Every Country I’ve Been To

One image. One country. One memory — reimagined.

This gallery is a collection of 48 moments from the 48 countries I’ve travelled to so far. Instead of regular photos, I’ve turned each one into a Ghibli-style frame — not to make them better, but to capture how those places actually felt. Sometimes magical, sometimes surreal, sometimes just full of life.

There are no captions, no stories — just stills from a journey that’s far from over. Each one holds a feeling, a spark, a reminder of where I stood and how I saw the world that day.

For now, here’s where I’ve been — and maybe, where I left a bit of myself behind. I’ll keep adding to this as I explore more.

All images are mine, generated in Studio Ghibli style using ChatGPT. None of the original photos were modified in any way.

Concerts : My Global Experiences

Concert tourism is where wanderlust and music collide, creating unforgettable experiences and massive economic waves. It’s not just about watching your favorite artist perform—it’s about the thrill of traveling to a new city, exploring its vibe, and losing your voice alongside thousands of strangers who know every lyric like you do. But here’s the kicker: concerts aren’t just for the fans; they’re a cash cow for cities. Major events like Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour and Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres tour rake in billions—not just from ticket sales but from packed hotels, sold-out restaurants, and, the overpriced band merch. In fact, Taylor’s tour alone is boosting local economies so much that “swift-onomics” which refers to the economic influence of musician Taylor Swift, is a subject taught in Harvard.

It’s not just the local businesses that cash in; entire cities transform for these events. New venues are constructed, public transport systems suddenly become efficient, and food trucks park strategically outside arenas, ready to serve post-concert food to hungry fans. Festivals like Coachella go one step further—they turn the middle of a desert into a bustling paradise of music, fashion, and artisanal grilled cheese, generating over $250 million annually for California’s Coachella Valley. Concert tourism doesn’t just bring in visitors; it reinvents the city’s cultural landscape, often making a lasting impression long after the stage lights dim.

Before I get into some of my favourite concerts let me tell you some fun Concert Facts

Metallica holds the record for being the only band to play on all seven continents—including Antarctica! Their 2013 concert in Antarctica, aptly named “Freeze ’Em All,” was held in front of just 120 people.
Coldplay’s recent tours are carbon-conscious! They use kinetic dance floors and energy-generating bikes to power parts of their shows.
Ed Sheeran performed for over 8 million fans during his Divide tour, earning a record-breaking $775 million.
Gaga performed at over 200 shows in a single year during her Monster Ball Tour. That’s an average of a show every 1.8 days.

I’ve been fortunate enough to see a ton of concerts that could rival any bucket list. Marshmello, Post Malone, Green Day, Black Eyed Peas, Coldplay, Arijit Singh, Karan Aujla, Diljit Dosanjh, Charlie Puth, Lucky Ali, Shaan, Sonu Nigam—the list goes on. And it’s not slowing down anytime soon. Up next? Shawn Mendes, Louis Tomlinson, and Glass Animals. At this rate, my concert lineup looks like a playlist that’s come to life.

Let me give you my top 3 concerts

If I had to choose my top 3 concerts, it wouldn’t even be a competition—these three have left an indelible mark on my heart.

Coldplay: Hands down, the best concert I’ve ever experienced. I saw them twice in Singapore, and honestly, I’d do it a hundred times over. The visuals were out of this world, the crowd was electric, and the way they made everyone feel like a part of the show was surreal. Those LED wristbands lighting up in unison were pure magic. Coldplay isn’t just a band—they’re a full-fledged experience. Their music, their energy, and the way they interact with the crowd make them a league of their own.

Arijit Singh: Now, this man deserves his own genre of concerts. He promised a 2-hour set and gave us 4.5 hours of pure musical bliss. That’s dedication, humility, and talent rolled into one angelic human. With just his voice and a few musicians, he captivated an entire arena like it was nothing. His ability to make you cry, then laugh and then dance is unparalleled. Truly a one-man show and an unforgettable experience.

Post Malone: Posty brought the energy—and then some. From the moment he stepped on stage, it was chaos (in the best way). His set was electric, and the crowd was absolutely wild. But… I couldn’t shake the feeling that some parts were lip-synced. Don’t get me wrong, it was still an epic concert, but it lacked that raw, live vibe I love. Still, I walked away sweaty, hoarse, and thoroughly entertained—so it’s a win in my book.

