Welcome to the country of red rock canyons, expansive views framed by arches and sandstone spires. Spreading national forests, vast wilderness areas, quaint state parks, and five national parks in Utah make up more than seventy-five percent of its land area that is open to the public.
The southern portion of Utah is home to all the state’s national parks. The “Mighty Five” are worth the hype, from the breathtakingly steep yet sublime Zion Canyon to the mind-blowing hoodoos of Bryce and the famous Delicate Arch. Additionally, these parks offer at least a dozen hidden gems, peaceful trails, and less-traveled roads for every must-see highlight.
How, then, can one outwit the masses? The easiest solution is to leave when other people aren’t. This may mean a trip in the winter, when the temperatures are much more bearable than in the sweltering summer, and the snow adds an extra magical quality to the hoodoos. Since all national parks in Utah are accessible year-round, you can schedule a stargazing expedition or a sunrise tour.
However, bear in mind that the hours of local eateries and visitor centers change if you visit during the off-season, which runs roughly from November to February. Despite this, you can find cheaper lodging during this time.
Here, being proactive pays off very well. Popular hikes have permits that sell out months in advance. The most sought-after lodges and campgrounds (particularly those inside the park) frequently have a year-long waiting list. You can make a lot of these reservations at www.recreation.gov. The top attractions of the national parks in Utah, listed from east to west, include must-see locations, undiscovered treasures, and insider advice for maximizing each trip.
National Parks in Utah
How many national parks in Utah, you ask? The answer is easy because they call it the “Mighty 5” for a reason. Here, we are listing all the state parks in Utah that you could plan a visit to. We are also going to help you with all the stuff you must pack when planning a trip.
Zion National Park
With its soaring canyon walls and hanging gardens, Zion National Park, the first of the national parks in Utah and the 13th in the United States, is a popular destination on many people’s bucket lists. The park’s main road now closes to private vehicles during peak season (March to October) due to its increasing popularity, requiring visitors to take a shuttle. One advantage is that you can bike this almost flat, picturesque drive.
You can rent bikes and e-bikes in nearby Springdale (check out Zion Cycles). Two to six months in advance of your trip, you must apply for a permit if you plan to hike the popular Angels Landing trail. If possible, stay at Zion Lodge or in neighboring Springdale. Make reservations up to 13 months in advance for any lodging in or around Zion. Explore the park’s Kolob Canyons area or the more sedate paths off Kolob Terrace Road when you’re ready to forgo the tourist traps.
Bryce Canyon National Park
At Bryce, the main draw is the bizarre spires that have been formed over millions of years. Ultimately, this location has the highest concentration of these hoodoos worldwide. The best (and quickest) way to satisfy your thirst for hoodoo views is to take the main park drive and take the Navajo Loop from Sunset Point or the Queen’s Garden Loop from Sunrise Point. Try a portion of the 23-mile Under-the-Rim Trail or one of those trails down to Fairyland Loop for a more immersive hike.
Take the back entrance into Bryce Amphitheater via Tropic Trail from the small town of Tropic to have some hoodoos all to yourself. While there, you can also have lunch at i.d.k. Barbecue a state favorite. Bike the dirt Thunder Mountain Trail or the paved Red Canyon Path to discover a more sedate hoodoo landscape. The historic Lodge at Bryce Canyon is the perfect base camp for exploring the park; however, if reservations are unavailable, consider lodging at one of the nearby hotels in Bryce Canyon City. We also think Under Canvas Bryce’s campsites are great.
Capitol Reef National Park
The quietest of the national parks in Utah boasts a magnificent environment that is attributed to the Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile geologic wrinkle in the earth. Petroglyphs and the historic Fruita Orchards, which the park still cares for, are two of the area’s unique attractions. Try the fresh pies at Gifford Homestead, which is close to the park entrance and made with local fruit, such as apples or peaches.
