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Across the ocean: a guide to cathay pacifc's us-bound routes.

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• Cathay Pacific connects major US cities to Hong Kong, serving as a gateway for seamless travel.
• The airline uses modern Boeing 777-300ER and Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, with luxury options across cabins.
• Cathay Pacific's operational data shows the airlines' efficiency in catering to the US market's demands.

In the highly competitive world of international air travel, Cathay Pacific has long stood out as a premier carrier known for its exceptional service, modern fleet, and extensive network. Among its most significant operations are its routes to the United States, which connect the bustling hubs of Hong Kong with vital American cities.

Let's examine Cathay Pacific's US-bound routes, the cities served, the types of aircraft used, the onboard experience, the strategic importance of these routes for the airline, and critical operational data provided by Cirium, an aviation analytics company.

Across the Pacific from west to east

Cathay Pacific began its US operations in 1983, establishing its first transpacific route between Hong Kong and San Francisco. This inaugural flight marked a significant expansion for the airline, positioning it as a key player in the competitive international aviation market. The move was part of a broader strategy to connect Asia with major global hubs, catering to both business and leisure travelers.

Over the subsequent decades, Cathay Pacific expanded its US footprint, adding routes to Los Angeles, New York, Boston, and Chicago. These routes provided vital links for economic and cultural exchanges and underscored Cathay Pacific's commitment to offering premium service and connectivity.

This strategic expansion was essential for meeting the growing demand for travel between Asia and North America, solidifying Cathay Pacific's reputation as a world-class airline. The airline's focus on innovation, customer service, and fleet modernization has helped it maintain a competitive edge in the transpacific market.

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The carrier made $1.3 billion in profit in 2023.

These routes are strategically chosen to cover the East and West Coasts, providing access to the US's critical economic and cultural centers. Each destination is a gateway to its respective region, allowing passengers to connect seamlessly to other parts of the country.

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What aircraft does Cathay Pacific use on these routes?

Cathay Pacific utilizes some of the most advanced aircraft for its transpacific routes, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey. The primary aircraft used include the Boeing 777-300ER and the Airbus A350-1000.

• Boeing 777-300ER: Known for its long-range capabilities and spacious cabins, the 777-300ER is a workhorse for Cathay Pacific. It features a four-class configuration with first class, business class, premium economy, and economy class, catering to a wide range of passengers.
• Airbus A350-1000: The A350-1000 is a newer addition to Cathay Pacific's fleet and is prized for fuel efficiency and advanced technology. The aircraft offers three class configurations: Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy Class. The A350-1000's modern design and quiet cabin enhance the overall passenger experience. In recent times, Cathay Pacific has been eyeing new widebody aircraft to replace some of its aging fleet.

What to expect onboard Cathay Pacific

Cathay's commitment to quality is evident across all it's classes:

• First-class: Available on select Boeing 777-300ER routes, Cathay-Pacific's first class offers unparalleled luxury. Passengers enjoy spacious suites with fully flat beds, premium bedding, and a personalized service that includes gourmet dining and a wide selection of fine wines and spirits.
• Business class: Both the 777-300ER and A350-1000 feature state-of-the-art business class cabins. The lie-flat seats ensure maximum comfort on long-haul flights, and the refined service includes an extensive menu and a curated selection of entertainment options. But watch out, you might have to start bringing your cutlery.
• Premium economy: For those seeking more comfort than standard economy but without the cost of business class, premium economy is an excellent choice. Passengers benefit from wider seats, increased legroom, and enhanced meal service.
• Economy class: Even in Economy, Cathay Pacific strives to provide a pleasant journey. The seats are ergonomically designed, and passengers can access a wide range of in-flight entertainment and complimentary meals and beverages.

Cathay's Cathay'sschedule

A closer look at flight data provides insights into the scale and efficiency of its US-bound routes. The following table summarizes critical metrics such as mileage and Available Seat Miles (ASMs) for each route according to Cirium, an aviation analytics company:

Total operations across these routes amount to 476, with 146,196 seats and an average of 307.1 seats per departure, resulting in an impressive 1,117,429,480 Available Seat Miles (ASMs). The United States is one of Cathay Pacific's Pacific’s social markets outside Asia.

These routes cater to business travelers, tourists, and sizable expatriate communities. The connectivity provided by Cathay Pacific between Hong Kong and the US is vital for fostering economic ties, cultural exchange, and tourism.

Competition is fearless

Cathay Pacific faces significant competition on its US routes from both regional and international carriers. Airlines such as United, American, and Delta offer direct flights between the US and Hong Kong. At the same time, other Asian carriers like Singapore Airlines, EVA Air, and Korean Air also provide competitive alternatives for their connections.

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The geopolitical landscape and economic fluctuations also pose challenges. Trade tensions between the US and China can impact passenger numbers, while economic downturns can affect travel budgets for leisure and business travelers. However, Cathay Pacific’s loyal customer base and strategic alliances help it navigate these challenges.

The future of Cathay in the US.

Cathay Pacific is well-positioned to maintain and expand its presence in the US market. The airline has shown resilience through challenging times, such as the recent global pandemic, by adapting its services and focusing on customer safety and satisfaction. Innovations in digital services and sustainability initiatives also play a crucial role in attracting a modern traveler who values convenience and environmental responsibility.

Cathay Pacific’s Pacific routes testify to the airline’s intention to connect the world with Hong Kong. The combination of a modern fleet, exceptional service, strategic destinations, and robust operational metrics ensures Cathay Pacific remains a preferred choice for travelers crossing the Pacific. As the aviation industry continues to evolve, Cathay Pacific’s capabilities to excellence will help it soar to new heights in the competitive skies.

