Just below the controls are the light switches. And these are no ordinary light switches. ANA teamed up with Panasonic to offer what it calls the world's first "Premium Seat Lighting Function." These lights were noticeably better than those I've seen in other planes.

But there is a clear pattern … and it requires getting down to the wire. You'll regularly find these business class awards bookable in the final two to three weeks before departure, especially if you're trying to book more than one seat.

Electronic controls bring the seat into various positions including reclining position for lounging or fully flat for a sound rest.

Presentation is excellent. Still, the service flow is slow and not geared around your own dining routine, but rather that of the galley. Although given the size of the cabin, and the layers of meal service – it is still a top-notch experience.

Conversations (12) The comments on this page have not been provided, reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any advertiser, and it is not an advertiser's responsibility to ensure posts and/or questions are answered. Write a comment

If there's one feature that could use some improvement, it's the seat storage. The table is large enough for a laptop and other reading material, but it's exposed.

Solo travelers should gravitate toward single seats along the aisle. Travelers who select forward-facing seats in the even-numbered rows are positioned slightly closer to the aisle, with a storage table along the window.

One neat feature is the mechanical switch that turns green once the table is locked into position. Too often I'm fumbling to secure the tray table in premium cabins, so I give ANA credit for really thinking through the details here.

The design also frees up more space for passengers to move around the galley, which in turn has been dressed in a backlight panel incorporating patterns inspired by ‘washi’, or traditional Japanese hand-made paper.

If you prefer to relax in bed, there is a retractable touchscreen remote to help choose your content.

Luckily, there are a few easy ways here to confirm you're booking ANA's best business class seats. For starters, ANA itself does a pretty good job of labeling whether a route is set to be operated with The Room business class suites onboard.

When award seats are released, you should definitely book through Virgin Atlantic. If you're not flying round-trip, your best alternatives are:

Yes, ANA business class meals include both Japanese and Western coursed set menu options for the main meal, with light snacks available anytime.

This schedule makes the lounge facilities especially important, since most people will want to shower, dine and relax in the lounge, and then sleep in the air so that they can hit the ground running on arrival.