Take a leisurely stroll along the former main highway through Capitol Gorge. Or brave the steep trail to Cassidy Arch, where there are rumors, that Butch Cassidy escaped the law. If you have a decent 4WD car, you, too, can escape (from other travelers). Notom-Bullfrog Road intersects with Burr Trail Road, another backcountry route, and leads to Lake Powell. Burr Trail leads to Boulder, the starting point for Grand-Staircase Escalante National Monument and the location of Hell’s Backbone Grill, possibly the best restaurant in Utah.
It stays open in spring through fall. You should make reservations in advance. If you stay in one of the lodges in this small town that is only five minutes from the park, Boulder is close, but Torrey is closer. Canyonlands is divided into five distinct districts, each providing a unique experience. Island in the Sky is a place of expansive vistas.
Don’t miss Mesa Arch or Shafer Trail Viewpoint. The Needles District is a great place to go hiking. It’s only about 20 miles south of the Island in the Sky as the crow flies (two hours drive). One of the best hiking routes is the action-packed Cave Spring Trail. It features a replica of an 1880s cowboy camp and mushroom-like rock formations.
Canyonlands National Park
Get lost in the Maze. Other worthwhile stops in this backcountry district are Chocolate Drops and the Land of Standing Rocks. See amazing petroglyphs, including floating “holy ghosts,” by traveling to the non-contiguous Horseshoe Canyon unit. For a rafting adventure, head to the River District, which is at the base of the canyons formed by the Colorado and Green Rivers.
The best place to stay for most of the park’s district is Moab, which provides quick access to the park’s rivers, the Needles, and Island in the Sky.
Arches National Park
Arches, the inspiration behind Ed Abbey’s famous Desert Solitaire, has evolved significantly since 1968. Because of its increased activity, the park service is currently testing a timed entry system that will require reservations in advance from April to October 2023. However, it is possible to avoid a Disneyland experience. If you arrive before sunrise or remain past sunset, you will be rewarded with quieter trails and golden light that casts a glow over the arches.
Be an early bird or a night owl. This is feasible because Moab’s closest lodging options are situated sufficiently near the park’s entrance. If you would prefer not to get up early, reserve a campsite at Devils Garden up to six months in advance or take a ranger-led tour to see the Fiery Furnace area, which is accessible only with a permit.
Travel Checklist When Visiting the National Parks in Utah
Planning a trip to the national parks in Utah is as fun as it is a massive plan to come up with. You must be well prepared for the weather you will be subject to both in the day as well as night. The few days that you will spend here will be nothing short of an adventure. Here is a list of things that you must have with you if your destination includes the national parks in Utah.
Hardy Water Shoes
The red desert dirt in Utah can be extremely sticky. You should invest in good water shoes if you intend to go river rafting, canoeing, or kayaking. When participating in water activities, flip-flops are not advised. They will become stuck in the mud and either break or get sucked down the river.
Your feet will be safe if you hike the rocky Virgin River through the Narrows in Zion National Park wearing rubber-toed shoes covered with firm soles. (Near Zion’s Springdale entrance, you can rent an entire dry gear outfit, including shoes.)
Blacklight Flashlight
Scorpios are nocturnal creatures that hide during the day. Use your black light to identify them; the light from it causes these odd creatures to glow. Don’t worry too much about scorpions because there is only one species in the Southwest that is thought to be deadly.
Sun Protection
The strength of the Utah sun only needs to be experienced once, especially in the desert, where there isn’t much shade to be found. There will be certain hikes you take or picnic tables you sit at where there isn’t a single spot to hide from the sun and heat of the desert. If possible, bring a wide-brimmed hat to cover your entire face. That would be better than a baseball cap. Next, cover all exposed skin, including the back of your neck, with sunscreen.
Don’t forget to wear sunglasses for eye protection. Polarized lenses will improve your vision and shield your eyes from burns. Recall that at 8,000 feet, you are closer to the sun than you are at sea level. If you’re going to be on the water, get some sunglasses straps. It’s annoying to watch your new shades drift away with you.