Cathay Pacific

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Cathay Pacific continues revival with positive traffic figures for May 2024 

Cathay Pacific has released its traffic figures for May 2024 which show the Hong-Kong-based carrier is continuing along the path to a full recovery. In the first five months of 2024 (January to May), Cathay Pacific and its subsidiary HK Express surpassed the 10 million mark for passengers carried, with a combined 11.2 million passengers carried during the five months. 

Cathay Pacific carried a total of 1,678,532 passengers in May 2024, an increase of 18.4% compared with May 2023. The month’s revenue passenger kilometers (RPKs) increased 20.8% year on year.  

Although the passenger load factor decreased by 4.8 percentage points to 80.3% (indicative of the airline’s fleet expansion), available seat kilometers (ASKs), a measure of total capacity flown, increased by 28% year on year. In the first five months of 2024, the number of passengers carried increased by 40.7% to a total of 8,821,895, against a 45.7% increase in ASKs and a 37.5% increase in RPKs, as compared with the same period for 2023. 

“May was, as expected, a slightly quieter period for our travel business compared with previous months as demand slowed down, particularly on our regional routes,” said Cathay Pacific’s Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau. “Without any long weekend holidays in Hong Kong, we experienced a 4% decrease in passenger numbers compared with April, when multiple holidays drove strong leisure demand. However, compared with the same month last year, passenger numbers were 18% higher.” 

“Although leisure traffic from Hong Kong declined, we saw increased demand from various countries in Southeast Asia due to the school holidays there. Additionally, our long-haul services were boosted by the return of student traffic to Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland from North America, resulting in 90% load factors on our United States and Canada routes. Business travel demand continued to be solid, with strong sales in Hong Kong supporting traffic on a number of our Chinese Mainland, North American, and United Kingdom routes,” Lau added. 

Cargo 

On the freight side, the airline carried 121,088 tons of cargo in May 2024, an increase of 10.2% compared with May 2023. The month’s cargo revenue ton kilometers (RFTKs) increased 3.8% year on year. The cargo load factor decreased by 2.1 percentage points to 59.4%, while available cargo ton kilometers (AFTKs) increased by 7.5% year on year.  

In the first five months of 2024, the tonnage increased by 10.2% to a total of 594,896 tons, against an 11.8% increase in AFTKs and a 4.4% increase in RFTKs, as compared with the same period for 2023. 

“Cargo demand from Hong Kong and the rest of the Greater Bay Area remained solid throughout May,” said Lau. “Across our network, tonnage grew 3% against last month, and 10% compared with May 2023, underpinned by a capacity growth of 7.5%. We observed particularly strong growth from Hong Kong, the Chinese Mainland, the Taiwan region, and Southeast Asia.”  

“In terms of commodity mix, there was also an increase in tonnage of general cargo as well as special cargo, with significant movements of high-end electronics, seafood, and consumer products. E-commerce continued to perform well,” Lau added. 

The outlook ahead 

Speaking about the carrier’s revived fortunes following the end of the COVID-19 travel restrictions in the Far East, and Hong Kong in particular, Lau said the airline remains positive about its immediate future and its expansion plans for the rest of 2024. 

“On the travel side, we achieved another milestone in our rebuilding journey as we reached 80% of our pre-pandemic passenger flights as a Group in the second quarter as planned. We remain on track to reach 100% within the first quarter of 2025 as we continue to add more flights and destinations for our customers,” Lau added.  

“So far in 2024, Cathay Pacific has already added Chennai, Colombo, and Barcelona to our global network, while HK Express has added Beijing (Daxing), Bangkok (Don Mueang), Sanya, and Clark. Our passenger airlines now fly to more than 80 destinations around the world. This number will rise to 90 by next year as we continue to welcome even more destinations to our network, including Riyadh on October 28, 2024,” Lau continued.  

“For cargo, we expect demand to remain strong as it has been throughout the first five months of 2024. Market sentiment, particularly out of Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland, remains positive and we will continue to adjust our freighter capacity to suit the needs of our customers,” Lau concluded. 

The last of 70 Cathay Pacific aircraft stored in Australia returns to Hong Kong  

• Cathay Pacific Airways

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‘The Bear’ food tour serves fans a taste of the action in Chicago

Forrest Beals, center, eats chicken dumplings at Time Out Market in Chicago during a “The Bear” themed food tour on June 21. Chicago Food & City Tours began the themed excursions in November after months of requests from guests. The tour is modeled after Season 2, Episode 3, when sous chef Sydney treks across the city to try different restaurants — not unlike a food tour, said Hannah Gleeson, the company’s director of operations. The three-hour tour remains one of the company’s most popular and is frequently sold out on the Fridays and Saturdays it runs. (Vincent Alban, Chicago Tribune/TNS)

CHICAGO — Claudia Dietrich and Ross Lloyd boarded a bus bound for the hottest tourist spot in the River North neighborhood. While their guide rattled off Chicago trivia, the couple snapped photos from every angle — even the alley. They weren’t deterred by the winding line out the front door.

“This is something that brought us to Chicago; there’s no doubt about that,” said Dietrich, a 72-year-old Milwaukee resident.

Their destination? Mr. Beef, the no-frills sandwich joint featured on Hulu’s smash hit, “The Bear.” It’s the first stop on their guided food tour inspired by the series.

A traditional Chicago sandwich shop may seem like an unconventional excursion. But since “The Bear” debuted, tourists have flocked in droves to Mr. Beef, which opened in River North in 1963. Ahead of Season 3’s release, its cult following is surging with renewed enthusiasm.

