@Chap
Very nice trip report and Mazel Tov!!!
Curious: Why did you use frozen pom meals in Thailand when you can have fresh hot Chabad? Am I missing something?
Regarding the Elephants, When we were in CNX, we went to a place that treats the elephants nicely and teaches you how to take care of them. They don't tie them up and don't put saddles on them when you ride. It's a nicer feel to know the animals are treated nicely.
Well it seems Chap is right, as they discontinued flying the A380 on both those routes.
Shame. I took the A380 from BKK-CDG just a few months ago and it was the best I've slept on any flight. It did look like the plane was half empty so that may have something to do with it being discontinued.