Ramsey Qubein
Contributing Writer
Ramsey Qubein stands out as a premier freelance travel journalist, acclaimed for his in-depth reporting on airlines, hotels, and the cruise sector. Accumulating over 450,000 air miles every year, Ramsey has journeyed to all seven continents, all 50 U.S. states, and 168 countries recognized by the United Nations. His unparalleled knowledge of frequent flyer and hotel loyalty programs is matched by a tireless curiosity for authentic travel experiences. Ramsey’s bylines appear in top-tier publications such as Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure , consistently offering readers authoritative insights into the evolving world of luxury travel. As a member of the Society of American Travel Writers and holder of a Master's in Journalism and Mass Communication, he brings academic rigor and real-world expertise to his reviews. Ramsey’s role as an expert airline reviewer is further enhanced by his regular contributions to media outlets including BBC Worldwide and AirfareWatchdog, making him a trusted source for discerning travelers seeking the latest industry trends, service innovations, and practical strategies for maximizing travel value.
Posts by Ramsey
Review of British Airways Business Class
To fly, to serve. That is the tagline of the UK’s main carrier British Airways. It takes pride in offering reliable and friendly service while carrying the Union Flag to farthest flung corners of the globe. The airline’s Business Class, branded as Club World, was one of the first to offer flat-bed seats, and the carrier continues to evolve its premium product today. Afternoon tea with scones, locally sourced menu ingredients, and even a beer made just for the airline are special British touches that set Club World apart from other airlines. British Airways is a founding member of the oneworld alliance, meaning fliers can earn and redeem Avios points with its many partners. Conversely, members of other alliance member airlines can earn and redeem their miles with British Airways.
Oct 26, 2024
Review of Qatar Airways Business Class
Known for its famed, enclosed and unique Qsuite, lavish lounges and impressive inflight service and dining, Qatar Airways Business Class deserves every accolade it receives. For an airline with such a global network from the Americas to Europe, Africa, Asia and the Middle East, such highly rated amenities for a global carrier makes Qatar Airways a true industry leader.The airline has now added a new Business Class Suite to its portfolio of seats – which is specific to the latest aircraft to join the Qatar Airways fleet – the upgraded Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. Smaller than the Qsuite, the Business Class Suite still offers an impressive level of luxury for the most discerning traveller. Qatar also flies its A380s to select markets, such as London Heathrow, Bangkok, Sydney and Perth.Qatar Airways is part of the oneworld alliance, which includes the international carriers American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Finnair, Qantas, Royal Jordanian and Sri Lankan. Its flights carry numerous codeshare partnerships to better facilitate global connections between more cities than one airline could feasibly operate on its own. Members of its Privilege Club program earn and redeem frequent flier miles – known as Avios – when flying oneworld airlines, making it easier to earn free trips for future travel while also taking advantage of alliance amenities including lounge access and priority services when flying on other airlines.
Oct 15, 2024
Review of Finnair Business Class
Fashionable design is a point of pride for the Nordic carrier, which delivers Finnish finesse on its long-haul flights from takeoff to touchdown. A colourful partnership with Finnish design house Marimekko weaves its way through every part of the travel experience – making every flight with Finnair unique.Finnair has introduced all-new cabins with innovative and stylish seating for Business Class travellers, with the long-haul fleet retrofit due for completion in 2023.Finnair is a oneworld alliance member with partners worldwide, including British Airways, Iberia, American, Qantas, Alaska Airlines and Cathay Pacific. Passengers can earn and redeem miles in their preferred loyalty program. Finnair's own Finnair Plus program is popular with European travellers for its elite status benefits and onboard privileges.