Just ask one of the food tour’s 30 patrons, who were bused to six restaurants in River North, the West Loop and Logan Square last Friday afternoon. Many of the restaurants on the tour served as filming locations for the series.

“I just think the show is so authentic,” Dietrich said after sampling an Italian beef sandwich with giardiniera. “And you can practically taste the food when you watch.”

“The Bear” follows Carmy, a young gourmet chef who seeks to transform his late brother’s sandwich shop into a fine dining establishment. There, he clashes with the diverse, unpretentious staff in often anxiety-inducing kitchen scenes — most of which were shot at Mr. Beef. When reached by phone to ask how business was going ahead of the premier, a manager at Mr. Beef told the Tribune that he didn’t have time to comment because of the line of customers out the door.

The series has been lauded for its unflinching portrayals of the restaurant industry and lovable characters, winning six Primetime Emmys this year including best comedy series.

Chicago Food & City Tours began the themed excursions in November after months of requests from guests. The tour is modeled after Season 2, Episode 3, when sous chef Sydney treks across the city to try different restaurants — not unlike a food tour, said Hannah Gleeson, the company’s director of operations.

“It just became really evident that there was a demand, and people wanted it,” Gleeson said. “Our team had been longtime fans of ‘The Bear.’ So, why not try to give people that same experience?”

As guide Casey Ross led the group, he sported a blue apron over a white T-shirt — the uniform at the fictional Original Beef of Chicagoland. He also held a tomato can tip jar, another tribute to the series. The tour’s charter bus was brimming with excitement.

“We only have one hard and fast rule,” Ross, 41, told the group. “If I ask a question, the answer is going to be —”

“Yes, chef,” they responded.

“Did you guys practice outside?” Ross quipped.

Ross, like most of the guests, is an avid fan of “The Bear.” He moved to Chicago over eight years ago from Kansas. The actor even auditioned for a small role in the upcoming season — but he didn’t get the part.

“I can’t wait to see the episode and see (who) they hired,” he said. “I’m going to be so mad if it’s another bearded redhead.”

After Mr. Beef, guests sampled pot stickers from Time Out Market, pepperoni pizza at Pizza Lobo, doughnuts at Roeser’s Bakery, hot fudge sundaes at Margie’s Candies and drinks at the Green Door Tavern.

Selecting the stops was a lengthy process, according to Gleeson. Many of the restaurants featured on the show were Michelin-starred — Elske, Ever and Kasama, for example. Others, such as the tiny Lao Peng You in Ukrainian Village, couldn’t accommodate large groups.

The three-hour tour remains one of the company’s most popular and is frequently sold out on the Fridays and Saturdays it runs. Usually, the crowd is an equal mix of locals and tourists, and private tours are also available, Gleeson added.

“‘The Bear’ does such an amazing job of highlighting Chicago’s diverse food scene,” Gleeson said. “And it’s so much more fun to do something like this than just walk up to Mr. Beef.”

Outside of Roeser’s in Humboldt Park, sisters Joan and Cora Lanman mulled over possible plot lines for the show’s upcoming season. While posing for photos, they exchanged theories: Were co-stars Jeremy Allen White and Ayo Edebiri dating in real life? Would their characters date on the show? And what about Carmy’s girlfriend, Claire, whom he left in the last episode?

“I just think Season 2 is, like, one of the best seasons of television of all time,” said Joan, 22. She’s seen the show three times through. “I think the writing is so real, it doesn’t feel like a TV show.”

The sisters, from Atlanta, were visiting their parents in Chicago. The favorite part of “The Bear” is that it creates a space for each character’s personal growth, they said. Take Richie, Carmy’s disgruntled family friend, who discovers his passion for hospitality during a feel-good montage to Taylor Swift’s “Love Story.”

“I love Richie,” Cora, 19, said. “And I love that Taylor Swift song. That episode makes me so happy.”

Then there’s 72-year-old Diane Thomas, who fell in love with “The Bear” because of its depiction of complex kitchen dynamics, along with the pitfalls of a family business. As a teen, Thomas worked at her own family’s sandwich spot in Michigan, Stage Delicatessen. Her brother still owns the establishment.

“It’s all of our cousins and nieces and nephews, all working together,” Thomas said. “I think ‘The Bear’ shows the real chaos that happens in the kitchen.”

Beside her sat 68-year-old Jim Walsh, eating pot stickers at Time Out Market. The friends call each other “playmates” — Walsh was recently widowed, while Thomas’ husband prefers to spend his days inside. They frequently attend guided tours across the city.

“I just love things like this,” Thomas said.

Farther down the table, other guests chatted about the show. Here, “The Bear” takes precedence above all other forms of small talk.

“I actually just saw Jeremy Allen White on a late-night show last night,” said Tiffany Harding, in between bites of food. “One of the Jimmys hosted.”

“Of course, we had to rewatch it in anticipation of Season 3 coming out,” Terri Henry said. “We’re ready.”

After three rounds of “The Bear” trivia, the bus finally pulled up to the storied Green Door Tavern. Each guest selected either an old-fashioned or soda. Ross was still smiling as he stood by the wooden bar three-and-a-half hours later.

“I love having people to talk to, and I love sharing information and telling a good story,” Ross said. “I’m an actor, and so I crave an audience, I guess.”

Ross said he, like many others, was nervous about the crew’s new restaurant and the fate of the characters he’d grown so fond of. But excitement trumped the stress.

“All of these characters are becoming three-dimensional, and I can’t wait to see more of that,” he said. “That, and the lovingly crafted shots of Chicago. It’s a love letter to the city.”

