My Disappointing $10,000 ANA Business Class Experience

[@jayhawker931]

I have flown ANA first class and its the best service i ever had, the fa was one of the friendliest and most attentive crew members I have ever met, and they paid attention to the little details. It was actually my birthday the day I flew first class with them and I did not say anything however the crew made me a cake and gave me a birthday card with a lot of japanese treats. That was one of the few flights i did not want to end

[@maryburger1232]

The food issues is because you ALWAYS choose western options, the local options are way better.

[@Madhon1976]

It’s because he has zero interest in any of the places he visits and their food, he thinks a McDonald’s teriyaki burger is Japanese cuisine!

[@kennethandteddy]

Agree. For Japanese airlines, you have to choose the Jap meal!

[@patrickkeefe135]

And then the extent of the commentary is “oh that’s quite nice” anytime he tries any of the airlines food

[@davidtoups4684]

@@Madhon1976I saw that video and I’m pretty sure he meant that as a joke

[@Yantrus]

@@Madhon1976 It was very clearly a sarcastic joke when he said that

[@worldtraveler84]

I’ve learned in life that staying polite even in disappointment can be very helpful in resolving issues. Its not that agents fault his seat was lost. She just happened to be the one that discovered the issue. Always stay polite.

[@Papershields001]

I’ve gotta say, despite of having your less than stellar experience at Haneda. If you go as a plane spotter, the airport is an absolute dream. Narita too. Heavies all day long and they have dedicated observation platforms.

[@mahdouche79]

99% of people's fly on economy... we are happy to have enough leg room and an empty place next to us 😅

[@cdhblackwell]

Tip - on JAL or ANA flights always go for the Japanese food options….

[@victorialopez9717]

Same with KAL or Asiana. My dad flew them at least twice a year for 20 years and the non-Korean food was never great.

[@u2o570]

The "stool" is a flip down floor for getting changed so that your socks/feet do not need to touch the floor that may or may not be contaminated by bad aim/turbulence

[@ILT87]

Second here and I'm from Japan👍

[@austinbrass]

also to elevate feet to close the angle between legs and torso to provide optimal poop squat. Nothing like it. Everyone should have a poop stool, lifechanging.

[@barbarahallowell2613]

​@@austinbrass yes, bring the feet up a bit, changes the angle of the body, makes for healthier pooping. 😊

[@JediTev]

This is the "other" use of the stool! kzbin.info/www/bejne/j5O8iJuagbRnabM

[@Mechanicalrob]

@@barbarahallowell2613called a “squatty potty”

[@12345678910111213858]

Noel seemed particularly grumpy in this episode. A couple of observations: 1) The ANA lounge in Haneda is actually excellent. They have a whole ramen bar and all kinds of delicious Japanese cuisine to try. Criticizing it for not having *more* Western food than fried chicken would be like criticizing the United Club or Polaris Lounge for not having enough Japanese or Turkish or Guatemalan food. 2) Any lounge is going to be unpleasant when it is that crowded. You visited at a particularly busy time but still got a seat, food, and a beer. Not awful. 3) Early in the video you note that some people get upset with the plastic glasses and such but then you go on to do the same thing on the 2nd flight. Sure, ANA could give you a hot towel and maybe they should, but for this to rise to DISAPPOINTING in all caps is a bit much.

[@PhilJohn1980]

I mean, when he lists the places he visited over 9 days, I'd be grumpy too - jam packed itinerary.

[@DannyBeeVegas]

You have to keep in mind that if you did not know about the little fare hack that the airline was asking for over $8000 for this experience.

[@debbieaz3956]

@dougaldouglas8842 He pays for all his expenses himself www.noelphilips.com/faqs

[@deltaforce5000]

Nope. Japanese customer service has been getting shittier for a while now.

[@jeffreysneezos]

Seconded, seems like he was just frustrated. That alone can make service seem bad. I was in the Haneda lounge last week and it was the best lounge i'd ever been in.

[@Brandon-jp5ow]

I flew ANAs The Room this year from Chicago to Tokyo Haneda and it was one of my best experiences ever and that says a lot. Couldn’t fault ANA one bit but everyone’s experience is going to be different

[@Malc180s]

If it's not great every time, and it's an 8 grand seat, then it ain't all that great.

[@Patrick-hr1wp]

⁠he paid $1000 - incredible value - but moaned all flight.

[@MyNameIsSimon88]

Noel, I get the feeling that this video was made at a time when you where a little frustrated, certainly from someone who's never flown business class before this all seemed like very good stuff.

[@Daledugahole]

Noel would be happy with a pie and chips but he likes to give honest reviews comparing this business class to other business class products he has flown on. If he were just an average flyer and not a blogger, he would be more than happy I think.

[@solstickan]

@@Daledugahole He did crap on them more than needed though, any lounge will be horrific if its during a crowded times of the day. It happens, no needto call ANA crap over that, plus he never reviewed the dinner on the seond leg, which is when he probably would have gotten his beloved hot towel if he didnt opt for sleep instead. Looks to me like he was just grumpy and wanted something to moan about.