Rain Jacket
You might wonder, who takes rain jackets into the desert? Yes, we do. Each time we come to town. Even the desert experiences occasional, albeit brief, bursts of rainfall. You want a jacket that will keep you dry and warm when it pours, and the temperature drops.
Hiking Boots
Bring a pair of supportive, water-resistant, and breathable hiking boots to maximize your experience. These will make it easy for you to travel both dry and wet trails, allowing you to go farther than you otherwise could have. They also shield your feet from trail stones, cactus needles, and maybe even snakebites. Here’s a staff member who can’t stop gushing about his Sportiva Synthesis Mid GTX to get you started on your research. Vasque Skywalks GTS was highly appreciated by our friends at Backpacker.
Water Bottle
Carry a sizable water bottle that you can fill with your garden hose prior to packing if you intend to go camping. With the jug, you can travel with water wherever you go. This means you can cook, stay hydrated, and make coffee in the morning even if you find yourself at a campsite without water. A water pump is typically available at campsites so you can replenish as needed.
Hydration
The air in the desert is so dry that perspiration quickly evaporates. Often, sweating is invisible to you. By staying hydrated, you can prevent dehydration, which can cause headaches as well as more severe ailments like heat stroke and cramps. Make a drinking plan of 5 to 1 liter for each hiking hour. Make sure to continue drinking even when you are not recreating. You are hydrated if your urine is clear. We adore carrying our CamelBak with us so we can continue to sip while we’re out and about.
If you find yourself severely dehydrated or in need of quick hydration recovery, mobile IV therapy in Houston or at any needed location can be a lifesaver. These services offer on-site hydration solutions that can help replenish your body’s fluids and electrolytes efficiently while you’re still enjoying your outdoor activities
Warm/Cool Clothes
Temperatures in the national parks in Utah desert can vary by up to 30 degrees in a single day. So, pack light clothing for the day and warm clothing for the evenings. Include a winter hat for when the sun sets, and the cooler air moves in. As for national parks in Utah, this is particularly crucial in the fall, winter, and spring. Temperatures here can drop sharply after precipitation and sunset.
Maps
There are an amazing variety of trails and overlooks in each of Utah’s five national parks. Having a map is beneficial. You can either get your maps in advance and get them now, or you can wait until a park ranger hands you one at the entrance station. Get the NatGeo Utah National Parks Map Pack, which includes detailed topographic maps, at REI.com or download free PDF maps.
Star Chart/App
The national parks in Utah have some of the darkest skies. You can recognize some of the formations you might not have noticed otherwise with the help of a star chart. Particularly so if you are traveling from an urban area. Alternatively, you can make use of technology and download the SkyView app for Android or iPhone. This app allows you to point your phone at objects to identify stars and other objects. In contrast to the 500 stars in an urban sky, you might be able to see up to 15,000 stars in a desert. It’s a long way off!
Tablecloth
The little things add up to a significant impact. Pull out your tablecloth when you stop for lunch at the weathered picnic table by the side of the road, and you’ll go from rustic to elegant in an instant. Additionally, by avoiding leaning against the table, you’ll prevent difficult-to-remove splinters.
Bug Spray
Rather than swatting insects, spend more time taking in the beauty. These days, there are many bug sprays made from natural ingredients that are safer for kids to use if you don’t want to use harsh chemicals. Our choice is the Sawyer 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent, which is great for families. According to Consumer Reports, this formula offers the best defense against mosquitoes. In addition to being highly effective against ticks and biting flies, Sawyer’s insect repellent won’t harm tools or equipment.
Wrapping Up
The national parks in Utah serve as a living example of the amazing natural beauty and geological marvels that abound in the American Southwest. These protected landscapes preserve the natural heritage of the area. They also provide an opportunity for visitors to engage with the profound forces that have shaped the Earth over millions of years.