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How to redeem the offer? 

• Step 1: Click on "Book now" below to search for flights from Jakarta (CGK), Surabaya (SUB) or Denpasar (DPS) to Hong Kong (HKG) with us on the Flight availability tracker page
• Step 2: Select two adults. Kindly note this offer is only applicable when two passengers travel together* 
• Step 3: Select your departure date between  25 June 2024 and 31 March 2025 , with travel duration of 2 to 7 days . The calendar will display the seat availability for each day+. If you wish to change your travel dates after your booking is confirmed, a change fee and fare difference will apply 
• Step 4: Click on “Discount code” and enter IDB1G1HKG  to redeem the offer

The offer is available on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to ticket availability (and only applies to the first 2.500 tickets). Book now and start planning your next unforgettable holiday with us!

^You will be responsible for paying all applicable taxes, surcharges and fees on both tickets.  All taxes, surcharges and fees are subject to change at any time, and will be final at the point of ticketing.

#Economy Class ticket that is O Class Essential Brand fare subclass only. 

*The offer applies only to adult fares. Child and infant fares are excluded. You must select two adults in the flight search page when searching for flights. Both passengers must be booked in the same booking and travel together for both flights in the journey. Adult fares means fares for passengers 12 years old or older. 

+The available tickets and flights you see are not a live update. Flight availability subject to the actual booking. 

Terms and conditions apply. 

Immerse yourself in the charms of our vibrant home city

# Economy Class ticket that is O Class Essential Brand fare subclass only.

All flight tickets are sponsored by Hong Kong International Airport. 

By using the discount code to book tickets through the flight availability tracker page , you would get two Cathay Pacific Economy round-trip ticket from Jakarta (CGK), Surabaya (SUB) or Denpasar (DPS) to Hong Kong (HKG) (O class Essential fare subclass only), without needing to pay for the second ticket’s base fare but you will be responsible for paying applicable taxes and surcharges.  

Participants will be responsible for paying all taxes and surcharges applicable to the purchased ticket and the additional ticket received using the discount code that the participant will not need to pay the base fare for.   

The promotion period runs from 25 June 2024 at 08.00 (GMT +7) to 24 July 2024 at 23:59 (GMT+7). Offers are subject to seat availability and only applies to first 2.500 tickets .

The minimum stay period for the ticket is 2 days, and the maximum stay period is 7 days. 

The offer applies only to adult fares, child and infant fares are excluded. It is required to select ‘two adults’ when searching for flights on the Cathay website. Adult fares means fares for passengers 12 years old or older.

Both passengers’ names must be entered in the same booking when booking for flights.

Both passengers must be booked in the same booking and travel together for both flights in the journey.  

The discount code is valid only during the promotion period and must be used during the promotion period of the offer subject to ticket availability. (and only applies to the first 2.500 tickets.)

No, all tickets once booked are non-reroutable. Upgrade to another travel class with cash or any frequent flyer mileage is not allowed. Each itinerary will originate and end in Jakarta (CGK), Surabaya (SUB) or Denpasar (DPS).  

Rebooking of the travel date is subject to a rebooking fee of IDR2.336.000. Change fee and fare difference will apply, subject to availability. 

Participants who fail to show up for their flight will be treated as forfeiting the tickets. Tickets are non-refundable and rebooking of unused tickets are not allowed.

The discount code only applies to tickets booked online on www.cathaypacific.com through the flight availability tracker page and is not compatible with bookings made through agents or Customer Care.  

Yes, you can earn Asia Miles and/or Status Points for your tickets. For details regarding mileage accrual, please refer Asia Miles by Cathay . 

[Buy 1 Get 1 Ticket] Campaign Terms and Conditions

This promotion is brought to you by Cathay Pacific Airways Limited ("Cathay") and tickets are sponsored by the Airport Authority Hong Kong (“HKAA”).

