Finnair

Before we get to the wonders of Tokyo; it’s worth a summary of our Finnair experience. Our journey took us via Helsinki, with a 90 minute transfer and ample chance to explore Helsinki terminal 2. The flight itself was fairly uneventful: a moderate lunch, entertainmentless flight, and the rather delightful discovery of Lapin Kulta, Finnair’s number one beer (their number 2 (Koff), is disappointingly average unfortunately.) Helsinki airport was another fine surprise: a super-efficient exercise in speedy transfers (try the pepperoni pizza and Lapin Kulta if you have more than 10 minutes to wait), concentrating on simple and navigable airport layout rather than just trying to sell you stuff. Listening to the Finnish announcers telling passengers to “hurry up” was enough entertainment in itself.

The second leg of the journey was even more pleasant with a modern, spacious plane, widescreen LCD displays mounted in all the seats, and a Bring me Lapin Kulta button in your seat. We watched the very entertaining Hangover and tried to get some sleep. Our only criticism the appalling and unidentifiable meals, one of which was simply identified as beef, the other: egg.

Next: Tokyo -- First Impressions