While these three take the top spots, I’ve been fortunate to see some other fantastic performances. Karan Aujla’s show, for instance, was decent but didn’t live up to my expectations—it lacked the spark I was hoping for. On the other hand, Black Eyed Peas and Green Day were incredible. Despite not knowing many of their songs, their energy and crowd engagement won me over. Charlie Puth, with his flawless voice and undeniable charm, delivered a pitch-perfect performance that was nothing short of magical. Marshmello was electrifying, though I’d call it more of a DJ experience than a traditional concert—but it still had me dancing like no one was watching. And then there was Lucky Ali in Dubai, whose small, intimate venue made the experience so personal and simple. His soulful voice filled the space effortlessly, creating a cozy and heartfelt vibe that’s hard to come by in larger arenas. Every concert has left me with a unique story, a moment to treasure, and a song that takes me right back to that magical night.

Coldplay : Music of the Spheres

When Coldplay announced three shows in Singapore, I was beyond excited. They’ve always been more than just a band to me — their songs resonate deeply, and there’s something magical about their music that feels personal. Naturally, I was ready to snag tickets the moment they went on sale at 10 AM in June 2023, nearly a year before the concert.

But, oh boy — Ticketmaster had other plans. My queue number was 938,000. Let that sink in. With the National Stadium’s capacity at around 60,000, and assuming people buy an average of 4 tickets each, that’s only about 45,000 people getting lucky. You do the math. I lost hope, my friends lost hope, and it felt like Coldplay was slipping away.

Then, thanks to the insane demand, they announced two more shows. Still no luck for me. Then came a sixth and final show — and that’s when fate worked its magic. A friend called me saying, “I GOT THE TICKETS!” I was thrilled to my core. Coldplay on January 31st, 2025, in Singapore.

We got there early and found a great spot in the standing deck. The atmosphere was already buzzing, and then… Coldplay happened.

The experience was pure magic. It’s hard to put into words how good they were live — the energy, the visuals, the music. Every song hit differently, and the vibe was electric. It felt like the entire stadium was one, singing along, swaying to the beats, and living in that moment together.

I captured some videos from the concert — short clips, because I wanted to be present and live the moment rather than watch it through my phone. And, of course, I didn’t record A Sky Full of Stars, because Coldplay has a beautiful tradition: they ask the audience not to record that song and just experience it fully. And trust me, that moment is etched in my memory forever.

And guess what? I’m watching Coldplay again now in Mumbai, and I couldn’t be more excited! I’ve seen them once, and the fact that I get to experience their magic all over again is a dream come true.

So enough of my blabbering. Here’s a video of some unforgettable memories from Singapore. Enjoy. 💙💛

CLICK THIS LINK

Indian Aviation

The Indian aviation sector has long been a challenging market, often described as a “graveyard” for airlines. Regulatory complexities, high operating costs, fluctuating fuel prices, and fierce competition have left many carriers struggling to stay airborne. Iconic names like Kingfisher Airlines, Jet Airways, GoAir, and now the merger of Vistara with Air India stand as testaments to the volatility of this industry. Amidst this turbulence, IndiGo’s meteoric rise—and now its potential stumbles—adds an intriguing chapter to this saga.

The Indian aviation industry is witnessing significant growth, driven by the expanding middle class and increasing demand for flight connectivity. In FY2024, domestic passengers reached 306.7 million, reflecting a robust 13.5% year-on-year (YoY) growth. The international market recorded 69.64 million passengers, with an impressive 22.3% YoY growth (IBEF). India has now surpassed Indonesia and Brazil to become the third-largest domestic aviation market globally.

However, only a handful of major players dominate the current market. The graph below highlights the key players and their respective market shares.

To understand how the Indian aviation landscape evolved, it is essential to examine the rise and fall of past airlines. Kingfisher Airlines, launched by Vijay Mallya in 2005, and IndiGo, founded in 2006, entered the market around the same time. Kingfisher’s motto, “Fly the Good Times”, failed to resonate due to its king-size prices and operational inefficiencies. Indian consumers, being highly price-sensitive, preferred cost-effective options, even opting for inconvenient flight timings to save money. This misjudgment of market needs was a major misstep for Kingfisher and, later, Jet Airways.