The terrain ranges from the majestic red rock formations of Arches and Canyonlands to the captivating canyons of Zion and Bryce Canyon. The national parks in Utah invite us to discover, value, and safeguard the delicate wonders that make our planet truly remarkable. They serve as entry points to adventure, education, and environmental stewardship.
In addition to creating lifelong memories, experiencing Utah’s breathtaking scenery also helps to continue the legacy of conservation, guaranteeing that these natural treasures will be appreciated for many years to come. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about national parks in Utah, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you!
Abdul Aziz Mondol is a professional blogger who is having a colossal interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, he loves to share content related to business, finance, technology, and the gaming niche.
Singapore is a place you won't forget because it has a mix of modernity, rich culture, and a famous skyline.
Okay, so—Singapore. If you’ve been there, you probably get it. And if not, just trust me—it’s one of those places that stays with you.
It’s shiny and modern, but at the same time, you turn a corner and there’s a temple that looks like it’s from another century. The food? Ridiculous. The views? Even more so.
But here's the thing nobody tells you upfront: your hotel? It's not just somewhere to crash. It's a huge part of the whole vibe, especially if you're going all-in on the luxury experience. But, how to choose luxury hotel in Singapore? That can feel... kinda overwhelming.
Let me walk you through how I usually figure it out.
How To Choose Luxury Hotel In Singapore?
Choosing the place where you are going to stay for your vacation is always exciting. But how to choose luxury hotel in Singapore? You have to consider a lot of things while choosing it.
1. Pick The Best Place For You
So first off, you gotta ask yourself, “Why am I even here?” I mean, what are you really in Singapore for?
Want to shop? Go somewhere close to Orchard Road—it’s like shopping overload in the best way.
More into history and temples and that sort of thing? You’ll probably want Chinatown or Kampong Glam.
Travelling with kids or just want some beachy downtime? Sentosa's the move.
And if you’re in town for work stuff, or want those crazy Marina Bay views? Then yeah—stay near Marina Bay.
Also, and I can’t say this enough, be near an MRT stop. It’s cheap, clean, and insanely efficient. You’ll save yourself so much walking and taxi money.
2. Make Sure The Amenities Fit Your Lifestyle
Okay, here’s where it gets personal. Like—what does “luxury” mean to you?
Is it a spa that melts your stress away in five minutes flat?
Or a rooftop bar where they remember your name and your drink after one night?
Or maybe you just need solid Wi-Fi and a quiet room so you can finish that Zoom call and then go disappear into the pool.
Some places go really extra with the service—private butlers, curated city tours, chefs who’ll adjust the menu to your dietary thing... all that. But don’t just fall for the photos. Look at what actually matters to you, not what sounds fancy in a brochure.
3. Think About Different Themes And Designs
Okay, not everyone cares about this. But I do. I mean, you could stay in some super clean, all-white, glass-everywhere kind of hotel, and that’s fine. Or you could stay in a place that feels like Singapore, like it actually tells you a story.
There are hotels with old-school colonial architecture and crazy modern interiors. Or ones where you walk in and it's just this mix of bold colours, funky shapes, and stuff that kinda feels like an art exhibit.
There’s something cool about being in a place that doesn’t feel cookie-cutter, y’know?
4. Get Ideas From Real Guest Reviews
Alright. Quick tip: don’t trust only the perfect pics and big influencer posts. Some of those are basically paid ads with filters.
Instead, scroll through the messy, ranty, or surprisingly detailed reviews. If ten people say the breakfast is amazing? It probably is. If three folks mention mould in the bathroom, even if everything else looks nice? Yeah, that’s a red flag.
I always try to find reviews from someone who travelled the way I am—like solo, or with a partner, or for work. You’ll get a much better read on what your own stay might feel like.
5. Think About How Private And Exclusive It Is
Okay, this one’s kinda underrated. Some hotels—especially the bigger chain types—are just... crowded. Even if they’re five-star, it can feel like a luxury version of a mall.