[@MyNameIsSimon88]

@@Daledugahole It's one thing to say it's not as good as another offering but he outright called it "crap"

[@davidshardlow7082]

@@Daledugaholehe’s the least sophisticated frequent flyer in the world.

[@cooldood37]

@@davidshardlow7082 very snobbish of you.

[@CrispDZN]

Hey Noel, your videos are always amazing, and I wanted to express my gratitude for including captions. Being deaf, it means so much to me to be able to enjoy your content. Wishing you wonderful travels ahead.

[@noelphilips]

Glad you like them!

[@darrenryding1539]

Noel also went for the burger when he was on Singapore Airlines instead of the local option and complained about it. Maybe choose the regional specialty because it's likely that will be cooked better. Generally, I do like Noel's content a lot but the Japanese series has frustrated me slightly. He complains about expensive taxis when a simple Google search immediately shows the Narita Express or Keisei Skyliner as quick, affordable options. The lounge criticism is bizarre because it was simply busy in a small airport. Haneda is one of the best airports I've traveled from because it's small, very accessible, and efficient. Also perhaps, he should consider shorter trips because a few series have ended a little bitterly. Absolutely it must be fatigue and I respect that he's providing free entertainment. But for the sake of maintaining subscribers maybe he should take a few of these points on board!

[@Yantrus]

Just because the Narita express exists doesn’t mean that those taxi fares weren’t absolutely insane.

[@CaptainKremmen]

ANA's lounges at both NRT and HND are simply not big enough for the number of people crammed into them. I've experienced the ridiculous shower wait times in NRT before, though not over 3 hours. (The rest of your comments I agree with, but the lounges are very disappointing in busy times.)

[@violetlule8124]

​@@Yantrusbut a quick google search wouldve saved all that hassle. I've come back from Japan and everyone says not to bother taking a taxi so I took a train which was a lot cheaper. Its just poor research

[@betaunknown]

Stop giving him the engagement he seeks that will boost his youtube algos.

[@mike04574]

its business class ffs. Singapore airlines normally has amazing food no matter where its from

[@jamessmith1652]

What was wrong with the first flight? All I saw was slightly chewy steak and a plastic glass. I would have also gone for the Japanese food, I mean that's part of the attraction of flying different airlines is to experience local food. The "international" dish is always going to be some weird hybrid attempt to be palatable for everyone but won't be amazing for anybody.

[@HarryS-c9o]

Seen like he’s very conservative about food and eats like 5 year old. Probably scared of fish and sushi… i would trust his loo reviews much more than his meal review.

[@Spiritwonder420]

oke weeb

[@edward88881]

He also slept through the mid-flight ramen soup on the flight to the US that is supposed to be incredible. I know air travel and time zone changes can be tiring but KZbin reviewers earn subscribers by staying awake and showing us everything the flight has to offer - not bedding down and going to sleep.

[@Madhon1976]

@@HarryS-c9o conservative? He thinks that a McDonald’s teriyaki burger is “Japanese cuisine”

[@Redpantslol]

You can order the ramen any time, regardless of meal service. And yeah it's fantastic.

[@VincentGroenewold]

I think it's good to once in a while recheck what you're actually doing. It's quite the privilege and didn't seem that disappointing, like many said, you have to try local food as that's where the quality is, most people will be local and expecting that.

[@kurohone]

Only time I flew ANA was domestic economy, a 747-400D Haneda to Chitose, and a 777 on the return leg. Decent enough for a short hop I guess. Even then though the 777 had the nose camera, which they put on the cabin TV for landing. As someone who is a very nervous flier, especially at the transition phases, that camera was a great way to calm my nerves, letting me know more about what was going on. I really appreciated that.

[@johnsramek3905]

I can't remember anything about my last domestic flight in Japan, from OKA to FUK and back, one might have been ANA and the other JAL. but I do fondly remember flying ANA as a child, between UBJ and AOJ in either a NAMC YS-11 or a Fokker F27 Friendship, both turboprops 😄👍(the YS-11 might have been Toa Domestic Airlines) 🛫

[@Calebs_Aviation]

WOW 🤩 THAT MUST HAVE BEEN SICK! I wish I could’ve flown on that ANA 747-400D especially since only JAL and ANA received the 20 747-400 (Domestic) variants sold only to Japanese Airlines! I recently saw some ANA 747-100SR (Short Range) variants in Marana Arizona set to be scrapped sadly! 😢The SR was the predecessor to the -400D variant with only 15 built and sold to ANA & JAL (They were a stretched version of the -100 series with a larger upper deck (like what came standard later on the -300 or the -200SUD) and had higher capacity for domestic routes within Japan 🇯🇵

[@dhamu1978]

I think someone got up on the wrong side of the bed that day in Bangkok. This is not like Noel to term everything from the lounge to the plastic cup to the amenity kit as crappy. This is the most times I have heard the word crap in one of Noel's videos. I guess just one of those days where one finds everything crappy :)

[@paultaylor1688]

Totally agree, I have a feeling he was enjoying the alcohol too much, noylt like him at all

[@jedgar63]

If it was in a glass, the glass would have needed have been picked up before takeoff, even if you're not finished. That may be why they served the preflight drink in plastic. So, yes, his complaint is a little picky.

