Finally! I’m fully vaccinated, so I can travel again! Of course, while still wearing a mask. So, I’m off to explore the world. First stop? Italy!
I used a travel hack to get a free first class/business class ticket to Milan. I signed for the American Airlines Advantage Barclays Aviator Red Card which gives you 60,000 points if you make a purchase and pay the $100 fee within the first 90 days. The first class ticket was 59,500 points, so that is a first class ticket one way for the price of a pack of gum and $100 annual card fee. Of course, you still pay for the taxes for the flight, which came to $51. Still, a no-brainer.
My first flight was a standard tiny plane from my home town. Nothing fancy really. However, the service was excellent. Since I was technically first class, I got priority boarding, a drink (rare during Covid times in the main cabin), and even a snack which only first class received. My second flight was the same, pretty standard. The third flight had a bit more leg room and a better seat design. Again, complimentary drinks, including alcohol if you like. I just had water…. It was 10:00 am, and I had to figure out an airport change at my next stop.
Which yes, leads me to my next stop. The airport change! I changed from La Guardia airport to JFK. And then came the REAL fun. Because I was flying business class out of JFK, I got access to the admirals lounge for free! Here I got to eat tons of great food including a create your own Mac and cheese bar and a custom guacamole station, as well as other healthy snacks like hummus, veggies, fruit, and salads.
Finally, my last leg was American Airlines flagship business class to Milan. These seats are amazing little mini suites with lie-flat beds. You press a button and can recline the chair all the way into a bed. They even provide a comforter and pillow for your bed. I could watch TV While in bed, in my own little pod. It also came with all the first class food perks! I had a vegetarian ragu with some delicious sides of chicken and hummus, fruit, and mini chocolate cheesecake. This was by far the best flight I’ve ever experienced.
Finally, I arrived! Where did I explore first? You’ll have to check out my next post to find out! Stay tuned!