Hong Kong
With a noon-ish departure of UA 152, LAX-HKG, that means an evening arrival in Hong Kong. Timing is perfect to catch UA 821 back to LAX, with a ~3 hour layover that means just enough time to catch a shower in the lounge and a decent walk around the terminal to stretch your legs. Grabbed the GCB (grilled chicken burger) at McDonald's as well, which was kinda sad-- chicken thigh is a good idea, but lettuce and mayo and what looks like same bun as the McRib is... well, not exciting.
Then back to the gate to catch the return flight, HKG-LAX. Upgrade for this one cleared at the gate, and it was another smooth flight back. Tried to stay on Pacific Time, so slept as soon as the airplane took off, and instead had the mid-flight tapas for my "breakfast". The crab e-fu noodle could be better but wasn't bad, the cold appetizer was delicious (could have eaten 2 or 3!), the beef curry rice was more than decent enough. Many hours later, the pre-arrival meal of shrimp congee was quite good, although again, a skimpy portion. Fruit-filled puff pastry was also new (and not great), at least was different than the usual sad croissant.
Arrival and subsequent layover at LAX was not too bad. Again a ~3 hours layover, which meant ample time for a walk in the unexpectedly cool night air, then another shower before boarding. This upgrade cleared a few days ago so no stess at all, and no delay either. Pre-booked the Hindu non-vegetarian meal for a change, turns out the same meal out of Singapore is much better than out of LAX (Singapore one is same caterer one of the embassies uses according to SIN-SFO crew?), but that's okay-- was happy to mix it up and try something new.
Given all the flying, was not too interested in drinking, but they have some crazy good wines loaded now (well, if they actually load them)-- The Vik Millahue 2021 is a really, really good wine, getting a perfect 100 points from both James Suckling as well as Gilbert & Gaillard. Cristom Mt. Jefferson Cuvee Estate Pinot Noir 2024 isn't nearly as good, but at a 94 point (International Wine Report) and 93 point (Decanter) rating, is not bad vs. the swill often served.