• Defined terms not otherwise defined in these terms and conditions have the meaning ascribed below: “ Discount Code ” means the discount code that, when used in accordance with these terms and conditions, enables an Eligible Participant to receive a second  Eligible Ticket in addition to the Eligible Ticket they have purchased without needing to pay for the second Eligible Ticket’s base fare, subject to these terms and conditions. “ Promotion ” means the offer by the Organisers to Eligible Participants of the Discount Code for use on Eligible Tickets during the Promotion Period. “ Promotion Period ” means the period in which the Promotion is available, being 25 June 2024 at 08.00 to 24 July 2024 at 23.59 (GMT +7, both dates inclusive).
• To be eligible to participate in this Promotion, the participant must be an Eligible Participant. An “Eligible Participant” is a person: i. resides in Indonesia; ii. who is 12 years of age or older; and iii. who has received the Discount Code from Cathay.
• Each Discount Code: i. may only be used when purchasing an Eligible Ticket; ii. will only give one additional equivalent Eligible Ticket to the Eligible Ticket purchased by the Eligible Participant, where the Eligible Participant will not need to pay for the base fare of the second Eligible Ticket; and iii. may only be used when purchasing an Eligible Ticket in Indonesia.
• The total number of tickets that are available for this promotion is 2.500, which will be available until stocks last.
• An Eligible Ticket is a flight ticket: i. for flights marketed and operated by Cathay; ii. that is booked on www.cathaypacific.com , and is not booked through any other sales channels, including without limitation, through Cathay’s Customer Care or through travel agents;  iii. for a round-trip journey departing from Jakarta (CGK), Surabaya (SUB) or Denpasar (DPS) to Hong Kong with a minimum stay for 2 days and a maximum stay of 7 days in Hong Kong; iv. that is an Economy Class ticket that is O Class Essential Brand fare subclass; v. that is an Adult Ticket and not a Child or Infant Ticket (“Adult Ticket” means a Cathay flight ticket for a passenger who is 12 years old or older. “Child or Infant Ticket” means a Cathay flight ticket for a passenger who is 11 years old or younger.); vi. that has a travel itinerary with a departure date on or before 31 March 2025.
• Eligible Participants must select ‘two adults’ when searching for flights and booking the Eligible Tickets on the Cathay website.
• You acknowledge that as the Eligible Tickets are Adult Tickets, they are intended for use by passengers 12 years old or older. You will not be entitled to any refund of any fare difference should you choose to use the second Eligible Ticket for a passenger who is under 12 years old.
• The names of both passengers must be entered in the same booking. 
• Both passengers must travel together for the entire flight journey.
• The Discount Code is valid only during the Promotion Period and must be used during the Promotion Period. 
• The 24-hour free cancellation service will not be available for tickets booked with the discount code.
• The Eligible Participant is responsible for paying all taxes and surcharges applicable to both the purchased Eligible Ticket, as well as the second Eligible Ticket received using the Discount Code that the Eligible Participant will not need to pay the base fare for.  
• Eligible Tickets are subject to seat availability. Eligible Participants acknowledge that there are variations to the number of seats for the O Class Essential Brand designated fare subclass that are allocated to each flight. Other fare subclasses are excluded as Eligible Tickets under this Promotion, even if such other fare subclasses are within the Economy Class cabin. 
• Eligible Tickets booked using the Discount Code are non-refundable, non-reroutable, non-transferable and non-redeemable for cash or any other item.  
• Eligible Participants may change the travel date of the Eligible Tickets booked using the Discount Code, but must pay a rebooking fee of IDR2.336.000 per ticket. 
• Passengers who fail to show up for their flight will be treated as forfeiting the Eligible Tickets. Rebooking of the unused Eligible Tickets will not be permitted. 
• Eligible Tickets are eligible to earn Asia Miles and Status Points in accordance with the Cathay Membership Programme Terms and Conditions. For details regarding mileage accrual, please refer to: https://www.cathaypacific.com/cx/en_ID/membership/asia-miles.html
• Upgrade of cabin class of the Eligible Tickets with cash, including through Upgrade Bid, is not permitted. 
• Cathay Pacific and HKAA reserve the right of final decision should a dispute arise in relation to this Promotion. 
• This Promotion, including these terms and conditions, are governed by the laws of Indonesia.
• Any dispute that cannot be resolved amicably between the parties shall be submitted to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Indonesia.

Online bonus offers

Use our exclusive promo codes to enjoy special offers and discounts.

25% off sky100 ticket + Free gift

Discover Hong Kong from an elevated perspective at sky100. Offer valid until 30 September 2024.

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Enjoy seamless travel to the city and back  Offer valid until 30 September 2024.

25% off room reservation at EAST Hong Kong

Book your flights to Hong Kong online to enjoy exclusive discount at your stay at EAST Hong Kong. Offer valid until 15 September 2024.

This Airline Just Restarted Flights to Hong Kong From This Major U.S. City

Cathay Pacific will fly from Chicago O'Hare to Hong Kong three times a week.

After more than three years, Hong Kong’s flag carrier is resuming regular service to a major U.S. hub— Chicago O’Hare International (ORD). 

Starting on Oct. 3, Cathay Pacific will operate three weekly flights between Hong Kong and Chicago on modern Airbus A350-1000 jets. It’s a milestone for the airline — and in fact, an entire region —that was pummeled by strict lockdowns as a result of the pandemic. March 2020 was the last time regularly scheduled flights operated between Hong Kong and Chicago.

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“For us, the recovery really only just started this year, January 2023, when Hong Kong finally opened up,” Chris van den Hooven, Senior Vice President of Americas at Cathay Pacific, told Travel + Leisure in an interview. “We're super excited about Chicago, our team there has really weathered through a tough storm, and [it’ll] be our fifth destination in the U.S."

The 7,793-mile route, with a scheduled flight time of a hair under 16 hours, departs Chicago on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Passengers can expect Cathay’s Airbus A350-1000, featuring a total capacity of 334 passengers: 46 in lie-flat business class with a 1-2-1 arrangement, 32 in premium economy with a 2-4-2 arrangement, and 256 in economy with a 3-3-3 arrangement. The aircraft features Cathay’s latest inflight entertainment system along with Wi-Fi connectivity. 

However, you won’t find a first-class cabin onboard the Airbus A350 as you would on Cathay’s Boeing 777-300ER. “[The A350s] are about 25 percent less in fuel burn than the 777s [that have first class]. They're quieter; they're more environmentally friendly,” van den Hooven explained in bringing the A350 to Chicago instead. 

Besides Cathay staple amenities in business class, such as 400-thread-count Bamford bedlinen and skincare products, for 2023, plant-based eaters will find a new in-flight menu, in collaboration with Hong Kong restaurant, VEDA by Ovolo. Long-haul flights departing from Hong Kong also feature meals from Hong Kong’s Michelin-starred Duddell’s. 

Pre-flight, passengers can enjoy Cathay Pacific’s luxurious airport lounges , all of which have fully reopened as of this fall. “We are especially proud of The Pier and The Wing first class sections in both of those lounges,” van den Hooven noted. 