[@bryanwoodward1822]

@@jedgar63 I'm not sure why you think glasses have to be picked up before takeoff. I've flown Singapore Airlines in Business many times and never had the pre-takeoff drink glass taken away before takeoff. I agree with Noel, plastic in Business is just cheap and nasty, who wants to drink champagne out of a plastic cup. Paper towel wipe low level too, I live in Japan and like ANA domestic, but Japanese aviation hasn't caught up with the world I'm afraid to say.

[@yakuza1333]

Quite agree with you. Seemed like there were only a few minor things to criticise. I'd have enjoyed the flights. Do try the local foods option sometimes.

[@whatever8282828]

I agree, a bit. Noel is usually so positive even when he has a very bad experience. I align with him in this video because I'm critical of everything, but here he seems unusually sour on what seems like a good trip.

[@Jason94vr4]

Foot stool is used to stand on when changing clothes in the lav so you aren’t standing on a dirty bathroom floor once taking your slippers off to change. Actually had a flight attendant point the stool out to me in JAL first when giving me a set of pajamas to change into. Also the Thai Royal Orchid lounge has been open for a while. I used it in Jan 2022 and Sept 2022.

[@jensenotterlifterfahs7327]

I would recommend on your next Japan trip doing a little more prep for some of the ways that the country is different from the US/UK - it's a very common reminder in travel guides that you need to carry cash for a lot of types of services in Japan, and your double payment for the shinkansen probably could have been avoided if you had asked for assistance with printing the day of vs doing it yourself and had maybe carried to a travel phrasebook or app with you to give you a little basis for communicating, especially since it's just less likely to find a staff member who speaks English as far out as Sapporo. Anyway, its true ANA has been seen as stagnating a bit compared to what other premier options across the Pacific offer, and that's probably a combination of covid, the massive tumble the yen's taken against the dollar recently, and their corporate culture. My friends who've flown JAL have been a bit more satisfied recently. That said, the yoshoku option for food out of Tokyo will always be a little more foreign than Westerners expect a "Western/International Cuisine" option to be - Western-style Japanese food is really its own cuisine going back to the Meiji restoration, and even with how international airline food development is these days, a Japanese flag carrier will naturally be picking versions of Western-style food that more align with the tastes of more Japanese travelers. I really do recommend if you don't have dietary restrictions trying whatever the local meal set option is and trying something new and ambitious for you, as even with the criticisms I've heard of ANA recently still speak highly of the washoku[traditional Japanese] catering out of Tokyo. That said, i understand at the end of a long trip, I can understand wanting something more familiar - it's just important to temper those expectations of familiarity as a stranger in a strange land.

[@skyeye787]

Noel I flew ANA business class this year and I was massively impressed with the service and product. The only let down for me is definitely the IFE options…. Not that many to choose from unfortunately

[@jjohn713]

I love ANA and always fly them to Japan when given the option for work. And yes, I agree with others who have said to order the Japanese meal. Even in Economy, they treat you right versus United or any other US carrier.

[@marlopeterson8283]

Your major complaints are contract catering related. Western meals prepared in Thailand will taste different from those prepared in Europe because of available seasonings. Catering provides dishes, glasses, hot towels, etc. All of that comes from catering. Further, national governments could have mandated disposable towels, flatware glasses because of COVID and other health concerns to cut down on the spread of disease. ANA is a wonderful product and they take pride in the company and how they are styled.

[@cheenuts65]

I agree about the government instruction on everything to be disposable due to COVID. The crews aboard also need to be protected, so it’s better to just throw away everything than to collect and reuse them.

[@EdisonWong2004]

You forgot to mention that it's the airline's responsibility to ensure that the catering company's food is up to its standard. If a plane breaks down, yes the maintenance company has some fault, but ultimately it is still the airline that is to blame. ANA Airlines apparently had a pretty average standard which resulted in Noel's disappointing experience.

[@asimler45]

Huh I had an amazing flight with ANA earlier this year and look forward to flying with them again in a few months. The crew were absolutely lovely and provided probably the best in flight service I have ever experienced. The meal options were amazing if you would have went with the Japanese menu. I found the ANA lounge at Haneda to be perfectly fine and spent 4 hours there before my flight home to Seattle (the ANA curry was fab). My one criticism of ANA would be that they need a better selection on the IFE. Other than that, great airline.

[@MegaHariboboy]

It's because unfortunately, he's becoming one of those entitled business class flight reviewers. He very, very rarely flies in economy anymore (unlike Josh Cahill), complains substantially, and makes his videos ridiculously long. It's less a flight review than it is a vlog where he happens to fly.

[@chris2kgreat]

​@@MegaHariboboyi enjoy his product immensely, and the aspects of his videos that u are bitchjng about right now isn't a problem to me and many other viewers

[@joannharrington2279]

I agree with you on things to expect on business class. The food was mediocre, you couldn't lay out in the bed, and no hot towel to refresh yourself. As you said some people will pick at what you had complaints on but I agree with you. Airlines are a service like hotels and when you can only praise their toilets there is an issue. Have a safe trip home.

