World Traveller 73 
It has always been a dream of mine to visit the Alyeska Ski Resort. A visit to this resort means staying at The Hotel Alyeska, which is the only real property in town that offers skii in and ski out access. Our stay at The Hotel Alyeska Ski Resort was during the week after spring break and was designed to take advantage of possibly the best weather that skiing in Alaska could offer; late spring conditions and warmer temperatures.
This post is one chapter on a winter trip to Alaska, United States. This trip was enhanced through Marriott Bonvoy Elite Status, Alaska Mileage Plan and Hertz Gold Plus Rewards. For parts of the trip, please see this index.
If you enjoyed this post, please follow us here or on social media through Facebook, Twitter “X” or Instagram for more travel tips and hacks on how to “Upgrade Your Travels”.
✈️ Read more from this trip:
- Trip Introduction: Skiing Aleyska, Alaskan Railroad and Dog Sledding in Alaska
- Springhill Suites Bellingham, Washington, USA
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Bellingham – Seattle
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Seattle – Anchorage
- My Experience as a Hertz President’s Circle renter in Anchorage, Alaska, USA
- Aloft Anchorage, Alaska, USA
- A Cold War Secret: Visiting Whittier, Alaska
- The Alyeska Hotel, Girdwood, Alaska, USA
- Three Days at Alyeska Mountain Resort, USA
- Marriott Anchorage Downtown, Alaska, USA
- The Alaska Railroad Aurora Winter Train: Anchorage – Fairbanks
- Springhill Suites Fairbanks, Alaska, USA
- Dog Sledding in Fairbanks with Rod’s Alaskan Guide Service, North Pole, USA
- Visiting the North Pole, Alaska
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Fairbanks – Anchorage
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Anchorage – Seattle
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Seattle – Bellingham
Review: The Hotel Alyeska Resort, Girdwood, Alaska, United States of America
“The Hotel Alyeska represents luxury lodging with Alaska style. The hotel experience has recently been upgraded. However, the execution remains a little rusty with seemingly over worked and few staff inconsistent with the hotel’s price point”
It has been a long standing dream of mine to visit the Alyeska ski resort in Girdwood Alaska. The Hotel Alyeska Resort is the primary and pretty much the only main hotel in town. As a result, it was an obvious choice for us to stay while visiting Alyeska Ski Resort.
Booking The Hotel Alyeska Resort:
The Hotel Alyeska resort started off life as the Westin Prince Alyeska resort in the year 1992. The resort has changed hands since then and is now run by Pomeroy Lodging resorts as a luxury destination with contemporary Alaska style.
Since the Hotel Alyeska Resort is an independent hotel, there is no current point redemption opportunity at this particular property. The only possible reward redemption route is unless you consider redeeming American Express Membership Rewards points against a cash reservation booked through the American xpress travel portal.
I ended up booking directly on The Hotel Alyeska website. I found the pricing to be generally pretty much fixed, with very little dynamic rate fluctuation.
There were hotel rate options for a daily rate (overnight only), an Alaska Resident’s Rate, and a Stay and Ski Package rate that included overnight and two adult lift tickets per day.
The stay and ski package rate represented about a 25% savings on the lift tickets over the window price. Since we intended to ski three days, we ended up booking the stay and ski package. Although it’s not specifically advertised anywhere, the stay and ski lift ticket, can be used on the day of arrival or the day of departure.
Getting to The Hotel Alyeska:
We drove a rental car from Anchorage to Girdwood Alaska. We appreciated having a rental car to complete this trip on our own schedule. A private car booked through the executive chauffeur service offered by the hotel is approximately US$500. An Uber from the airport to The Hotel Alyeska will run approximately $100 – $125 USD one-way. The trip is approximately one hour.
There is one main road into Girdwood which allows for a great view up to the Alyeska Ski Resort. From the main “T” intersection, it’s a left turn on the road that leads you to the second base area and The Hotel Alyeska.
We arrived to The Hotel Alyeska and were promptly attended to by a valet attendant. We were offered valet parking at US$27 a night, or complimentary self parking.
We were offered bell captain assistance with the bags although the valet indicated they couldn’t loan out cart to use for self service luggage transport to the room. We ended up leaving our bags ans ski gear in the car while we went and got checked in. We later moved the luggage on our own after a few trips, after we self parked the car.
Checking Into The Hotel Alyeska:
The lobby was decorated in dark brown tones similar to a Gentleman’s club. The lobby had a high ceiling with a full polar bear landscape and forest scene. This would’ve been a little artificial anywhere else. However, it seemed to fit in with the Alaskan environment.
I lined up to the front desk and had a short wait to check in. There were a few people in line ahead of me, with only one person working despite the busy 4 PM arrival time. The check-in was not a super friendly experience that you might expect for a property charging $450 USD a night. There weren’t any questions about how your trip into Girdwood or Alaska was, or where you were visiting from, or anything along those usual pleasantries that you might expect.
We were directed over to the neighbouring concierge desk to get our ski passes and cards activated. We were assigned room 725, which ended up being a signature king room and a one category upgrade from what we had initially booked.
At the end of our stay, we would discover after check out that a $25 a night resort fee was added to our bill. There wasn’t any explanation or card insert in our room key cards that explained what this resort fee was for. While we’ve come to expect resort fees from luxury resort style hotels, it’s always appreciated to know in advance what the inclusions of any such resort so that you can at least make an effort to manage getting some value out of them.
The Room: Signature King
We navigated ourselves up to room number 725. It was a short walk from a triple bank of elevators. With the recent renovation, the hallways of the seventh floor made a nice first impression.
The Bedroom:
The Signature King room at The Alyeska Hotel represents the newest and most upgraded king bed room available at the property. The Signature King room features newly renovated space along with a few additional room amenities that include a heated towel rack in the bathroom and upgraded fixtures and fittings.
Like the hallways, the room made a great first impression with modern contemporary grey and white colours. The room offered a king size bed, a large flatscreen television, a chaise lounger and floor to ceiling windows that physically opened at the end of the room.
While the room was nicely appointed, the only small critique that I had of the room was that it was a touch small when all of your ski equipment and ski gear was scattered about the room. Aside from the in room closet, our gear took up most of the couch, leaving us nowhere where to sit during our stay. As a result I wished the room was about 15 to 25% larger, than it actually was.
As is customary for a room of the size, there was a small working desk and a small cabinet that supported the flat screen television. There was limited counter space in each of these areas for a ski resort where you would have gloves and helmets drying. As a result the counter space got full pretty quickly.
The room also offered a small Hamilton beach Keurig coffee maker featuring local Alaskan coffee pods, a small in room fridge and freezer and a microwave. The fridge was exceptionally handy for keeping après ski ciders cold for those like us that wanted to self cater.
The room featured an in room dining menu that offered the usual breakfast, lunch and dinner items. There was also a pretty straight forward wine list.
The Bathroom:
The bathroom was another slightly compact space. It features a single vanity sink with limited counter space room around it. There was a separate water closet and stand up shower and tub combination. Both spaces featured upgraded and modern fittings and fixtures.
The Hotel Alyeska offered Lather toiletries in the room that consisted of hair wash crême rinse, hair wash, moisturizer and body wash.
In terms of sleep quality, I found the beds at The Hotel Alyeska to be pretty comfortable after a day of outdoor exercise. The room was pretty quiet and the peaceful forest surroundings in the mountains made for a tranquil stay.
Around the Hotel Property:
The Hotel Alyeska is a large format mountain styled resort. As a result, there were lot of spaces marked with large windows allowing for excellent views.
On the second floor, we would regularly pass by our self named moose “Arthur” who hung above the fireplace. This was a popular gathering spot for those looking to a little escape from their rooms.
From the lobby spaces at The Hotel Alyeska, there were pleasant mountain views looking up the hill. The views were often gray, but that didn’t make them any less majestic or enjoyable.
In the clever design feature, the hotel offers a combination retail / rental / coffee shop / ski area space on the second floor. The space integrated together and allowed skiers space to get ready indoors, before they set out for a day of skiing.
This part of the hotel was pretty much alive during the day only, with it being pretty quiet after hours.
The space of the retail zone lead to an outdoor walkway leading to the Alyeska tramway. This would be our access point to the ski resort every day. It features a cupboard space for the rare days where there was a line. During our stay, we never had to line up for the tram as it was pretty quiet throughout the resort and ski area.
Indoor Pool and Gym:
The Hotel Alyeska offered an indoor pool. The pool was located in a large arch styled ceiling. The space was really popular with children throughout all hours of the day and evening. There was an attached hot tub by the glass, which was a little on the smaller side.
The Hotel Alyeska also offered a spacious gym at the property. The gym was quite frequently used during our time there.
Pool Towels were provided at the pool itself. This wasn’t something that we learned of until after we arrived. There was a pool attendant that checked our room keys to provide towels, although there was a little confusion on whether we should be bringing towels down from our room for use at the pool.
Food and Beverage:
The Hotel Alyeska has a number of restaurants as a resort destination. It’s worth mentioning that during our visit the Aurora Bar and Grill (lounge) restaurant was boarded up and closed for renovations. It is also quite a ways off property to get to any other independent restaurants. Girdwood – Alaska doesn’t have a whole lotta restaurants, but you will need a car in order to access the other of property restaurants such as our great meal at Jack Sprat.
Sakura Asian Bistro:
During our stay. I try to take away from the Sakura Asian Bistro. I arrived at 8 PM and the place was fully packed with a line out of the door. It seemed that the resort did not have enough space to accomodate everyone who was interested in dining.
My take away rolls were quite expensive, despite being a sea side location. My Baked Crab roll with dyamite sauce, red crab legs and soy paper was $13 USD (pictured right) and my Spicy Tuna with cucumber was $14 USD (pictured left).
I was quoted 30 minutes for this takeaway order but it ended up being closer to 47 minutes by the time the order was fulfilled.
Sitzmark Bar and Grill:
The Sitzmark Bar and Grill is a food and beverage location that is run at the resorts main base ski area. To be crystal clear, this restaurant is located approximately 2 km away from The Hotel Alyeska property. The Sitzmark Bar and Grill is a bit of a dive bar but along with these types of establishments, it offers great personality when it a ski bar.
Our ski in – ski out visit to the Sitzmark Bar and Grill coincided with a late lunch at about 2:30 PM. Sitting in the corner, we marvelled at the bars crazy psychedelic ceiling, along with enjoying a plate of nachos that was actually pretty reasonably priced.
The Sitzmark Bar and Grill is a little gem of a ski bar. You won’t be coming here for terrific food, but rather the old school skiing atmosphere that this place represents.
Seven Glaciers:
The Hotel Alyeska offers access to the Seven Glaciers Restaurant. This restaurant is a little unique because it’s located on top of the Alyeska tramway. The tram is attached to the hotel. The tram runs every 15 minutes after hours. Dining at the restaurant includes access to the tram; no separate ticket is required. This has the potential to make for a romantic evening as you take the tram up in the darkness towards the restaurant to enjoy some time together.
The Seven Glaciers Restaurant has a showy wine list and has won the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for several years. While the primary dining concept is a three to four course prix fixe menu, the seven glacier restaurant also offers an après-ski / night cap dinner menu offering light favourites.
We made a reservation through the hotel concierge for the nightcap menu which started at 8 PM. A reservation is pretty much needed to secure your spot on the tram and there isn’t likely any walk up traffic.
The Après Ski nightcap menu has all of the usual favourites. It’s also perfect for a later dinner. The price point for the bar menu at seven glacier’s is also exceptionally reasonable and represented probably the best value dining on the property during supper time.
I enjoyed a croque madame with cured ham and with béchamel sauce on toasted sourdough. It was presented a little on the cool side temperature wise, but was still exceptionally tasty.
MrsWT73 enjoyed a French onion soup presented in a classic style with sourdough croutons and topped with Gruyere cheese. It was also quite tasty but a little cool temperature wise on the presentation side.
The seven glacier’s restaurant was a nice evening featuring mountain top dining that you wouldn’t normally get at home. I was happy to have tried the experience while I was in town.
Activities near Alyeska Resort:
For those that have travelled all the way to Alyeska Resort, it’s clear that you are here for skiing.
One of the best features of The Alyeska Ski Resort, is that the lifts start spinning at 10 AM, and don’t close until 5 PM. This allows you get to get in a great sleep in, a leisurely breakfast if you choose, along with plenty of time to hit the slopes.
Checking Out of The Alyeska Resort:
We checked out of The Alyeska Resort at around 10 AM. We had plans to ski the last day prior to driving back into Anchorage and staying at the Marriott Anchorage Downtown hotel.
When the bill arrived, we noticed the addition of the Resort Fee of $25 per night. As mentioned earlier, this was something that was never explain to us what this included. It’s almost as if I would rather see the extra $25 added into the room rate as opposed to an additional fee that we had no idea what is included.