Through a Kingfisher lens, its attempt to operate multiple hubs with premium offerings was unsustainable, given the high costs and operational inefficiencies. By contrast, through an IndiGo lens, the hub-and-spoke model thrived in the Indian market. IndiGo’s centralized hubs in Delhi and Mumbai optimized operations, maximizing fleet utilization and offering affordability—a winning strategy in a price-conscious market.

At its peak, Kingfisher Airlines held a 19.9% market share, closely matched by IndiGo’s 17.6%. However, the key difference lay in their fleet sizes. Kingfisher operated a larger fleet, resulting in higher fuel costs and greater operational expenses, which were unsustainable. IndiGo, on the other hand, achieved a similar market share with fewer planes, demonstrating the efficiency of its low-cost model and centralized operations. This contrast is highlighted in the chart below.

This disparity led to Kingfisher’s fuel ratio to revenue skyrocketing to 50%, an unsustainable figure. Combined with debts exceeding $3 billion USD, the airline ceased operations. Similarly, Jet Airways, which prioritized luxury over affordability, failed to cater to the Indian market’s value-driven preferences, ultimately leading to its downfall.

GoAir, on the other hand, was a low cost carrier, which was doing okay until it faced significant operational challenges due to persistent engine issues with its Pratt & Whitney-powered Airbus A320neo aircraft. By May 2023, these problems led to the grounding of 25 aircraft, accounting for 50% of its fleet. (AirInsight) This substantial reduction in operational capacity severely impacted the airline’s profitability and market presence, leading to insolvency in 2023.

So, while all the airlines fail, how did Indigo Succeed. Firstly Indigo undestood the Indian Market.
IndiGo’s success lies in its deep understanding of the Indian aviation market and its ability to learn from competitors’ mistakes. As the saying goes, “Smart people learn from their mistakes, but the real smart ones learn from others’ mistakes.” IndiGo identified the need for low-cost aviation and made strategic decisions to keep costs sustainable. They eliminated frills such as in-flight meals and IFE (In-Flight Entertainment) screens, focusing instead on affordability. With 96 employees per aircraft and an average expenditure to establishment cost of only 11.01%, IndiGo maintained exceptional cost efficiency.

IndiGo also pioneered the Sale and Leaseback model, which became a cornerstone of its financial sustainability. By ordering 100 aircraft from Airbus in one of the largest deals in aviation history, IndiGo secured bulk discounts, reducing the cost of each aircraft by 50%. For example, an aircraft costing ₹800 crore was acquired for ₹400 crore. They then sold these planes to companies like BOC Aviation for ₹500 crore, booking a profit of ₹100 crore, and leased the planes back. This model ensured both short-term liquidity and long-term sustainability.

Coupled with its efficient hub-and-spoke model, IndiGo has demonstrated consistent revenue growth and, notably, was the only Indian airline to book a profit in 2024.

IndiGo also operates the largest fleet in the Indian aviation sector, giving it a significant operational edge.

Despite IndiGo’s success, fuel prices remain a major challenge for Indian airlines. Fuel costs account for 35-40% of airline revenue, severely impacting profitability. This high dependency on fuel makes airlines vulnerable to price fluctuations.

Fuel prices are also highly volatile due to geopolitical factors. With a significant portion of crude oil imported from Russia, the ongoing conflict has introduced unprecedented uncertainty, further destabilizing airline profits.

In India, VAT on Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) ranges from 4% to 30%, depending on the state—examples include Andhra Pradesh and Telangana with lower rates (4%) and Maharashtra and Delhi imposing higher rates (up to 30%). In contrast, globally, ATF taxes are significantly lower, often below 20% or even tax-exempt in many regions. This disparity puts Indian airlines at a competitive disadvantage, inflating costs and squeezing profit margins compared to international carriers. This has led to the cease of Operations for many airlines.