[@edau69]

ANA is my favorite go to airline, I work as an aircraft mechanic for a major North American airline and travel frequently to Asia. I have flown quite a few airlines and my top airline in Asia is ANA.

[@cookiedog1878]

Wife is Filipino. Fly the Pacific from DFW to Manila quite often. We always fly Korean Airlines. They are great! Advice…Don’t fly PAL.

[@FUToob]

Same here, with JAL, Korean, Asiana, EVA being up there as well.

[@shadowblade232]

Liked as usual because I really do appreciate the content you put out for us, Noel. You really missed out by going with the Western/International option for meals and not partaking in the on-demand snack/light meals menu. This particular string of flights seems to have taken a toll on your usual chipper self, I hope you get a lot of rest before your next adventure!

[@noelphilips]

Thank you. This was at the end of my 2 weeks filming trip & I am usually quite run down by then.

[@eltebux]

I think im kinda run down of this channel now, sad

[@AT-nq6cu]

@@noelphilips Hi Noel, if you don't mind me asking. Why didn't you fly from Tokyo to Houston on ANA, rather than going via San Francisco? I'm sure it cost a lot of money to do that. Am I right?

[@RyanLackey]

@@noelphilipsMaybe take an actual vacation for a couple weeks and don't film anything? You certainly deserve a break. (I travel for work almost as much as you do, and I can't imagine having to film it, edit, etc.)

[@JediTev]

​@noelphilips you do an outstanding job! I really look forward to your videos every week! I enjoy your travels! And it's cool seeing my home airport (SFO) in the background of your videos. I understand you can get a bit exhausted, so if you get grouchy it's understandable. And I think you give honest reviews, especially the Loo Reviews, and you don't call a turd a tootsie roll when it's not. Keep up the awesome work! I hope Rachel is doing much better! Take care, and look forward to your next video!

[@IntriguedLioness]

Noel’s videos always pop up in my feed, because as I work and travel extensively for pleasure, I am very critical of the industry. However, at the beginning of my career, I had to deal with FIT (VIP) travelers and this was so annoying. Taking care of their endless complaints was something my office did even though we worked in tourism marketing. I would cringe at their inevitable complaints, knowing what business class and coach was like. It’s one reason I would never take a cruise ship or chartered yachts. Once you’ve seen how the crew sleeps, and where they eat, I don’t care what you may have paid (or usually what your company has paid), you need to just take in the view and enjoy the privilege of travel.

[@HappyLittleCamper]

If the ticket prices are different to coach then you'd expect a different service.

[@adejupe8308]

"I don't know why Japanese toilets have little stools in them" - Noel Philips, 2023

[@TheScratchingKiwi]

I wonder if Noel is talking about the floor shields that are used when you are changing your clothes in the loo, so your clothes do not touch the toilet floor.

[@sandiandgregh]

First off, that price difference is jaw-dropping shocking. Terrible. Some people feel you are being overly picky but if I had paid full wack ($8000US) to splash out for a Business Class experience and got plastic cups, a wet-wipe (really those should be given to everyone on every flight before meal service), mediocre food and uncomfortable seats, I wouldn't be too pleased either. However, I would have ordered the sushi in the lounge (if I could get a seat!) and on the flight. Take care of yourself. That schedule sounds absolutely brutal.

[@sparklygemster]

Depending on when this was filmed, the hot towel thing could be because they had not long relaxed the covid restrictions and were probably still being careful. Would have liked to have seen the main meal service, and think that you should have definitely tried to use the chopsticks just to give that extra entertainment value. Still looking forward to my flight with them next month, although not lucky enough to be able to afford business class

[@jollyfox]

Noel, I was surprised to learn you preferred United’s business class over ANA. I hope you will fly with ANA again so we can learn if it was a one off or if the service will be questionable in the future.

[@skiandbike131]

The western food looked way better on ANA than United and I'm sure the service was 100x better. The ANA room seat looks amazing as well.

[@thingstosell]

He's not wrong. I fly UA and NH all the time, trans-pacific. NH is all hype. ANA lounge in NRT sux. UA lounge is better.

[@thingstosell]

​@@skiandbike131untrue

[@manutdrule09]

Interesting you say that the trans pacific flights from Japan were too expensive but zip air themselves do an insanely cheap direct flight to LA

[@davidwinfield6195]

Hi Noel, I encourage you to rest more between flight reviews. I feel that your reviews are fairer in the early days of your marathon itinerary. Thank you for taking us along.

[@noelphilips]

I wish I could, but then I would be away from home for too long. When I am in a certain part of the world I try to build in as many things, as I can, in the trip. I am on my last big trip of the year, right now. After this one I will be just doing short ones, around the US, for the rest of the year.

