The experience would start before I even entered the airport. Shortly after booking the flight, I was prompted to book a private car service to pick us up from our house and take us to the airport.
United Airlines' unveiling of its Polaris business-class cabin marked a significant shift in the industry, as sliding-door suites have become essential for US carriers competing for premium revenue.
The 1-2-1 Prestige Suites 2.0 offer much more privacy compared to Korean Air's older 2-3-2 business-class configuration, where many seats do not have direct aisle access.
My mother, who was a first-class regular on the Paris metro in the 1960s and '70s, has always instilled in me the value of upgrading to the highest class on the train. At times, she told me, she was practically alone in luxury for just a little bit more money. Though I've been on long train rides in countries from Italy to Morocco, I don't always follow her advice and spring for an upgrade.