I am sitting in Business Class seat 17K, on this new Thai Airways Airbus A350-900 (359) in a 1-2-1 configuration. It is a very spacious and modern Business class seat with all the trimmings including large AV screen, fully flat bed, and console.

This flight was purchased using 75000 Royal Orchid Plus miles for a return BKK-NRT Business class ticket (had I purchased via ANA or Avianca it would have only been 60K or 65K – lesson learnt!).

I am the first to board – so early that the plane entrance is cordoned off with a rope!

As soon as I sit down a lovely cabin attendant comes to introduce herself, “Welcome, Mr. Blackman”. I am impressed. She explains, due to the very late departure time (midnight) there is no dinner service allowing passengers to sleep, but says if I like she will wake me up 1.5 hours before the plane lands for breakfast service, as she hands over the menu. It is also an opportunity to get a pre-departure drink so request a water and a glass of Canard-Duchene Leonie Brut Rose, which I receive with a hot wet towel, fresh pink signature orchid, and an amenity kit.

Shortly after take-off I turn the seat into a bed and fall asleep for a couple of hours. It’s a little narrow with tight leg-space when comparing to Singapore Airlines, but hey, it beats Economy any day.

A few hours later I wake up to the sound of breakfast preparation and although I originally requested continental, I have woken up hungry and go full throttle. I didn’t realize it was on the menu but am given a Japanese breakfast and it is delicious – the fish is so moist and tender. It comes with green tea but I ask for a coffee as well.

For the last hour of the flight I watch some more music videos, look out the window, watch the sunrise, and mentally prepare myself for Japan!

Rating: 8.5/10