My check out process involved the same staff member that checked me in. Much like the arrival process, there was no inquiry on how this day was or whether everything was to our satisfaction. Admittedly, I didn’t pursue it and it wasn’t till after the fact that I discovered about the resort fee when I checked my email folio. I didn’t follow up on it either.
Bottom Line: The Hotel Alyeska Resort
It had long been a goal of mine to come skiing at Alyeska ski resort. Our stay at the hotel Alyeska resort was a pleasant one, with a terrific room upgrade, but I can’t help think that there could be some minor improvements for a hotel at this price point.
The service was not as friendly as it could be, they were often waits and cues at restaurants and the staff generally appeared overworked and disinterested. There was also a resort fee that was added on to our bill, without any explanation. While I really enjoyed the property and the experience of it all, I couldn’t help but think that with a few tweaks, this could be a really spectacular stay experience.
If you have visited The Hotel Alyeska, did you enjoy your stay ?
The town of Whittier Alaska is one of Alaska is cold war installations that is almost completely abandoned. The town of Whittier was Alaska’s deep-sea port in response to the Japanese Aleutian islands attack in World War II. The US government built a secret sea base, that was completely sealed off from the rest of the world. The US government deserted Whittier in 1960, leaving behind many old structures from an era past. Whittier remain sealed off to the world until the year 2000, when conversions to the tunnel allowed for easier public access. We would tour through Whittier on a March sunday afternoon.
This post is one chapter on a winter trip to Alaska, United States. This trip was enhanced through Marriott Bonvoy Elite Status, Alaska Mileage Plan and Hertz Gold Plus Rewards. For parts of the trip, please see this index.
If you enjoyed this post, please follow us here or on social media through Facebook, Twitter “X” or Instagram for more travel tips and hacks on how to “Upgrade Your Travels”.
✈️ Read more from this trip:
- Trip Introduction: Skiing Aleyska, Alaskan Railroad and Dog Sledding in Alaska
- Springhill Suites Bellingham, Washington, USA
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Bellingham – Seattle
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Seattle – Anchorage
- My Experience as a Hertz President’s Circle renter in Anchorage, Alaska, USA
- Aloft Anchorage, Alaska, USA
- A Cold War Secret: Visiting Whittier, Alaska
- The Alyeska Hotel, Girdwood, Alaska, USA
- Three Days at Alyeska Mountain Resort, USA
- Marriott Anchorage Downtown, Alaska, USA
- The Alaska Railroad Aurora Winter Train: Anchorage – Fairbanks
- Springhill Suites Fairbanks, Alaska, USA
- Dog Sledding in Fairbanks with Rod’s Alaskan Guide Service, North Pole, USA
- Visiting the North Pole, Alaska
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Fairbanks – Anchorage
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Anchorage – Seattle
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Seattle – Bellingham
A Cold War Secret: Visiting Whittier, Alaska, United States of America.
After arriving in Alaska, we were looking for some activities to do before settling into Girdwood, AK for three days worth of skiing at The Hotel Alyeska & The Aleyska Ski Resort. With it being winter season, most hiking trails were closed. We looked for some glacier hikes, but with most access roads completely sealed up due to snow conditions, we were stuck with city visits.
We then discovered the city of Whittier, Alaska. Whittier is one of the strangest places to visit; especially in the off-season. It’s offbeat location just miles away from civilization makes it an intriguing and interesting place to stop in. We would end up visiting for a few hours on a rainy Sunday afternoon.
About Whittier, Alaska:
The town of Whittier Alaska, population 200 persons, is one of the most bizarre towns I’ve had the opportunity to visit. Whittier was founded in 1941 as a deepwater military base. It was established when after the attack on the Aleutian islands during World War II, the United States Government decided that it needed a port hidden from the outside world from which to launch naval operations in the greater Pacific Ocean.
The result was heavily fortified Whittier. Whittier is surrounded by 3,500 peaks and has dark grey clouds that surround the area for most of the year. A supply tunnel was built cut out of solid granite and more than 1,000 people were housed all together in a single tower. The US Army maintained Whittier until 1968 until they left, leaving behind the charming Buckner building, but also the 14 story residential Bagich Towers.
In the year 2000, it was decided to overhaul the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel to change the rail tunnel to allow for automobile traffic. It’s only been for the last 24 years that you’ve now been able to drive into one of the most bizarre places on the planet..
Getting to Whittier, Alaska:
We drove to Whittier starting off from the Aloft Anchorage. You’ll definitely need a car in order to get to Whittier. The only exception to this is if you happen to be arriving on a cruise ship, which occasionally ports in Whittier during the summer months. The Alaskan ferry route also comes through on a weekly basis.
We had some excellent scenery driving the Turnagain arm towards Whittier. With views of the ice break up just south of Anchorage, it was a very picturesque drive.
Accessing Whittier through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel:
Access to Whittier is through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel. This tunnel is Carter threw a 3500 foot granite mountain. Previously a train tunnel, in 2000 it was converted to allow for access single lane traffic vehicles.
There are various tolls to be paid if you plan on accessing Whittier. The tall is paid inbound, and it’s free to exit Whittier with no toll on the outbound. At all for a small passenger vehicle is US$13. We paid our Toll which came with a free map and join the queue to wait for our turn to enter.
The Anton Anderson tunnel entrance is a rather cold war looking contraption. It seemed as though we getting ready to enter the Cheyanne mountain at NORAD as we lined up to gain access into this single lane traffic tunnel.
When it came time to enter, we were given the greenlight to enter the tunnel. We followed at a slow pace the single lane traffic through a massive mountain block.
The tunnel is wide enough to carry train cars. However it was narrow enough that if a car broke down the whole passage way would be blocked. We followed through the tunnel all the way to the end to see daylight on the other side.
Arriving into Whitter:
We passed all the way through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel and arrived into Whittier Alaska. The town was surrounded in greatness; full of snow cloud and a trap valley that it seemed only the most determined hikers could escape from.
Visiting the Buckner Building:
Our first visit in Whittier was to the Buckner building. This was a Cold War creation in the slope of a hill coming from the brutalist architectural school.
The Buckner building was constructed in 1953 to act as a mini residential city for Whittier is a military personnel. After the military pulled out of Whittier in 1960 the building was left abandoned it has fallen into modern disrepair.
The amount of decay and age on the Buckner building was truly amazing. Set in amongst Alaska’s intense snowfall, the abandon Buckner building which has sat empty for the past sixty years has a really mysterious and almost haunted aura to it.
I happen to enjoy visiting these Cold War relic sites from an era past. The Buckner building was among one of the highlights of our visit to Whittier.
Passing the Begich Towers:
The Begich towers is part of Whittier’s strange past. The tower started life as the hodge building in the year 1956 when it was built to house newly arrived military personnel.
It was abandoned by the military in 1960 and eventually purchased by the city of Whittier and 72. It currently houses up 250 people and has the town grocery store post office in community center.
Underground tunnels link the Begich to the local elementary school. The Begich Towers is part of Whittier’s strange past. The tower started life as the Hodge building in the year 1956 when it was built the house newly arrived military personnel. It was abandoned by the military in 1960 and eventually purchased by the city of Whittier in 1972. Currently houses up 250 people and has the town grocery store post office in community center. Underground tunnels link it to the local elementary school.
The Harbour:
Leaving the towns two building attractions, we eventually passed by the Anchor Inn, one of two hotels still remaining in Whittier. During our winter visit, The Anchor Inn was the only hotel that was open.
Our travels took us down to the Whittier deep sea port. During our visit in March, the area it was quite wet and soppy. The usual boats that make a harbour lively were missing.
We located a port of the Alaskan ferry system. While it was pouring with rain we didn’t get out and walk too much.
Without many restaurants or actual tourist attractions open during a Sunday in March. After a look around we ended up heading back towards Girdwood, AK. We had a short wait at the tunnel for about 20 minutes before we were able to get our permission to leave Whittier.
Leaving Whitter:
After we had our fill of snow and rain, we had it on the route back towards the Anton Tunnel. It was pretty deserted although we were fortunate enough to have a clear view of the tunnel and the mountain that it passed underneath. It was super impressive how deep the tunnel was dug into this mountain
We had a short 20 minute wait at the tunnel exit before the doors open and we are allowed in for our free departure from Whittier. With only two other cars waiting with us, it was pretty desolate..
Eventually, it was time to leave Whittier. We are among the first through the tunnel where we had the surreal view looking down the lane as we passed through the mountain.
It was all quiet on the other side back in the land of civilization. We did happen across to Moose we’re hanging out having a gossip chat.
We headed off to check in at The Hotel Alyeska for a three night stay.
My Thoughts on Visiting Whittier:
Whittier – Alaska had to of been one of the most bizarre places to have spent an afternoon.
The dark and dreary city was a unique one, marked by some specific landmarks that represented the Cold War era. While there wasn’t much open during our off-season Sunday visit, I was happy to have spent a few hours touring this unique town.
I could only imagine what it would be like in the summer months with everything open and a vibrant cruise ship scene.
If you’ve visited Whittier, what was your take on the place ?
With an early morning arrival into Anchorage Alaska, we decided to stay the night before setting off to further explore the Turnagain arm and Girdwood Alaska. With a whole host of Marriott Bonvoy options, we ended up at the Aloft Anchorage as a result of a great room rate. We ended up discovering a really hospitable hotel with great Marriott Bonvoy elite member treatment. Read on to see how our Midtown Anchorage stay fared at this new Aloft hotel.
This post is one chapter on a winter trip to Alaska, United States. This trip was enhanced through Marriott Bonvoy Elite Status, Alaska Mileage Plan and Hertz Gold Plus Rewards. For parts of the trip, please see this index.
If you enjoyed this post, please follow us here or on social media through Facebook, Twitter “X” or Instagram for more travel tips and hacks on how to “Upgrade Your Travels”.
✈️ Read more from this trip:
- Trip Introduction: Skiing Aleyska, Alaskan Railroad and Dog Sledding in Alaska
- Springhill Suites Bellingham, Washington, USA
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Bellingham – Seattle
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Seattle – Anchorage
- My Experience as a Hertz President’s Circle renter in Anchorage, Alaska, USA
- Aloft Anchorage, Alaska, USA
- A Cold War Secret: Visiting Whittier, Alaska
- The Alyeska Hotel, Girdwood, Alaska, USA
- Three Days at Alyeska Mountain Resort, USA
- Marriott Anchorage Downtown, Alaska, USA
- The Alaska Railroad Aurora Winter Train: Anchorage – Fairbanks
- Springhill Suites Fairbanks, Alaska, USA
- Dog Sledding in Fairbanks with Rod’s Alaskan Guide Service, North Pole, USA
- Visiting the North Pole, Alaska
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Fairbanks – Anchorage
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Anchorage – Seattle
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Seattle – Bellingham
Review: Aloft Anchorage, Alaska, United States of America
“A brand new Aloft in convenient Mid Town Anchorage, Alaska that excelled at customer service”
We arrived into the state of Alaska on Alaska Airlines First Class Seattle – Anchorage. Instead of heading down to Alyeska Ski Resort in Girdwood right away, we decided to take a day to shake off the sleep from our early morning departure, and get to know Anchorage.
Booking The Aloft Anchorage:
The city of Anchorage, Alaska is well stocked with Marriott Bonvoy hotels. With choices between the Marriott Anchorage Downtown, the Sheraton Anchorage Hotel, the Four Points by Sheraton Anchorage Downtown, the Residence Inn Midtown Anchorage, the Springhill Suites Anchorage, The Courtyard Anchorage Airport, TownePlace Suites Anchorage and the Aloft Anchorage, we had a wide range of choice within the Marriott brands across all price points.
While we initially were going to stay on free night certificates courtesy of the American Express Marriott Bonvoy Credit Card. With a Marriott Bonvoy double elite night credit promotion, it made sense to switch to a cash stay in order to claim elite qualifying nights to re-qualify for Marriott Bonvoy Platinum status. As a result we ended up on a AAA paid rate at the Aloft Anchorage hotel for US$125.
I booked through the Marriott Bonvoy website, which as a Marriott Titanium Member, entitled me to a complimentary upgrade to the best available room, including select suites, complimentary access to the Marriott Executive Club Lounge (of which there wasn’t one at this property), and a complimentary late check out up to 4 PM.
It’s probably common knowledge with Aloft properties but there aren’t any suites at the Aloft Anchorage. With only two different room configurations of a King Bed or Two Queens, every room is almost identical. The likely Marriott Bonvoy Elite upgrades offered will be a soft upgrade into a higher floor category, a better view or quieter area away from the elevator.
Marriott Bonvoy Redemption Opportunities:
The Aloft Anchorage offers room redemptions with the new variable redemption rates. Marriott Bonvoy rates were between 32,000 to 45,000, which represents value on some nights, but not on others.