Currently, Cathay flies to four other U.S. destinations from its Hong Kong base — New York, Boston, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. Prior to the pandemic, the airline also had service in the U.S. to Newark, NJ, and Seattle. In 2024, Cathay Pacific will be unveiling a brand-new business class seat, branded the “Aria Suite,” across its fleet of Boeing 777-300ERs.

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Cathay Pacific: San Francisco – Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. $707. Roundtrip, including all Taxes

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Vietnam introduced a new e-Visa system – take advantage of it. Its the cheapest option.

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Sample Travel Date:

• November 25th – December 4th
• This is just ONE SAMPLE travel date, for more availability, please follow the “Fare Availability” and “How to Search for Availability” instructions below

Fare Availability:

• Valid for travel from late October – November. Availability is extremely limited. Must purchase at least 3 days in advance of departure
• Please note that while this fare is valid at time of posting, if this post is more than two days old, the fare is likely gone.

How to Search for Availability:

• This is just to search for availability. To buy your tickets, scroll down to “How to Buy” section of this post
• Origin: SFO
• Routing Codes : cx cx
• Extension Codes : maxconnect 300
• Destination:   SGN
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• Select “See calendar of lowest fares”
• Duration “3-10” (This is just a sample, you can use any 7 day date range like 3-10, 7-14 etc)
• Beginner’s Guide on How to Use Matrix by ITA Software
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• The Matrix Airfare Search by ITA Software search page should be like below when all values are inputted

• You cannot buy tickets using Matrix Airfare Search by ITA Software. To buy, follow our instructions in the “How to Buy” section below.

Fare Class:

• SFO – HKG (Hong Kong) – SGN (Ho Chi Minh City) – HKG – SFO
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• How to Take Advantage of a Stopover

Cathay Pacific is an Alaska Air partner. Mileage earning with Alaska Air as follows:

• Miles Flown: 15,676 miles or 4.5 cents per mile
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Travel Codex

Your Resource for Better Travel

Get a Free Hong Kong City Tour or Discounted Tickets to Disneyland

If your layover is between 6 and 24 hours, you can enjoy one of these four experiences.

Airport Express Same Day Return Ticket

The Airport Express takes you from Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) right into the heart of Central Hong Kong in just 24 minutes. Trains depart every ten minutes, and will grant you your first views of Hong Kong’s epic scenery.

• Operating hours are from 5:50 AM to 1:15 AM daily.
• Cost is free.

360 Transit in Lantau

Ngong Ping 360 is where you can enjoy 360-degree views on one of the world’s 10 best cable car rides. Enjoy express boarding to either a Standard or glass-bottomed Crystal Cabin, and after a 25-minute journey, alight at the open-air Ngong Ping Village where a wide range of shops and restaurants await. You’ll also receive admission to three dazzling attractions, including the action-packed live performance Stage 360; the 5D movie experience Motion 360; and the unique and interactive Walking with Buddha.

• Operating hours are from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
• Cost is HKD 135 (approx $17.27 USD) per person.

Relax at Disneyland’s Walt’s Cafe.

Enjoy a lunch or afternoon tea set at Walt’s Cafe located at the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel. Enjoy your meal amidst Victorian décor – including dark wood molding and vintage photographs of Walt Disney himself – and take in the sweeping view of the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel gardens and the South China Sea. Afterwards, explore a garden maze in the shape of Mickey Mouse and stock up on the latest Disney merchandise when you hit the shops of Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel.

• Includes round-trip shuttle transfer from HKIA and Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel and a lunch or afternoon tea seat.
• Shuttle service hours are from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.
• Cost is HKD 220 (approx $28.14 USD) per person.

Day at Hong Kong Disneyland

There’s no arguing with the fact that Disney is always worth your time – especially if it’s at Hong Kong Disneyland, where you will be immersed in more than a hundred attractions and entertainment offerings, including Disney’s first Marvel-themed ride, the ‘Iron Man Experience’, the state-of-the-art ‘Disney Paint the Night’ parade, the Broadway-style musical ‘Mickey and the Wondrous Book’, some dazzling ‘Disney in the Stars’ fireworks, and the out-of-this-world ‘Star Wars: Tomorrowland Takeover’.

• Includes round-trip shuttle transfer from HKIA to Hong Kong Disneyland and 1-day park ticket to Hong Kong Disneyland theme park.
• Shuttle services hours are from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.
• Cost is HKD 385 ($49.25) per person. That’s a savings of $30 USD off the normal admission price and it includes round-trip shuttle transfer.

If your stopover is between 3 and 7 nights, you can enjoy one of these four experiences.

Hop-on, Hop-off City Bus Tour

Explore Hong Kong at your own pace with a comprehensive and unique sightseeing experience. The journey traverses Hong Kong Island, Kowloon Peninsula, and Stanley Market – three distinct locations that will allow you to experience the sheer diversity that Hong Kong is known for. You’ll enjoy even more perspectives of the city thanks to panoramic views of the iconic Hong Kong skyline from onboard the Star Ferry, and from the giddy heights of Victoria Peak with the Peak Tram Sky Pass or access to the Sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck.

• Includes 1-day Classic Ticket including Star Ferry ticket, sampan ride, and choice of Peak Tram Sky Pass or admission to sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck.
• Operating hours are from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM daily

Deluxe Hong Kong Island Combo Tour

Whether you’re visiting Hong Kong for the first time or returning after a long absence, this seat-in coach tour will perfectly orientate you around the beautiful Hong Kong Island. You’ll enjoy a Peak Tram ride up to Victoria Peak, a visit to Aberdeen Fishing Village (and optional sampan ride is also available at guests’ own expense), a trip to view the most popular beach in town, Repulse Bay beach, and finishes with a visit to Stanley Market, where you can stroll the famous seaside village bazaar. A complimentary classic rickshaw open-top bus ticket will be provided.