Oct 4, 2024
Review of Emirates Business Class
Celebrated for its onboard amenities and lavish lounges, Emirates Business Class is designed to impress - and impress it does. While Emirates has substantial competition from other Middle Eastern carriers, it remains a comfortable and chic way to fly.Expect regionally inspired onboard cuisine and thoughtful service on Emirates flights. Inflight entertainment is arguably the best in the world, and the cabin crew is diverse and eager to please.Emirates has announced that a new Business Class cabin - with new seats - will be retrofitted into its Boeing 777 fleet - changing the seat configuration to “1-2-1”. The Dubai-based airline says that 81 aircraft of its 777 fleet will receive the new cabin which will arrive in late 2025. 110 of its Airbus A380s will also benefit from the upgrade. The main advantage for Business Class passengers will be the “loss” of the middle seat. Emirates Business Class currently runs a 2-3-2 layout meaning that one passenger - in the middle seat - does not have access to the aisle. The 777s will feature 40 Business Class seats. Emirates has also announced the destinations for the 10 new A350s that will enter service in September this year. Featuring 32 new Business Class seats, the aircraft will fly on short and medium haul routes in the Middle East and GCC, West Asia and Europe - including Edinburgh, Bologna and Bahrain.Its loyalty program, Emirates Skywards, offers numerous ways to earn and redeem frequent flier miles adding to the value of flying the airline. While Emirates is not part of a global alliance, it does partner with many airlines - including Alaska Airlines and Qantas, both members of the oneworld alliance.
Sep 9, 2024
Review of Air France Business Class
Like all things Gallic, beauty is in the detail – and Air France sees its Business Class product as an extension of all things Français. Chic crew uniforms, Masterchef-inspired menus, gourmet cheeses, dazzling desserts, and elegant lounges combine to create a sophisticated Business Class experience.While not as flashy as some competitors, the Air France Business Class offers elegance and comfort. With newer aircraft joining the fleet, it is also being modernised. The airline, together with its sibling KLM, is the fifth-largest airline in the world and is a founding member of the SkyTeam alliance.Its Flying Blue loyalty program encompasses other airlines, including KLM and Kenya Airways, which also use Flying Blue. Members can earn and redeem frequent flier miles when flying Air France or any SkyTeam partners, including Delta Air Lines or Aeroméxico in North America, China Airlines or Garuda Indonesia in Asia, and Middle East Airlines or Saudia in the Middle East. This global alliance opens hundreds of destinations and lounges for passengers in cities where the airline does not fly.
Aug 2, 2024
Review of Royal Air Maroc Business Class
Royal Air Maroc - often referred to as RAM - is the national airline of Morocco. Royal Air Maroc is one of the larger carriers connecting the Americas and Europe with the northwest and western parts of Africa. Its recently updated fleet of Boeing Dreamliner 787 aircraft serves long-haul routes while its Boeing 737 and Embraer 190 aircraft cover regional flying. While not the most polished of airlines, Business Class flights on Royal Air Maroc offer traditional Moroccan hospitality and friendly service. As a member of the oneworld alliance, Royal Air Maroc fliers can earn and redeem miles on member carriers including American, Cathay Pacific, Finnair, Qantas, Qatar and Royal Jordanian. Elite members in any oneworld carrier frequent flier program enjoy reciprocal benefits including lounge access and priority boarding, even when flying in economy. For a touch of Morocco, even when transiting between two other countries, RAM delivers a worthy regional experience despite a few expected bumps along the way for a smaller airline.
Jul 25, 2024
Review of Air China Business Class
When flying Air China, passengers will find plenty of appealing characteristics to make their journey pleasant. There are many elements that are distinctly Chinese from the cuisine to the primary languages spoken aboard. If you are open to trying something new, this is the airline for you. On international flights operated by Boeing 747 or 777 aircraft, Air China brands its Business Class offering as Capital Pavilion Business Class. These aircraft also offer Forbidden Pavilion First Class. The airline has an impressive route map covering the entire nation as well as destinations throughout Asia, the Pacific, Europe and North America. Its domestic network is exceptional and offers connectivity that foreign carriers cannot match. The airline operates its largest hub in Beijing, but you will find smaller hubs and flights throughout China. As a member of Star Alliance, the airline enjoys nearly two dozen airline partners with whom passengers can earn and redeem miles for their flights including Air Canada, All Nippon Airways, Asiana, Austrian, Brussels Airlines, Egyptair, Lufthansa, Swiss International, SAS, Thai and United. It also means that Star Alliance Gold members from other partner airlines can enjoy special benefits when flying, even if in economy class. PhoenixMiles is Air China’s own loyalty program Plus for those that want to earn miles with the carrier.
