Latest news with #Jing
Vancouver Sun
22-05-2025
- Business
- Vancouver Sun
Flying 12 hours in business class — an honest review of the $6000 experience
I recently flew 12 hours from Hong Kong to Vancouver on Cathay Pacific in Business Class . Let me preface this review by saying: any time you get to lie flat on a long-haul flight, it's a luxury. The lounges, service and in-air food are what truly set apart a memorable experience, especially for a frequent flyer. With a steep $6,000 price tag to go from HKG to YVR (or vice-versa), you're probably wondering: is it worth it ? I was, too, as it had been a few years since I'd been on a Cathay flight. I memorably flew with them for the first time in 2006, and was so blown away, I still have a paper dinner menu from that flight. Interest around international travel is up this year, as more and more Canadians opt to skip the U.S. The Hong Kong Tourism Board shared that Canadians' intent to travel to Hong Kong this year has increased by a whopping 30 per cent. The Asian metropolis has always been one of my favourite cities around the globe: a unique history, fabulous food and shopping, and a vibrant nightlife have kept me returning over the years. Plan your next getaway with Travel Time, featuring travel deals, destinations and gear. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder. The next issue of Travel Time will soon be in your inbox. Please try again Interested in more newsletters? Browse here. Read on for everything you need to know about Cathay Pacific's Business Class experience. My 2025 experience kicked off with a visit to the Cathay Pacific lounges – yes, there are multiple — at HKG. As their hometown airport, expectations are high – and certainly didn't disappoint compared to what we might be used to at YVR (our limited offerings include the rather un-premium Plaza Premium lounge, the fairly decent Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge, as well as a smaller Cathay Pacific one, to name a few). My favourite HKG Cathay option was The Pier Business Class Lounge, which includes the airline's first-ever tea room with blends by Jing , as well as the iconic noodle bar. Both were excellent options, and a special shoutout goes to the baristas working the coffee cart: after several excursions to HKG over the years, I'm convinced this is the only quality latte at the entire airport (avoid this airport's Blue Bottle at all costs, which I typically love). Relaxation rooms, shower suites and work stations are also available here. Upon boarding, the lead flight attendant came over to introduce herself, give me a tour of the pod and offer a beverage: the non-alcoholic Cathay Delight, made of coconut milk, kiwi juice and fresh mint is always a win – but the Laurent-Perrier brut is also nice for some bubbly. Initially, I was a bit disappointed I didn't have one of the new Aria suites – currently only available on the London to Hong Kong route and expected to roll out on the Vancouver planes later this year – but the overall experience quickly made up for that. Despite the pod appearing a bit dated, I appreciated the amount of storage space. If you like to keep several items handy – for me, it's a laptop , AirPods , chargers , vitamins and skincare – you won't be fussed. As a frequent flier, I always look forward to a long-haul flight amenity kit. Cathay partnered with British-based Bamford, offering mini-sized versions of the brand's cooling gel , multi-purpose balm and pillow mist , leaning into a wellness theme. Initially, I wanted to see products from a more well-known luxury brand – but the products were quality and completely elevated the overnight experience. The leather case was a nice touch, too, and easy to reuse as a makeup bag or for smaller toiletries. In-flight service began with an always-appreciated hot towel, warm nuts and a pretty swanky meal service for being 30,000 feet above the ground. Among the many options, I opted for an appetizer and main that are tied to two well-known Hong Kong Michelin star restaurants: the chilled abalone and cucumber with black vinegar from Duddell's and the pan-seared Chilean sea bass with