[@joshuab1707]

The way you casually referred to CNN as the Comedy News Network had me dying 😂

[@kmslegal7808]

their bias is comedic

[@moonramshaw1982]

"Why do Japanese toilets have little stools". Noel didn't realise what he said then lol😂

[@mjtt12]

Flew with Ana back in May and it was definitely one the best economy long haul flights I’ve ever been on. Some of the best food I’ve ever had on a plane.

[@CricketEngland]

8:25 “Waiter bring me some wine and don’t get all Sake” - Rick Mayall

[@Diatom27]

Some of us will never have the joy of flying business class. Noel, you used to do economy but it seems lately everything is business or first class. I find that some of your latest vlogs have not had much enthusiasm as the earlier ones.

[@LH747-KAITAK]

Sam Chui started the same. Now all he does is 1st class. However Noel does seem down to earth. Must have been tired.

[@Sam-ys6iw]

@@LH747-KAITAK mm noel has his moments, i can't remember which video it was but he was so condescending to staff checking him and the security etc in because he wasn't flying business and he got absolutely wrecked in the comments

[@ashleighgarnettt]

no way?!? pls remember i wanna see those comments@@Sam-ys6iw

[@Royalpaininbum]

It was a combination of jet lag and Japanese beer ( it packs a punch)

[@ashleighgarnettt]

you might be rach on a burner lol@@Royalpaininbum

[@im_not_mad]

I wouldn’t wear a ‘Brad Paisley’ shirt if it was the last shirt on earth to wear.

[@philiphunt7754]

Lounges can be busy depending on outbound flights as well as supporting other loyalty programmes. That said, I'd rather sit in a lounge than at the gate. Lounge food can be hit and miss, everyone blows on about Cathay lounges but I thought it was just ok. Think Noel was a little bit harsh.

[@edward88881]

What happened to the review of dinner after departing Tokyo? That's usually the service where Japanese carriers shine by serving multi-plate, elegantly presented, Japanese dishes. I'd bet their caterer in their home base of Tokyo is the best in the whole system putting a dinner together. Big missed opportunity.

[@minibear8577]

There is only snack service with late night departure. No full meal is offered.

[@austinbrass]

can concur the best meals are on mid-day departures from NRT/HND. I hope you like fish for breakfast though.@@minibear8577

[@ajrocks12x]

@@minibear8577 : On a more than 10 hour international flight? You must be joking

[@Invalidchannel-1]

@@minibear8577 I frequently do overnight 8-10 hour flights to Europe from my home in the eastern US for work. I have ALWAYS been offered a full meal regardless of airline or departure time. British Airways, Lufthansa, Air France etc…

[@NeXtdra42]

@@Invalidchannel-1 I couldn't believe his comment so I just looked up the business class menu for the overnight HND-SFO flight Noel took. There is no full meal service on that flight.

[@chamilaherath5769]

Good on ya mate and have some drinks for us too. See ya in your next adventure.

[@pinoyastronaut]

Love hearing the jokes about Cebu Pacific and the safety videos. Keep it up Noel

[@stevegoins6426]

He still hasn’t gotten over the Cebu Pacific flight from Manila to the Middle East with 400 of his closest Filipino friends. 😂

[@jbmelmax6956]

Recently booked Cebu Pacific and they canceled the flight 2 days later.Other flight was 7 hours late

[@JeffCD77]

Noel still says, "thank you" even after being told that they lost his window seat.

[@SuiGenerisAbbie]

Proper gentleman our Noel.

[@FastGuy1]

@@SuiGenerisAbbieLord Noel*

[@senorsenior92]

You can take the Brit out of Britain but can't take Britain out the Brit.

[@FastGuy1]

@@senorsenior92 facts

[@jon.limjap]

Hah, the "smashdown" is just normal wet runway procedure I guess. Try buttering a landing on a rainy day and you'll end up off the side or off the far end of the runway from hydroplaning!

[@USVAGuy]

United better than ANA!? Noel are you okay!? ANA is vastly superior!

[@jasonheminger4844]

You should be honest about the plastic cups...it's just for the pre departure beverage. All the actual flight cups are glassware.

[@pryonic]

I used the Haneda ANA lounge last week at Haneda (although my flight was with Lufthansa) and I thought it was a great lounge - although I will admit I was there a little earlier in the day when it was less busy. The had a decent buffet including Japenese snacks (onigiri, japanese omlette, curry and rice) and a good drinks selection (Japanese whisky, Ashahi, iced coffee) but the best bit is the cooked to order ramen hatch - just like being in central Tokyo I get it would suck if it was busier but it was far from crap!

[@rothvonhoyte]

Yeah that lounge is solid for food, has great views, and has showers

[@randy9876qwq]

As an ANA flyer of 25 years I love them ! Always consistent service and professionalism. They are the best airline in Japan for a reason. Domestic service is 1st class.

[@alexdovey6191]

I have flown the room a few times and it’s one of the best I have experienced. It’s also competitively priced in the premium end.

[@StillPooh62]

United Airlines is wildly inconsistent though. My husband just got back yesterday from a week long business trip to Hawaii. He got an upgrade to first class on the SFO to BWI leg (on a 737 Max 9). I just asked him if he got a hot towel before the meal, and when he got done laughing said "no". There was also no drink service offered during boarding.

