CATHAY PACIFIC

Your jet: Boeing 777-300ER and 747-400, Airbus A330-300 and A340-300

Killer app: The suites, and no annoying overhead bins

Amenity you'll want to steal: The 17-inch personal TV

Ultimate itinerary: San Francisco to Hong Kong for lunch at the Mandarin Oriental's new penthouse eatery, Pierre

Life up front: The Hong Kong carrier's cabin overhaul was helmed by Design Q, the London-based firm responsible for much of Virgin's snazzy look. First class is all-suite, with mood lighting, ergonomic chairs with massage functions, and a freestanding personal closet rather than forehead-bruising overhead bins. Each can hold a duvet, pillow, and in-flight amenities (Darphin for women and Acca Kappa for men), as well as keep that Brioni blazer crease-free. The ottoman footrest is ideal for stashing extra luggage, and doubles up as a visitor seat. Each seat has a personal TV showing more than 50 movies and 100 TV shows on demand. When it comes to food, Cathay was one of the first to install rice cookers, toasters, and skillets onboard, so you can expect fresh rice, toast, and eggs on a whim. Even the bathroom is VIP-style, with a huge window, more mood lighting, and loft-style fixtures.

Platinum card–smashing price: San Francisco to Hong Kong round-trip from $18,898

Cathay Pacific
Tel: 800 233 2742