saffron sauce from Louise , which is my all-time favourite restaurant in Hong Kong. The Duddell's abalone certainly lived up to the hype, and is arguably one of the best items I've enjoyed in the sky on any flight. Louise's sea bass was decent, however, a tad bland, and not quite to par with what I've come to know and love from the restaurant itself (which I highly recommend on a visit to Hong Kong). Regardless, it was still an elevated choice considering – and I would get it again, but maybe add a little salt. Cheese, Häagen-Dazs ice cream or fresh fruit followed, for some simple but solid dessert options (although the ice cream was very frozen – beware!). Dining has a leisurely vibe in-air on Cathay Pacific, which is ideal for someone who wants to immerse themselves in the entire multi-course experience. For those looking to get in a full night's sleep or get some work done, however, be mindful of the time to get dishes cleared. I'm a fast eater, so I opted to use the call button to speed up the process. Where the menu truly stood out was on the all-day options, which could be requested at any time during the flight. Noodles (a popular choice) and a burger with fries are on the docket, both of which were excellent. Key detail: the fries were delicious and not soggy. For those looking to indulge in a drink, the cocktail and wine lists were extensive, edging out Canadian competitors. The Chateau Lynch-Bages from Pauillac is a tried and true choice, but for those feeling experimental, Chinese wine – not readily available in North America – is available. On the non-alcoholic front, the Hong Kong-style milk tea appeared to be a popular choice with those on my flight. Wi-Fi on the flight was solid, at least for the time I was using it. For the movie watchers, Cathay's entertainment system offered a comprehensive cross-section of choice; however, the screen was a bit slow to react to my selection, something I assume will be updated in the new Aria suites. I opted to go with some relaxing music, which was a nice alternative. Following dinner and some work, it was time to get some shut-eye. Cathay provides a hotel-style pillow, 400-thread count cotton duvet and perhaps the most important details for a high-quality snooze — a mattress pad and eye mask. Combined with the Bamford pillow spray , I got in a full eight hours with zero interruption. The sleep was so solid, in fact, I nearly dozed through breakfast. I'm glad I didn't, though, as the pre-landing meal was also impressive. In-flight breakfasts are usually nothing to write home about, however, there were a few nice touches here, like warmed cherry tomatoes, a shockingly decent croissant with butter and jam and – small detail – a tea bag dish (oversteeped tea is a no-no). Congee, a traditional rice porridge found in South and East Asia, was also available and looked delicious. Guests were invited to make a chocolate selection from a box, a nice touch before landing. After 12 hours in the air, it was time to land in my hometown of Vancouver. Overall, I was rested and relaxed, which is the top marker of success on any long-haul business class flight. Despite some marginal room for improvement — which I believe will be corrected with the new Aria suites — Cathay proved they offer a solid and competitive product in the aviation space. The experience is worth it — but not at full price. My suggestion is to keep a flexible travel schedule and use Google flights to set alerts about price drops or leverage the points and miles within the Oneworld alliance system to fly free. Beyond that, stay tuned for the Aria suites to launch on the Vancouver route later this year to get the most value out of your flight. Hoping to score a great deal on your next hotel? Check out for exclusive savings on over one million hotels worldwide. Sign up for free here . Shopping Essentials , a category written by research-obsessed shopping fanatics, is now on Canoe . Explore in-depth product reviews, expert recommendations and exciting collaborations — plus get behind-the-scenes info on your favourite brands and trending products — learn more here or sign up for our newsletter .