Now coming to the almost duopoly of Indian Aviation and How air India plans to Crush Indigo. Air India placed an order for 470 planes with the option to buy 370 more. Unlike IndiGo’s focus on short-haul routes within Asia, Air India’s fleet diversity includes long-haul aircraft, allowing it to dominate lucrative international markets. Air India’s consolidation of its four brands—Air India, Vistara, AirAsia India, and Air India Express—into two streamlined entities (full-service and low-cost carriers) enhances operational efficiency. The integration aligns domestic and international strategies, with a focus on premium services and price-sensitive markets. Furthermore, Air India’s investment in on-time performance (90.8% vs IndiGo’s 87.5%), customer experience, and Tata’s financial muscle positions it as a premium alternative to IndiGo’s budget model.

While Air India aggressively expands its fleet and operations, IndiGo finds itself navigating turbulent skies. The airline reported a staggering ₹3,000 crore increase in expenses compared to the previous financial year, driven in part by a ₹586 crore rise in lease payments.

In addition, the volatile fuel market has further strained IndiGo’s finances, with fuel costs surging by an additional ₹800 crore compared to the last financial year. The ongoing geopolitical instability, particularly the reliance on Russian crude oil, has added uncertainty to fuel pricing, exacerbating the airline’s challenges.

These escalating expenses have culminated in IndiGo reporting a net loss of ₹987 crore for the July-September 2024 quarter, marking a sharp turn from its previously consistent profitability.

The future of aviation in India is set for unprecedented growth, driven by rising passenger demand and strategic expansions. By 2027, air travelers are projected to reach 400 million, positioning India as the third-largest aviation market globally. To meet this demand, Indian airlines must focus on international connectivity, reducing reliance on foreign carriers, which currently carry 60-65% of India’s international passengers.

Air India, with its Star Alliance membership and long-haul fleet diversity, is well-positioned to dominate the international segment. It already serves 39 international destinations across five continents, leveraging exclusive airport slots and alliances for seamless connectivity. IndiGo, despite its dominance in the domestic market with a 58% share, has limited international reach, operating only to the edges of Asia. Expanding beyond short-haul routes is critical for IndiGo to stay competitive globally.

Operational efficiencies like route optimization and on-time performance are essential to attract international passengers. While Air India leads in on-time performance (90.8% vs. IndiGo’s 87.5%), both carriers must invest in customer experience and fleet expansion. Lowering Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) taxes and improving airport infrastructure will also be crucial for enabling Indian airlines to capture a larger share of international markets, boosting their global competitiveness.

Airline Reviews

This is a personal reflection on airlines I’ve experienced so far—definitely not an exhaustive list, but one grounded in firsthand journeys. For clarity, these reviews are largely from a Business Class perspective, though I’ll share insights on Economy cabins wherever relevant.

This blog is designed to serve as a dedicated space for airline reviews, appreciation, and comments about international flights. I’ve chosen to exclude smaller regional or low-cost carriers such as Ryanair, Spirit, Scoot, Indigo, Drukair, Air Arabia, and others, focusing instead on global airlines offering full-service experiences.

At the end, I’ve also included a bucket list of airlines I’m eager to explore. As I tick them off, I’ll add them to the main list and keep updating both sections to make this a truly comprehensive flight review page. After all, flying isn’t just about getting from A to B—it’s part of the journey itself!

The sky is not the limit, it is where adventures begin.

Emirates

Emirates has set the gold standard for global air travel, and having flown in all three classes—Economy, Business, and First—I can confidently say it delivers a consistently exceptional experience. Each cabin offers unique features, making Emirates a favourite of mine for international flights.

Economy:

Emirates Economy feels a step above with its thoughtful service and high-quality meals served with metal cutlery, offering an elevated experience rare in this class. The cabins are pristine, and the seats feel fresh and modern, making even long-haul flights enjoyable. Details like “Do Not Disturb” stickers, polaroid souvenirs, and generous luggage allowances enhance the journey. The fleet’s consistency in quality adds to the appeal, though the higher price can be a deterrent.

Business:

Emirates Business Class offers an unmatched blend of luxury and efficiency. From personalized greetings to immaculate cabins, every detail is thoughtfully curated. The food rivals fine dining, and the A380 onboard lounge provides a unique, exclusive space mid-flight. The ground experience is equally stellar, with the massive Dubai lounge offering diverse food options and luxury amenities. Onboard, the BVLGARI amenity kits and impeccable attention to detail, like frequent towel service, elevate the journey. The older cabins may not match the newer ones in freshness, but the service quality is always consistent and the seats are very comfortable and spacious.