• Includes Deluxe Hong Kong Island tour in the morning or afternoon, One-way Airport Express ticket from airport to Hong Kong Station or Kowloon Station and a 1GB 3-day pre-paid SIM with 25 minutes of local airtime
• Tour pick-up time: approx. 7:50 a.m. to 8:40 a.m. at selected hotels for morning departure; or approx. 12:35pm to 1:25pm at selected hotels for afternoon departure.

Old Hong Kong Experience 

It might be best known for its sparkling skyline, but Hong Kong’s bustling Central district has a rich history. Explore its characterful streets and alleys – from the antique-filled Hollywood Road to historic Pottinger Street – on an Old Town Walking Tour, the perfect start for getting to know Hong Kong. Later on in the afternoon, head to the Dukling and set sail on an authentic red-sailed Chinese fishing junk – restored for visitors to enjoy breathtaking views of Victoria Harbour at dusk.

• Includes a walking tour of Old Town and a Dukling Harbour tour.
• Tour starts at 1:00 PM and lasts approximately 5 hour.

Kowloon Cultural & Life Tour

Guided by the experts, get to know the local life of Hong Kongat some of the city’s most sensory and historic sights, including: the Chi Lin Nunnery, a monastic complex modelled on traditional Chinese heavy timber structures in the style of the Tang Dynasty; the beautiful Nan Lian Garden; the charming, Chinese-style Bird Garden, the gathering place of Hong Kong’s songbird owners who carry their beloved pets around in intricately carved cages; and the Flower Market, a jungle of exotic blossoms, luck-bringing houseplants, and sweet scents.

• Includes a guided tour including pick-up and drop-off at the Hyatt Regency Tsim Sha Tsui Hotel
• Tour pick up time is 2:30 PM daily and lasts approximately 4 hours.

Important terms and conditions

• Your tickets must be purchased through Cathay Pacific’s website.
• Blackout dates may apply.
• Only one offer is available per passenger and each offer can only be redeemed once. In other words, you can only redeem one of these offers during your layover and you can only redeem it once. For example, if you elect the hop-on, hop-off bus tour, you can only redeem it for one day. You can’t redeem it for 3 days in a row.
• Offer excludes flights booked in booking classes X, T and U.
• If your flight is eligible, you’ll see a banner on the booking confirmation page, and you’ll also receive a follow up email inviting you to register for the offers.
• Additional terms and conditions and instructions on how to redeem your tours can be found here .

What do you guys think of these free tours? Anything worth changing your schedule for? Please let me know in the comments section below. Thanks for reading!

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Among the many names Paris is known by – city of lights, city of love – there’s one more to add this year: the host city of the 2024 Summer Olympics . If you’re heading to the French capital for the Games, maximise your free time by exploring culture-rich neighbourhoods and sampling equally as rich buttery pastries. Here, we’ve curated a helpful guide to ensure you make the most of your Paris experience.

Credit: Getty Images, Kiran Ridley

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What to see and do

Unmissable attractions 

While there’s no shortage of historical monuments to visit in Paris, the soaring Eiffel Tower is the city’s biggest draw. To experience it without queuing, consider buying your tickets online (up to two months in advance) or hiking up to the second floor of the tower before taking the lift the rest of the way up. When you reach the top, you'll be greeted by an incredible bird-eye’s view of Paris. 

If you want to admire the tower itself, the Place du Trocadero offers a pleasant walk to it and plenty of photo-taking opportunities on the way. Further away, the observation deck atop Montparnasse Tower also boasts a lofty view of the Eiffel Tower poking above the city. Keep an eye on the tower after dark; it glistens every hour.

The Arc de Triomphe is another icon of Paris. Besides sporting magnificent carvings, the arch also offers a 360-degree panorama of the avenues below, branching outwards like a web. Closed since 2019’s devastating fire, the almost-restored Notre Dame Cathedral is scheduled to reopen in December 2024. Until then, visitors can admire the building’s Gothic facade and visit its crypt.

For a deeper dive into history, visit one or more of Paris’ many museums. A trip to the Louvre is a must – and not just for its impressive glass pyramid or a fleeting glimpse of the Mona Lisa. The museum’s collection of artworks is so extensive that it’s nearly impossible to see them all. Plan your visit and follow one of its curated trails before taking a stroll along the pristine flowerbeds of the nearby Jardins des Tuileries.

If works by other renowned artists like Monet and van Gogh interest you, make your way to Musée de l’Orangerie or Musée d’Orsay . More of a contemporary art fan? Check out the Centre Pompidou , an industrial-looking building housing vast collections of Fauvist, Dadaist, and surrealist works.

Admission to Paris’ most popular attractions typically ranges from  €5-15, so if you’re planning to visit several of them, we recommend buying a money-saving Paris Pass . Some of the city’s major museums also offer free admission on certain days (typically the first Sunday of every month), so check out their respective websites for the latest visitor information.

Credit: Getty Images

Alternative activities

If you prefer a more leisure-oriented trip with some sightseeing thrown in, spend a languid day in Montmartre, known as the “painter’s neighbourhood”. From atop the Sacre-Coeur , you’ll see Paris’s cityscape unfurl beneath you. Stop by local bakeries and cafés before exploring narrow streets where artists paint and sell their work. Finally, check out the cabaret at the world-famous Moulin Rouge for a taste of the area’s nightlife.