If you value Marriott Bonvoy points at $0.008 a point, you’d have to spend more than $256 USD room rate to come out ahead for a 32,000 point redemption, or $360 USD room rate if you happen to find a 45,000 point redemption. It is hard to imagine a room at the Aloft Anchorage being higher than these price points. However it always pays to check to see and make sure that you’re getting the best value for your Marriott Bonvoy points. Likely this property is a better value on a cash rate.
Arriving to the Aloft Anchorage:
I had rented a car from Hertz from the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, Alaska USA. We had a short drive from the airport into town.
Since the aloft Anchorage is located in Midtown, it was very convenient to access from the airport. It only took us about 15 minutes to get to the property.
The Aloft Anchorage is located in a business park area, across from a gas station. Aside from an outback steakhouse half a block away, there isn’t much in the immediate area. A car is definitely an asset if you’re staying at this property.
For those that happen to find themselves at the Aloft Anchorage in an electric vehicle, the aloft does offer EV charging. Based on the amount of snow found in the EV charging parking space, it doesn’t seem like this feature gets a whole lot of use.
We didn’t find any problem locating free parking at any time during our stay.
Checking into the Aloft Anchorage:
After a series of very early morning flights that started at 5 AM, we arrived to the aloft Anchorage at around noon.
We were thanked for being a Marriott Bonvoy Platinum members. Looking forward to a sunday sleep in, we selected the breakfast option when it came to the Marriott Bonvoy elite welcome bonus. We were given for $10 voucher coupons for use at the breakfast bar. Regular filter drip coffee was free.
There was no charge to park the rental car and we were given a parking permit for the dashboard.
After check in, the aLoft Anchorage made efforts to give us early access to the room. We were offered coffee in the lobby while we waited.
I took the opportunity to take a look around the lobby. The lobby was decorated like many other aLoft’s that I visited. The Aloft Anchorage featured a WXYZ bar which was decorated in a lively colour scheme.
The WXYZ bar offered a number of games, small booths and a pool table. The colour scheme brightened up the hotel quite considerably given how drab the business park neighbourhood surrounding the hotel was.
I’m happy to report that at 12:30 PM, we were called up to the lobby front desk and offered a set of room keys. It’s always terrific when you can get early access and the hotel is able to accommodate. After our early morning flight, we needed it.
Overall, the check in was friendly, pleasant and responsive. I have found that Marriott hotels aren’t super responsive with their front desk and letting you know when your room is actually ready. The aloft Anchorage went above and beyond to make us feel welcomed. They were prompt in letting us know when we could access our room.
The Room: Aloft Guest Room, 1 King.
We were assigned room number 425. The room was located on the top floor and was a very short walk from the elevator.
The Bedroom:
The Aloft king room was a compact but open and airy space. The room featured a king size bed in the middle of the room. The bed offered a comfortable sleep experience.
Measuring just 285 sq ft., the room was fairly snug for two people and their accompanying ski gear. Nevertheless, the bright colours of the rum made the space feel airy and a large picture window let in lots of south facing daylight.
the corner of the room featured a small double nook sized chair. This ended up doubling as a suitcase rest stand. As the seating services were quite firm, we didn’t end up seated there at any time during our visit.
The room offered a single bottle of water, in addition to Royal Cup filtered coffee from a Hamilton Beach coffee machine. The coffee and tea offering was a little underwhelming, but not to be expected from a budget brand.
Standard for this room category, there was an in room safe and a small microwave by the front door.
Our room had one of the better views from the top floor. Our south facing view overlooked the southern Chugach mountains towards the southern end of Anchorage.
The Anchorage aloft offered a straightforward “U” shaped configuration. Aside from a few oddly shaped corner rooms, most of the hotel room sizes appeared almost identical.
The Bathroom:
The aloft Anchorage guest room offered access to the sink and bathroom immediately off the bedroom. There was very little division of space between the bedroom and the bathroom, so much so, that you’d better be pretty comfortable using the sink in front of someone else.
The toilet was located in a separate space that was partitioned off from the room through a sliding door. The room offered a small-ish stand up only shower.
In a great functional step, the bathroom counter also featured a suitcase rack. This was exceptionally handy for unpacking clothes and toiletries so close to the bathroom. It was so convenient it makes me wonder why other hotels don’t offer an integrated luggage rack in the bathroom..
In addition to granting us early access to the room, as a thank you for being Marriott Bonvoy platinum members, the hotel offered to grab bags containing additional Aquafina water, Milano cookies and Cheez it crackers.
While it was such a simple touch it’s always nice to receive a little extra something as an elite member. I congratulate the hotel for taking the small extra step.
In terms of sleep quality, I am happy to report that I had a good sleep over my overnight at this property. The hallway noise was minimal and I didn’t hear any noise throughout the property.
Around the Hotel Property:
The ALoft Anchorage had a few features that were useful for a hotel in Anchorage Midtown. These are all packed into a compact space.
Fitness Centre – Indoor Pool:
Just behind the front desk lies the aloft Anchorage is indoor pool. It’s a modern looking space with a rainbow coloured light.
I didn’t actually see anybody using it during our weekends day but it’s nice to have in case you need it.
Courtyard Deck Space:
The Aloft Anchorage also offered a courtyard deck space that could be used for outdoor events. During our visit in cool March, the space had yet to live up to its full outdoor potential. However it did look like it could be a lot of fun and if it was decorated appropriately.
Food and Beverage:
The aloft Anchorage is primary and only Restaurant is ReFuel. This is aside from the WXYZ Bar, seen earlier.
Refuel:
Breakfast was served at the aloft between 6:30 to 9:30 AM on weekdays and between 7 AM to 10 AM on weekends. I haven’t usually had a terrific experience getting breakfasts at aloft properties. Most breakfasts are of the “grab and go” microwave variety, which is terrific under some circumstances but disastrous on others.
Our Marriott Bonvoy elite breakfast vouchers entitled us to $20 each (totalling $40) at refuel. We were instructed to order off of the televised menus. While we could pay for juices and specialty coffees, there was complementary drip filter coffee available.
On Sunday morning when it came time to order breakfast, I placed an order for the OG Bacon Egg Cheese sandwich. It was the front desk doubling as kitchen staff during a period of time when many people were checking out.
After about 30 minutes when our food hasn’t arrived we went to go inquire to make sure our order hadn’t forgotten. Sure enough, we discovered that staff forgot to put the breakfast order in.
They were extremely apologetic and offered for us to get additional items from the breakfast bar as a result we ended up with an additional juice and a cup of fruit. The service recovery was excellent, and we were made to feel appreciated despite the mistake.
When breakfast did arrive, it wasn’t super aspirational. Much like my other aloft breakfast experiences, I probably won’t be looking forward much to the next one. If you’re looking for a really solid breakfast, I’d recommend planning to go out.
Checking Out of the Aloft Anchorage:
On departure day, I checked out of the hotel using the front desk. We were planning on doing a little sightseeing on the drive to Girdwood, AK. As a result we only had a 1 PM check out.
I had no surprises on the bill with everything “as expected”. The check out was instant and our Marriott Bonvoy points posted to my account within 48 hours as promised.
The Bottom Line: Aloft Anchorage
I came into the Aloft Anchorage not expecting too much other than a bright looking property set an a business Park. Instead, I actually ended up being really impressed with how friendly the staff were.
We were able to get access to a room with communicative stuff that actually let us know when things are ready. When staff forgot our order, they responded with generosity and compassion. We were also given grab bags courtesy of Marriott Bon Voy elite status at the front desk. While this is a small thing, it’s amazing how many hotels don’t treat elite members in this fashion.
As a result I was quite impressed with the Aloft Anchorage and would really recommend it for a future stay.
If you have stayed in Anchorage Mid Town, do you have a preferred Marriott Bonvoy Property?
I have always been intrigued by Hertz President’s Circle status. However, I think my days holding this elite level with Hertz are numbered. This week’s travels would have me passing through Ted Stephens Anchorage International Airport. I typically get better experience renting from Hertz in the United States than I do within my home country of Canada. With a week’s rental in Anchorage, Alaska, how would my experience fare ?
This post is one chapter on a winter trip to Alaska, United States. This trip was enhanced through Marriott Bonvoy Elite Status, Alaska Mileage Plan and Hertz Gold Plus Rewards. For parts of the trip, please see this index.
If you enjoyed this post, please follow us here or on social media through Facebook, Twitter “X” or Instagram for more travel tips and hacks on how to “Upgrade Your Travels”.
✈️ Read more from this trip:
- Trip Introduction: Skiing Aleyska, Alaskan Railroad and Dog Sledding in Alaska
- Springhill Suites Bellingham, Washington, USA
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Bellingham – Seattle
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Seattle – Anchorage
- My Experience as a Hertz President’s Circle renter in Anchorage, Alaska, USA
- Aloft Anchorage, Alaska, USA
- A Cold War Secret: Visiting Whittier, Alaska
- The Alyeska Hotel, Girdwood, Alaska, USA
- Three Days at Alyeska Mountain Resort, USA
- Marriott Anchorage Downtown, Alaska, USA
- The Alaska Railroad Aurora Winter Train: Anchorage – Fairbanks
- Springhill Suites Fairbanks, Alaska, USA
- Dog Sledding in Fairbanks with Rod’s Alaskan Guide Service, North Pole, USA
- Visiting the North Pole, Alaska
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Fairbanks – Anchorage
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Anchorage – Seattle
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Seattle – Bellingham
My Experience Renting as Hertz President’s Circle Member at Ted Stephens Anchorage International Airport.
As I have previously written about, I’ve maintained Hertz President’s Circle status for the past several years as a result of some heavy work travel. One of the primary benefits of Hertz President’s Choice is the Ultimate Choice aisle where you get to pick any car in the aisle and go. The marketplace has standardized this feature across many of the major rental companies in this space.
At times, I’ve gotten some pretty terrific upgrades that have included upgrades into Mercedes SLK Convertibles…
…and even a great brand new Volvo V60 station wagon with less than 4,400 kilometres on the clock.
About Hertz Gold Plus Rewards:
Since this space is about loyalty programs, Hertz offers a loyalty reward program called Hertz Gold Plus Rewards. The program is primarily designed to keep your driver’s licence, credit card and insurance preferences on file to allow for quicker rentals that allow for bypassing the legal formalities of the rental counter in many locations and allow you to get out on the road faster.
Hertz Gold Plus Rewards also offers the ability to earn Hertz Gold Plus Reward points. While we didn’t typically get a lot of value from car rental points, they’ve recently delivered outsized value from travel when car rental prices escalated during the pandemic when many Hertz locations reduced their vehicle fleets, driving up car prices.
Hertz Gold Plus Rewards offers three tier levels of Gold, Five Star and it’s top tier President’s Circle. It’s around the Hertz Presidents Circle level where the benefits get interesting.
Hertz President’s Circle Benefits:
Hertz’s highest tier level is Hertz President’s Circle. Hertz Presidents’ Circle offers the following benefits:
- Upgrades: Guaranteed
- Hertz Gold Rewards points earning: $1 = 1.5 points
- Hertz Ultimate Choice: Widest Selection
- Dedicated Hertz Reservation Line
With reward redemptions starting at about 950 Hertz Gold Plus Rewards points, you’ll need a little bit of spend in order to get a free rental.
About Hertz Ultimate Choice:
My favorite feature of the Hertz rental experience is the Hertz Ultimate Choice feature found at airports where Hertz Gold Canopy service is offered.
Hertz Ultimate choice offers the ability to “pick from the best car in our newest fleet and go”. Airport locations in the united states offer the best versions of this, but there are select locations that do offer a great experience.
Typically, there is a sign board that designates the lot, along with a convenient monitor that indicates the location of your car. Dependent on the size of the lot, there is a correspondingly large zone.
There is also typically a sign information board that sets out the location of your car, in addition to any messages. Dependent on the size of the station correlates to the size and number of renters on the sign.
at Hertz Toronto Pearson International Airport
As a Hertz President’s Circle member, and as long as you rent an intermediate class car or better, I was able to choose any car in the aisle. As a result, there is usually something pretty good kicking around the lot.
There are odd times when you get stuck with the usual boring junk, but it’s better than nothing. There are often a few compact Sport Utility Vehicles parked around, and usually a Dodge Charger or two.
This leads me to my most recent experience renting from Hertz at the Anchorage International Airport.
My Experience at the Hertz Anchorage International Airport:
I arrived into Ted Stephens Anchorage International Airport on an Alaska Airlines First Class Seattle – Anchorage flight.
I had a beautiful flight in, and was inspired by the views on the descent.
After touching down, it was an easy disembarkation into the Ted Stephens Anchorage International Airport concourse.
Finding the Rental Car Kiosk:
We wandered through the airport concourse and out towards baggage claim. As an airport that services a large volume of cruise ship passengers, the airport was well organized and spacious.
We descended down to the baggage claim level to collect our bags.
We then proceeded through a long tunnel towards the rental car centre building. The rental car building was located in a separate and distinct building.
After a short walk, it was easy to find the Hertz counter. There was a separate and distinct Hertz Gold Member Express Line for Gold, Five Star, President’s Circle and Platinum level members.
