Jim’s Travel Tips

Usually only costing 40 dollars, the Airtran business class upgrade at time of check-in is worth every penny. There are only two seating cabins with Airtran, business class and coach. When you are checking in, you have the option to pay 5 dollars more in order to choose your seat, or pay 15 for an exit row. I recommend skipping these options and going right to the business class upgrade. The business class customers enjoy the usual: free (unlimited) drinks, better snacks, bigger seats, and of course, you’ll be the first one off the plane!

(Thanks to our friend Dave for this great tip for small airline Airtran!)

I have previously provided information about researching seating configurations on airlines and specific aircraft. Business travelers over the ocean know the value of a flat seat. Here is a web site that gives you the scoop on who has the flattest seats. TIP: Go to www.flatseats.com.

Today it is getting more competitive to fly business class to Europe. I was fortunate enough to work for a company that always allowed business class fares over the ocean to Europe or Asia. The business class fares have become rather pricey, especially to Europe. There are several new airlines that claim to provide business class service to Europe for the fares less than the standard business class rate of major carriers. TIP: Check out these airlines for cost effective business travel to Europe - www.maxjet.com/homeAction.do and www.eosairlines.com/flyeos/overview/home.jsf

Many of the club rooms provide non-membership admission as a perk of the business class ticket. If you are already a member of the airline club room don’t use your membership card to check in – use the business class ticket. United’s Red Carpet Club will provide you with “free” drink coupons. I know you are flying business class and the drinks will be free on the plane. TIP: Save the coupons for future trips, pass them on to associates, or better yet give them to family.