THAI AIRWAYS

FLIGHT NUMBER: TG936 ROUTE: Bangkok to Vienna

AIRCRAFT: B777-300ER CLASS: Royal Silk Business SEAT: 16J

DURATION: 11 hours 30 minutes

Thai Airways’ newest route, Bangkok to Vienna, is great news for travellers headed to Central or Eastern Europe, with the gracious Austrian capital the gateway to a fascinating part of the world. After a blissful foot massage in Suvarnabhumi Airport’s Royal Orchard Spa (a lovely touch, complimentary for Royal Silk Business Class guests), I’m ready for some shuteye soon after the 1.30 am take-off, which is thankfully made possible by the 777’s comfy, fully flatbed pods. There’s adequate storage (including a hook for my jacket) and a USB outlet is handy for phone charging. But before sleep, there’s some Veuve Clicquot Brut to indulge in – this is Business Class after all! – as well as Thai’s new Samrab menu, a selection of small, spicy Thai dishes designed to complement each other in flavours. I find the movie selection onboard a little limited, but after one new release I’m ready to curl up and snooze anyway, aided by an eye-mask provided in the sweet silk amenities bag (which also contains slippers, earplugs and Thaimade organic toiletries). Wake me in snowy Vienna!

The verdict: For sleeping and dining, Thai’s hospitality shines – though its entertainment system is not as extensive as some competitors.