It’s worth mentioning that car rental in Alaska can be quite expensive. I ended up redeeming Hertz Gold Rewards points against this rental for one free day to lower the cost.
My paperwork for this particular rental had not been pre-printed nor ready to go. The Hertz Anchorage location does not have Ultimate Choice, and their highest level of service is Gold Counter. This meant that there was no browsing the aisles to select a vehicle of choice, as you might find in an airport with Hertz Ultimate Choice.
The Vehicle: A Brand New Nissan Rogue
I had booked an intermediate vehicle. Hertz President’s Circle status offers a guaranteed upgrade. Today, that translated into being assigned a brand new Nissan Rogue with 17 miles on it. The fact that we were able to drive a vehicle with 17 miles on it starting off from Anchorage, Alaska, USA was pretty amazing indeed.
We set out towards the Aloft Anchorage and The Hotel Alyeska in Girdwood, Alaska for a week.
Overall, the pick up experience was pretty smooth. Everything went as expected, although my paperwork wasn’t immediately ready on arrival.
Returning at Anchorage International Airport:
After a week at The Hotel Alyeska, it came time to head home. I was scheduled to depart on an Alaska Railroad Winter Aurora Train Anchorage – Fairbanks for our next adventure.
I had no challenges getting gas for the rental car and the return process was smooth. My bill was processed and arrived by email, as expected,
I had no issues getting my Hertz Gold Plus Rewards to credit and everything was as expected.
My Thoughts on Hertz President’s Circle at Anchorage International Airport:
While I’ve previously had high expectations of Hertz President’s Circle Ultimate Choice, I’ve learned to taper those expectations.
The experience at Hertz with Anchorage International Airport was as expected. The most surprising part was receiving a brand new vehicle that was a small sport utility vehicle as a one category upgrade from the intermediate car that I had booked.
If you have visited Hertz Anchorage, did you get assigned a reasonable vehicle that met your expectations ?
Alaska Airlines offers the most frequencies of service to the state of Alaska from many departure cities in the United States. We would get the opportunity to fly Alaska Airlines First Class on their flagship service from Seattle to anchorage. We were treated to a great breakfast, world-class views along the way and a smooth arrival into Anchorage. Read on to see how our flight was and what you can expect flying this special route.
This post is one chapter on a winter trip to Alaska, United States. This trip was enhanced through Marriott Bonvoy Elite Status, Alaska Mileage Plan and Hertz Gold Plus Rewards. For parts of the trip, please see this index.
If you enjoyed this post, please follow us here or on social media through Facebook, Twitter “X” or Instagram for more travel tips and hacks on how to “Upgrade Your Travels”.
✈️ Read more from this trip:
- Trip Introduction: Skiing Aleyska, Alaskan Railroad and Dog Sledding in Alaska
- Springhill Suites Bellingham, Washington, USA
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Bellingham – Seattle
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Seattle – Anchorage
- My Experience as a Hertz President’s Circle renter in Anchorage, Alaska, USA
- Aloft Anchorage, Alaska, USA
- A Cold War Secret: Visiting Whittier, Alaska
- The Alyeska Hotel, Girdwood, Alaska, USA
- Three Days at Alyeska Mountain Resort, USA
- Marriott Anchorage Downtown, Alaska, USA
- The Alaska Railroad Aurora Winter Train: Anchorage – Fairbanks
- Springhill Suites Fairbanks, Alaska, USA
- Dog Sledding in Fairbanks with Rod’s Alaskan Guide Service, North Pole, USA
- Visiting the North Pole, Alaska
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Fairbanks – Anchorage
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Anchorage – Seattle
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Seattle – Bellingham
Review: Alaska Airlines First Class B737-9: Seattle Tacoma International Airport – Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport
This flight was purchased through an Alaska Airlines Famous 2 for 1 Companion Fare. We purchased this flight in upgradable space and received an upgrade to First Class at the time of booking. We credited these flights to Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan.
It marks a special occasion to take Alaska Airlines all the way to Alaska, on what is likely their flagship route. The Alaska Airlines First Class product is fairly familiar to us, and this would mark our twenty fourth journey in the Alaska Airlines First Class Cabin.
For the return flight, please see our review Alaska Airlines First Class: Anchorage – Seattle.
Connecting at Seattle:
We arrived in to the airport on Alaska Airlines First Class: Bellingham – Seattle. We had an early morning connection layover at the new American Express Centurion Lounge Seattle. Access to the Centurion Lounge was provided courtesy of the American Express Platinum Card.
We didn’t have access to the Alaska Lounge, since Alaska Airlines doesn’t offer access when flying on upgraded First Class tickets. As I’ve reviewed the new Centurion Lounge Seattle recently, I won’t be reviewing again this time around.
Our One World Emerald status wasn’t any help in getting us lounge access, as we were travelling domestically and didn’t qualify for International Lounge Access on this particular ticket.
Boarding Alaska Airlines:
After spending time at the American Express Centurion Lounge, we wandered over to the North Satellite. Our flight to Anchorage was departing from Gate N4, which was tucked right into the corner of the North Satellite.
There were heaps of flights departing for Anchorage from Seattle today. The flights were almost on an hourly basis, across Alaska Airlines and Delta Airlines.
We joined the queue of people already lining up to board. There were heaps of Alaska Airlines elite fliers today, and as a result, the first boarding groups for Alaska Airlines First Class and Elites was probably in excess of thirty people.
MrsWT73 was on an economical theme when we booked these tickets. She had asked me to book premium economy and hope for an Alaska Airlines MVP Gold upgrade into “space available” first class. I didn’t fancy rolling the dice and preferred to book into a confirmed first class seat given that I’ve been travelling quite a bit for work.
I was really happy that I booked the more expensive upgradable ticket; the upgrade list for the Anchorage flight on this early morning departure numbered over 24 people. As their flagship route with so many Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan elite travellers, it made sense that the upgrade list would be long.
Alaska Airlines
First Class (U)
SEA – ANC (Seattle Tacoma International Airport – Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport)
AS 59
March 23, 2024
Booked: Boeing 737-900
Flown: Boeing 737-900
Departure: 8:00 AM
Arrival: 10:43 AM
On Board Alaska Airlines First Class:
The Alaska Airlines Boeing 737-900 represents Alaska Airlines newest aircraft. Despite this, Alaska Airlines has outfitted these aircraft with their older puffy leather seating for its first class travellers, as opposed to more modern slim line seats.
It was pitch “blue” when we boarded the plane. It was darker inside the aircraft than it was in the terminal.
For the sake of understanding the Alaska Airlines First Class product, I’ve attached some photos of the Alaska Airlines First Class Cabin on a Boeing 737-9 from a recent Alaska Airlines Seattle – Kona flight.
These seats continue to be comfortable for relaxing in. At a three and a half hour flight from Seattle to Anchorage, the seats extend up to the limits of comfort. I find them just on the edge of comfort for the longer flights from the mainland to Hawaii, which are usually about five hours.
Every seat has a separate power port with a USB charging slot and a three-prong outlet. Unless you are a contortionist, it is a little difficult to see what you are connecting into because of its fairly awkward placement in the central console.
The table for the seat extended from the arm rest. This configuration is pretty typical for narrow body jets of this type.
There were three separate air nozzles for the seats. Having a personal air nozzle always makes the flight much more comfortable.
Pre-Departure Services:
It is never reliable on whether you actually get offered a pre-departure beverage on Alaska Airlines. In this case, we were offered a pre-departure beverage choice of water, orange juice, or coffee. We both ended up with water, which was served in a low rent disposable paper cup.
As we were seated and waiting for the rest of the plane to board, the pilot made an announcement of our flight time being three hours and eight minutes, with three hours and forty three minutes scheduled gate to gate.
I also watched ground crews stuff a large amount of sporting equipment into the plan. I watched about 20 pairs of skis and three large pedal bikes being stuffed into cargo. It was much more than on my usual flights to Denver Colorado or Salt Lake City Utah USA. This made me thankful that I was not crazy to think that I was going skiing in Alaska.
In Flight Entertainment:
Alaska Airlines offers in phone flight entertainment. This is accessed through the Alaska Airlines home page on the wifi sign in screen.
Alaska Airlines offers free messaging and texting, which is a nice addition for those that need to stay connected with friends and family.
There are a number of movies available online through the Alaska Wi-Fi. This is in addition to a low tech moving flight map.
Alaska Airlines has done away with the complimentary tablets previously offered in First Class on longer flights. If you don’t bring your own device, you’ll be without any video entertainment for the flight.
Departing Seattle:
We had a grey departure over Seattle with lots of cloud on the climb to altitude. We started on our climb to a 34,000 foot cruise altitude.
The Meal: A Breakfast
Once we had reached cruising altitude at about one hour and 10 minutes into the flight breakfast was served.
I have to give Alaska airlines credit here for offering a variety of breakfast options through their pre-order service on the Alaska airlines app. Alaska Airlines offered five different breakfast options, all of which looked scrumptious. This was in contrast to my usual Air Canada flights that always offer the same parsley omelet and the same French toast for the last 20 years.
Before my flight, I pre-ordered through the Alaska airlines app. In my experience Alaska airlines does run out of your preferred dish. As a result I always make the effort to pre-order.
The service started off with orange juice that was served in a proper, but smallish glass.
I ended up pre-ordering eggs and chicken chorizo. The dish was described as cage free scrambled eggs with pico de gallo, cotija cheese and cream spinach served with seared chicken chorizo sausage and baked her breakfast potatoes.
The eggs and chorizo dish was terrific. The eggs were soft and not over cooked unlike other airline carriers. The only critique I might have is a general critique of Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan in that they are usually a little small for my tastes. I’d probably enjoy a larger portion if it was available.
After the meal, since I didn’t feel like holding up my device for several hours while I watched a movie, I turned in for a bit of a nap.
Views on the Way up to Alaska:
Well I didn’t know what to expect with “views from the wing” on our way up to Alaska, I figured that the views must be good considering cruise ships pass through the Alaskan Inside Passage on almost a daily basis for months at a time throughout the summer months. As a result, I elected to sit on the right hand side of the plane with a window seat in order to capture the best views.
The decision to sit on the right side of the plane was the right one. The views started passing Vancouver Island and started with soft coastal mountains peaked with snow.
As our flight started to get closer to Anchorage (within one hour of the end of the flight), the views started to get more and more spectacular. White snowy peaks fed glaciers running off into the ocean. With a clear blue sky as a background, it made for an excellent view from the Way.
The Second Service: A Snack Basket
Alaska Airlines provided a second service in the form of a small snack basket. I enjoyed a Lessor Evil The Original: Himalayan Pink Salt Popcorn, which was presented in a small 13g bag.
I didn’t expect too much for a second service on a three hour flight. However the snack basket popcorn was the smallest popcorn I think I’ve ever consumed.
Arriving into Anchorage:
After our three hour flight it was time to descend into Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. Hugging the Chugach Mountain Range, we had a descent into Anchorage followed by a sweeping right turn to lineup for the runway.
Before we started our final approach turn, we had a glimpse of Anchorage and its surrounding area. My first impression of Anchorage from the Air was that it was quite a large city and much larger than my visits to Whitehorse, Yukon Territory, Canada.
It was clear spotting towards the Anchorage Ted Stevens International Airport.
As our flight descended in altitude, we got a closer look at the “”Alaskan break up”; the presence of snow and ice in the waters surrounding Anchorage. It was something I’d never really quite seen before and a strange appearance I’d never seen before.
We arrived into Ted Stevens anchorage international airport and parked at gate C4. As expected anchorage is an Alaska Airlines strong hold and there were many Alaska Airlines planes around the airport.
The Ted Stevens anchorage international airport was a much nicer airport than I was expecting. With a bright space, a tribute to Senator Ted Stevens, and a welcome home for our troops sign, we were welcomed into Alaska with grace.
We picked up our checked baggage, collected our Hertz rental car and headed off to the aLoft Anchorage before heading town to Girdwood.
Baggage service was prompt, and there was no need to use Alaska Airlines twenty minute baggage service guarantee.
My Thoughts on Alaska Airlines First Class:
Alaska airlines first class service to Anchorage was a special mile stone. It’s not every day you get to fly an airlines flagship route.
I made the right decision by getting an instantly upgradeable first class fare. Had a gambled on an upgrade at the gate, I likely would’ve been number 25 and 26 on the list.
The breakfast served on the board was solid, if not a touch small. The views coming up to Alaska were world class. I thoroughly enjoyed the views from the wing.
If you travel on Alaska Airlines to Alaska, do you have any strategies on riding in First Class?
Alaska Airlines offers connecting service from Bellingham International Airport to its hub in Seattle Tacoma International Airport. Our first flight today was on Alaska Airlines Embraer 175 aircraft, operated by Skywest Airlines. As always, we would experience a quick and no nonsense flight before we landed in Seattle Tacoma and connected over to our flight to Anchorage.