Fancy a picnic with views? Find a spot along the Seine or head a bit further away from central Paris to Parc des Buttes-Chaumont , where you’ll find the fairytale-esque Temple de la Sybille atop a rock overlooking the city. 

Meanwhile, book lovers shouldn’t miss Shakespeare and Company and Abbey Bookshop , just a few minutes away from each other in Paris’ Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement). Peruse shelves crammed with books, or simply take in the cosy ambience amid the haphazardly stacked tomes.

For a more guided adventure, a variety of food tours , bike or Segway tours and even cooking classes are also available across the city. 

Credit: Getty Image

Day trips from Paris

Paris is an excellent stepping-off point for exploring some of France’s other famed regions and towns. Wine lovers will delight in a trip to Champagne , just 45 minutes from Paris by train, where rolling hills, vineyards, and an abundance of tasting opportunities await. 

Outdoorsy travellers and history buffs alike will enjoy an excursion to Normandy , two hours from Paris. A treasure trove of history spanning from the Viking Age to World War II, the region also boasts a beautiful coastline and tons to do on the water .

For an alternative take on French cuisine amid quaint streets, make the two-hour trip to Colmar , a charming village with crisscrossing canals and German-influenced architecture.

Credit: Getty Images, Andrea Astes

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Where to eat

Restaurants

Looking for cosy bistros and brasseries serving traditional French fare? Chow down on steak frites and coq au vin at La Fontaine de Mars , a celebrated bistro complete with red checked tablecloths near the Eiffel Tower. Another classic yet chic option is Café de la Paix . With a terrace overlooking the historic Palais Garnier opera house, it serves light lunch and coffee as well as classics like foie gras and onion soup. 

If you’re on the hunt for more affordable options that include both French and international restaurants, explore the Latin Quarter: the neighbourhood is sure to have something that’ll tickle your fancy.

Credit: Getty Images, Lyvans Boolaky

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Specialty shops

Between meals, you’ll want to visit a patisserie and boulangerie (or several) for incredible baked goods. Overwhelmed by choice? A good rule is to start with a pain au chocolat or brioche and go from there. For pastries with pedigree, sit down at the fashionable Angelina Paris near Jardins des Tuileries, which serves an assortment of delightful treats, from mont blancs to millefeuilles. For a broad selection of both pastries and bread, stop by Des Gateaux et Du Pain , while Chambelland offers delicious gluten-free breads and pastries. 

Macaron lovers should visit Pierre Hermé for unique flavours and colours to match. Other sweet treats to try include galettes and crepes at Breizh Café , tarte au citron at Sébastian Gaudard , and seasonally flavoured ice cream and fruit sorbet at Berthillon . If you love your cheese, drop by fromagerie Androuet ; it has 10 shops across Paris and staff who are happy to help you find the right cheese for your tastes. 

Where to shop

Put on your walking shoes, because Paris has a plethora of shopping destinations to visit. Combine sightseeing with your retail therapy at department store Galeries Lafayette Haussman , whose gilded arches and glass domed ceiling are well worth stopping to admire. Another popular department store to hit up is Printemps , which has a few locations across the city and a large selection of luxury brands within. 

For high-end shopping streets featuring French and international designer brands, head to Champs-Élysées. If affordable shopping is more your style, the Latin Quarter is the place to be. Curious about Parisian markets? Drop by île de la Cité for the flower market or the Sunday bird market; if it’s food you’re after, head to Le Marché Des Enfants Rouges , the oldest food market in Paris.

If you still have the energy (and space in your suitcase), Paris is home to a number of covered arcades that double as shopping malls, including the elegant Galerie Vivienne and Passage des Panoramas .

Where to stay

In the city centre

Situated in the 1st Arrondissement, Le Meurice is bordered by the Jardins des Tuileries and is a short walk from the Louvre and Place Vendôme. Visited by many a famous artist in the past, the grand hotel is an attraction in its own right. Meanwhile, for a view of the Eiffel Tower from the comfort and elegance of your room, book a stay at Le Metropolitan Paris Tour Eiffel using your Asia Miles.

Looking for an artsy boutique hotel? So/ Paris offers colourful rooms featuring works by local and international artists, and balconies that look out over the city skyline. Hôtel Le Monna Lisa , steps away from popular shopping avenue Champs-Élysées, also boasts rooms adorned with beautiful sculptures and paintings., steps away from popular shopping avenue Champs-Élysées, also boasts rooms adorned with beautiful sculptures and paintings.

On the outskirts

A solid option in Clichy with welcoming rooms and a cosy rooftop terrace is former-printing-house-turned-hotel L’lmprimerie Hôtel , which can also be booked with Asia Miles.

For even more options, we offer a broad selection of hotel stays which can be fully redeemed with miles . Alternatively, you can take advantage of our expanded partnership with Marriott Bonvoy for hotel perks after converting your miles to points.

Credit: Getty Images, kolderal

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What to consider while travelling

Getting around

The city centre is largely walkable, but the metro is the fastest way to travel and typically brings you within reach of famous landmarks. A few things that are helpful to note are: some stations don’t have ticket machines; a day pass may be cheaper than multiple tickets; and travelling at non-peak hours will help you avoid the crowds.

Alternatively, you can hop on the Bateaux-Mouches – charming tourist boats that chug along the Seine – for a glimpse of the major sights from the water or rent a city bike if you’re confident exploring the city on two wheels.

Before you travel, make sure you’ve prepared all necessary travel documents and packed accordingly for the weather. If your trip coincides with any public holidays or events, like the 2024 Olympics, you may need to adapt your schedule around closures and crowds. During your trip, be mindful of your surroundings and belongings, especially in tourist areas.