[@Lwi5]

ANA is one of the greatest airlines I’ve ever flown in my life tbh

[@mattdarling9450]

Maybe if you chose the Japanese menu, you wouldn't feel underwhelmed.

[@TheRealMarkyPizzle]

Sounds like a business class designed for the Japanese traveler. We're typically taller and like softer beds. A bit surprised you didnt ask for McDonald's for Breakfast

[@MartinLee888]

You missed the best part of that lounge! In that lounge they have a section where you can order Ramen on demand. They cook it fresh for you, it’s a small hole in the wall. Plus the savings from the flight. It’s a bargain still. Stop being so grumpy. We all love the rain in the UK!

[@cameronhatch1346]

I love watching your videos, just seems like this last leg of your trip you weren’t feeling it. Maybe you were ready to be home. Cheers

[@NurseViv]

I have a Toto toilet seat lid from Amazon the one that has the assorted water cleaning but also the seat warmer and air dryer! 😅…WORTH EVERY PENNY!! Edited to add I live in AZ and the extra cleansing particularly in the summer is priceless! 😊😌

[@RAS15714]

Last month I flew ANA business from London to Sydney. I certainly agree the 787 leg is not as good as "the room" although I would say as good as Etihad or Thai business class but I am confused by some of you comments. I am not sure how tall you are but at 5' 10" I had plenty of leg room on the 777 when sleeping. The food and service was excellent and minor items like no hot towels seems very unimportant compared to the amazing privacy that "the room" offers and I had very high quality food.. Where I do agree with you is the lounge which on my flight to Australia was as you described, ridiculously full and with a 5 hour wait for a shower. On the way back to LHR I was in the other terminal and the lounge there was incredible. Immediate access to brilliant shower and so much space. I would certainly choose them again.

[@InstantLuc]

I flew JAL's SkySuite from MNL to NRT two weeks ago. I ordered the western style dish and it was exceptional. The 787 cabin is tight, but with all seats having direct asile access it was awesome. I think ANA could take notes from JAL

[@davidstone9467]

Yes JAL beats ANA in all J class offerings

[@JeanClaudeCOCO]

I’ve seen JAL western options and I think they’re better than ANA. Also not everyone wants to fully indulge in X country food while on x country airline. It’s what your heart desire and he could have been tired of Japanese cuisine since he was in the country for a while.

[@Calebs_Aviation]

For Sure!

[@rossgwelsh]

Love the reference to Del Boy around 24:00, keep up the good work Noel!!

[@john07973]

An uncalled for sneering comment "past a plane full of unfortunate Cebu Pacific passengers "

[@chrisprieur270]

LOL! You must be a real hoot to be around! I'm being sarcastic just like Noel was on the Cebu comment and it's obvious most who fly Cebu don't mind being extra cramped if it means a lower fare.

[@Idelia412]

I must say I am getting addicted to watching your videos! Thanks for sharing them!

[@noelphilips]

Glad you like them!

[@venlo842]

same I've been binging them too

[@robertlebo7009]

Why do the people who make these travel videos always look, dress, and behave as if they are going to their local Waffle House for supper?

[@BRAIRCO]

I flew quite a lot of times in ANA in their different classes and their planes, classes and lounges were SUPERB !!!!!, I really enjoyed flying with them !!!!!

[@FUToob]

Neil flew during the #1 summer holiday period in Japan. That's why the Japan to USA price was high. A bit of research would have, perhaps, put him out of the peak period, but "no".

[@rothvonhoyte]

He didnt really do any research into Japan from the sounds of it

[@akalina]

What a cool 9 days away from home "around the world" trip. Thanks for posting all your videos.

[@ShelterCats]

The only way I travel is vicariously through Noel. Cheers.

[@PREDDER_SHREDDERS]

He obviously likes a bum tickle with the loo review

[@smikejasper4461]

Bless him - he thinks he's travelling solo but there's actually a whole crowd of us bunched around him. 😂

[@vickihshallenberger3644]

Me too 😂

[@CelineNoyce]

Me too.

[@michaelrobertson2566]

Agree with your review. I recently flew from Sydney to LHR via Tokyo , ANA Business . 787 then 777 on respective legs. 787 was underwhelming, but the 777 (The Room ) was vey good. I found the meals hit and miss, but the ANA lounge in Haneda Terminal 3 was great. Rate ANA behind Emirates, Singapore and Qantas for long haul flights.

[@adihaddad]

Flew with ANA Business Class a few times and their service is top notch, especially compared to European and US airlines. This review is rather negative and honestly very cranky. One flight with ANA was during a typhoon that delayed all flights from Europe to Tokyo. They took care of ALL flight passengers with the same hotel accomodations (amazing 5 star hotel), meals and travel between the hotel and the airport until we could fly to Tokyo.

[@fitshamer]

"a bruiser of a longing from Captain Smashdown" haha I love it.

[@Boodieman72]

I think Noel has become jaded.

