Cathay Pacific
Routes: Boston to Hong Kong, Hong Kong to Bali, Bangkok to Hong Kong, Kong Kong to Beijing, Hong Kong to San Francisco
Why I love it: Where to even begin? Cathay has service down to an art on board and even off – take a peek inside their lounges that go above and beyond. The dim sum? Forget about it. Best I’ve ever had. More details here.
Garuda Indonesia
Route: Bali to Singapore
Why I love it: This flag carrier of Indonesia does things a little differently. Donning vibrant uniforms while they serve their passengers, flight attendants are classified based one of three colors they proudly wear: orange is for the junior stewardess, turquoise for the senior, and blue for the flight supervisor. They also conduct the boarding process by parading through the gate with signs that say “Business Class” and “Economy Class.” You better be paying attention! No loud speaker here.
Singapore Airlines
Route: Singapore to Kuala Lumpur
Why I love it: Luxury at 32,000 feet has never looked so good. A posh player in the skies, Singapore Airlines has impressed many travelers in its day. The hub of Changi Airport never seems to disappoint either as it’s frequently topping the charts as Best Airport on many lists.
Malaysia Airlines
Route: Kuala Lumpur to Male, Maldives
Why I love it: I’m not going to lie. In lieu of the recent tragedies that bought down two MH planes, I was a bit apprehensive to book with Malaysia Airlines. After boarding, however, I was pleasantly surprised at the level of comfort I was met with while on the flight. With two outlets, vino and comfy blankets, I was well equipped to work throughout the flight.
Maldivian Airlines:
Route: Male Atoll to Laamu Atoll
Why I love it: Forget about turning off cellular phones or electronics – there aren’t any rules on board this prop plane. And who cares about the beverage cart (you won’t find one on this flight due to its short duration). I couldn’t tear my eyes from the window.
Bangkok Airways:
Route: Male to Bangkok
Why I love it: Asia’s boutique airline has colorful planes, beautiful flight attendants, funny videos playing on TV, great food, and any kind of refreshments you’re craving. I was a happy traveler during my flight to Bangkok.
Thai Airways & Thai Smile:
Route: Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Why I love it: I found all airlines throughout SE Asia to be efficient, but inexpensive, lovely, AND efficient? That’s a triple threat in my book. I’ll most definitely be back to bask in all of Thailand’s skies.
Budget friendly airlines throughout SE Asia:
If you’re busy traveling on a budget, don’t forget about these airlines in a pinch: Dragon Air, Thai Smile, Tiger Air, Jet Star, Air Asia.
Over to you! What airlines have you flown throughout Southeast Asia? Did you love it or loathe it?
Maybe it’s just me but my impression of the industry in general is that US-based airlines focus on being budget-friendly whereas Asian airlines focus on the quality of service. Has this been your experience?
I think Asian airlines definitely focus on service over anything else. It amazed me that I traveled throughout the region for weeks without a single hiccup! US-based airlines need to get on board.
Thank you for sharing about these. All sorts and more were part of my jet lag free travel with jetLAGFX http://www.jetlagfx.com/. I must say choosing the right airline is very important.
you only travel in style! Air Asia for budget and number of destinations cant be beat.