Jul 24, 2024
Review of Air New Zealand Business Class
New Zealand is not exactly a central place to visit, and the national carrier - Air New Zealand - serves as a lifeline for the nation to the rest of the world. It takes its continent-connecting role seriously and offers a comfortable, entertaining and sometimes even cheeky Business Class to get you there. Being so close to Australia (just 1,400 kilometres), ANZ flies direct to several destinations across the Tasman Sea, including Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne. Air New Zealand brands its most premium cabin as Business Premier. Its primary hub is in Auckland, but the airline does fly long-haul sectors from Christchurch on the South Island. Domestic connections crisscross the nation - with regional international flights linking to many Pacific Islands and Australia. The airline is rightly proud of its Māori heritage, and you will find cultural elements on display throughout the plane and its inflight service offering. As a member of Star Alliance, Air New Zealand shares numerous airline partners around the globe with whom passengers can earn and redeem miles for their flights including Air Canada, ANA, Austrian, Brussels Airlines, Copa, Egyptair, Ethiopian, Lufthansa, Swiss International, Thai and United among others. Star Alliance Gold members from other partner airlines can enjoy special benefits when flying, even if in economy class. The airline’s own Airpoints program is another way for people to earn miles directly with Air New Zealand should they wish.
Jul 24, 2024
Review of LATAM Airlines Business Class
Premium Business aboard LATAM, the largest airline in Latin America, is an ideal way to jet to, from and around South America. With a network that spans multiple countries, the airline is the easiest way to reach one of its many home countries including Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, Peru and Colombia from major North American, European and Pacific cities. It competes heavily with other international airlines for its share of the pie, and in doing so, is known to offer some competitive Business Class fares. No longer being part of an airline alliance makes it hard to benefit from earning and redeeming miles unless you are a member of the airline’s own LATAM Pass program or Delta SkyMiles. Delta invested heavily in LATAM, which is partly why the carrier left its position in the oneworld alliance. Instead of joining Delta’s SkyTeam, LATAM has a deep relationship with its U.S. partner - members can earn and redeem with Delta SkyMiles. LATAM also has a partnership for earning and redeeming miles with Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan. LATAM previously left Star Alliance to join oneworld, so its loyalty program members have pinballed between partners over the years. While members enjoy some reciprocal benefits like lounge access and priority boarding between LATAM and Delta, it is not as expansive a partnership as some alliance airlines offer. Luckily, LATAM’s flat-bed Business Class product is competitive with international airlines and is worth trying nonetheless.
Jul 24, 2024
Review of Aeromexico Business Class
Aeroméxico, the national carrier of Mexico and its trademark silver aircraft are visible across the Americas and a growing number of European and Asian destinations. On top of an expanding route map, its connectivity within Mexico – in conjunction with its partner Aeroliteral - is unrivalled. Aeroméxico’s primary hub is Mexico City, but the carrier also has a strong presence in many other cities including Guadalajara, Monterrey and Tijuana. Delta Air Lines has made investments in Aeroméxico helping it to improve its operations, and the ability to book codeshare tickets on either carrier expands the possibility for travellers. Aeroméxico is also a member of the SkyTeam alliance, which includes such global carriers as Aeroflot, Air France, China Eastern, Kenya Airways, KLM and Saudia. Business Class on Aeroméxico is branded as Clase Premier. Club Premier and other SkyTeam loyalty program members can earn and redeem miles for their flights, while SkyTeam Elite Plus members - the highest tier - can take advantage of further perks like lounge access.
Jul 20, 2024
Review of Kenya Airways Business Class
The catchphrase for Kenya’s flag carrier is “The Pride of Africa,” and the airline’s aim is “bring the world to Africa and Africa to the world.” And it does just that. Kenya Airways connects several dozen African nations via its Nairobi hub.The airline’s long-haul Boeing 787 Dreamliner Business Class product is notable for friendly service and easy connections - albeit without the bells and whistles that the Middle Eastern carriers often provide on flights to the continent.Kenya Airways brands its Business Class product as Premier World.As a member of SkyTeam, Kenya Airways works with nearly a dozen airline partners with whom passengers can earn and redeem miles for their flights including Aeroméxico, Air France, China Eastern, Delta, Garuda Indonesia, KLM and Saudia. Earlier this year, the airline signed a codeshare partnership with Virgin Atlantic.SkyTeam Elite Plus members enjoy special benefits when flying Kenya Airways (or “KQ” as many locals call it), irrespective of cabin class.
