SQ345 Zurich to Singapore SuitesSingapore Airlines offers one of the most luxurious first class products of any airline. On their double decker A380, this product is known as suites and is famed for offering a double bed (until Etihad introduced their Residence, the only double bed on a commercial airliner). In addition to the superb hard product, SQ is also renowned for its excellent service and choice of free-flow Krug or Dom Perignon.
We had long wanted to fly SQ Suites, so were delighted and excited when our waitlisted award tickets cleared just a few days before travel (tip - phone the KrisFlyer team in Singapore and ask for the upgrade request to be resent). Arriving at Zürich airport, we skipped the uninspiring Panorama lounge in favour of duty-free shopping and were soon walking down the jet bridge with mounting anticipation. Our first interaction with the crew was outstanding - we were greeted by name whilst still in the jet bridge and our Rimowa roll-ons taken from us whilst we were shown to our seat. DiningOur pre-departure Krug was served in a spectacular, memorable way. The bottle was bought to the seat on a tray with champagne glass and warmed cashew nuts. So far, so normal - but behind the bottle was a small glass containing water and dry ice to create a smoke effect. We have never before seen this and were astonished that so much effort would go into serving in flight. In general, the drinks choice was excellent, including Blue Mountain coffee and some delicious sencha green tea. Food was very good, but not as good as Japan Airlines First class. We really appreciate SQ's Book the Cook service, allowing you to pre-order from a vast array of meals online. However, the choice from Zürich was a little limited. We started with a generous portion of caviar before Mr d2t had the duck breast in red curry and Mrs d2t chose the seafood green Thai curry. Both were tasty but not special or authentically Asian. However, there was something to suit most tastes on the menu for dinner, snacks on demand and breakfast.
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Overall Impression
Service was a step up from other airlines we have flown in first class - nothing was too much trouble and everything was done with a smile. Attention to detail is so important to the luxury experience and SQ have it perfect - our favourite touch was using dry ice to create a plume of white fog, creating such a sense of occasion and anticipation when serving. The double bed is unique in first class and perhaps our favourite aspect of the flight. It was a pity that there is a ridge down the middle and the bed was a little hard, but lying on top of a duvet solved both issues pretty well and we were able to sleep holding each other, as per normal. Food was a little disappointing but only because our expectations were so high and we chose Thai-style dishes that were a bit Westernised for our tastes. Pyjamas were provided and were pretty good - the right weight and soft to wear. The amenity kit was also good and included a 30 ml bottle of Salvatore Ferragamo perfume (EDT for men). In-flight service was superb, but there could be improvements in the ground service at both airports - the lounge at Zürich is pretty poor for first class and on arrival in Changi, it would have been helpful to have been escorted to the lounge. However, we loved flying Singapore Suites and will definitely look out for the opportunity to do so again.