Series | Savoring Travel Time: A Journey to Bangkok Vol. 2

Making the Journey Itself the Destination

Savoring Travel Time: A Journey to Bangkok Vol. 2

Even for journeys covering short distances, one might opt for a cruise train where the overnight stay onboard is the main event, or perhaps a gourmet train offering special culinary experiences. Increasingly popular is a more indulgent travel style that savors the journey itself, heading towards the destination over time. This idea can even be applied to air travel, a prime example of rational, speed-focused transportation. When traveling abroad, intentionally making a stop in another city can broaden the joy of travel in a unique way.

Series | Savoring Travel Time: A Journey to Bangkok Vol. 1

Composition & Text by MAKIGUCHI June

VOL. 2 TO FLY: CHINA AIRLINES

For instance, if traveling to Bangkok, choosing China Airlines and making a "stopover" at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (Taipei) allows you to briefly savor the experience of a trip to Taiwan. In an era where countries are designing airports to be more attractive tourist destinations, layovers themselves can become a source of enjoyment.

The direct flight from Narita to Bangkok takes approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, but even with a stopover in Taiwan, the total travel time is around 8 hours and 30 minutes, a difference of only about two hours. This stopover travel style is highly recommended not only for those who dislike long flights but also for people who consider the journey itself part of the travel experience.

Opting for business class allows you to enjoy the premium VIP lounges that each airline boasts, even at your stopover destination. The China Airlines VIP Lounge on the fourth floor of Terminal 1 at Taoyuan International Airport is a place worth visiting at least once. With an interior design themed around "Intellectual Aesthetics of the Orient," the striking use of stone and wood evokes Song Dynasty gardens. The ambiance of old-world Eastern charm imparts a sense of calm and tranquility, offering a moment of respite during your journey. Further inside, bookshelves and sofas are arranged, with tungsten lamps casting a soft glow on amber glass, brass fixtures, and artworks, creating a refined and comfortable atmosphere. From the central kitchen, a diverse array of authentic Taiwanese dishes, freshly prepared, are served. It resembles a resort hotel or a high-end restaurant, so much so that one might forget it's part of a major airport.

This Taiwanese experience actually begins in the sky. China Airlines' business class offers a selection of exquisite Chinese dishes that rival those served in fine dining establishments. In addition to the regular menu, over 20 special meals (catering to religious or dietary needs) are available for pre-order. Furthermore, business class flights departing from Taiwan feature five monthly rotating special vegetarian menus, providing another reason to consider a stopover (reservations required in advance).

With airlines increasingly focusing on services that enhance the travel experience beyond mere comfort, airplanes have become more than just a means of transportation. Why not take advantage of these offerings and fully enjoy the luxurious travel time that can only be experienced during the journey itself?

Business class fares from Japan to Bangkok on China Airlines start from ¥87,000 (tax excluded) for flights departing from Sapporo, Narita, Nagoya, Osaka, and other cities. Please note that these fares are exclusive to the website; an additional fee applies for purchases made through the call center.