The challenge was audacious: a race around the world. Two travelers, Nicky Kelvin and Liam Spencer, embarked on a journey from London to Fiji, but with a twist – they flew in opposite directions, testing the limits of speed and comfort in the skies.
Nicky chose an eastward path, entrusting himself to the renowned Cathay Pacific. Liam opted for a westward trajectory aboard American Airlines, each ultimately converging on Fiji Airways for the final leg of their epic adventure, both experiencing the airline’s business class offerings.
The race began in the heart of London. Nicky navigated the city’s underground, utilizing the modern Elizabeth Line to reach Heathrow Airport. A quick respite in the luxurious Cathay Pacific First Class Lounge fueled him for the long haul. Liam, meanwhile, favored speed and efficiency, taking the Heathrow Express train directly to the terminal.
Nicky’s initial flight aboard Cathay Pacific’s A350 Aria Suite was a study in refined elegance. The suite offered unparalleled privacy and a polished experience, setting a high bar for the journey ahead. Liam’s American Airlines 777-300ER provided a comfortable lie-flat seat and a familiar, welcoming service – complete with the coveted ice cream sundae.
Hong Kong became Nicky’s connection point, allowing a revitalizing shower in The Pier lounge before boarding a Fiji Airways A330. He found the service warm and friendly, though the cabin’s amenities were more straightforward. Liam, leveraging Global Entry, breezed through Los Angeles International Airport.
Time allowed Liam to explore both the Flagship Lounge and the Oneworld Lounge before his Fiji Airways A350 departure. He discovered spacious seating and a newly unveiled Pacific Rim dining experience, a tantalizing preview of his destination.
After more than a day in transit, both travelers finally touched down in Fiji. The difference? A mere thirty minutes separated the two, a testament to the complexities of global travel and the unpredictable nature of flight.
The victor, and the full story of this incredible race, is revealed in detail on The Points Guy Departures YouTube channel, offering a captivating glimpse into the world of long-haul travel and the pursuit of the fastest route around the globe.