Gulf Weekly
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Weekly
Brunch 'n' munch at Four Seasons
Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay is inviting guests to indulge in curated culinary experiences this month. Whether you're drawn to the vibrant tastes of Latin America, the refined charm of afternoon tea, or the relaxed tradition of Aperitivo, the offerings at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay promise something for every palate. l Every Friday throughout this month, Bahrain Bay Kitchen comes alive with the rhythm and soul of Latin America from 1pm to 4pm. The much-loved Latin American Brunch offers a festive feast for families and friends. Start your culinary adventure with colourful starters like Beef Salpicon, a Three Bean Salad tossed in chipotle dressing, and the restaurant's signature Mexican Salad. The live ceviche station tempts with fresh Leche de Tigre and Nikkei-style creations, while the barbecue corner sizzles with Red Snapper Veracruz, Buffalo Chicken Wings, and Dry Ancho Chilli Braised Short Ribs. The feast continues with handcrafted tacos, empanadas and enchiladas, served with all the traditional fixings. End your meal on a sweet note with indulgent Latin desserts like Flan de Queso, Tres Leches and classic Churros. As live Latin music fills the air, children are treated to their own buffet, face painting, piñata fun, and weekly entertainment such as treasure hunts and balloon artists. The brunch is priced at BD35 with soft beverages and BD48 with a selected beverage package. Children under six dine for free whereas those aged between six and 12 enjoy a 50 per cent discount. l For a more tranquil escape, the Blossom Afternoon Tea at Bay View Lounge offers a luxurious retreat every day from noon to 9pm. Overlooking the shimmering waters of Bahrain Bay, this experience elevates the traditional afternoon tea with refined flavours and artful presentation. Begin with savoury delights such as lemon saffron prawns with mint, stuffed zucchini flower with salmon and avocado, and bresaola with cream cheese and fig jam. The sweet selection includes an airy Japanese cheesecake with kumquat marmalade, a matcha and Madagascar vanilla choux, and a Guanaja dark chocolate and yuzu tart. Freshly baked scones with clotted cream and artisanal jams complete the offering. Guests can choose from an array of premium Jing teas or opt for the Royal Afternoon Tea, which includes a refreshing mocktail to complement the flavours. Priced at BD22 including Jing Tea and the Royal option is priced at BD26 with mocktails. l Those looking to unwind in a more laid-back setting can embrace the Italian tradition of Aperitivo. Available daily from 11am to 11.30pm until the end of May, this à la carte experience features artisanal sharing boards with curated selections of Italy's finest cheeses and cured meats – perfect for pairing with a refreshing beverage as you relax in the ambience of Bay View Lounge. For more information, or reservations, contact 17115500 or 17115044.
Gulf Weekly
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Weekly
Flavourful escape in vibrant setting
Celebrate the elegance of springtime with the Blossom Afternoon Tea at Bay View Lounge, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. This seasonal affair promises an elevated experience, where refined flavours and artistic presentation come together in a luxurious setting. From the moment you're seated, expect to be wowed by a curated selection of savoury and sweet delights. The savoury menu features imaginative bites such as stuffed zucchini flower with salmon and avocado, lemon saffron prawn accented with fresh mint, and thinly sliced bresaola layered with cream cheese and fig jam. The sweet offerings are no less impressive. Guests can look forward to a Japanese cheesecake served with kumquat marmalade, a matcha and Madagascar vanilla choux, and a Guanaja dark chocolate and yuzu tart that delivers a rich and zesty finish. Complementing the experience are freshly baked fruit scones, served warm with clotted cream and a selection of artisanal jams. To accompany this culinary journey, guests may choose from an array of premium Jing teas. For those looking to enhance the occasion, the Royal Afternoon Tea includes a refreshing mocktail in addition to the tea selection. The Blossom Afternoon Tea is available daily from noon to 9pm until May 31. The experience is priced at BD22, which includes your choice of Jing Tea, while the Royal option is offered at BD26 and features the addition of a crafted mocktail. l Today, May 15, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay sets the stage for an extraordinary culinary experience as two celebrated chefs come together for a one-night-only event at CUT by Wolfgang Puck. Executive chef Brian Becher will be joined by award-winning Bahraini chef Tala Bashmi. The duo will present a multi-course tasting menu that speaks to their shared passion for modern cuisine. Guests are invited to experience this exclusive gastronomic journey from 7pm onwards. The evening is priced at BD59net per person, with an optional beverage package available for an additional BD30. l For those seeking a more relaxed yet refined affair, the Bay View Lounge invites guests to embrace the Italian tradition of Aperitivo. Available daily until May 31, from 11am to 11.30pm, guests can unwind with a selection of artisanal sharing boards showcasing Italy's finest cheeses and cured meats, served in a stylish, laid-back setting. The Aperitivo Experience is offered à la carte, allowing guests to tailor their experience to their tastes. For details, call 17115500 or 1711 5044.
