...constantly searching to find the best travel deals and places to visit. A never-ending quest for adventure!

Wednesday, May 30, 2018

Singapore Airlines Restarting Flights to Newark

During my recent trip to Singapore for the Next Gen Learning Spaces conference, my flight plan included a stop at LAX followed by the 17+ hour jaunt to SIN.   There were no issues, per say, though a direct flight would have made things a bit easier.

I was excited to read today that Singapore Airlines is bringing back flights to the New York area, specifically Newark (!).  You can find the update from Reuters here.

I'm especially intrigued that (a) they will be using an ultra-long haul version of the A350 for the route; and (b) the plane will only have business and premium economy seating.

19 hours of sitting/sleeping on the plane!   I wonder what award redemption availability will be...

Saturday, May 19, 2018

My Star Alliance Goal: Continuing

Back in 2014, I challenged myself to try and fly as many Star Alliance carriers as I could.  I knew this was not going to be easy though I often find myself on these carriers for international travel.  It's probably time for an update with many different trips over the last months/years.

Here's my list (red is flown):
I'll keep trying to see how many more I can fit in.  Quite a number to go!

Tuesday, May 15, 2018

Recap: Next Gen Learning Spaces Conference, Singapore

It was a whirlwind trip!  Over and back to Singapore for the Next Gen Learning Spaces conference where I was part of a panel presenting on "smart" campuses and learning space design, along with Chairing the higher education track on the first day.  For my first time on the ground in Singapore, I thought it was excellent and would love to return again.

The following are highlights from the trip - we had the opportunity to visit the GEMS Academy as well as one of our vendor partners:



And my panel:


For the return, I had a flight via ANA to Tokyo (787) followed by a Narita to Newark flight on United's 777-300.  It was probably the emptiest 777 I've ever flown:


Much success all around for this trip - looking forward to the next!

Thursday, May 3, 2018

Upcoming Trip: Singapore

I'm due to depart tomorrow evening for Singapore (my first time visiting!) and am excited about being able to participate in the 4th Next Gen Learning Spaces Conference.  I will be joining a panel discussing leadership, technology, and change with our current efforts underway at Princeton, and also chairing a stream on the first day. 

The agenda and speaking team can be found here: https://learningspaces.iqpc.sg/speakers

For this itinerary I'll be taking the direct flight from LAX-SIN departing EWR.  Looking forward to being on the 787 again and its improved cabin experience.