But the smaller boutique hotels? Totally different energy. Quieter, slower, more personal. You might not get the giant buffet breakfast, but you will get a front desk person who actually remembers your room number and maybe even your name.
If you’re on a honeymoon, anniversary trip, or just don’t wanna deal with tour groups and loud lobby music, go small and classy. Trust me.
6. Look At The Loyalty Benefits And Packages Side By Side
Quick money-saving trick: don’t ignore those loyalty programs. Even if you’re only gonna use it once a year, the perks can be solid, like surprise upgrades or free late checkout (a lifesaver if your flight’s in the evening).
Also, check if the hotel’s running any random packages. Sometimes it’s stuff like airport transfers, spa credits, or a private dinner for two. It doesn’t always save you cash, but it can make your stay feel a lot more... taken care of.
7. Put Safety And Cleanliness First
Yeah, I know. Not the fun part. But since the whole pandemic thing, this matters more than it used to.
Most top-tier hotels say they’re clean, but still, dig a little deeper. There are various luxury boutique hotels in Singapore to choose from.
Look for stuff like contactless check-in, solid air filtration (it’s a thing now), and what guests actually say about how well-kept everything is.
If the place is sparkling and the staff is on top of things? It’s one less thing to stress about.
How To Choose Luxury Hotel In Singapore: Think Of Ypur Priority
If you are wondering how to choose luxury hotel in Singapore, you need to think about what matters most to you, like the design, location, privacy, and amenities.
At the end of the day, there’s no “best” hotel—just the one that hits all your buttons.
It might be the place with the jaw-dropping skyline views. Or the one with a bathtub bigger than your entire apartment. Or maybe just somewhere that’s quiet, clean, and has ridiculously good room service.
Whatever it is, when you find that spot that just gets it right, it becomes more than a hotel. It becomes part of the trip.
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East Africa comprises 8 countries: Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, the DRC, South Sudan, and Somalia.
Each country has its unique safari activities. However, we are going to take a look at the amazing things in Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania.
Here are the things to do during the East African safari tour.
What Are The Things To Do In The East African Safari Tour?
The East African safari tour is not just about spotting wildlife.
While spotting the gorillas, lions, and elephants remains the main attraction, this safari tour is also about a rich cultural experience.
For example, when you visit the Maasai villages, you learn about their livelihood and how they share a close bond with nature and wildlife.
Moreover, if you thought the safaris were the only adventure, you probably have not tried a hot air balloon ride here.
The sunrise view at Mara or Serengeti during a hot air balloon ride is something that gives you an adrenaline rush, and the feelings are transcendental.
Nevertheless, here are the best things to do on an East African safari.
1. Gorilla Trekking In Uganda
A trip to East Africa is incomplete without experiencing gorilla trekking. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park offers the best Gorilla trekking Uganda safari packagesof a lifetime.
This is the only national park that has the largest number of mountain gorillas in the world.
Bwindi also offers Uganda birding experiences in the Buhoma and Nkuringo sectors.
2. Wildebeest Migration Safari In The Masai Mara Game Reserve In Kenya
This is one of the most booked African safari tours in the world. The Masai Mara game reserve is a breathtaking destination.
This place has a massive number of wildebeest migrating, the migration that starts in early July and ends in October.
Another adventure that adds personal value to your safari to the Masai Mara game reserve is a cultural tour of a Masai Village.
3. Game Drive And Boat Safari In Murchison Falls National Park
Murchison Falls National Park is located in northwestern Uganda. It is the largest national park in Uganda, followed by Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Murchison has animals such as lions, Giraffes, buffalo, Uganda Kobs, Elephants, warthogs, and hyenas, to name a few.
Not only are game drives done here, but Murchison Falls National Park also offers an amazing boat safari to the bottom of the waterfalls and scenic views of the top of the waterfalls.
4. Game Drives And Boat Safaris In Queen Elizabeth National Park
This is the second-largest national park in Uganda, after Murchison Falls National Park, and the second most visited.
