ON THE GROUND: An experienced traveler, I was eager for my first visit to South Korea. Seoul is well served by many airlines; I flew China Airlines in business class, departing New York JFK with a connection in Taipei before arriving at Incheon Airport.
PRE-FLIGHT: When I boarded, my seat was the first on the left side of the cabin. After stowing my carry-on in the overhead bin, I settled into a roomy seat and began exploring the features. I familiarized myself with compartments and seating adjustments while flight attendants offered a chilled guava juice as a welcome drink.
© Fiona Stewart
IN-FLIGHT: After a smooth takeoff, the crew handed out food and beverage menus. China Airlines lets passengers pre-select meals during check-in; I used this option and appreciated that attendants still confirmed my choice once onboard in case I wanted to change it. For one meal I enjoyed a breakfast-for-dinner selection—an omelet, assorted pastries and fruit—alongside an unexpectedly pleasant bow-tie pasta in red sauce. Though I’m not usually very hungry in the air, the variety made the meal enjoyable.
© Fiona Stewart
After dining, I changed into more comfortable clothes and settled in to relax. The Moschino amenity kit included everything I needed and a few pleasant surprises. A Moroccanoil hair treatment helped tame my hair, and the China Airlines-branded hairbrush with a small mirror became unexpectedly useful. I also used the lip balm and lotion before putting on the eye mask and reclining my seat fully.
I slept very well—likely helped by our late departure—and woke feeling refreshed in time for the second meal. I chose steak and potatoes, accompanied by corn soup and a shrimp salad. After finishing, I changed back into travel attire and prepared for a smooth descent into Incheon.
TOP TAKEAWAYS:
- China Airlines’ amenities make the business-class experience comfortable and convenient.
- Flight attendants deliver attentive, high-quality service. On the return flight, when I mentioned feeling slightly under the weather, the crew offered continuous hot tea refills and extra blankets without hesitation.