Is GARUDA INDONESIA Really Better Than EMIRATES?

Summary

In this engaging travel vlog, the creator documents their journey from Bangkok to Jakarta aboard Garuda Indonesia's A330. They explore the airline’s business class, noting both its dated cabin design and impressive service. The flight offers a mix of good food, great crew, and an interesting in-flight experience, despite some technical issues with entertainment and a tight seatbelt. The video also touches on Garuda’s five-star rating, which the creator questions, comparing it to other airlines like Emirates. After landing in Jakarta, the creator shares a smooth immigration experience and their stay at the Swiss Hotel, wrapping up with reflections on the airline's strengths and areas for improvement.

Takeaways

• 😀 The narrator is flying with Garuda Indonesia, the national airline of Indonesia, for the first time and is excited about the journey.
• 😀 He notices Myanmar Airways International still operates flights from Bangkok, which was a surprise since he thought they had stopped.
• 😀 The narrator spends some time in the Air France Lounge at Bangkok Airport, which is part of the SkyTeam Alliance, offering a quiet and comfortable space with a mix of Asian-inspired cuisine.
• 😀 He is particularly excited to board the Garuda Indonesia A330, an aircraft he’s been eager to fly on for a long time.
• 😀 The narrator reflects on the sad sight of Thai Airways planes parked and unused for over three years, including 747s and A380s.
• 😀 Once onboard the Garuda Indonesia A330, the narrator finds the business class cabin a bit outdated but is impressed with the legroom, in-flight entertainment, and the overall experience so far.
• 😀 A personal challenge occurs when the seatbelt feels too tight due to the narrator losing weight, but he manages through the flight.
• 😀 The flight crew provides exceptional service, showing genuine care and attention, which the narrator appreciates greatly.
• 😀 The flight features a dinner service with well-presented food that the narrator enjoys, praising the quality of the meals.
• 😀 Despite some minor issues like the in-flight entertainment system and the bathroom policy, Garuda Indonesia's service is highly praised, especially the crew’s warmth and the overall flying experience.
• 😀 The narrator compares Garuda Indonesia’s service to Qatar Airways and Emirates, feeling it doesn’t quite match up to the five-star rating it has received but is still impressed by the crew and food.
• 😀 After a smooth immigration process in Jakarta, the narrator heads to the Swiss Hotel near the airport, which offers excellent service, including a convenient car pickup and a unique bathroom feature.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the video?

The purpose of the video is to document the traveler's experience flying with Garuda Indonesia from Bangkok to Jakarta, including a review of the airline's services, in-flight experience, and the amenities provided during the flight.

What airline is featured in the video?

The airline featured in the video is Garuda Indonesia, the national airline of Indonesia.

What is the significance of Myanmar Airways International mentioned in the script?

The traveler expresses excitement about seeing Myanmar Airways International flying to Mandalay, as they had thought the airline had stopped operations. It highlights their interest in flying with lesser-known or exotic airlines.

What type of lounge does Garuda Indonesia use at Bangkok Airport?

Garuda Indonesia uses the Air France Lounge at Bangkok International Airport, as part of the SkyTeam alliance.

How is the food experience described on Garuda Indonesia?

The food on Garuda Indonesia is described as impressive, with the traveler particularly enjoying the presentation and taste of the meals. The main course, which includes chicken, is highlighted as very tasty.

What is the traveler’s opinion about the business class cabin?

The traveler finds the business class cabin on the Garuda Indonesia A330 somewhat dated, noting the decor, but mentions that the seat itself offers a lot of legroom and a comfortable experience overall.

What is mentioned about the in-flight entertainment system?

The in-flight entertainment system is functional but basic. The traveler checks the TV shows and movies, including popular titles like 'Matrix Resurrection' and 'Lego Batman,' although the remote control malfunctions during the review.

How does the traveler feel about Garuda Indonesia's service?

The traveler has a positive impression of Garuda Indonesia's service. They commend the cabin crew for being genuinely caring and helpful, which stands out compared to the often impersonal service of other airlines.

How does the traveler feel about the airline's rating by Skytrax?

The traveler questions the Skytrax five-star rating of Garuda Indonesia, expressing doubt about whether the airline is truly better than other well-regarded carriers like Emirates. Despite this, they acknowledge that Garuda's service is still commendable.

What is the final destination of the flight?

The final destination of the flight is Jakarta, Indonesia, where the traveler lands after a three-hour and 19-minute flight from Bangkok.