First:

Flying Emirates First is nothing short of a dream. The experience begins with a chauffeured Mercedes S-Class transfer and continues in a private suite with closing doors, a personal minibar, and a full lie-flat bed embellished with the signature Emirates gold touches screaming opulence. The meals, served on demand as a multi-course fine dining experience, are exquisite, though the only gripe I have is that I couldnt have a dish off the menu as it was not avaiable. From Porsche Design pyjamas to the sheer quality of the amenities to Dom Perignon Champagne, every detail exudes opulence. Even the smallest touches, like personalized greetings and perfectly laid table settings, showcase Emirates’ commitment to excellence. This is air travel at its finest and truly sets a benchmark for luxury. Probably the best Flight Experience I have ever had in my life ever, but of course with a steep price tag.

Qatar Airways

Flying with Qatar Airways has been an absolute joy, no matter the class. I’ve experienced both their economy and the much-celebrated Qsuite, and let me tell you—it’s the attention to detail that truly sets them apart.

Starting with economy, I was genuinely impressed. The cabin felt spacious, the seats were comfortable with great legroom, and the adjustable headrest made long hours manageable. That said, I did feel the bedding in economy could be improved—it’s decent, but after a few hours, I found myself wishing for something softer. The food, however, exceeded my expectations. From the freshly baked bread rolls to the flavorful main courses, every meal felt curated with care. The staff’s warm service added an extra layer of comfort, always checking in with a smile and making sure I had everything I needed.

Then, there’s the Qsuite—a completely different league. From the moment I stepped into the suite, I was blown away by the incredible privacy, with sliding doors that felt like I was in my own mini-cabin. This feels not like a business class but a first-class suite. The lie-flat seat, paired with luxurious bedding, made for a restful journey, though I almost didn’t want to sleep with such an extensive à la carte menu calling my name. The food? Simply exquisite. Every dish tasted as if it was prepared by a chef, with bold flavours and impeccable presentation. The table layout with a candle is also very well curated. The seat design in ergonomic and very spacious with enough space for your goodies too. All in all a wonderful experience.

One of my favourite moments was the layover at Hamad International Airport. The Al Mourjan Lounge is something else entirely—its design, serenity, and culinary offerings make it feel more like a luxury hotel than an airport lounge. Sipping on fresh juice while watching flights take off through the floor-to-ceiling windows was an experience I’ll always treasure.

Air India

Air India often gets a bad rap, but my experience flying with them internationally—twice to London and Milan—tells a different story. With four flights under my belt, I’ve had the chance to assess what they offer, and while there’s room for improvement, they deserve more credit than they get. Let’s start with the food, which was nothing short of perfection for an Indian palate. The flavors were bold, authentic, and spicy—the kind of meals you don’t expect at 30,000 feet. As someone who genuinely enjoys airplane food, Air India delivered a satisfying culinary experience. The lounges, however, are where things truly shine. The Encalm Lounge in Delhi and the Adani Lounge in Mumbai are great. They’re modern, elegant, and have plenty food options to make the pre-flight experience reach new heights. I didn’t mention these lounges in other airline reviews because those aren’t the carrier’s flagship offerings, but they are being used by multiple airlines. The seats in business class were lie-flat but stuck in a dated 2-2-2 configuration. While functional, they don’t offer the privacy or direct aisle access you’d expect today. However, with the new A350 fleet rolling out, Air India is finally moving to a 1-2-1 configuration, which is a step in the right direction. The service was average—neither exceptional nor poor—but small touches like the comfortable pajamas and a well-stocked amenity kit stood out as thoughtful details. Air India has a solid product with plenty of potential. With fleet upgrades and consistent service improvements, it can easily rank among the top carriers. For now, I’m optimistic and look forward to flying their new fleet soon.