Jul 20, 2024
Review of Royal Jordanian Business Class
Royal Jordanian and its Crown Class Business Class product is an extension of Jordan’s rich history of hospitality. When travelling with Royal Jordanian - referred to as “RJ” by Jordanians - passengers experience a window into local culture, even if they are just connecting through the country.If you want to stay longer, take advantage of the airline’s Zuwar Stopover Program that allows you to break up any trip travelling between two countries with an overnight stay in Jordan. Whether you only have a few hours or a few nights, there are options to visit local cultural sights or dine in traditional restaurants. It is a smart program that helps the country promote itself while also making an RJ flight more appealing when compared with the competition. While many airlines charge extra to break up an itinerary with a stop in the middle, there is no charge to add a stopover when flying Royal Jordanian, although the on-the-ground experience has a fee.As a member of oneworld, Royal Jordanian has more than a dozen airline partners with whom passengers can earn and redeem miles for their flights including Alaska, American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Finnair, Qantas and Royal Air Maroc. There is also the opportunity to codeshare with these airlines - travellers can fly multiple oneworld airlines on the same ticket.The airline has its own loyalty program, Royal Club, which awards miles for flights that can be redeemed on any oneworld airline. But, Elite members from other partner airlines can enjoy special benefits when flying RJ, even if in economy class, including priority security and lounge access.
Jul 20, 2024
Review of Lufthansa Business Class
Read our in-depth review of the Lufthansa Business Class experience. What is Lufthansa Business Class like and is it worth it? Read to find out!
Jun 24, 2024
Review of Austrian Airlines Business Class
The Austrians are staunchly proud of all things Austrian, and the country's national airline continues in that vein. The carrier does not offer First Class – so the Austrian Airlines Business Class service is gloriously indulgent. While owned by Germany's Lufthansa Group, which includes Swiss International and Brussels Airlines, everything with this airline points to Austrian culture.From the menus to the airline's colours, travelling with Austrian Airlines Business Class is a treat, where you will find notable surprises like onboard chefs and a coffee menu akin to a traditional Viennese café.Austrian Airlines participates in the Miles & More loyalty program and is a member of Star Alliance, which includes the global airlines All Nippon Airways (ANA), Ethiopian, Lufthansa, Swiss International, Turkish Airlines, United and Thai Airways.Members can earn and redeem frequent flier miles when flying Star Alliance partner airlines. Austrian's codeshare agreements with a bevy of airlines open up hundreds of destinations and lounges for its passengers around the globe.
Jun 14, 2024
Review of Etihad Airways Business Class
Is Etihad Airways Business Class worth the splurge? Read our honest review to find out if this premium travel experience lives up to the hype. Click now to learn more.
Jun 4, 2024
Review of Alaska Airlines First Class
Discover the epitome of luxury in the skies with our detailed Alaska Airlines First Class review. Indulge in unparalleled comfort, exquisite dining, and impeccable service. Elevate your travel experience today!
May 28, 2024
Review of SWISS Business Class
Distinctive service, regionally inspired cuisine, and a well-designed cabin are the hallmarks of Swiss Business Class, and the dependable experience is both a comfortable and practical way to travel long-haul. This airline offers a quintessentially Swiss experience, which means regional flavours and the reliability and precision for which the Swiss are known. With a strong reputation and legions of fans, a Business Class flight with Swiss never disappoints. Swiss International Airlines, more commonly referred to as Swiss, is a member of Star Alliance, which allows travellers the opportunity to earn or redeem miles with partner airlines as well as seamlessly fly with member airlines on the same itinerary. Swiss is also part of the Lufthansa Group and participates in its Miles & More loyalty program.
May 21, 2024
Review of Delta Business Class
Delta Air Lines is arguably the best of the three major airlines in the USA - offering excellent service in all classes of service including its top cabin, Delta One. With flat-bed seats, celebrity chef partnerships for meals served on designer Alessi dishes and Tumi amenity kits, the airline chooses to partner with high-end brands that match its own ethos. Delta offers a First Class and a Delta One fare, albeit never for the same flight. Confusingly, Delta One is the airline’s premium offering – and is available mostly on its long-haul international flights. First Class is available on domestic/shorter flights and invariably does not provide a lie-flat seat. The Delta coast-to-coast network in the United States is unrivalled, and its international route map includes six continents, all of which are flown with the Delta One product. The airline invests in the customer experience, and its fliers are fiercely loyal to the airline and its associated SkyMiles program. A founding member of SkyTeam, Delta has nearly a dozen airline partners with whom passengers can earn and redeem miles for their flights including Aeroméxico, Air France, China Eastern, Kenya Airways, KLM, Middle East Airlines and Vietnam Airlines. There is also the opportunity to codeshare with these airlines - travellers can fly multiple SkyTeam airlines on the same ticket. SkyTeam Elite Plus members from other partner airlines can enjoy special benefits when flying with Delta, even if in economy class.