This post is one chapter on a winter trip to Alaska, United States. This trip was enhanced through Marriott Bonvoy Elite Status, Alaska Mileage Plan and Hertz Gold Plus Rewards. For parts of the trip, please see this index.
If you enjoyed this post, please follow us here or on social media through Facebook, Twitter “X” or Instagram for more travel tips and hacks on how to “Upgrade Your Travels”.
✈️ Read more from this trip:
- Trip Introduction: Skiing Aleyska, Alaskan Railroad and Dog Sledding in Alaska
- Springhill Suites Bellingham, Washington, USA
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Bellingham – Seattle
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Seattle – Anchorage
- My Experience as a Hertz President’s Circle renter in Anchorage, Alaska, USA
- Aloft Anchorage, Alaska, USA
- A Cold War Secret: Visiting Whittier, Alaska
- The Alyeska Hotel, Girdwood, Alaska, USA
- Three Days at Alyeska Mountain Resort, USA
- Marriott Anchorage Downtown, Alaska, USA
- The Alaska Railroad Aurora Winter Train: Anchorage – Fairbanks
- Springhill Suites Fairbanks, Alaska, USA
- Dog Sledding in Fairbanks with Rod’s Alaskan Guide Service, North Pole, USA
- Visiting the North Pole, Alaska
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Fairbanks – Anchorage
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Anchorage – Seattle
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Seattle – Bellingham
Review: Alaska Airlines First Class E175: Bellingham International Airport – Seattle Tacoma International Airport
Much like my other leisure flights with Alaska, this flight was purchased through an Alaska Airlines Famous 2 for 1 Companion Fare. We purchased this flight in upgradable space and received an upgrade to First Class at the time of booking. We credited these flights to Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan.
Checking into Alaska Airlines:
Our early morning flight had us leaving from Bellingham International Airport at 5 AM. We spent the night at the Springhill Suites Bellingham to make our departure a little easier and smoother.
We arrived to the Bellingham International Airport at about 3:55 AM. We were travelling with ski equipment that had to be checked. We needed to make the baggage drop off cut off at 45 minutes prior to our flight. In this case, that was 4:15 AM.
We had no wait at the Alaska airlines First class check-in counter at the Bellingham International Airport. Our checked suitcase that contained ski gear, helmets and ski clothes was accepted from us, in addition to our to Thule soft sided ski case containing two sets of skis.
Alaska airlines has a pretty strict 50 pound baggage limit. Despite their membership in Wen world alliance, they haven’t found it fit yet to extend a heavier baggage allowance for OneWorld elites or those travelling in first class. As a result we made sure our checked bags were well under 50 pounds.
We headed for the screening checkpoint where our TSA pre-check was excepted without any issue. We headed through to the secure side and two are pretty deserted terminal hall.
In what felt like “early morning forever”, but wasn’t actually that long at all, we boarded our flight. All the gates at Bellingham International Airport offer outdoor apron boarding. We had a great view of our aircraft as we boarded.
Alaska Airlines – Operated by Skywest
First Class (U)
BLI – SEA (Bellingham International Airport – Seattle Tacoma International Airport)
AS 3400
March 23, 2024
Booked: Embraer 175
Flown: Embraer 175
Departure: 5:00 AM
Arrival: 5:47 AM
On Board Alaska Airlines First Class:
Alaska Airlines offers pre-boarding to serving and retired members of the military. After that was completed, First Class was given the opportunity to board.
Alaska Airlines First Class on their Embraer 175 aircraft is in a 1–2 configuration across 4 rows of seating. We located our seats and settled in for a very short flight.
The seats on Alaska Airlines Embraer 175 are reasonably comfortable. Alaska Airlines tends to use the Embraer aircraft for flights under two hours. We rarely see Alaska Airlines use these flights for long-haul flights of four hours or more. As a result, I can’t complain about the seat comfort.
Alaska Airlines Embraer 175’s offer in seat power, which is located in the centre console. Although admittedly for the short flights I typically find myself on, I rarely find the need to plug-in.
The Alaska Airlines seats to not offer an in seat back monitor. You will need to bring your own entertainment on your smart phone device if you plan on watching any movies or television.
Pre-Departure Services:
you never really know whether you’re going to get a pre-departure beverage on Alaska airlines. Today was our lucky day as the flight attendant offered to bring us whatever we wanted. I decided on an Alaska Airlines Stumptown Coffee Roasters coffee; their special coffee that is supposed to be consumed at 30,000 feet elevation.
Unlike our usual Alaska airlines first class flights, there was no box of water at the seat today.
Food and Beverage:
Like many of it’s other short flights, Alaska Airlines does not offer any food and beverage service for this short 26 minute flight. We were airborne before we knew it, and getting ready to descend at Seattle Tacoma International Airport.
Arriving into Seattle Tacoma International Airport:
We arrived into the “C” gates at Seattle Tacoma International Airport. This portion of the airport does not offer jet bridges. As a result we disembarked onto the apron and wandered inside.
We had a short walk up the ramp and into the Seattle Tacoma International Airport Terminal where we’d locate our connecting flight.
We headed off to the American Express Centurion Lounge Seattle (which I’ve reviewed previously) before getting onto our Alaska Airlines First Class Seattle – Anchorage flight.
My Thoughts on Alaska Airlines First Class:
The Bellingham to Seattle First Class service on Alaska Airlines was fairly simple. We had a comfortable twenty-six-minute flight, however there was no formal food or beverage service, aside from the brief Stumptown Coffee.
While you don’t always need First Class for a short twenty minute flight, it’s always nice to have. Despite this, I wouldn’t expect all to much in the way of First Class services while on board if you find yourself flying this route.
If you travel on Alaska Airlines Sky West Short Haul First Class, do you find it a comfortable way to travel ?
Before an early morning flight departing from Bellingham International Airport, we needed a place to stay. After evaluating several options, we ended up at the Springhill Suites Bellingham. The Springhill Suites Bellingham was the closest Marriott Bonvoy option nearest the airport. After a short drive down from Vancouver Canada, we checked ourselves in for a very short stay. The hotel fully met our expectations, along with providing a little extra room. Read on to see what a stay at the Springhill Suites Bellingham looks like.
This post is one chapter on a winter trip to Alaska, United States. This trip was enhanced through Marriott Bonvoy Elite Status, Alaska Mileage Plan and Hertz Gold Plus Rewards. For parts of the trip, please see this index.
If you enjoyed this post, please follow us here or on social media through Facebook, Twitter “X” or Instagram for more travel tips and hacks on how to “Upgrade Your Travels”.
✈️ Read more from this trip:
- Trip Introduction: Skiing Aleyska, Alaskan Railroad and Dog Sledding in Alaska
- Springhill Suites Bellingham, Washington, USA
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Bellingham – Seattle
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Seattle – Anchorage
- My Experience as a Hertz President’s Circle renter in Anchorage, Alaska, USA
- Aloft Anchorage, Alaska, USA
- A Cold War Secret: Visiting Whittier, Alaska
- The Alyeska Hotel, Girdwood, Alaska, USA
- Three Days at Alyeska Mountain Resort, USA
- Marriott Anchorage Downtown, Alaska, USA
- The Alaska Railroad Aurora Winter Train: Anchorage – Fairbanks
- Springhill Suites Fairbanks, Alaska, USA
- Dog Sledding in Fairbanks with Rod’s Alaskan Guide Service, North Pole, USA
- Visiting the North Pole, Alaska
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Fairbanks – Anchorage
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Anchorage – Seattle
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Seattle – Bellingham
Review: Springhill Suites Bellingham, Washington, United States of America
“A spacious stay perfect for a family, or for those looking for dedicated relax, work and sleep areas situated a 5 minute drive to Bellingham International Airport”
My visit to the Springhill Suites Bellingham was as a result of an early morning departure on Alaska Airlines First Class Bellingham – Seattle. Given that our flight was departing at 5 AM, it simply made sense just to spend the night near the airport. Given that there was a Marriott Bonvoy double elite qualifying night credit promotion during our stay, and a rate of US$125 a night, the decision to stay was made easy.
Booking Springhill Suites Bellingham:
When looking at which hotel to book in Bellingham, they were a number of choices. There was the Springhill Suites Bellingham (this review), an adjacent TownePlace Suites by Marriott (actually in the same building), and a Four Points by Sheraton hotel that was the oldest hotel of the group.
We ended up at the Springhill Suites Bellingham as a result of a favourable rate. The hotel was also located within 2 miles of the Bellingham International Airport. In addition, the Springhill Suites Brand earns 100% points under the Marriott Bonvoy program, unlike the Town Place Suites by Marriott that only earn 50% points.
The Four Points by Sheraton Bellingham was located several miles down the interstate highway. Being the oldest hotel of the group, and that it wasn’t as convenient, we ended up passing on that option.
Our rate for the night was through a AAA Automobile Association Rate for $125 USD. Rates at this property vary from a low of $131 USD to a high of $269 USD.
I booked through the Marriott Bonvoy website, which as a Marriott Titanium Member, entitled me to a complimentary upgrade to the best available room, including select suites, complimentary access to the Marriott Executive Club Lounge (of which there wasn’t one at this property), and a complimentary late check out up to 4 PM.
It is worth mentioning that in the Springhill Suites branding, every room is a suite with a separate relaxation area that has a couch. Much like the aLoft model, the room configurations at this property are all the same. The only difference is the bed assignment between one king bed or two queen beds.
As a result, there is no likelihood in getting a Marriott Bonvoy upgrade into larger room category. The likely Marriott Bonvoy Elite upgrade offered will be a soft upgrade into a higher floor category, a better view or quieter area away from the elevator.
Marriott Bonvoy Redemption Opportunities:
The Springhill Suites Bellingham offers competitive room redemptions with the new variable redemption rates. Marriott Bonvoy rates were between 21,000 to 39,000, which represents value on some nights but not on others.
If you value Marriott Bonvoy points at $0.008 a point, you’d have to spend more than $168 USD room rate to come out ahead for a 21,000 point redemption, or $312 USD room rate if you happen to find a 39,000 point redemption. While this represents reasonable value under certain circumstances, you’ll want to make sure that your redemption is value based.
Arriving to Springhill Suites Bellingham:
Being residents of Vancouver – Canada, we self drove our vehicle down Interstate Five to get to the property. It was a relaxing 25 minutes drive after clearing the international border at Peace Arch border crossing, before we arrived to Springhill Suites Bellingham.
The Springhill Suites Bellingham is located in a mostly commercial strip mall area. There is a Costco located within two blocks of the hotel and there is a Fred Meyer Supermarket retail store just down the street. The neighbourhood itself does not have much charm, but it is functional and close to a lot of off property groceries and restaurants which can be accessed by car.
Our stay at this property was in advance of an early morning flight from Bellingham international airport. Bellingham International airport is located approximately six minutes drive or two miles away from the Springhill Suites Bellingham.
It is also worth mentioning that the Springhill Suites Bellingham is in the same building as TownePlace suites Bellingham. The two buildings are attached and operate separate lobbies, but share recreation and pool facilities.
Checking into the Springhill Suites Bellingham:
The Springhill Suites Bellingham lobby was brightly coloured in a pleasant way. Sometimes this can come across as looking a little over the top, however Springhill Suites Bellingham struck a nice balance with the decor by making the place feel lively but not garish.
There was no line to check in when we arrived at about 9 PM. We had a pleasant welcome and we were thanks for being a Marriott Bonvoy Titanium level member. We received a soft upgrade to a high floor. We are also offered 1000 Marriott Bonvoy points as a welcome amenity. Lastly, we were offered a late check out courtesy of the Marriott Bonvoy program. When we explained that we were leaving for a 5 AM flight, we were offered a breakfast to take away bag, which we ended up declining.
The Springhill Suites Bellingham offers a complementary breakfast in every room rate. The breakfast is served in the lobby between the hours of… As a result, the lobby had substantial space for breakfast service.
I parked my car in the secured hotel underground. There were approximately 30 parking spots out front of the hotel. However, by 9 o’clock at night, all of them were taken. Parking was on a complimentary basis.
The Room: Studio – 1 King, Sofa bed.
We were assigned room # 450, which was located at the far end of the hallway as far away as possible from the elevators. It was also a corner room, although the design of the hotel did not take advantage of both walls to offer windows on both sides.
Springhill suites markets itself as a hotel that offers a little extra space. Their spaces are marketed as follows:
- Sleeps 1-6 people
- Airy beds with piles of pillows
- Dedicated workspaces
- Separate areas to sleep, work, and relax
- In-suite microwave and a mini-fridge
- Spa-like bathrooms
All of these features are terrific for travellers that tend to spend 4 to 5 days in a hotel.
The Living Space:
Immediately upon entering the room, we found ourselves in the studio suite living space. Springhill Suites has a current contract with West Elm furniture to provide their “in room” couches. However this particular couch was not a West Elm branded version, despite the advertising. Regardless, it featured a partial chaise lounger, which made things quite comfortable.
