TheTraveler

A Monthly Special Feature from The Traveler at TouristTravel.com

Airline Travel - Upgrading for Comfort
By Kerry Stowell

Well, let’s see, I don’t run anymore, but I do walk.

I don’t pedal outdoors, but I do go on the gym bicycle.

I don’t do strenuous aerobics, but I do enjoy Pilates.

I ask for help with heavy packages, reading is definitely with glasses, and I enjoy an afternoon nap.

So does all this affect my travel plans? You bet it does. Coach class for travel is just not working any more.

Upgrading for Comfort is.

My last air trip from the USA to Greece was horrible. Economy seats were small and narrow and I had the misfortune to sit next to a basketball coach. It wasn’t his fault; that is, nothing that a few inches of elbow surgery would not improve upon, but every time he moved even a little his wide frame brushed against me.

By the time I arrived in Athens I was spacey and disoriented from lack of sleep and lack of physical comfort…walking slowly, hungry, and longing for someplace to lie down.

Arriving in Athens, I noticed that travelers on the same plane, from business class, arrived fresh and alert. And why? Their wide and comfy seats converted to beds and after being served a marvelous dinner, they had a lovely rest all the way over.

"Next time", I thought, "I will travel that way."

Here are some hints I share with you so that you may travel in comfort on your next trip.

• Remember - never travel overseas in coach class – Business class is the only acceptable arrangement.
  
• When booking a ticket, check to see if it falls into the upgrade category. Y and B coach fares are pricier but more flexible.
  
• Try to make your plans for mid week rather than weekends.
  
• Check the size of the plane - the bigger the plane, the more seats available - and the website seatguru.com will also be of help.

And remember, if you travel overseas, upgrade for comfort - and Bon Voyage!

For enjoying your trip even more:
Do not carry heavy bags of any size.
Check as many of your bags as possible as some airports do not have escalator or elevator access to and from the plane, which means that your roll bags will not work.

KerryStowell © 2005

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