Yahoo
19-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Fly By Jing CEO says Trump's China tariffs are 'disruptive' but her chili crisps can't be sourced from anywhere else
Jing Gao is the founder and CEO of Sichuan chili crisp company Fly By Jing. She told BI that the brand is still committed to sourcing ingredients from her hometown in China. The tariffs "rob Americans of an accessible way to connect with and appreciate cultures at a time when we need it most," she said. "An Update from Jing on Tariffs." This was the subject line of an email from the popular chili crisp brand Fly By Jing. I'd previously purchased the brand as a gift, and the message landed in my inbox on April 11, just a few days into an escalating trade war between the US and China. Founded in 2018, the small business is best known for its popular Chinese chili crisp varieties, sold in stores like Target and Whole Foods. The email said that, as of when it was sent on April 11, the brand's products were subject to a 160% tariff rate, compared to 15% before President Donald Trump's sweeping tariffs announcements. "These tariffs have a material impact — not just on our business but countless others, and are disproportionately impacting small, independent brands like ours," the email read. "The integrity of our ingredients, their specific terroir, and the craftsmanship of our products are highly local to Sichuan and will continue to be." I scoped out the brand's Instagram page and saw a video of founder and CEO Jing Gao discussing the tariffs' impact on the business and reached out to hear more. Here is the conversation we had over email, with my questions in bold, and Gao's answers below. How are the tariffs affecting your business? Considering the volatility of the current tariff conversations, it's really important for us as a brand to fully assess the landscape before making major, potentially irreversible decisions. Currently, no orders or shipments are on hold, and our priorities are continuing to source the ingredients for our core sauces from the Sichuan province and keeping our pricing as affordable as possible. The tariff announcements have been on and off, and rates have fluctuated. How did this affect your planning? The current volatility is disruptive and will prove debilitating to many independent businesses. We are fortunate to have built resilience into our organization over the last six years to be able to weather the storm. We have not yet made any major business decisions as we await stabilization, but these fluctuations are impossible to plan for and disproportionately affect small businesses and entrepreneurs. Can you talk about why it's important to you and to the business to source your products from Sichuan? One of our key goals through this all is to maintain the integrity of the ingredients in our core products. Our ingredients come directly from Sichuan — fermented black beans, highly prized Tribute peppers, Erjingtiao chilis, and cold-pressed roasted caiziyou — and simply cannot be grown anywhere else. Last year, you actually dropped prices. Do you see the tariffs impacting product prices going forward, and if so, do you have a timeline on that? Price accessibility for our products is a core tenet of our brand at Fly By Jing. Our mission is to expand palates and introduce new flavors nationwide, so we need our products to be affordable. In service of this, we implemented a significant price decrease last year — even amid rising inflation — and are reaching more homes than ever. Due to the current volatility, it's important for us as a brand to fully assess the landscape before making decisions that will have long-term implications. Right now, our priority is to keep prices as affordable as possible while maintaining the integrity of our ingredients. What has your average day looked like in recent weeks? Are you working longer hours as you navigate the situation? We're at a pivotal moment as a brand and are very focused on expanding to reach new audiences. This news cycle, and its implications, is clearly very consuming as it requires constant attention at an already very busy time — but we are privileged as a brand to have built resilience into our business, which is allowing us to take a step back and assess the situation before reacting. I am speaking often to peers, fellow business owners, and, of course, my team, to gather insights, strategize, and determine the route forward that will allow us to maintain our core brand values. Is there anything you're not seeing discussed around tariffs and their impact on small businesses that you think is important for people to know? Sharing authentic ingredients and flavors is one of the most powerful ways to explore the nuances of other cultures — it sparks curiosity, builds connection, and inspires empathy. These tariffs, which as of today are at least 160%, not only threaten our brand's prosperity, but rob Americans of an accessible way to connect with and appreciate cultures at a time when we need it most. Our success as a brand has proven that bold and diverse international flavors at affordable prices are what Americans want and that they are here to stay. Read the original article on Business Insider
The Independent
03-03-2025