The living space featured a small desk area that was partitioned from the bedroom by frosted glass. The frosted glass could be adjusted to make the space appear a little more open.
The desk itself was rather small. For those that like to work watching television, the desk was not ideally set up to accommodate this, as it was at a 90° angle.
The studio suite featured a large 65 inch flatscreen television. The television was offset from both the bed, and the living space. This made for a little bit of “angled viewing”, which may or may not be everyone’s idea of comfort.
The Bedroom:
The bedroom featured a large king-size bed. With colours in light emerald green, the bedroom had a 70s-ish decor that reminded me of my parents kitchen. There was also sufficient space around the bed to move around in. The king size bed offered a comfortable night sleep.
The room itself offered some limited amenities. These included a Cuisinart coffee maker, an ice bucket, and individually wrapped plastic glasses. You won’t mistake the fact that you’re not in a full-service Marriott property at the Bellingham Springhill Suites. You’ll just have the basics when it comes to in room features.
The layout of the hotel offered a fairly straightforward design. Most of the rooms appear to be exactly the same size. Our room happen to be adjacent to a very large rooftop deck that was not accessible during our visit.
It’s worth mentioning that housekeeping is only offered every three days at this particular property. Those that are looking for a regular room service will have to go without.
The Bathroom:
The studio suite offered a single bathroom that had a single vanity sink. In a smart design, the sink and shower were in a separate room than the toilet.
There was a standup shower in the sink room.
The bathroom was a separate room, but also featured a small occasional sink.
Overall, we had no complaints about this type of configuration. It aimed to maximize space and functionality.
While it was dark through most of our short stay, the room had a view over a residential & commercial area towards the rear of the hotel. The hotel and room environment was quiet. We did not get disturbed with any noise throughout our stay.
Around the Hotel Property:
The Springhill Suites Bellingham had a few features consistent with a neighbourhood hotel of this size. These features were shared with the attached TownePlace Suites by Marriott hotel Bellingham.
Fitness Centre – Indoor Pool:
The Springhill Suites Bellingham offered an indoor pool and exercise centre. The pool is located on the ground floor just by the hotel lobby.
The pool was open between 6 AM and 10 PM.
The Springhill Suites Bellingham also offered an Exercise Room. The Exercise Room was open twenty four hours a day.
The exercise room contained a number of elliptical cycles. It also contains a number of treadmills. The best part of the elite the exercise room was the large floor to ceiling windows that allow lots of light into the exercise space.
While I didn’t use either the gym or the pool, it’s always nice to have an option available.
Food and Beverage:
The Springhill Suites Bellingham offered a sole restaurant and bar on the property that was open for dinner only. During our visit, the bar offered service between 5 PM to 10 PM.
Chuckanut Lobby Bar:
The Springhill Suites Bellingham offered a Chuckanut Lobby Bar as the local “in house” restaurant. During our Friday night visit, the Chuckanut lobby bar was in full swing with about 10 patrons enjoying themselves.
There are many other restaurants that are located within a 5 mile drive of this property. The Chuckanut Bar is a handy on property option for those looking for something that don’t have access to a vehicle.
Checking Out of Springhill Suites Bellingham:
We had a 2:45 AM wake up along with 3:30 AM departure from the hotel. We headed over to Bellingham International Airport for our Alaska Airlines First Class: Bellingham – Seattle flight, followed by Alaska Airlines First Class: Seattle – Anchorage that would take us up to Alaska.
We had no surprises on the bill with everything “as expected”. The check out was instant through the app and without incident.
My Marriott Bonvoy points posted to my account within 48 hours as promised.
The Bottom Line: Springhill Suites Bellingham
The Springhill Suites Bellingham met all our needs for an early departure flight from Bellingham International Airport.
The Springhill Suites Bellingham offered a comfortable room with extra space to stretch out in, a few hotel amenities for those staying a longer period of time, in addition to a comfortable environment. The room was priced right, and we couldn’t have expected more from a short stay near Bellingham International Airport.
If you have stayed near Bellingham International Airport, which airport hotel have you used ?
I had wanted to visit Alaska for downhill skiing for quite some time. While most people visit through a coastal cruise in the middle of the summer, my goal was to visit Alaska in the spring season to take in downhill skiing at Alyeska ski resort in addition to see some other activities. Since the tourist season pretty much shuts down outside of summertime, how would I put together a trip to capitalize on all Alaska has to offer in the winter? After some research, and trial and error, this is the plan that I came up with. Given our winter activities, it would end up being a really memorable trip that was different than others we had completed.
This post is one chapter on a winter trip to Alaska, United States. This trip was enhanced through Marriott Bonvoy Elite Status, Alaska Mileage Plan and Hertz Gold Plus Rewards. For parts of the trip, please see this index.
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✈️ Read more from this trip:
- Trip Introduction: Skiing Aleyska, Alaskan Railroad and Dog Sledding in Alaska
- Springhill Suites Bellingham, Washington, USA
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Bellingham – Seattle
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Seattle – Anchorage
- My Experience as a Hertz President’s Circle renter in Anchorage, Alaska, USA
- Aloft Anchorage, Alaska, USA
- A Cold War Secret: Visiting Whittier, Alaska
- The Alyeska Hotel, Girdwood, Alaska, USA
- Three Days at Alyeska Mountain Resort, USA
- Marriott Anchorage Downtown, Alaska, USA
- The Alaska Railroad Aurora Winter Train: Anchorage – Fairbanks
- Springhill Suites Fairbanks, Alaska, USA
- Dog Sledding in Fairbanks with Rod’s Alaskan Guide Service, North Pole, USA
- Visiting the North Pole, Alaska
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Fairbanks – Anchorage
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Anchorage – Seattle
- Alaska Airlines First Class: Seattle – Bellingham
Trip Introduction: Skiing Alyeska – Girdwood, Alaskan Railroad and Dog Sledding in Alaska, USA via Alaska Airlines First Class
Planning the Trip:
I have had a visit to Alaska on my “to do” list for quite some time. I’ve always been attracted to the idea of skiing at Alyeska Ski Resort in Girdwood, Alaska. Unfortunately once the pandemic occurred, and the international borders of the United States closed, that dream disappeared for about four years. After several years of waiting I decided it was finally time to put this dream into motion.
In addition to a visit to Alyeska ski resort, I also had my sights set on the Alaskan Railroad. The Alaskan Railroad has been running since 1930 and travels between Anchorage and Fairbanks. The eleven hour journey has wonderful scenery along the way and is a must to do if you visit the Alaskan state.
Lastly, we wanted to take in some dog sledding around Fairbanks. We ended up locating Rod’s Alaska Guide Service that would allow us a great end of season experience.
Visiting Alaska is usually best left for the summer. If you’re going to visit in winter, and you expect to have a happy wife, you may as well make your visit in the late spring or later.
Planning Flights:
Flights from Canada to Alaska
While we could have flown a number of airlines to get to Alaska, it made sense to use one of our remaining Alaska Airlines two for one companion fares that we had with now defunct Canadian Alaska Airlines MBNA MasterCard.
As an Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan MVP gold elite member, we had access to upgradeable fairs that allowed upgrade into first class at the time of purchase. These fares could be stocked with the two-for-one companion fares, which I have found to be a pretty good deal.
I ended up searching for upgrade “U” space throughout many days of the week. I would have the greatest success at finding space within 90 days of travel. The Alaska airlines route between Seattle and Anchorage seems to be one of its most popular routes. I generally found that the upgrade space existed on the first three flights of the day in the early morning and generally on the last two midnight flights of the day.
I was eventually able to lock in tickets from Bellingham to Seattle connecting up to Anchorage. Using an open jaw ticket then was able to book a return from Fairbanks to anchorage to Seattle to Bellingham. The fair ended up being approximately $200 cheaper to depart out of Bellingham international airport in Washington state, versus departing from Vancouver international Airport in our home in Canada. Using a two-for-one companion fare these tickets came to $1,041 USD in first class confirmed for the two of us.
The routing ended up looking like this at the time of travel.
BLI – SEA – ANC (paid)
FAI – ANC – SEA – BLI (paid)
Planning Hotels:
I had recently qualified for Marriott Bonvoy Lifetime Platinum status. With a double elite night credit promotion going on during our trip, we put almost all the hotels and stays in Mrs. WT73’s name in order to increase her Marriott Bonvoy Platinum re-qualification chances this year.
We had a 5 AM departure out of Bellingham international airport. This was a terrible hour to start a flight so we decided to spend the night in Bellingham Washington in advance. We ended up at the Springhill Suites Bellingham for US$125 for a very brief day to kick off this trip.
We needed one night on arrival at in Anchorage. With a number of Marriott Bonvoy choices, we ended up at the Aloft Anchorage hotel in its convenient mid town Anchorage location for one night on our arrival into Alaska.
For our time at the Alyeska Ski Resort, there is only one real hotel in town. We stayed for three nights at the futuristic bunker looking The Hotel Alyeska on a stay and ski package that included lift tickets. This was an independent hotel that was not part of any chain. Although it was sold through American Express Fine Hotels and Resorts the price premium with American Express outweighed any advantages of booking through this channel. As a result we ended up booking direct with the resort.
We also needed one night in Anchorage prior to our departure on the Alaskan Railroad Aurora Winter Train Anchorage – Fairbanks. I ended up using a free night award to redeem against the Anchorage Marriott Downtown hotel. The Anchorage Marriott hotel was a full-service hotel in downtown Anchorage that was conveniently located a few blocks away from the Alaskan Railroad train station.
While I had initially booked us into the Sheraton Anchorage hotel, I had reviewed many reports that indicated that this was among the worst Sheratons in the system. I later switched to the Marriott property, and redeemed points. Ultimately, I was really happy with our stay at the Marriott Anchorage hotel.
In Fairbanks it became a choice between the Springhill Suites Fairbanks and the Hyatt Place Fairbanks. We ended up at the Springhill Suites Fairbanks, which was a convenient base of operations for our two night stay there. The Springhill Suites Fairbanks rooms were large and oversized, making for a comfortable stay.
Our points and miles redemption summary:
With paid tickets, we ended up earning a number of miles on this trip. In addition to the miles earned, we topped up on the harder to accumulate Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan miles.
In summary, we earned and redeemed:
- Earned: 7,693 Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan Miles (875 + 2534 + 875+ 2534 + 875) on Alaska Airlines Upgradable First Class (100% EQM) as an Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan MVP
- Redeemed: One Free Night Award Courtesy of American Express Credit Card at the Marriott Anchorage Hotel.
Overall, I was pretty happy with this combination of earning versus redemption. The set up also allowed us to save some Marriott Bonvoy points for the more aspirational Marriott properties.
If you have visited Alaska, what activities did you complete on your visit ?
It’s been a while since I’ve reviewed the Air Canada Express Canadair Regional Jet – 900 series aircraft in business class. There are a few of these floating around in the Air Canada Express system. With a quick two day work trip to Regina, I would end up testing out this particular aircraft type on a brief two hour flight from Vancouver to Regina.
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Review: Air Canada Express Business Class Canadair Regional Jet – 900, Regina International Airport – Vancouver International Airport
I had a quick two day business trip to Regina, Saskatchewan. After heading out on Air Canada Express CRJ-900 Vancouver – Regina, I was due to fly back on the exact same flight.
The very next day, I was headed off to Alaska for a week’s worth of skiing, dogsledding and adventures. As a result, I was really keen to get home to start a week’s worth of vacations. Fortunately, I had already packed for my leisure trip. It was a matter of getting home, dropping one bag, and collecting another one.
Checkin In at Regina International Airport:
I was departing on the middle flight of the day of three possible flights. I didn’t want to take the last flight of the day and risk getting stranded as a result of mechanical issues. I ended up on the mid day flight.
I ended up getting breakfast at the (newly discovered to me) Cora’s Breakfast Restaurant in the strip malls south of the Regina International Airport. I returned the rental car and found myself in the usual Regina International Airport Departures Hall.
I was travelling with a checked work bag for this particular trip. There was no wait at all at the Air Canada Priority Check in line. My bag was tagged and accepted as baggage after a short bag scale check. Air Canada offers a 2 bag limit at 70 lbs per bag on a business class ticket. As a result, I had room, weight and allowance to spare.
I headed down the hall and headed up the escalators to the departure concourse. I had security screening without any wait and headed over to the secure side.
I stopped briefly at the Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge – Regina. This isn’t a very exciting lounge, but it happens to be among the smallest sized lounges in the Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge system.
I’ve reviewed this lounge several times before so I won’t be doing so again. This lounge was accessible as a result of the business class of service of my ticket, and there were no additional fees to visit.
When it came time to board, I boarded with Group #1. We had short line of people waiting to get on board, in a compact boarding area.
