Air New Zealand unveils its economy lie-flat seats for the 787-9

Here is a great idea that we hope will be adopted by more airlines. As recently noted on Flight Blogger and starting in November of 2010 when Boeing delivers its first 777-300ER to Air New Zealand, the first 11 rows in economy will feature a new "Skycouch" that will provide a lie-flat experience. To take advantage of this, two adults must purchase two seats and a third seat at roughly half the price and the target market for the offering are couples or a small families. The airline intends to offer the service on selected Auckland to Los Angeles flights and eventually Auckland to London (Via Los Angeles) starting in April 2011.

However, there are still questions about how they will manage the revenue on this unique offering. Nevertheless and if such an experiment does end up working, the “Skycouch” will definitely provide the best long-haul flight experience on the market for economy class passengers.

Tipping in Australia and New Zealand

If you are traveling to Australia or New Zealand soon, you may be wondering how much of a tip to leave and how tipping in either country compares with other countries you have visited. Hence, the Conde Nash Traveller Tipping Guide (which is available on the Conde Nash website and is also downloadable in pdf format) offers a very handy and useful reference guide for tipping in more than 35 countries around the world.

According to the guide, travelers visiting both countries should leave 10-15% to waiters or waitresses in restaurants while at hotels, $1 in local currency per bag for the bellhop, $10 to $20 to the concierge for a favor and $1 to $2 to the housekeeper would be considered appropriate. For cab drivers, a 10% tip is appropriate while a tip of $50 per person per day for a private guide, $5–$10 for a bus-tour guide and $20 per day for a private driver are considered appropriate. In addition, a 10-15% tip would be appropriate for any beauty or spa treatments.

The guide also notes that tipping in both countries was unheard of twenty years ago and would have gotten someone fired had they accepted a tip but it is now more commonplace to give tips due to the American influence. However, you should also be discreet about giving tips and be prepared to have your tip refused as some locals, especially New Zealanders, are particularly reserved.