretches of time). Combined with the rampant over-airconditioning on flights I always seem to encounter, it doesn’t take long before my appendages are chilled and my teeth are a-chatter. What to do? I bring a scarf and wrap it around my neck and noggin.  Since we lose the most heat from our head, covering it will have you feeling toasty in no time. Even better? Scarves are effortlessly chic. Kill two birds with one stone!

Wear comfy clothes (i.e. Leggings! Leggings! LEGGINGS!)

My body swells like a balloon when I’m in flight.  As such, it’s a must that I wear clothing that can “grow” with me comfortably.  While I’m a fierce subscriber to the “leggings are not pants” crew, I make an exception when it comes to long hauls.  The stretchy fabric is comfy and doesn’t pleat or crease, so I can still look every bit the fashionista upon walking off my 15 hour flight. (Gents, I haven’t forgotten about you! A pair of sweatpants will do the trick.)

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What I wore to work earlier on in the day vs. what I wore on the plane that evening

“Easy off” shoes and woolly socks

Think cute sneakers (I’m in love with my new Nike Air Force 1’s!) or low-heeled boots that have a zipper. Chances are you’ll be taking your shoes off at some point during your time in the air, so you need something you can slip on and off easily (in these aggressive winter climes I rock boots– see the photo above).  And make sure they’re roomy so they can accommodate any swelling! A pair of warm socks are probably a no-brainer, but how often do you actually remember to bring them? Don’t get caught out! Make sure they’re the first thing you stow in your carry-on.

For the ladies: Keep makeup minimal

For overnight flights (or those lasting longer than 5 hours), I usually go barefaced except for a swathe of a neutral coloured lipstick (MAC’s Paramount shade is one of my faves).  However, if you must, I suggest only opting for concealer and a thin layer of foundation. No eye makeup — after more than 12 hours even the best mascara, shadow, and eyeliner get gunky.

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Stock up on music and reading material

Load up your Kindle, iPods, and other devices with your faves and use your long trip as an opportunity to finally listen to the new D’Angelo album or tackle that Dickens masterpiece.  Make sure you keep you chargers in your carry-on for easy access.

Check in online… and choose your seat in advance

Be the master of your own destiny and ensure maximum comfort by choosing where you’ll sit before you board the plane.  The majority of airlines allow passengers to check in online 24 hours before take-off.  Take advantage of this and pick the best seat for you!  Sadly, many airlines now charge big $$$ for the emergency exit row (ain’t nobody got time for that!) but otherwise you pretty much have unrestricted options of where you can sit in economy.  My favourite spot, you ask?  I’m an aisle girl for life!

Drink water

The air in planes is incredibly dry and the longer you fly the more prone you are to fall victim to dry eyes and sore throats — prime symptoms of dehydration. Drink water!

Cathay Business Class Lounge

Liebling has been all about the lounge life a while.  As a status holder with multiple frequent flier programs, he has been afforded the opportunity to grace many an airport lounge with his presence.  I, however, am a relative newbie to the whole lounge game.  Which is why I was thrilled when Cathay invited me to experience one of their lounges in Hong Kong’s airport before my flight to New York City last December.

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Before I tell you about the lounge, allow me to gush about Hong Kong’s airport for a moment.  Clean, modern, and efficient, Chep Lap Kok International Airport, known affectionately as HKG, is one of the nicest air hubs I have ever been in.  Layovers are typically a drag, but HKG’s great restaurants, stellar shopping options, and free wifi(!) make waiting painless.

Gush over. While I was unable to fly Business Class to New York, I did have the chance to scope out one of Cathay’s Business Class lounges.  While my pass allowed me to spend time in any of the five available to guests (The Wing, Pier, Cabin, Bridge, and G16), I opted for the one closest to my departure gate, The Cabin.

The setting

With wide walkways and spacious seating, The Cabin resembles a grand atrium more than the inside of a plane.  Make that an atrium found in the Jetsons:  the track lighting, cyclindrical-shaped cushions, and swivelling, crescent-shaped armchairs look very futuristic. The muted colour palette also casts an element of calm into the space, and patrons can watch planes ready for take-off through the gargantuan picture windows found all down one side of the lounge.

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The perks

The Cabin is equipped with magazines in both English and Chinese — perfect for whiling the time away before your flight’s departure.  I must say, though, that I was a bit disappointed by the selection — nary a tabloid magazine in sight (don’t judge me, I like to indulge from time to time)!  For those with an appetite, complimentary nibbles and beverages are also on offer.  I had already eaten before arriving at the lounge, however, so cannot vouch for their delectability.  Next time!

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The Takeaway

Flying long haul is not ideal for most of us but sometimes is a necessary evil.  Hopefully some of my tips will help to make your journey a less painful experience!

What are some of the things you do to get through a long flight?  What’s the longest flight you’ve ever taken?

SHARING IS CARING

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