Air Canada Express
Business Class
YQR – YVR (Regina International Airport – Vancouver International Airport)
AC 8191 – Business Class (P)
12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
March 22, 2024
Booked: Canadair Regional Jet – 900 Series
Flown: Canadair Regional Jet – 900 Series
On Board Air Canada Business Class:
As I described on the way out, Air Canada Express offers a small twelve seat business class cabin on it’s Canadair Regional Jet – 900 series aircraft. The cabin is set up in a 1 – 2 configuration in business class across four rows of business class, versus a 2 – 2 configuration in economy class in the back. You’ll get a little more leg and shoulder room, but its not a whole lot extra.
If you are a solo traveller, the single row of seats on the left hand side of the aircraft will be your area. I don’t mind these seats, but they are not a first choice for me since they are quite exposed and without much privacy. I would end up seated in this single aisle for this particular journey.
I found my seat, which was on the single aisle in 2A. Since I recalled that the seats do not have monitors, I was well prepared to have some entertainment on hand for the two and half hour flight home.
It is worth mentioning that if you’re seated in the single row of seats, that the overhead bins on this side of the plane are not large enough to stow a rolling suitcase. You’ll have to fight your seat mates across the aisle for space on the right hand side of the aircraft. Accordingly, make sure you board early enough to get bin space.
There isn’t a lot of more seating space in business class, despite the seat offering some extra space. I was lucky enough to fit my carry-on bag into the overhead compartment. My feet could now fit beneath my seat.
Pre Departure Services:
Air Canada serves a simple pre-departure beverage, a tiny bottle of Naya Water that was waiting on the seat, unlike most US carriers that offer an open bar. There was no further offer of an extra drink. I balanced my drink on the small cupholder table on the left hand side of the plane.
While waiting for the plane to complete boarding, I reviewed the menu offered for todays flight. While Air Canada used to offer a printed menu service, today they have shifted to menus presented in the Air Canada app.
Since our plane was leaving at noon, we were up for a lunch service today. The lunch menu featured a choice of two hot entrees, a chicken parmigiana or a vegetarian truffle risotto.
The second page of the breakfast menu offered the drink list. It offered a list of beers, unspecified wines, spirits. The spirits were pretty mainstream; although there was an effort at upscale Tanquery Gin, there wasn’t all too much “wow” on the spirit menu.
For a two and a half hour flight, the menu service was pretty reasonable overall. There’s not a meal plan as extensive on most of my First Class flights within the US. As a result, having a full meal available was a definite advantage.
We got underway and were up an over the Canadian Prairies before we knew it. I doubt that I would ever be able to get used to living under these flat lands, since the big mountains of Whistler have always had a special place in my heart.
The Meal: Lunch
The flight time today was scheduled at two hours and thirty minutes gate to gate. The meal service started at about forty five minutes after take off from Regina International Airport.
The in flight service started off with a warm towel service. This isn’t typically expected on domestic flights. However, it is still appreciated.
We had a usual Salted Almonds nut presentation, although they were a little slower today on the Ginger Ale beverage presentation.
The meal arrived and was presented all at once. Today’s lunch consisted of chicken parmigiana topped with mozerella cheese, marinara sauce and pesto rotini pasta. I think my marinara sauce got left behind today as the whole dish was quite bland. It reminded me of a television dinner I might heat in the microwave on a night I didn’t feel like cooking.
The fact that Air Canada provides a complete dinner on a quick two and a half hour journey is fantastic. Compared to our American colleagues, who typically offer a snack basket instead, this is a long cry from the norm. The cuisine might use a little more flavour and appeal, in my opinion. This is particularly noticeable at breakfast and lunch, where I believe Air Canada’s cuisine could use a little more imagination.
Landing at Vancouver International Airport:
We were back over the Rocky Mountains before we knew it. The weather had turned a little bit since I had left Vancouver a few days ago. It was looking a little greyer than after I had left.
We approached Vancouver International Airport on Runway 16R. We didn’t have any wait coming in, and we were on the ground before we knew it.
After we landed, it was a quick taxi over to the “C” gates. I was able to get off quickly and was in the terminal before I knew it.
I picked up my car at Park and Fly and headed home for the evening. I was set to get away to Alaska the very next morning and needless to say, I was pretty excited for my next trip.
The Bottom Line: Air Canada Express Business Class
The Air Canada Express Business Class on the Canadair Regional Jet – 900 Series offers a little more room, but not a whole lot of excitement.
On this trip, I tried out the single aisle seats on the left hand side of the aircraft. While you won’t have anyone bothering you in these single aisle seats, I still do find them a little exposed with less access to overhead bin space. Perhaps, it is a trade off. . .
When flying a Canadair Regional Jet (or Embraer), do you prefer the single row of seats on the left hand side, if travelling on your own ?
Marriott Bonvoy has announced a surprise summer 2024 promotion that leverages their existing relationship between the Marriott Bonvoy program and United Mileage Plus frequent flier program. If you’re in earner in both programs, you’ll stand to gain from this promotion which credits points in each other’s program. Read on to see how the program works.
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Marriott Bonvoy Launches a Summer 2024 United Airlines Promotion: Register Now
Marriott Bonvoy has announced a surprise summer 2024 promotion targeted at their highest tier Marriott Bonvoy elite members at the Marriott Bonvoy and Titanium / Ambassador level. While this promotion may not be of use to everyone, it will certainly help those that leverage the Marriott Bonvoy and United Mileage Plus partnership by enabling members to collect points in both accounts.
Promotion Details:
Earn 750 Marriott Bonvoy Points on Each Qualified United Flight
Earn 500 United Mileage Plus Miles for Each Qualifying Marriott Bonvoy Stay
Earn a One Time Bonus of 350 United Mileage Plus Miles and 350 Marriott Bonvoy Points for a combined flight and hotel stay together
The details of the promotion are as follows:
- Marriott Bonvoy Titanium and Ambassador members can register now to qualify for additional earning between July 1, 2024 and August 31, 2024
- Members of our preferred partnership with Marriott Bonvoy® can register to get 750 Marriott Bonvoy points on each qualifying United® flight.
- Members of our preferred partnership with Marriott Bonvoy® can register to get 500 MileagePlus® miles for each qualifying stay at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy.
- Receive a one-time bonus of 350 miles and 350 points after your first combined flight and stay.
- Stays must be completed from July 1 to August 31, 2024
- Registration is required prior to your first eligible stay, and registration closes on August 31, 2024
- Only stays paid with cash qualify toward this promotion; award stays don’t qualify.
- Members who select miles as their earning preference in their Marriott Bonvoy account are not eligible for this Promotion and will not receive the bonus, even if the other terms and conditions of this offer have been met.
- An Eligible Participant must select Marriott Bonvoy points as their earning preference.
- All hotels globally are participating, and there’s no minimum length of stay required to unlock the bonus.
Registration:
Registration is required for this promotion. Registration can be completed through this registration link.
Surprisingly, this promotion did not turn up under my promotions offer section on the Marriott Bonvoy app. Although, I did get an invitation marketing email from Marriott Bonvoy that announced the promotion.
Registration needs to be completed by August 31, 2024, for stays ending by August 31, 2024.
Registration is very easy. It requires signing in using your United Airlines Mileage Plus number.
If you have successfully registered for the promotion you will get an instant announcement confirming registration.
Promotion Terms and Conditions:
The Marriott Bonvoy United Airlines Summer 2024 Promotion Terms and Conditions are published as follows:
- This Marriott Bonvoy and United MileagePlus Preferred Partnership Program Dual Currency Offer (the “Promotion”) is open only to Eligible Participants. An “Eligible Participant” is a person aged 18 or over and has enrolled in the Marriott Bonvoy and United MileagePlus Preferred Partnership Program (the “Preferred Partnership Program”). (Preferred Partnership Program terms and conditions apply ) and registered for the Promotion during the Promotion Registration Period.
- Marriott Bonvoy Titanium Elite or Ambassador Elite members who have not enrolled in the Preferred Partnership Program, are eligible to enroll at https://travel-partner.marriott.com/united/en-us.
- United MileagePlus Premier Gold, Premier Platinum, and Premier 1K members who have not enrolled in the Preferred Partnership Program, are eligible to enroll at united.com/MarriottBonvoy.
- After enrolling in the Preferred Partnership Program, member is required to register for this Promotion at www.marriottbonvoy.com/earn-earn or www.united.com/earn-earn2024 to become an Eligible Participant.
- Registration for the Promotion is open between July 1, 2024, 12:00 a.m. EDT and August 31, 2024, 11:59 p.m. EDT (the “Promotion Registration Period”). All travel, including Eligible Flights and Eligible Stays must be booked and travel commenced by August 31, 2024 (the “Promotion Travel Period”). The Promotion Registration Period and the Promotion Travel Period are together the “Promotion Period”.
- An “Eligible Itinerary” consists of (i) an Eligible Participant (ii) having an itinerary documented with a confirmation number, (iii) booked with money (iv) completing a flight from such itinerary operated by United or United Express, and (v) travel begins no later than August 31, 2024, 11:59 p.m. EDT. Flights booked with miles or “money and miles” are not eligible for this Promotion. Eligible Participants will earn 750 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points for each unique Eligible Itinerary.
- An “Eligible Stay” consists of (i) a stay by an Eligible Participant, (ii) of at least one (1) night at hotel participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program, (iii) the stay commenced (i.e., arrived at the hotel) by no later than August 31, 2024, 11:59 p.m. EDT, and (iv) paid for with money. Stays booked with points or “money and points” are not eligible for this Promotion. Eligible Participants will earn 500 United MileagePlus miles per Eligible Stay.
- Eligible Participants who complete both an Eligible Itinerary and an Eligible Stay will also receive a one-time bonus of 350 United MileagePlus miles and 350 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points.
- Members who select miles as their earning preference in their Marriott Bonvoy account are not eligible for this Promotion and will not receive the bonus, even if the other terms and conditions of this offer have been met. An Eligible Participant must select Marriott Bonvoy points as their earning preference.
- Members are eligible to participate in only one (1) dual currency campaign per calendar year. By enrolling in this Promotion, you understand and agree that you will not be eligible to enroll in any future Dual Currency Campaigns with Marriott Bonvoy in 2024.
- All Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program terms and conditions apply and are subject to change with or without notice. Visit www.marriott.com/loyalty/terms/default.mi for more information.
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What do I think about this promotion?
This promotion will benefit those members who are leveraging the relationship between the Marriott Bonvoy program and the United Airlines Mileage Plus program.
If you happen to be collecting points in both programs, this will be an easy decision.
Since it only takes one sign in to register, you may as well register for this promotion for free points.
While United Mileage Plus recently devalued their program, their miles do not expire. As a result, it makes sense to “register and forget”, than to actually drive stay or flight activity to this promotion.
If you don’t happen to have a Marriott Bonvoy affiliated credit card, you can apply for one through these links posted below and earn the highest possible welcome bonus.
The Best offer is available below through a referral link:
American Express Marriott Bonvoy (CANADA)
60,000 Marriott Bonvoy Point Welcome Bonus with $3,000 minimum spend
American Express Marriott Bonvoy (CANADA)
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The Bottom Line: Marriott’s Summer 2024 Promotion
Marriott Bonvoy has announced a surprise summer 2024 promotion that aims to leverage the relationship between United Airlines Mileage Plus and Marriott Bonvoy members. The promotion is targeted at the highest elite members at the Marriott Bonvoy program at the Titanium and Ambassador levels.
It’s always worth registration for one click promotions such as this, even if you don’t have any planned qualifying flying activity.
What do you make of the Marriott Bonvoy Summer 2024 promotion ?
It’s been a while since I’ve reviewed the Air Canada Express Canadair Regional Jet – 900 series aircraft in business class. There are a few of these floating around in the Air Canada Express system. With a quick two day work trip to Regina, I would end up testing out this particular aircraft type on a brief two hour flight from Vancouver to Regina.
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Review: Air Canada Express Business Class Canadair Regional Jet -900, Vancouver International Airport – Regina International Airport
I had a quick two day business trip to Regina, Saskatchewan. Since this was a quick turn trip, I was seeking a non stop flight. There was only one carrier that I was able to get there and back on a non stop routing; Air Canada. If I had flown Westjet, I would have had to take a connection in Calgary.
It has been quite a while since I’ve travelled on an Air Canada Express flight in business class. As a result, I thought that I would briefly review the experience on this narrow body Canadair Regional Jet aircraft.
Departing from Vancouver International Airport:
I arrived at my usual two hours before flight at Vancouver International Airport. Using a Nexus Card, I had no wait at security screening. My boarding card offered priority security screening, but there wasn’t a long line anyway.
I stopped briefly at the Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge – Vancouver Domestic. I’ve reviewed this lounge several times before so I won’t be doing so again. This lounge was accessible as a result of the business class of service of my ticket, and there were no additional fees to visit.
