It was not until 6 months after I started working that I discovered how true that is. It was the year that Virgin Blue began, Ansett was collapsing, and Impulse Airlines was on the horizon.
Gulf Air commenced their daily service to Australia 3x a week to AUH and 4x a week to BAH. The flights came in to Sydney then went on to Melbourne and then Singapore. It was normal to stop a few times before reaching your destination, even though I was just going to SIngapore. I didn't care I was travelling alone and going overseas for $99 (inc tax was $145 - yes a return fare).
I remember walking through business and seeing those bulky recliner chairs that I thought were amazing then but are nothing compared to modern day standards. The smell of jet fuel became all too familiar after that.
I got to my window seat and strapped in for the ride. I managed some sleep on the overnight flight but I struggled when in Singapore and I couldn't check in for another 7 hours! Novice traveller, what can I say :).
I haven't travelled on Gulf Air since, although I've read and seen many reviews on them since and I have to say that I'm a bit puzzled with their offering these days, as back then it was quite decent all in all. The food was great and the service was quite good considering I was in economy on a fairly full flight.
In Singapore I stayed, at the then 4 star, York Hotel. Wow was the words I had when I walked into the grand lobby area. Golden touches, marble floors, grand chandeliers from the ceiling covered in gold finishes. When I finally got to my room I was even more impressed with the set up. King size bed, cable tv, and room service.
I really enjoyed the hotels location near Orchard rd and the shopping and the MRT station. Definitely it has left fond memories of my first stay in Singapore.
Based on this trip and my experiences over that time I am rating:
Airline 8/10
Hotel 9/10
My ratings are based on comparisons from trips taken since then.
