London 2016: The Journey

We have wanted to go to the UK for many years now but we finally decided to go in January because it is the least busy season at work.  We also have finally accumulated enough airmiles so we didn't have to pay for airfare, plus family and friends based in UK have invited us to go too!

The long journey started with a 5:00 AM flight from Manila to Hongkong where we had an almost 5 hour layover.  Thankfully, our Citibank credit cards allowed us free use of the Plaza Premier lounge at the Hongkong airport where we were able to enjoy free food and drinks, plus a comfortable place to rest before the 12 hour flight to London.

We took advantage of  CX's inflight entertainment by watching several movies and even managing a few of hours of nap on the plane.  Finally after 12 hours, we arrive in cold, cold London!  London Heathrow is huge!!!

While waiting for our host GD, we had to get coffee to warm ourselves at Caffe Nero.

Finally, we are with GD and kids having dinner at Harvester.

Philippine Airlines and San Francisco International Airport

For our 2nd US trip, E and I decided to try Philippine Airlines to take advantage of their promotional rates (around USD650 for RT tickets exclusive of taxes and other surcharges, total amounted to about USD1,000, still cheaper than other airlines). Our travel time to New Jersey was cut to almost half compared to our last US Trip (20 hours this year vs 37 hours last year). We missed Singapore Airlines' inflight entertainment but the non-stop flight to San Francisco made up for it.

It was very cold when we got there, we had to wear scarves, gloves and jackets inside the airport. We spent around 4 hours waiting for our flight to New Jersey that's why I was disappointed that the San Francisco airport did not have free internet access.

I insisted on a photo by the Ghirardelli store (one of my favorite chocolate stores)
No free internet!

The New Terminal 3 of Singapore Changi Airport

On our way home to Manila, our flight from Los Angeles landed at the new Terminal 3. It was amazing! And I should have taken a picture of the bathroom. It was more posh than a hotel's. Singapore Changi Airport wins my vote as the Best Airport!