May 14, 2024
Review of ANA Business Class
Japanese precision and service are hallmarks in ANA’s highly regarded Business Class, which includes its newest product known as “The Room,” available on a few of its Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. This redesign includes seats with sliding doors, but even the original Business Class seats have full-wall partitions around each seat – providing excellent inflight privacy on the airline’s long-haul fleet.All Nippon Airways is an ideal way to experience Japanese culture before you even reach the Japan or as you transit through to other international destinations. On board, you can enjoy delicious kaiseki cuisine, fine sake and other Japanese delicacies.As a member of Star Alliance, ANA enjoys nearly two dozen airline partners. Passengers can earn and redeem miles for their flights including Air Canada, Austrian, Brussels Airlines, Ethiopian, Lufthansa, Swiss International, Thai and United. Star Alliance Gold members from other partner airlines can enjoy special benefits when flying, even if in economy class. ANA has its own loyalty program known as Mileage Club for those that want to earn miles with the carrier.
May 10, 2024
Review of KLM Business Class
Dutch pride is evident in every aspect of The Netherlands' national airline. KLM operates an impressive global network making it an integral part of the SkyTeam alliance. Together with sibling Air France, KLM flies to five continents with its own Business Class - delivering comfort and reliability along the way. The Amsterdam-based carrier's long haul Business Class offering is branded as World Business Class, while the premium cabin on flights within Europe is named Europe Business Class. Its Flying Blue loyalty program encompasses other airlines including Air France and Kenya Airways. Members can earn and redeem frequent flier miles when flying KLM or any of its SkyTeam partners including Delta Air Lines or Aeroméxico in North America, China Airlines or Garuda Indonesia in Asia, and Middle East Airlines or Saudia in the Middle East. This global alliance opens-up hundreds of destinations and lounges for KLM World Business Class passengers in cities where the airline does not fly.
Apr 30, 2024
Review of Aer Lingus Business Class
Aer Lingus has been working to upgrade its Business Class product and add in touches of Irish hospitality. It seems to be working. From the meal ingredients to the locally manufactured tray linens, a flight with Aer Lingus will make you feel like you have actually sojourned on the Emerald Isle. As a small airline, Aer Lingus’ Business Class only targets passengers travelling between North America and Europe. It has no other long-haul routes. As part of IAG (International Airlines Group), Aer Lingus can easily connect passengers onto its partner carriers including British Airways and Iberia - since they also belong to the same group. Aer Lingus is not a member of an airline alliance. Instead, it partners with several airline frequent flier programs for reciprocal points earning and redemption. These include British Airways and United Air Lines. The carrier also has its own Aer Club loyalty program in which passengers can earn miles.
Apr 16, 2024
Review of Delta Premium Economy
Discover the ultimate travel experience with Delta Air Lines' Premium Economy. Read our in-depth review for insights and tips. Upgrade your journey today!
Apr 16, 2024
Review of Thai Airways Business Class
Smooth as Silk as the Thai Airways’ beloved tag line has long read, is the best summation of Thai hospitality. This airline does not promise the fanciest product or indeed lounges, but passengers are assured the genuine service when they fly with Thailand’s national carrier. Thai hospitality is no secret, and the airline demonstrates its ability to carry that warm smile and elegant standard into the skies. To that end, Thai Airways Royal Silk Class is quite special. With a strong network across Europe, Asia and Australasia, the airline is experienced at connecting travellers circumnavigating the globe. The luckiest among them will get to spend some time in Thailand too. Thai is a founding member of Star Alliance, which also includes the global airlines Air Canada, All Nippon Airways (ANA), Copa, Ethiopian, Lufthansa, SAS, Swiss International, Turkish Airlines and United. Members earn and redeem frequent flier miles when flying Star Alliance partner airlines. Thai also has codeshare agreements with many airlines, which opens up hundreds of new destinations around the globe.
