Traveling first class on an airplane is not for everyone. While the thought of flying first class on an airplane may sound appealing to many, there are a few things travelers should keep in mind when deciding to travel first class or in coach. This year, in September, I traveled, first class on an airplane, for the first time and here is my advice for others who are considering it.
From Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport to Logan International Airport, my experience, traveling first class on AirTran Airways, was a delight. Unfortunately, the cost of traveling first class was not as delightful.
Though I probably saved by upgrading to first class at the last minute, I did have to pay a grand total of 49 dollars for the upgrade. Upgrading at the list minute, while waiting for your flight, is a wise idea. Never book first class online. Indeed, when at the airport, find a comfortable seat near the location where you are going to depart the airport from, and wait until you hear any last-minute deals for a first class upgrade. If you do not hear any, within five minutes, ask an airline steward or stewardess if it is still possible to purchase a ticket for first class and if you could receive a last-minute discount.
When I was seated in first class, I enjoyed the envious looks of fellow passengers, who were boarding in coach. Though they probably wondered why a 21-year-old was sitting, alone, in the most luxurious section of the airplane, I played it cool and smiled, if they seemed nice or physically attractive. Advice number two: if you choose to sit in first class, do not be cocky or self-righteous about it. Be courteous and treat fellow passengers, regardless of where they sit, with respect. Not everyone can afford a first class ticket, and there is no need to be brutish to anyone who does not have the ability to pay for a first-class luxury.
Since I was twenty-one years-old, at the time of traveling, I was able to comfortably sit back on a stretched-out leather seat, and sip fine alcoholic drinks, which were included in my upgrade. I thanked the stewardess each time she poured me a drink and, by the time of my third drink, I felt as if I was in heaven. The three drinks that I drank, with great gaiety, were: two Finlandia vodkas and one rum and coke. If you do decide to travel in first class, and I encourage you to consider it, remember to take your time drinking your beverages, as you will only receive a limited supply of alcohol.
Another divine comfort of traveling first class is the ability to be first seated on the airplane, and you can also depart from the airplane among the first travelers, after the airplane has come to a complete stop. Feel free to stand up, stretch your legs, though since you are traveling first class you do not need to stretch them too much, and gather your belongings from the over-head container.
That is pretty much all the advice you need when considering whether to fly first class or not. Do remember, of all things, that first class is rather expensive and you can still travel in coach, and still enjoy flying on an airplane. However, if you do decide to travel first class, have a great time and try to enjoy as many benefits as possible.
Bon voyage!
Source:
Personal experience.