ITA airways

Flying with ITA Airways, Italy’s main carrier based in Rome, was an experience of contrasts. While the cabin design reflected modern luxury and fine Italian aesthetics, the overall journey left much to be desired. Let’s start with the positives. The seats were beautifully designed, modern, and exuded a sense of Italian luxury that one might expect. Premium economy and economy cabins looked spacious and well-thought-out, with sleek touches that stood out. My seat was comfortable and roomy, and the two amenity kits were a pleasant surprise. The first included a face mask, and the second was a unique hygiene kit with seven different lotions and applicators—an impressive and thoughtful touch. Unfortunately, everything else fell flat. The service was underwhelming, and I noticed a pattern that I’m hesitant to overlook—it felt almost racist. Darker-skinned passengers, including myself, were given noticeably less attention. I rang the call button and waited over 30 minutes for a response, only to give up entirely. It was disheartening and frustrating, to say the least. The food was another letdown. With Italy being a culinary powerhouse, I had high hopes after seeing the menu, but the reality was bland and uninspiring. For an Italian airline, the food failed to capture even a hint of the country’s gastronomic excellence. While the cabin design was impressive, the lackluster service and disappointing food made the flight unenjoyable. ITA Airways has the potential to be exceptional, but until they address these glaring issues, I can’t say I’d willingly fly with them again. And yes—the best part of the flight was that it eventually ended.

EgyptAir

EgyptAir, the flagship carrier of Egypt, left me underwhelmed. While there are aspects worth noting, the overall experience felt outdated, disorganized, and riddled with inefficiencies. The journey starts with the on-ground experience, which I can only describe as weird—a term I never thought I’d use in an aviation review. At immigration, locals seem to breeze through as if entering a shopping mall, with minimal oversight or care. It gave the whole process an unsettling lack of seriousness, a major red flag for any international traveller. The aircraft itself was equally disappointing. The fleet is old, with seats that feel worn out, filthy, and far from modern standards. Comfort is not something EgyptAir delivers, and the lack of attention to detail is glaring. The food onboard is mediocre at best—edible but far from memorable. As for the crew, they appeared completely uninterested in their duties. On two separate occasions, I noticed the flight attendants spending extended periods in the cockpit, and at one point, the pilot was casually seated next to me. It made me genuinely question who was controlling the plane—a moment of humour but also concern. The underlying issue seems to stem from budget constraints. As a government-run airline, it’s clear that resources are lacking to modernize the fleet or improve service. Privatization feels like the only path forward, but given the current state of affairs, the future for EgyptAir doesn’t seem particularly bright. Unless significant changes are made, EgyptAir risks falling further behind in a highly competitive industry. For now, it’s hard to recommend unless absolutely necessary.

Kenya Airways

Kenya Airways, the Pride of Africa, has left me with mixed feelings over the years. My first two journeys with Kenya Airways, back in 2015, were from India to Nairobi and back. At the time, the experience was acceptable. The service was decent, the cabin felt fresh, and the food was okay—not great, but nothing to complain about. It was a solid, middle-of-the-road experience. Fast forward to 2024, and the story took a sharp turn for the worse. The service on my recent flights was, quite frankly, shocking. I can only describe it as mean and rude. At one point, we were scolded for simply asking for butter. It left me stunned—what airline considers that acceptable behaviour? While the food was a passable 6/10, the standout was the coffee. It was easily the best I’ve had on any airline, a small highlight in an otherwise disappointing experience. The cabin, however, was a different story. The seats were filthy, and my legrest was broken. Despite the crew’s attempts, they couldn’t fix it, leaving me without proper support for five long hours. It’s a basic expectation for a seat to be functional, and this failure added to the frustration. Kenya Airways clearly has potential, as my earlier flights showed, but their recent performance has been a disappointment. Until they address these glaring issues, I can’t say I’d look forward to flying with them again. At least the coffee gave me a reason to smile—briefly.

Air Seychelles

Flying with Air Seychelles was a mixed experience that left me hopeful for its future but aware of its current shortcomings. The airline operates an okay fleet of A320s, which are functional but lack the wow factor that other regional carriers might offer. The cabin itself is fresh and clean, which is always a plus, though the seats could use an upgrade in both design and comfort. On the bright side, the ample legroom and good-quality bedding and blankets made the journey reasonably comfortable. When it comes to food, Air Seychelles falls short. The meals onboard were below average, lacking flavor and creativity, though they were not entirely inedible. The lounge experience was better, with a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere, though the food offered in the lounge was just average. The standout feature of my experience was the hospitable staff. The crew were warm, and attentive, and did their best to elevate the overall journey with smiles and genuine care. This level of service added a much-needed positive touch to the flight. It’s clear that Air Seychelles has scope for improvement. With better onboard meals, upgraded seating, and a focus on refining the small details, they could elevate their offerings significantly. For now, it’s a functional airline with potential—but it has a way to go before truly standing out.