Air Canada Express
Business Class
YVR – YQR (Vancouver International Airport – Regina International Airport)
AC 8190 – Business Class (P)
8:10 AM – 11:14 AM
March 20, 2024
Booked: Canadair Regional Jet – 900 Series
Flown: Canadair Regional Jet – 900 Series
On Board Air Canada Business Class:
Air Canada Express offers a small twelve seat business class cabin on it’s Canadair Regional Jet – 900 series aircraft. The cabin is set up in a 1 – 2 configuration in business class across four rows of business class, versus a 2 – 2 configuration in economy class in the back. You’ll get a little more leg and shoulder room, but its not a whole lot extra.
If you are a solo traveller, there is a single row of seats on the left hand side of the aircraft. I don’t mind these seats, but I do find them to be quite exposed without much privacy.
I found my seat 2F. I tucked myself into the seat. On arrival to the seat, I realized that the Canadair Regional Jet one of the only jets in the Air Canada fleet that does not offer an in seat back monitor for entertainment purposes.
I quickly started downloading and refreshing my downloaded Netflix content. I had mixed success with this while in the plane as my cell signal was not very strong. Otherwise, it was going to be a pretty austere trip to Regina.
The Air Canada Express Regional Jet offered two individual seat nozzles and a reading light. It’s always a more comfortable flight with air nozzles and this flight was no exemption.
While the seat offers a little extra space, there isn’t a whole lot of extra seating room in business class. I was fortunate to be able to get my carry on into the overhead bin. This left the space under my seat for my feet.
Pre Departure Services:
Air Canada serves a simple pre-departure beverage, a tiny bottle of Naya Water that was waiting on the seat. This is unlike most US carriers that offer an open bar beverage. There was no further offer of an extra drink.
While waiting for the plane to complete boarding, I reviewed the menu offered for todays flight. While Air Canada used to offer a printed menu service, today they have shifted to menus presented in the Air Canada app.
The breakfast menu featured a choice of two hot entrees, with the usual parsley omelette making it’s usual flagship appearance. A French Toast option was also available, without any meat.
The second page of the breakfast menu offered the drink list. It offered a list of beers, unspecified wines, spirits. The spirits were pretty mainstream; although there was an effort at upscale Tanquery Gin, there wasn’t all too much “wow” on the spirit menu.
For a two-hour flight, the menu service was reasonable overall. There’s not a meal plan as extensive on most of my First Class flights within the US. On my short haul US flights, I’d be lucky to get a snack basket. As a result, having a full meal available was a definite advantage.
We got underway and were up an over the Canadian Rocky Mountains fairly quickly. The mountains were looking pleasant on this March morning… completely covered in snow, with a little bit of cloud.
The Meal: Breakfast
The flight time today was scheduled at two hours and three minutes gate to gate. The meal service started at about forty five minutes after take off from Vancouver International Airport.
The in flight service started off with a warm towel service. This isn’t typically expected on domestic flights. It was a nice touch, even if the towels are looking a little worn.
The Air Canada Express Canadair Regional Jet tables are pretty tiny things. I unfolded my table in preparation for the main event.
Given that this was a morning flight, I started off with a coffee. The Air Canada Coffee is good, but not great. I find that it is never usually very warm by the time it gets to the seat. Coffee today was served with roasted salted nuts; a little bit of a strange morning combination.
Despite my better judgement, I went with another parsley omelette. This was served with Air Canada fresh fruit, an iögo yoghurt, the usual ciabatta roll and the omelette itself.
The parsley omelette is pretty much the same no matter how you slice it. This one was presented with chicken sausage along with tomato cumin chutney. It was it’s usual dry self, with softly crisp hashbrowns.
It’s great that Air Canada offers a full meal on a short two and a half hour flight. It’s a far cry ahead than our American counterparts that usually offer a snack basket instead. I would rather that the food be just a little more tasty and engaging. This is especially prevalent in the breakfast department, where I think that Air Canada can get a bit more creative with their breakfasts.
Landing at Regina International Airport:
We left those beautiful Rocky Mountains behind as we descended into Regina International Airport. It was pretty flat and grey as the ground started it’s thawing state.
We arrived into the quiet Regina International Airport. I had checked a bag for this trip as a result of some business needs. The bag was put out quickly and I was on my way pretty quickly.
I would end up returning home on a similar Air Canada Business Class: Regina – Vancouver flight two days later.
The Bottom Line: Air Canada Express Business Class
The Air Canada Express Business Class on the Canadair Regional Jet – 900 Series offers a little more room, but not a whole lot of extra space.
The main benefit is a little extra space and a smallish meal that you’ve probably bad before on another flight. While the meal is something that isn’t offered on comparable two hour flights within the United States and even on my last United Airlines Transborder flights.
If you regularly fly Air Canada Express Business Class, do you spring for business class over economy on short flights ?
My Air Canada business class flight this morning was on Air Canada’s newest short haul aircraft: the Boeing 737 Max 8. The cabin features Air Canada’s newest business class cabin that is designed for function and ease of use. My early morning departure had me relaxing most of the way from Ottawa to Vancouver, along with enjoying an Air Canada breakfast. Come along with me as we test out the features of Air Canada’s newest short haul business class cabin.
This post is one chapter on a winter work trip within Canada. This trip was enhanced through Marriott Bonvoy Elite Status, Air Canada Aeroplan, Hertz Gold Plus Rewards. For parts of the trip, please see this index.
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✈️ Read more from this trip:
- Trip Introduction: Skiing in Vermont via Air Canada Business Class
- Air Canada Signature Business Class: Vancouver – Ottawa
- Courtyard by Marriott Burlington Harbour, Vermont, USA
- Restaurant: Hen of the Wood, Burlington, Vermont, USA
- Two Days of Skiing at Stowe Mountain, Vermont, USA
- Fairfield Inn and Suites Ottawa Airport, Canada
- Air Canada Business Class: Ottawa – Vancouver
Review: Air Canada Business Class B737 Max 8, Ottawa International Airport – Vancouver International Airport
After a great few days of skiing in Stowe Vermont USA, it was time to head home to Vancouver. Today’s travel home was on Air Canada Business Class Ottawa – Vancouver on their newest Boeing 737 Max 8 product.
The Air Canada Boeing 737 Max aircraft is there a newest short haul aircraft, and consequently, has the newest and most up to date business class cabin.
Checking into Air Canada Business Class:
As per usual, I checked in using the Air Canada app through my smartphone. I received my pre-assigned seat (2F) on the shady side of the plane. Consistent with a paid Air Canada Business Class ticket, I was placed into boarding group 1, which was the highest possible boarding group.
I departed the Fairfield Inn and Suites Ottawa Airport, where I was staying the night before. I returned my Hertz rental car to the Ottawa Airport return location at such an early time that had not yet opened for the day.
Since I was travelling with two pairs of skis and their related equipment, I ended up having to check the skis. There was no line at the Air Canada Priority Check In counter, being one of the first times I’ve actually used this particular counter since I’m usually “carry on only”. I was able to get my skis tagged quite quickly.
After checking in at the counter, I was given direction over to the speciality baggage line that was quite long at 4:45 AM. It seems many people leave Ottawa for skiing in February.
There was a sole CATSA agent at the front that was taking a leisurely time inspecting every bag, with about twenty people in line. This process took about twelve to fifteen minutes.
After the skis were dropped off, I headed to the secure side of the airport. My business class ticket had access to the Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge – Ottawa Airport. I didn’t actually visit the lounge since we had only 15 minutes prior to boarding time and I didn’t bother burning up one of my Maple Leaf Lounge day passes so early in the year for MrsWT73 who was also travelling with me on a Flex Economy ticket.
I also had access to the Aspire Business Lounge – Ottawa; courtesy of Priority Pass and the American Express Platinum Card, except that it was not open early enough for our 6 AM departure time.
We eventually wandered down to Gate 29, where our flight was departing from.
Air Canada
Business Class
YOW – YVR (Ottawa International Airport – Vancouver International Airport)
AC 341 – Business Class (P)
6:00 AM – 8:39 AM
Feb 18, 2024
Booked: Boeing 737-Max8
Flown: Boeing 737-Max 8
On Board Air Canada Business Class:
Air Canada only runs one or two nonstop services between Ottawa and Vancouver every day. If you’re very lucky, you’ll end up on a widebody Boeing 787–9 aircraft with a nice executive pod.
If you’re just taking an average flight, you’ll end up on a Boeing 737 max eight aircraft like this one, it represents their newest aircraft and newest business class cabin. However it doesn’t feature all the bells and whistles of their flagship widebody aircraft.
I have reviewed the Air Canada Boeing 737 max aircraft on several occasions previously. Please see the following posts if you’d like a little more description of the cabin.
In my case, in order to save my company a little bit of money, I ended up on the first available flight from Ottawa to Vancouver. This flight departed at 6 AM.
The Air Canada Boeing 737 Max Business Class cabin features four rows of business class using slim line seats. The cabin is set up in a 2–2 configuration and features an attractive black and gray colour scheme.
While I absolutely love window seats, I found in my older age I am starting to prefer the aisle seats for longer transcontinental flights of more than four hours in length. I located my assigned seat in 2D and settled in for the journey.
The Air Canada business class cabin offers a somewhat flimsy retractable foot rest that is tucked away under the seat in front of you. Given my large frame at 6’2″, I didn’t find that the foot rest added any comfort to my flight.
Generally, the newer business class cabin on the Air Canada Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft is miles ahead of the older legacy product that you’ll find on Air Canada’s Airbus Series short haul aircraft. The Boeing 737 seats are more comfortable and the cabin is configured to contain and hold electronics while they charge. Accordingly the 737 max is my favourite short haul business class cabin on Air Canada.
Pre Departure Services:
Air Canada continues to simply offers a small bottle of Naya Water which was waiting on the seat. On the odd occasion, there is a purser introduction during the boarding time on the ground. However, we were silent on these introductions this time around.
During the pre-departure period, the flight attendants also passed out a printed breakfast menu. For the most part, Air Canada continues to offer a printed menu, although there are occassionally flights where I do not get them distributed.
While there were not many surprises on the breakfast menu, the regular Air Canada parsley omelet made another morning appearance. The parsley omelette is the unoriginal mainstay of the Air Canada breakfast and has been in the space for about 20 years.
The Meal: Breakfast
Todays flight was about four hours and forty five minutes marked at four hours and twenty minutes gate to gate. After about one hour of flight time, and our arrival to altitude, breakfast was served.
The breakfast service started with a warmed towel service. Air Canada towels aren’t super luxurious. Instead, they are pretty standard variety and more functional than fancy.
I decided that I just couldn’t do another parsley omelette, having done several of them over my last few trans continental Air Canada flights. As a result, I ended up with French Toast served with the fruit compote and vanilla crème anglaise.
Breakfast was served with a firm ciabatta styled warmed roll, īögo yoghurt, along with mixed fruits.
The French toast was a reasonable alternative through outright necessity. However it didn’t leave me feeling as satisfied, as a result of a lack of a meat option included on this dish.
In Fight Entertainment:
During the flight, I played around with the in flight entertainment system. The flight entertainment system offered a large easy to view screen with movies, television shows and a moving map that allowed for great location spotting.
For most of the flight, I pretty much napped, given the early morning departure hour. As a result I didn’t get into the movies that were being offered.
I will provide accolades to Air Canada four including individual seatback monitors for its in-flight entertainment system. Most American carriers like United Airlines, American Airlines and Alaska Airlines have not installed seat back monitors. As a result, this tends to make for a pretty austere and boring flight experience.
Second Service: A Snack Basket
About three quarters of the way through the flight, Air Canada flight attendants came around with a snack basket. There were a few items in the snack basket that were a bit more robust than what you might find on a comparable US carrier.
Today’s snack basket contain Miss Vickies potato chips, specialty pretzels, licorices, KitKat milk chocolate and Lindor dark chocolate chocolate bars. This was accompanied by a bar and beverage service along with warmed nuts.
I ended up with a Canada Dry Ginger Ale. This was followed up by Miss Vickie potato chips and a Kit Kat.
After the snack basket was passed through the cabin, there was an offer of warmed mixed nuts that mostly consisted of salted almonds.
Landing at Vancouver International Airport:
We had a fairly straightforward arrival into Vancouver international Airport. We arrived and I was among the first to disembark. I headed over to baggage claim belt #5, which is the one usually used for Air Canada flights originating in Ontario.
My primary concern was collecting my checked ski equipment. Air Canada has not done so well with keeping passengers connected with her baggage. As a result I use the Baeder function in the app to track the bag, along with an AirTag that I had previously used.
Fortunately I was reunited with the bag without any issues.
The Bottom Line: Air Canada Business Class B737-Max 8
The Air Canada Business Class on the Boeing 737 Max 8 is a pretty reasonable way to get across the country. While it is not a fully flat seat, it’s much more comfortable than flying in economy class.
While the french toast was slightly better than that parseley omelette, Air Canada could do a much better job at varying their food and beverage offerings on their flights. It can tend to get pretty boring as it is.
World Traveller 73 
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