Travel Guides & Tips in this video
- Tip 1Access airport lounges using a travel credit card for a more comfortable travel experience, especially during long journeys. (1:23)
- Tip 2Be prepared for unexpected baggage checks; while carry-ons are convenient, sometimes bags must be checked to the final destination. (4:07)
- Tip 3Factor in potential high costs for essentials like bottled water at airports and be aware of currency conversions. (5:32)
- Tip 4Allow ample layover time, especially when changing flights and collecting checked baggage, to avoid stress. (7:12)
- Tip 5Be patient and persistent when facing technical issues like Wi-Fi connectivity; seek help desk assistance and follow instructions carefully. (8:20)
- Tip 6Expect modern infrastructure and a high level of surveillance (CCTVs) in Chinese airports. (12:30)
- Tip 7Complete any required declaration forms before immigration; have passports and necessary visas readily available for a smooth process. (12:46)
- Tip 8Utilize the metro system for efficient and cost-effective transport from the airport to your accommodation in major Chinese cities. (12:53)
Paula and Henry's incredible 32-hour journey from Toronto to Chengdu, China, is a testament to their adventurous spirit. This vlog captures the multi-leg flight experience, from lounge relaxation in Toronto to the challenges of navigating San Francisco and Hong Kong airports. They share relatable travel moments, like the unexpected cost of water and the frustrating Wi-Fi troubleshooting in Hong Kong. Finally arriving in Chengdu, they reflect on the long travel, the city's modern feel, and their anticipation for exploring panda habitats and more.
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Paula and Henry embark on an epic 32-hour journey from Toronto to Chengdu, China, a trip that involves three flights and two layovers. Their adventure begins at Toronto Pearson Airport, where they utilize a travel credit card for lounge access before their first flight with United to San Francisco. The lounge experience offers a moment of respite, with options like orzo with grilled chicken and clam chowder. Despite a slight rush to make their boarding call, they successfully depart.
The first leg of their journey lands them in San Francisco, arriving slightly ahead of schedule, which eases the pressure of their tight layover. They then prepare for their second flight, a significant 14-hour trek to Hong Kong. During this segment, they highlight the surprisingly high cost of bottled water at the airport, noting the difference between Canadian and US dollars. The flight itself promises a chance to rest and enjoy the in-flight meal, anticipating their arrival in Hong Kong.
Upon landing in Hong Kong, they are about 24 hours into their 32-hour travel marathon. The process involves navigating immigration to collect their checked bags before heading back through security for their final flight. The Hong Kong airport, still quiet in the early morning, presents a challenge with many shops yet to open. A significant hurdle arises when they struggle to connect to the airport's Wi-Fi, requiring extensive troubleshooting with the help desk, which ultimately involves registering personal information via a text link. After a two-and-a-half-hour ordeal, they finally gain internet access just in time for their last flight.
The final leg is a shorter 2.5-hour flight to Chengdu. The in-flight service impresses them with a meal of chicken and rice, fruit, and ice cream. Finally, after 32 exhausting hours, Paula and Henry arrive in Chengdu, the first stop of their China series. Paula expresses her excitement, marking her first visit to China. They note the airport's modernity and the pervasive presence of CCTV cameras. The customs process is described as seamless, involving fingerprinting, photos, passport checks, and a declaration form. Their next step is to navigate the metro system to reach their hotel, anticipating future explorations, including a visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.
FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)
- Q: What was the total travel time from Toronto to Chengdu?
- A: The total travel time was approximately 32 hours, involving three flights and two layovers.
- Q: How did you access the airport lounge in Toronto?
- A: We used our travel credit card, which granted us access to the Maple Leaf Lounge as part of the Star Alliance.
- Q: What was the most challenging part of the journey?
- A: The most challenging part was troubleshooting the Wi-Fi connection in Hong Kong for over two and a half hours.
- Q: What are your first impressions of Chengdu?
- A: It's very modern, and there are CCTVs everywhere. We are also excited to see the pandas.
- Q: What was the cost of bottled water at the airport?
- A: It was quite expensive, around $8.50 Canadian, which is about six US dollars.