Apr 10, 2024
Review of Cathay Pacific Business Class
As the flag carrier for Hong Kong, this highly regarded airline connects continents near and far with an impressive route map and enviable inflight service.Aware of its global audience, Cathay Pacific seeks to blend Asian influences into its amenities and service while also catering to the needs of its worldly roster of passengers. A popular tagline from Cathay Pacific is "Life well travelled," and its Business Class product does just that. It is designed to cater to the needs of both leisure and business fliers with thoughtful touches from takeoff to touchdown.Cathay Pacific is part of the oneworld alliance, which also includes global carriers, including American Airlines, British Airways, Finnair, Qantas, and Qatar Airways. As a result, the airline often coordinates schedules to facilitate onward connections while selling many of its flights as a codeshare partnership. Members of Cathay Pacific's own Marco Polo Club or any other oneworld frequent flyer program can earn and redeem frequent flier miles when flying Cathay Pacific.Members can also earn and redeem frequent flier miles when flying oneworld airlines, which makes it easy to travel between most global cities on the same ticket while enjoying Business Class amenities like lounge access and priority services.
Apr 5, 2024
Review of Etihad Airways First Class
Etihad First is a highly respected, envied and sophisticated experience focusing on refined service, customisable cuisine and continuous comfort. However, Etihad Airways is undergoing a transformation as it moves from being a general long-haul, global airline to targeting certain routes. This makes the most sense as the carrier flies a relatively small fleet and network, with around 90 per cent of the timetable fixed. Still, the remainder has the flexibility to adapt to customer demand.Etihad Airways operates a sophisticated fleet of aircraft with excellent First Class products. The Airbus A380 has the exceptional 'The Residence' and 'First Apartments', while the Boeing 787-9 and 777-300ERs have First Class Suites on targeted routes with a focus on service, style and substance.Etihad is not a member of a global alliance but does enjoy partnerships with other airlines, including Air New Zealand, Air Canada, Air Serbia and Malaysia Airlines, allowing reciprocal earning and redemption of miles. Etihad Guest, the airline's loyalty program, has its fans, especially if you live in the United Arab Emirates - the airline is based in Abu Dhabi - or travel through often.
Mar 31, 2024
Review of Singapore Airlines Business Class
Few airlines around the world enjoy the same coveted and excellent reputation as Singapore Airlines. Renowned for incredible hospitality, refined service and the epitome of style, Singapore Airlines inflight service is second to none. It is the kind of experience that will leave you wondering why more airlines cannot be as good. For many years the airline's advertising included the tagline “Service even other airlines talk about”, and indeed Singapore Airlines remains one of a handful of airlines that continues to raise the bar and set industry standards.With a network that spans continents and offers a significant number of connecting itineraries between North America or Europe and much of Asia and Australia or New Zealand, travellers often go out of their way to fly with Singapore Airlines. Singapore Airlines is part of Star Alliance, which gives its loyalty program members the opportunity to earn or redeem miles with partner airlines including United, Lufthansa, Swiss International, TAP Air Portugal and EVA Air. Passengers can seamlessly connect between member airlines on the same itinerary. Its KrisFlyer program is a great option for collecting miles if you are not already a member with another Star Alliance program.Singapore Airlines is one of the first international airlines to offer complimentary unlimited Wi-Fi for its Business Class customers.
Mar 28, 2024
Review of Iberia Business Class
Iberia is the Spanish national carrier and has a strong transatlantic network connecting various European cities with the United States and Latin America. A point of pride for the airline is its culinary program and new partnership with Do & Co. Expect impressive Spanish fare with a well-balanced wine list to go with it. Iberia brands its long-haul Business Class product as Business Plus. Iberia is part of IAG (International Airlines Group), which includes Aer Lingus and British Airways, and is also a member of the oneworld alliance. The airline’s Avios loyalty program gives members the opportunity to earn and redeem miles flying any IAG or oneworld airline. Elite members of its partner airline loyalty programs can also enjoy special benefits when flying Iberia, even if in economy class, including lounge access and priority boarding. Among its many partners are American, Cathay Pacific, Finnair, Qantas, Qatar and Royal Air Maroc.
