My High-Flying Adventure with Malaysian Airlines Business Class

Travel can often feel like a chaotic circus, filled with long lines and seats that seem designed for contortionists. So, I decided to take one for the team and travel to Bangkok business class with Malaysian Airlines. Why? Well, I wanted to give you the inside scoop!

I planned this trip after a not-so-great experience on Cham Island in Vietnam. It cut our trip short and left a sour taste in my mouth about traveling in Asia. But after a few weeks of reflection, I decided not to let that awful incident ruin my travel adventures. So, I booked this trip to get back into the swing of things.

Let’s ditch the mood killer and dive into the high-flying experience of Malaysian Airlines business class!

Check-In Experience and the Qantas Lounge

I checked in at Sydney's domestic terminal with Qantas, flying from Sydney to Adelaide, then onto Malaysia, and finally Bangkok. Why, you ask? Well, travel is about the journey, not just the destination! My flight was at 6:30 AM, so it was an early start. I was picked up at 5 AM on the shuttle bus to the domestic terminal.

Check-in was swift as I breezed through the priority lane, headed through security, and into the Qantas Lounge. I dropped my bags and made a beeline for the barista to grab a coffee. On my way back to my seat, I couldn't resist stopping by the buffet for a small plate of bacon and eggs. I knew I’d be fed on the plane, but hey, a little extra fuel never hurts!

Sydney to Adelaide

I hopped on the plane and made my way to my seat, which was pretty sweet since it was a domestic business class spot. I was handed a pair of snazzy noise-cancelling headphones and a buffet of entertainment options. I slapped on the headphones and dove into a movie to make the time fly.

Not long after we left the ground, breakfast was served—a choice between a breakfast pie and bircher muesli. I went for the pie, and boy, was that a letdown! If it had been hot, it might have been decent, but nope, it was cold. Let’s just say it was a culinary disaster. I downed the meal, watched the movie, and before I knew it, we were wheels down in Adelaide.

Adelaide to Kuala Lumpur

When I landed in Adelaide, I had about an hour to spare, so naturally, I made a beeline for the airport lounge. I mean, what's an airport visit without the obligatory airport beer, right? I zeroed in on the bar like a heat-seeking missile and ordered an Asahi. I gulped that beauty down like it was a race, then promptly ordered another round before sprinting to the gate. Of course, my flight decided to start boarding early!

Upon boarding, the staff were super friendly, showing me to my seat and bringing me a welcome drink followed by a hot towel. I was given a menu, and after browsing, I decided on the salmon.

In true Malaysian style, the first appetizer was the famous Malaysian satay, with a choice of chicken or beef. I opted for a mix selection. I devoured that and then got my next course: seared tuna. The seared tuna, paired with a small side salad, was fresh and really hit the spot. I had this dish before on Singapore Airlines, and let’s just say that experience was not great. So, I was a bit hesitant, but I was not disappointed this time!

Next came the pièce de résistance: the salmon with some Asian greens. Beautifully cooked and accompanied by fresh vegetables, it really finished the meal off perfectly. After stuffing myself, I settled in, chose a movie from the blockbuster buffet, and reclined until I was practically horizontal for the 7-hour flight.

I scored what they call the Throne seat in 4K—think of it as the VIP suite of airplane seats with extra legroom and storage. Sure, the footwell felt tight when I lay flat, but I’d rather have slightly squished toes than be stuck sitting upright with zero privacy like in economy class. It’s a small price to pay to feel like royalty in the sky.

All in all, the long leg in Malaysian business class was outstanding. I’d hop back on in a jiffy, even with their occasional game of hide and seek with planes and a few bumpy landings!

Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok

I touched down in KL and hustled to the gate for Bangkok like I was in an episode of The Amazing Race—thanks to my fashionably late arrival. I reached the gate just as they were boarding, so I strutted through priority and ended up being the first one on the plane. The fabulous Malaysian crew welcomed me with smiles and guided me to my seat. They offered me a welcome drink, and I settled in.

This plane had a 2-2 configuration, a bit like domestic business class in Australia. The seat was nice, big, and comfortable for the short 2-hour flight to Bangkok. Just after takeoff, they offered me a meal, but I was still stuffed like a turkey from the flight before, so I politely declined and reclined my seat for a little nap before hitting the streets of Bangkok. Overall, it was a nice, comfortable flight with amazing staff.

Conclusion: A Memorable Journey

And that's a wrap on this business class adventure! I managed to get a decent price for this flight at around $3600 AUD. If you haven't already, take a detour to my solo adventure in Bangkok on my other blog. This one's making a fashionably late entrance because I thought it had already RSVP'd. But hey, better late than never, right?

Traveling is about creating memories, and I hope my experiences inspire you to explore the world. Whether it’s the food, the people, or the breathtaking views, every trip has something special to offer. So, pack your bags and get ready for your next adventure!

And remember, if you’re looking for tips on making travel more accessible, check out Bardos Adventures. Happy travels!