Naturally, the trip started with a bang (a literal one). A thunderstorm in DFW had already woken me up multiple times before my alarm went off at 6am. The pre-trip excitement did not entirely counteract the sleepiness and so I left for the airport slightly behind schedule. Fortunately, the TSA pre-check program let me skip security and so I was at the gate with plenty of time. Unfortunately, the thunderstorm made the early arrival pointless and I sat at the crowded gate with countless other irritated and sleepy passengers.
My domestic flight was mostly a blur due to sleepiness, so nothing much to report about it. I will say that I actually prefer the MD-80 first class to the 737-800 first class. Perhaps I am simply used to the Super 80, but I really dislike the TVs (on the 738) that blare the safety video. For some reason it is much easier to tune out the human voices that deliver the briefing.
I finally woke up for the day when I arrived at LAX. I immediately went to the Admirals Club to escape the hordes of irritated passengers here too. Why is everyone always so upset at airports?! Due to my Executive Platinum status on American and my later flight to Tokyo, I was granted access to the Flagship Lounge. I have never been before and the main difference is that everyone is dressed much nicer. Well, everyone except me, so that was a bit awkward. Here are some pictures.
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| Bar Area (free premium spirits at 9:30am for alcoholics) |
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| View of Flagship Lounge |
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| A few lunch options |
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| Pecan chicken and potatoes |
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| My Lunch! (featuring italian wedding soup) |
Now it is time to head to the international terminal and check-in for my Tokyo flight!