Finnair

If I had to sum up Finnair in one word, it would be ‘shocking’—in the best way possible. This airline redefines European aviation with a perfect blend of Nordic design, hospitality, and thoughtful details that elevate the flying experience. The journey began on the ground at the Helsinki Lounge, and it was fantastic. Minimalist yet luxurious, the Nordic design shone through every corner. The food, coffee, and service were exceptional, setting the tone for what was to come. Finnair’s attention to detail is remarkable, and their welcoming ambience is second to none. Onboard, I was equally impressed. The cabins were fresh, exuding the subtle scent of Nordic wood and blueberries. The lie-flat seats are ergonomic and unique—no traditional back recline, but rather a spacious design where the leg rest transitions into a comfortable lie-flat experience. It’s innovative and surprisingly comfortable. The welcome drink—a delicious blueberry juice—was served in an Iittala Nordic glass, a detail that felt so thoughtfully Finnish and elegant. It made for a stunning first impression. The menu promised a great culinary experience and was delivered. While it wasn’t the best meal I’ve ever had onboard, it was definitely commendable. The service was warm, with a crew that genuinely cared for passengers, ensuring a delightful experience throughout. Finnair is easily the brightest gem in European aviation, blending Nordic sophistication with heartfelt hospitality. It’s minimalist luxury at its finest, and I can’t wait to fly with them again.

Garuda Indonesia

With Garuda Indonesia being a multiple-time winner of SKYTRAX’s Best Airline award, my expectations were sky-high. Unfortunately, my experience turned out to be a mixed bag. The lounge in Denpasar left much to be desired. It felt basic, with plenty of room for improvement. However, the in-flight service was exceptional, showcasing the renowned South Asian hospitality. The crew was warm and welcoming, which elevated an otherwise average flight experience. The seats in business class were comfortable and well-maintained. However, the food was a complete letdown—a total miss in terms of flavor and presentation. Adding to the disappointment, the amenity kit was underwhelming, lacking the thoughtful touches you’d expect from a premium airline. The soft product was where things really fell apart. No menus were distributed. Worse still, the crew had no information about the food, forcing me to look it up myself. The blankets were scratchy and even gave me rashes, while the provided headphones were so poor they seemed to amplify noise rather than cancel it. The airline needs serious upgrades in its soft offerings to stand out. While I wouldn’t actively avoid Garuda in the future if it offered the best schedule or value, I wouldn’t go out of my way to choose it again for business class either.

Thai Airways

I’ve flown Thai Airways twice on the short SIN-BKK route, and while the experience was acceptable for a short flight, I can see potential issues for longer journeys. Starting with the positives, the food and service were good. The crew was attentive, and the meals served onboard were flavorful and satisfying. Thai’s business class seats convert into full flat beds, which is always a plus, especially for long-haul flights. However, the 2-2-2 configuration lacks privacy, a significant drawback for business class passengers accustomed to more modern layouts like 1-2-1. The IFE screens were damaged and dated, detracting from the entertainment experience. Additionally, the cabin offers no dedicated storage space, making it inconvenient to stow personal items during the flight. The lounge was quite good, with delicious food that stood out, but it wasn’t perfect. It lacked views, and the seating options were limited in terms of variety, which made it feel less premium compared to lounges offered by competitors.

Oman Air

Oman Air truly stands out as a hidden gem in the world of aviation, delivering an exceptional business class experience that exceeds expectations. From its lounge to its seats to its service, the airline has mastered the art of luxury travel. The journey begins at the brand-new Muscat airport, where Oman Air’s lounge is nothing short of fantastic. It’s the perfect place to relax before a flight, setting a high standard for what’s to come. Onboard, Oman Air features apex seats in a 2-2-2 configuration. While this layout might seem unpopular at first glance, each passenger enjoys direct aisle access, thanks to the innovative design. Oman Air’s attention to detail extends to its amenities, which are among the best in business class. Partnering with Amouage, the amenity kits feel premium and high-end. The inclusion of pajamas and slippers elevates the comfort level further, offering a first-class touch to a business class experience. The dine-on-demand concept is a standout feature. You can enjoy two meals during the flight, and the food quality and presentation rival what you’d expect in first class. The vegetarian biryani I had was one of the best dishes I’ve ever experienced in the air. The table setup and plating were impeccable, showcasing the airline’s commitment to excellence. In a time when many airlines are cutting back, Oman Air is investing in creating a superior business class product. It’s refreshing to see such dedication to quality.