- The Independent
The Peninsula, Beijing hotel review
Location Situated in the very heart of Beijing, the Peninsula Bejing is well positioned for exploring the capital with historical attractions nearby including Tiananmen Square and the National Museum of China. Step out onto streets brimming with life, from tea shops, temples and Peking duck restaurants, to towering shopping malls and luxury boutiques – and not forgetting the Forbidden City. North of Beijing is a stretch of the Great Wall of China, making this hotel an ideal place to stay while visiting one of the new seven wonders of the world. The vibe A palatial white marble lobby trimmed with gold, six grand columns, and a sweeping staircase make for an imposing entrance, but a warm welcome from staff accompanies the grandeur. Luxury designer boutiques flank the vast room, which has a rotating display of seasonal flowers and plants. Opulent materials such as jade, mahogany and bronze can be found across the hotel, with Chinese symbolism and feng shui traditions embedded throughout The Peninsula's design, including hexagonal motifs woven into tiles and carpets to symbolise completeness, while phoenix carvings represent union and harmony. The service Much like its London counterpart, the flawless service creates a seamless stay for guests. The staff are simultaneously quiet and discrete while being on hand and pre-empting needs to create a sense that guests are in safe hands for a relaxing stay. Luggage is whisked away upon arrival, check-in takes place in the comfort of your room and our server at breakfast even remembered our coffee order on our second morning. Bed and bath Rooms are refined and elegant with sophisticated decor, huge beds and TV screens tastefully hidden away. Browse books on local history or admire traditional Chinese decorative boxes and screens, with a nod to this remarkable culture. Decor is pared back with neutral tones and luxurious textures, while vases of fresh flowers sit on bedside tables. Tech is forward-thinking, with blackout blinds opening and closing and mood lighting engineered via the bedside screens. Larger suites even have plush cinema rooms with films to rent. Bathrooms are a masterclass in relaxation with oversized tubs and a special 'spa mode' that dims the lights and plays calming music. Walk-in waterfall showers come stocked with The Peninsula's branded bath products that are created in collaboration with local fragrance artisans. Dressing areas confine suitcases to a dedicated space, rather than splaying them all over your sleeping or living area. Food and drink Afternoon tea and breakfast are both held in the Lobby at the heart of the hotel, with grand ceilings above and a view of the Chanel boutique to enjoy while you tuck into your eggs Benedict and champagne. There are two restaurants in the hotel. Jing, a Michelin-starred French restaurant, includes a chef's table experience room and private wine cellar for rare champagne and fine wine pairings. The dinner menu incorporates multiple courses with dishes like langoustine tartar with eight year old caviar, smoky charcoal grilled lobster and meltingly soft wagyu beef, plus the chef's signature basque cheesecake. Huang Ting is the Cantonese style restaurant with moody wooden features, fascinating art pieces and a fish pond – for fortune to flow – as you enjoy dim sum, fish with spicy peppercorns, Cantonese roast duck and stir fried prawns. Servers are on hand to recommend the perfect Chinese tea to pair with each course. Facilities The spa is candlelit and calming scents greet guests on arrival. The Asian style tea room is perfect for a soothing cup of tea, pre or post-treatment. Treatments and wellness activities at the spa include the ancient practice of sound meditation using a singing bowl, massages utilising botanical skin oils and deep tissue massages. Hot stone and back exfoliation massages are also available. Treatment rooms are equipped with waterfall showers and jacuzzi baths. There is a spacious, well-equipped gym for workouts, plus an 18 metre pool. The Peninsula Academy is a collection of luxury experiences organised by the team. Working with third-party tour guides and attractions, these experiences are tailor-made for Peninsula guests. Visit the Great Wall of China in one of the Peninsula cars where a tour guide will accompany you on a walk before enjoying a luxury private brunch. Alternatively, experience Beijing's distinctive hutongs, or alleyways, with a guided tour of the old streets followed by a private afternoon tea on a boat. Accessibility The hotel is fully accessible with rooms suitable for wheelchairs. Pet policy No pets allowed. Check in/check out Check in from 2pm; check out by 12pm. 'Peninsula Time' allows guests to check in as early as 6am and as late as 10pm on day of departure for no extra charge, but this needs to be agreed in advance – check at time of booking with the hotel. Family friendly? Yes, children and families are welcomed. Babysitting services are available for guests, but advance notice of 24 hours must be given. At a glance Best thing: Drinking tea in the bath with spa mode on. Perfect for: A luxury base for exploring ancient Beijing. Not right for: Backpackers on a budget.
