Flying Air Tahiti Nui to New Zealand

I was fortunate to have enough AAdvantage miles to get a free, well $14.10 in taxes, business class ticket to New Zealand on Air Tahiti Nui.

Tom Bradley International Terminal, LAX

Checking in was a Snap

From the rapid check-in, I was ushered through security to the One World Alliance private lounge where I whiled away a couple hours on the laptop and sampled a bit of single malt and appetizers.  Before I knew it we were called for pre-boarding.  I was feeling very privileged indeed.

Flying ain’t what it used to be, they say.  But let me tell you, that was not the case this time!  We started with Mums Cordon Rouge Champagne in our reclinable seats before the plane doors had even closed.

Once aloft, it was French cuisine all the way.  We took off just past midnight.  About one hour later we were served dinner which included foie gras, duck breast and duck confetti.  My taste buds were having a serious attack of nirvana!

My taste buds were having a serious attack of nirvana!  

More champagne, my complimentary eye mask and ear plugs, and a deep sleep soon ensued.   I awoke eight hours later to the most incredible sunrise at 11,000 meters over French Polynesia.

11,000 meters over French Polynesia

Not long afterward, we began our decent and landed in Papeete, Tahiti, the capital of French Polynesia.

Airport Greeter, Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia

My only regret so far is that I only spent an hour in Tahiti.  

Well, perhaps on the return trip…

Soon, I was back on the plane, sipping French champagne, for the five hour trip to Auckland, New Zealand.  A delicious salmon and leek tart was featured for a late morning breakfast.

If you ever have a change to fly this airline, go for it!

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