Deal on Cathay Pacific
 

For those planning a trip to Asia. Cathay Pacific has an all asia pass starting at $1099 which allows stopovers in 17 cities. Here's the link

http://www.cathay-usa.com/offers/aap/offer.asp

CX has been doing this for few years. Nothing new about this deal. I believe Singapore and Thai airlines offer something very similar.

One thing to remember. To visit most of the 17 cities you always have to fly through HKG and no FF miles.

It's still a nice deal for some.

Besides what AAFF mentions, other significant limitations include:

- limited N. American gateways. US departures from SFO, LAX and JFK only. [Plus YYZ and YVR in Canada.] No special deal on AA to get you to those gateways.

- No Beijing, and Shanghai is an expensive add-on flying Dragonair.

- Add the taxes and fees, and perhaps extend it to over 21 days, etc... all add significant cost.

- Don't forget that HKG is not the most convenient airport to fly out of. Only one expensive airport hotel nearby, and going to the city is either a relatively lengthy bus ride or relatively expensive Airport Express.

Hey, I grew up in Hong Kong, love the place, and like CX. But there are some downsides to this deal.

I find the airpass option on Malaysia Airlines more useful. It's the same price, includes more cities (including some you must pay extra for with Cathay), and KL is more centrally located for most SE Asia destinations.

Don't jump on that deal right away- I have seen that price drop to $999 at times over the last year or so.

Just remember that you can NOT get FF miles for this (regardless of fare class).

I realize we aren't all mileage chasers, but I thought it was worth mentioning.