Halfway around the world

First impressions of Delta Business Elite: nice, very nice indeed. This is Delta's top class of international service; they do not call it first class, but boy is it. Only four seats across the width of a 777LR! Each seat is a cocoon, angled toward one of the aisles. Aside from being comfortable, there is a built-in footrest opposite, power and USB outlets, ethernet port and of course video system with over-the-ear noise canceling headphones. Most importantly though, as you can see, the seats in this cabin lie totally flat when it's nap time. So maybe, unlike virtually every flight I have ever taken in my life, I will actually sleep on this one. We shall see. One thing's sure, I'll eat well and rest comfortably. 

Three hours later: the "eat well" part was totally true. I opted for the Japanese meal and was presented a tray full of goodies: shrimp, salmon, edamame, pickles, mushrooms and a couple of thing I could not name. All were delicious and just as I was wondering whether I had room for  dessert the attendant shows up and says "your, entree, sir." What? There's more? Chicken, rice and miso soup. All excellent. I mean, not just excellent for an airplane, I mean, excellent. Then the hot fudge sundae and chocolate cheesecake. Damn!

Ate most of that while watching "Crazy Heart" on the individual video screen. There are 19 categories of movies and at least 6-9 in each category. Next I'll try "Wolfman," then maybe "Alice in Wonderland." "Crazy Heart" was excellent and gives me ideas for a future post. Now though, back to flying like a king.

Eleven hours into the flight: just finished breakfast: omelet, sausage, potatoes, yoghurt, fresh fruit, croissant -- and this was two hours after a snack of roasted tenderloin and salad. Did manage to sleep a bit and, yes, the seat does form a flat bed. Amazing and, coupled with the two almost-full size pillows and the quilted blanket, very comfortable.

Is it possible to enjoy a 12-hour flight? In Delta Business Elite I'd say the answer is yes. I am very grateful to our hosts who sprang for these tickets. On our own we'd likely be sardined in the back, or staying home more likely!

Finally, this is being posted from Narita Airport in Tokyo. I haven't been in this country for 47 years. 47! Interestingly, my high school from here, Zama American High School, is having a reunion this summer in DC. I hope to be there.