Turkish Airlines

Flying with Turkish Airlines is not just a journey; it’s an experience in luxury and thoughtfulness, starting long before you step onboard. From the lounge to the cabin, every detail exudes excellence and hospitality.Let’s begin with the lounge in Istanbul, which is hands-down the best I’ve ever seen. With features like an F1 mini racing track, multiple live cooking stations, an incredible food spread, and elegant décor, it’s a place where you can easily spend an entire day. It’s more than a lounge—it’s an oasis for travellers. The Istanbul Airport itself matches this grandeur, with luxurious seating and modern amenities that set it apart. Business class passengers enjoy perks like VIP immigration and, where necessary, a comfortable and private bus transfer to the flight. These touches make even the ground experience feel special. Onboard, Turkish Airlines continues to impress. The cabin is beautifully aesthetic, with modern seats that are both comfortable and stylish. The food deserves a special mention, with an onboard chef crafting meals that are as delicious as they are beautifully presented. The dessert trolley is a delightful finishing touch. The bedding in business class is luxurious and ensures a restful journey. The staff were warm and professional, enhancing the overall experience. From start to finish, Turkish Airlines delivers a seamless blend of comfort, luxury, and thoughtful details. I eagerly look forward to flying with them again—it’s truly a five-star experience in every way.

Royal Air Maroc

My journey with Royal Air Maroc from London Heathrow to Marrakech was, unfortunately, a letdown. While the cabin itself looked promising, the overall experience fell short in multiple areas, leaving much to be desired. The seats, though aesthetically pleasing, were broken, making it difficult to relax during the flight. For a premium airline, this level of maintenance was disappointing. Adding to the frustration, the food was bland and uninspiring, far from the flavorful cuisine you might expect from a Moroccan carrier. The service was equally underwhelming, with the crew coming across as dismissive and inattentive. It’s one thing to have mediocre food, but pairing it with poor service makes for a truly unpleasant experience. On a positive note, the amenity kit was surprisingly good, with thoughtful inclusions that added a touch of luxury to an otherwise disappointing flight.

Singapore Airlines

Having flown with Singapore Airlines countless times in both economy and business class, I can confidently say they’re among the best airlines in the world—though there’s always room for improvement. My experience in business class was nothing short of spectacular, particularly on my journey to Australia. The seats were spacious, thoughtfully designed, and perfect for long-haul comfort. Paired with an exceptional soft product—from delicious food to the warmest hospitality—it’s a level of luxury that few airlines can match. Even on older fleets, where the cabins show their age, the crew’s impeccable service and attention to detail more than made up for it. The Changi Lounge adds to the experience with its incredible variety of food, plentiful seating options, and fantastic views of the runway. Economy class, however, has been more of a mixed bag. As someone who’s flown over 30 times between India and Singapore during my two years of study in Singapore, I’ve seen the highs and lows. The food has always been consistently good, but the seating experience varies greatly by aircraft. On older 747s, the seats feel outdated and lack sufficient legroom, making longer flights less comfortable. On the A350s, however, it’s a completely different story. The cabins are fresh and modern, with thoughtful touches like USB charging ports, mobile phone holders, and adjustable headrests—all blessings on long-haul flights. Regardless of the class, Singapore Airlines’ service always shines. The crew’s professionalism and warmth elevate every journey. For me, Singapore Airlines is a benchmark for excellence, combining comfort, hospitality, and innovation. While economy could use upgrades on older fleets, their business class and overall consistency make them a pleasure to fly.

Bucket list

Etihad
Lufthansa
Qantas
JAL
SAUDIA
Swissair
British Airways
Ethiopian Airways
UNITED
Air France
Cathay Pacific
Air Canada
ANA