[@wooka]

entirely agree

[@teazerfemi]

Thanks a million for this lovely piece of information and entertainment, Noel Phillips is feeling homesick, you weren't as spicy as your usual self

[@alexdavis5766]

Love that their safety video had the info in sign Japanese sign language! You very rarely see BsL on British planes, unless the bigger carriers have introduced it since I’ve flown. I had a woman on American Airlines start using ASL on me as it said “deaf” on my booking but she got angry when I look blankly at her, reminding her that I’m British and so use BSL which is very different. She thought deaf people would know all international sign language too, as I was deaf, like it automatically gets uploaded into my head the second I went deaf…

[@Roadent1241]

I assume they think there's one single Sign Language that we know... Miss Staff Member, just write, we can understand english in general.

[@1324TN]

Hi, I didn't know BSL was different from ASL , I had a feeling it was but others kept saying it's basically the same. I Learn some ASL as a child and some in collage, but never continue with it since I'm only hard of hearing with hearing aids.

[@Roadent1241]

@@1324TN Same with being HOH with 'aids. Do you have BTEs too? The alphabet is different between the two at least, ASL is one-handed with that but for general signs like eat, drink etc I think we share. I have seen like German and Japanese and they're different for obvious reasons but I don't know their alphabets. Nobody I know uses BSL regularly because it's the hearing world so I didn't learn much except off my mum. My dad didn't bother, he's just loud.

[@1324TN]

@@Roadent1241 Hi what is BTEs?

[@Roadent1241]

@@1324TN Behind The Ears. The sort of 'aid you see at the start of AntMan.

[@manpochver]

I love food chronicles, the lounge, and all that!😍😍😍

[@DannyBeeVegas]

You have to keep in mind that if you did not know about the little fare hack that the airline was asking for over $8000 for this experience. Remember that Noel has flown many airlines and many of them has been in a business or first class cabin, so there is a degree of expectation especially when they market it as five star.

[@Harmonikdiskorde]

Tip: the most budget-friendly way to replicate the Japanese toilet at home is to buy a postpartum peri bottle. Fill it up after each use, and it should do the important bits!

[@ndmp913]

Noel, you seem like you need a break.

[@clairepapadatos1116]

Take a little break with your family, darling! Love and best wishes to you all 😘😘😘

[@joerhorton]

I flew economy class with ANA from Frankfurt -> Tokyo (Haneda) _> Sydney. The staff were amazing and as for the food it was decent enough, but I expected it to be different than Western food. As for the Japanese toilets, I nearly missed my connecting flight coming home as I was too busy playing with the toilet to realise how much time I had spent making my botty spotless! Also, ANA had some great Star Wars planes, the one I was one was decorated like R2D2 and the in-flight announcements were C3-PO! Mental!

[@jamielee9350]

Ref :Footstool , The goal of the product is to re-align a persons internal plumbing when seated on a toilet thereby resulting in a more natural squatting position when defecating. Simply raising the feet off the floor accomplishes the desired result.

[@padthelad2]

Alright Noel, if making these trips makes you so miserable then …

[@andredonnelly8521]

Agree

[@comfeycushion7944]

But it is hard work flying everywhere in business class

[@comfeycushion7944]

@dougaldouglas8842 Noel does it so that we don't have to,plastic glasses and cheap amenity kits,what a sacrifice to make

[@patriciafuchs5970]

I appreciate how you give credit to those who help you. The lounge looked great! Quite nice is not a ringing endorsement of the food. The second lounge was really busy. I liked the Lou review and your enthusiasm for bidets. Thanks for not demonstrating!!! Sorry the bed was uncomfortable. It’s kind of weird that the bathroom was the highlight of your review!!

[@davidshardlow7082]

‘Quite nice’ is every positive comment Noel ever makes.

[@Redpantslol]

Weird conclusion.... I usually fly Business Class. ANA is consistent and solid. United Polaris is definitely the worst I've ever experienced. (Comparing NH, JL, DL, UA, SQ, LH).

[@PigeonPair]

LOL @ the reference to CEBU Pacific.... it's funny because it's oh-so true

[@Eric2221]

Like most Asian carriers, ANA is trying to come back from years of pamdemic lock down. Three years of limited (or no) revenue is going to crimp capital outlay on frills in the near term. I hope that after things normalize for a year or two ANA, JAL, Cathay, Singapore etc can restore themselves to their former glory.

[@whatever8282828]

The huge screen on the 777 seems to have a much more responsive touch interface than I usually see on airline reviews, or myself in person. That is impressive.

[@FlyingMaxFr]

Looks like you need some rest, this trip didn't seem to do you any good...

[@asimler45]

Sounds like he just didn’t care for Japan in general judging from the previous videos. Shame as it’s just a wonderful country and an amazing place to travel.

[@lifeofabronovich7792]

@@asimler45I was just in Japan, absolutely loved it. I think it’s the best country I’ve visited

[@jeremyflynn1003]

“Japanese” toilets are also everywhere in South Korea. After a trip there I bought one for UK. Brand is Vovo. Easy retrofit to existing toilet. Not expensive. Even easier for you in US where power outlets are in bathrooms.