This park is located near the majestic Rwenzori Mountains and sits in the Kasese, Kamwenge, Bushenyi, and Kukungiri districts, covering an area of 1,978 km2.
Almost all popular Uganda safari packages feature Queen Elizabeth National Park, as it offers a range of activities.
This includes game drives to spot the Big Five, boat safaris, lion tracking, and chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge.
5. Wildebeest Migration In Serengeti National Park In Tanzania
Tanzania is an East African country within the Great Lakes region. The Republic of Tanzania is known for its abundance of wildlife.
The country borders Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, DR Congo, Burundi, Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique.
Serengeti National Park, a World Heritage Site in northern Tanzania, is known for its annual wildebeest migration and zebras.
These animals move north from the South Plains in search of pastures. Serengeti has over 2 million ungulates, 1000 leopards, 4000 lions, and 500 species of birds.
This park is the best wildlife reserve in Tanzania, covering 15,000 km2. Migration season starts from 01st July to 31st October every year.
What Is The Best Time For An East African Safari Tour?
There are two spans in the year when you can plan an East African safari. June to October is an ideal span for the safari.
On the other hand, January and February are the most delightful months because, along with the highest congregation of wildlife near the water bodies, you also enjoy pleasant weather conditions.
The table below summarizes the best season for an East African safari and the season-wise top activities.
Best Seasons And Top Activities
Best Season for An East African Safari Reasons to Visit June to October (Dry Season)Sunny WeatherMaximum Outdoor ActivitiesEasy TravelHigh Congregation of Wildlife July to October Great for Safaris in the Masai Mara.Ideal for Watching the herds. Animals Cross the Rivers in Large Numbers. January to February (Calving Season)Ideal for Viewing Wildlife in the Southern Serengeti.Fewer Tourists Make it Ideal for Wildlife Spotting. April to May (Green Season)Lush GreeneryLow PriceFewer Crowds
The Best Time For An East African Safari Tour Can Change Based On The Region
Furthermore, remember that the best time for an East African Safari also depends on the region you want to focus on.
Temperature and weather shifts happen with the change of the region.
For example, Tanzania and Kenya are the best for exploring in January and February, as it is the calving season or June to October as it is the dry season.
On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a safari in Uganda or Rwanda and try gorilla trekking, June to September and December to February are the best times.
Dry weather conditions make these months ideal for trekking and trying other outdoor activities.
Also, if you want to experience the lush greenery of Eastern Africa, November to early December is the best time.
It is a shoulder season, and nature looks fresh after the spells of short rains.
And The East African Safari Tour Does Not End Here…
Several other African countries offer amazing safari experiences, such as South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia.
However, you can see all of that in Kenya, Botswana, and Namibia by combining Uganda safari tours with South Africa and Tanzania safaris.
Depending on your availability and budget, one month is enough to cover the 3 mentioned African countries mentioned.
Most national parks favor family travelers with kids, except Bwindi and Kibale, which have an age limit of 15 years and above.
Long-haul flights are dreadful. The stark, urbane terminals and the long nights of tiresome, cram-y seating sure work you up just thinking about it. The flights that roll over to the next morning always have some drama up their sleeves.
Then came the rescue team from Taiwan- EVA Air, which is currently one of the 10 Skytrax 5-star airlines in the world. Would you believe it if I told you it was little known even up until a few years back? It was founded in 1989.
However, I started hearing about this flight in the early 1990s when my extended family would talk about this new carrier with non-stop flights on B747-400 jets. Back then, it sounded like a story from another realm. I would hear them talk about the aroma of delicious noodles when woken up from sleep by a flight attendant as a late-night snack. I also heard of the very non-conforming Sanrio aircraft that were Hello Kitty Jets, decked out completely from the headrests to the meal cutlery. Everything featured the widely adored character.
