Growing up between Tokyo, New Zealand, and Canada, Star Alliance was simply the default. Air New Zealand, Air Canada, ANA — that was the world I knew. It wasn't until I returned to Japan and started working that I began thinking about building my own status, and discovered what was waiting on the other side with JAL and oneworld. This is the full story of my airline loyalty journey, from the status run year of 2018 through COVID extensions, re-qualifications, and a world tour built around oneworld emerald. Where it stands today, and where it's headed.

In January 2026 I returned to motorsport as Team Manager at Craft-Bamboo Racing Japan. Four months later: two Super Taikyu wins, a trip to Bathurst, a third year as Expert Host at the F1 Japanese Grand Prix, and a new membership at Soho House Tokyo. A new role that is teaching me something new every week, and a first third of the year that has already been a lot. Here is the full recap.

This trip report follows Cathay Pacific CX543 from Tokyo Haneda to Hong Kong, a route and airline that have become a familiar part of my travel over the years. Flown in economy in January 2026, the journey included an early-morning Haneda Terminal 3 routine, a quick stop at the JAL Sakura Lounge, a first visit to the Centurion Lounge, time at my favorite lounge in the terminal, Cathay Pacific’s own lounge, and then a straightforward five-hour flight to Hong Kong.