[@jasonmayfield9959]

re: the "cheap" "wet wipe" - it's a cultural thing as this is perceived to be much more sterile/sanitary. You seem to quite fancy the United one...I wonder what you'd think if you know it was just a washcloth doused in hot water from the plane's water tank? We've all been told not to drink that water, but it's ok for wiping your face? Not saying I prefer one or the other, but I understand the Japanese reasoning.

[@goyoy6433]

I've always had great experience with ANA. I appreciate their employees as they work to make the trip a pleasant one. Also I get fascinated by just watching them. The greeting one other and the huddling up to go over the plan of operation. I can't complain 👍

[@prasenjitchowdhury8593]

My experience with ANA is much different to what you have experienced.

[@jimmyoshea465]

I must say Noel I am having a whale of a time catching up on the videos I missed since Facebook did the dirty. I have two friends who travel extensively to and around Asia, and they say ANA is only used when they have to otherwise, it’s literally any other carrier!! Great video once again so thank you👍

[@grantt4691]

That was a hectic 9 day schedule. I really enjoy all your productions. Most people that experience a Japanese loo dream of installing one back home till they find out the price. South Park has a hilarious episode on Japanese loo envy. 🤣

[@gileshouliston7282]

Stool for optimum comfort. ANA where amazing. Loved the lil touches

[@aliel-kadri7559]

How was the second flight “just alright”!!

[@aliel-kadri7559]

I saw nothing disappointing

[@edwinlucero4670]

Asian business class Flight attendants are the best in the world. They are polite, always asking if you need help, they love to serve. They are not chatty like I have encountered in SOME airlines in the US, who seem wasted working.

[@matthewkjellerson9325]

Might do you good to restart that across USA Greyhound trip again ? Maybe you will get lucky and have someone vomit in the seat behind you or steal your bag while your sleeping..... Getting "grounded" may reintroduce you to a bit of humility.

[@samuelmartin707]

Thank you for a great video Noel!!!! I love watching your video and have a nice break my friend!!!!

[@Hiro-eb4zx]

Noel's points are quite accurate. There are so many underwhelming factors about ANA which unfortunately ticked all the boxes this time. Here are some alternative suggestions and notes. 1) If anyone is flying business class expecting a nice meal onboard, THINK TWICE before booking a late night departure flight (which is 21:00 or beyond). Even on ultra-long haul like HND-JFK, they do not serve a proper meal. Instead, the menu consists of a few items from anytime snacks and then a simple breakfast before landing with a single tray with just two main choices (they call it breakfast but in theory egg dishes are limited!). Makes no difference whether you're flying a 5hr Vietnam flight or 14+hrs JFK flight, except a bit increased snack items for the longer routes. In contrast, JAL does provide a full meal on a long haul flight even when departing mid-night. Instead, opt for a flight leaving before 21:00 where a full meal experience can be enjoyed. 2) Yes, the main HND lounge could be severely overcrowded. This is partly because ANA was going to shift half of international flights to Terminal 2 by the end of March 2020, then we all know what happened. The shift was delayed until May 2023 when finally some flights have made a move, and expect more in coming days. The waiting time for shower is absolutely crazy and I could really understand the frustration with the lounge quality overall. The food needs more protein source, as the selection seems heavily leaned towards carbs (rich in rice, noodles but very limited chicken/fish/meat etc). Alternatively, there is a temporary lounge near Gate 114, which still may be crowded but one difference is that there are proper sushi chefs serving nigiris. Well, not sure if Noel will like that anyway 🙂 3) The plastic glass - it's only used during welcome drink service. I'm sure after take off the drinks were served in a proper glassware. 4) Yes, the cheap paper wet towels! It's just an excuse as one of "COVID measures" still carried on till this date. It is indeed nonsense in the current times. 5) The footstool in lavatories is to change clothes (i.e. pajamas) without feet needing to touch the pee-sprayed floor. I really hope ANA could find this video useful for future improvements, indeed I've also started realizing that the competitors are catching up much faster. p.s. To give some credit to ANA, it's still impressive that on longer South East Asian destinations (including BKK), they provide a mattress and extensive snack menu on board.

[@ab.22star]

That step in the bathroom is for people to change. You can take off your shoes and not have to worry about the splashing getting onto you socks.

[@JustMe-sn8kd]

LOl, your comment about the pilot landing hard and being a bad landing aren't necessarily synonymous. In inclimate weather and/or high winds pilots will usually land harder to ensure good contact. Think of if you drive too quickly on the road and hydroplane, now imaging having things on your vehicle that cause lift and you may understand why they are more firm when the weather isn't ideal. Despite ANA being about $800+ cheaper and more direct, I wanted to fly JAL to Japan because I feel their differences are good enough that I was OK paying extra. The PE seats are the shell type so you don't lean back into someone, something ANA doesn't offer, I believe the food rests differ as well. I also don't like their blue color of the seats, it looks worn. Seeing several videos of ANA, though they are always good with their soft product, the hard product just doesn't seem to be as good as JAL.

[@Malc180s]

He's a pilot. I'm sure he understands.