I finally had the chance to board it. Despite all the different things that this airline was revolutionizing, the most exciting part as a young traveler still remained the all-new cabin category between the economy and the EVA Air business class. This change was surprisingly affordable, and I was willing to upgrade for my 14+ hour flight home.
Here I am going to share my experience of flying from New York to Taipei. Stay tuned because you are about to find out the hype behind Eva Air flights and a pretty up-close EVA Air Premium Economy review.
The Beginning Of EVA Air Premium Economy
Image Source: www.evaair.com
The press releases from the airline say that AVA Air’s first trans-Pacific debut took place on December 12, 1992. It had four cabins, which was a first at that time. The four cabins included Super First, Super Deluxe, Economy Deluxe, and Economy. With Economy Deluxe, the airline became the first to introduce an improved economy cabin that is the Economy Deluxe.
It became a benchmark for the airline as most others took two to three decades to introduce this cabin to their list of offerings. Recently (last summer), KLM debuted its premium economy. The seat prices are reasonable with business class-like perks. My Taipei experience was very endearing to me because of its convenient pair-up of high quality and affordability. The street food, the stationery, and the convenience stores all added to my love for Taipei. The EVA Air flight was a big cherry on top because all of that now comes in an aircraft.
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A New Version 30 Years Later
Image Source: www.evaair.com
Three decades since its first flight, I booked the Premium Economy class for my way back to Taipei from NYC. The perks of this flight began even before I boarded it. This airline offers free shuttles from 2 Pennsylvania and 5 New Jersey locations toward JFK Airport. Dallas to Houston Airport also offers a free shuttle service. It has successfully removed one of the biggest issues of international travel, which is simply getting to the airport.
I took a $20 Uber to the Jersey City stop, which would have otherwise been a $130 Uber ride all the way to the airport.
Being a part of the Star Alliance, I was granted access to the lounge with my United Gold status. It allowed me to upgrade my boarding from Zone 4 to Zone 1. As soon as I got into the cabin, it felt luxurious. They used sweet endearments with my name in Mandarin. They helped me settle in my seat and confirmed my meal selection, which I had previously made online.
The seats had a 2-4-2 arrangement, and I had managed to secure a front-row seat, which meant no under-seat coverage but plenty of leg space. On my seat, there were slippers, a water bottle, noise-canceling headphones, and a cozy blanket that felt like a cloud. The blanket was quilted on one surface and had faux fur on the opposite side.
How It Went
An attendant soon came and gave me an overnight bag. It was a Kipling amenity kit consisting of Hudson Made New York products. It had the brand’s trademark monkey keychain with a scene of Taiwan’s Yilan on the bag. My entire EVA Air flight felt like a warm, pamper session with juice, fruits, and snacks while suspended at 30,000 feet mid air.
The breakfast was amazing, with Chinese-style scallop congee with egg & Chinese sausage. There was an option for another Western version that comprised smoked turkey accompanied by cheddar cheese. There was also a “leisure delight” meal in between the meals with BBQ chicken-filled brioche roll.
The restrooms were clean, and I can say so because I went three times, and it was clean each time. To clarify, I took a private plane recently that got filthy by the last hour of the flight, which was one-third the duration of the EVA Air.
When I took the return journey, I wanted to take things further, getting myself the business class name Royal Laurel. It featured 6.5-foot-long lie-flat seats, a retractable armrest, a cocktail table, and a shoe cabinet. This cabin had a 1-2-1 configuration with dated seats compared to other airlines. EVA Air raised the bar, however, with their Rimowa & Salvatore Ferragamo branded care kit and a complementary Jason Wu pajama set. All the passengers ended up wearing it, and I, too, could not resist it. I wore it all the way home.
The plaid duvet was so snug and comfy I asked where I could buy one. At one point, I fell asleep and dreamt of those noodles. But it was not my dream… they did bring noodles in between our slumber, and it just completed the experience all around.
Wrapping Up
Have you flown EVA Air before or recently? What was your experience like? What do you think about the Premium Economy class? If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you!
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