Tuesday, October 6, 2009

How to fly first class at coach prices (or get that seat upgrade)

With the current state of the global economy, even business travelers must be cost conscious. Hence, a short five minute video narrated by Rick Brown, the owner of RickBrownTravels.com (www.FirstClassTravelTips.com) explains several method he uses to research first class travel at coach prices – namely ITA Software’s Fare Shopping Engine. Even better, the example he uses involves a flight from Asia to North America (from Bangkok to Vancouver) and although the trip he booked comes with an 11 hour layover in Seoul, he points out that first class passengers have use of the first class lounge and other amenities to keep them occupied and relaxed throughout the long layover.

In addition, CBS Travel Editor Peter Greenberg (who also has his own website packed with useful travel tips) has also created a short video about getting seat upgrades from airlines. As Peter explains, passengers should dress for success – in other words, not in flip flops, torn jeans and wearing a backpack! Furthermore, its the questions you ask along with your demeanor (be nice to the counter agent!) that may ultimately get you an upgrade – sometimes without even asking for one. In addition, flights in the middle of the week or during the middle of the day that are less crowded will further increase your odds of a better seat.

From: http://www.moveandstay.com/business-traveler-asia/2009/09/how-to-fly-first-class-at-coach-prices.html