Best Flight on Cathay Pacific, and a Great Movie, Fifty Dead Men Walking

My flight home from Hong Kong yesterday on Cathay Pacific was one of the most pleasant flights I have had in a longtime. My business class pod cozy and service fantastic! In fact I did what I seldom do on a flight, watched a movie I have long heard about, Fifty Dead Men Walking. It was a fine film directed by Kari Skogland, a true story about Marty McGartland, a 22-year old Irish fence Catholic who worked for the British Special Branch during the troubles.

It took me back to one of my first solo trips, back to N Ireland, the lines were still drawn and my naivety was packed into a rental car and driven to Belfast. I remember the helicopters and Brit troops patrolling. I spent one night in a pub known for IRA activity and the next in a Loyalist bastion. I returned last year and was so happy to see the change in Belfast, it gives me hope.

Hong Kong and the Chinese New Year

On my last trip to Hong Kong I happened to catch a pro democracy protest and while that was thrilling, it is the fantastic food that I always think about. While I rarely post any of the PR releases I get, I thought this one looked great.

Hong Kong is an irresistible blend of old and new, East and West and is one of the best places in the world to celebrate Chinese New Year. Selected by Lonely Planet’s Bluelist 2007 as one of the world's most fascinating attractions, Hong Kong’s Chinese New Year does not disappoint.

This year guests can celebrate Chinese New Year in style with China Travel Services (USA) Inc. from February 4-10, 2008. The celebration includes a banquet by Iron Chef Chow K.C, VIP seats for the Chinese New Year Parade, and a harbor cruise to watch the spectacular fireworks. Book before December 7, 2008 to receive an early bird savings of $150 for a total package cost of $1,298 per person.

Celebrate Chinese New Year in Hong Kong with Iron Chef! February 4-10, 2008 http://www.discoverhongkong.com/usa/plan/vacation/pack_info.jhtml?id=83&st=L