Mar 22, 2024
Review of Asiana Business Class
Read our in-depth review of the Asiana Business Class experience. What is Asiana Business Class like and is it worth it? Read to find out!
Nov 13, 2023
Review of Japan Airlines Business Class
Japan Airlines – referred to as JAL, is the country’s flag carrier and the second largest airline in Japan – behind ANA. With a global network and distinctive onboard service reminiscent of what you will find in the finest hotels and restaurants in Japan, JAL’s impressive international and domestic route maps help bring the world to Japan and take Japanese travellers wherever they want to go. Part of this wide reach is possible thanks to its membership of the oneworld alliance. It joins an impressive roster of global airlines including American, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Finnair, Iberia, Qantas, Qatar and Royal Jordanian. Frequent flier members of any oneworld carrier can earn and redeem miles for their flights, and oneworld Sapphire and Emerald members can enjoy access to oneworld lounges no matter what cabin they are travelling in when flying internationally. There is also the opportunity to codeshare with these airlines - travellers can fly multiple oneworld airlines on the same ticket.
Nov 12, 2023
Review of American Airlines Business Class
Is American Airlines Business Class worth the splurge? Read our honest review to find out if this premium travel experience lives up to the hype. Click now to learn more.
Nov 2, 2023
Review of American Airlines First Class
American Airlines is the only remaining North American carrier to offer long-haul First Class, and its product is often the default top choice when it comes to the highest premium class service to, from or through the region. As with many of the US carriers, the premium cabins for long-haul and selected transcontinental flights has been rebranded, and in AA’s case they are called Flagship First and Flagship Business. While Flagship First is not the leading First Class in the world, it is certainly not disappointing, with its intimate cabins and impressive airport perks. If you want top-of-the-line treatment with American Airlines, this is it, and its Flagship Lounge system around the United States is incredibly generous in its offering. On most of its domestic services (short and medium haul) American Airlines First Class is not the same as Flagship First and does not offer the same standards – see below. AA corners the market on Hollywood types and top corporate fliers since the airline still offers long-haul and transcontinental First Class in addition to Business Class. If you are looking for international First Class in North America, the only choice is to travel with this oneworld alliance founding member. Other oneworld carriers, including British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Qantas and Qatar Airways (most of which offer First Class products of their own), share the opportunity to earn and redeem miles within their frequent flier programs.
Nov 2, 2023
Review of ANA First Class
The First Class experience on All Nippon Airways (ANA) is incredible, even more so than its much vaunted Business Class product. The Suite, its newest inflight product, features on some of its Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. Designed by Kengo Kuma, The Suite is available on routes including Tokyo to New York and London.The redesigned seat has sliding doors for the most inflight privacy. Other ANA aircraft however feature the older, cubicle-style First Class product, but no matter what plane you fly, ANA’s premier experience is a treat.ANA is the ideal way to experience Japanese culture before you even reach Japan with impressive kaiseki cuisine, fine sake and some of the best hospitality in the sky.As a member of Star Alliance, ANA enjoys nearly two dozen airline partners with whom passengers can earn and redeem miles for their flights including Air Canada, Austrian, Brussels Airlines, Ethiopian, Lufthansa, Swiss International, Thai and United among others. It also means that Star Alliance Gold members from other partner airlines can enjoy special benefits when flying, even if in economy Class. ANA has its own loyalty program known as Mileage Club for those that want to earn miles with the carrier.
Oct 20, 2023
Review of EL AL Israel Airlines Business Class
EL AL is the national airline of Israel and operates flights to Europe, the Americas, Africa and Asia - and as of August 2023 - 49 international destinations in 33 countries. The airline was founded as Israel's national airline in 1948, shortly after the state of Israel itself. The name, EL AL, comes from the Hebrew Bible and means, variously, 'upward', 'heavenward' ', aloft' and - perhaps most appropriately - 'skyward'.EL AL is widely regarded to be the world's most secure airline. It operates strict security procedures and is the only carrier whose planes are equipped with defence systems to protect against surface-to-air missiles. EL AL is headquartered at Ben Gurion International Airport near Tel Aviv. The airline has an all-Boeing fleet of 46 aircraft in service – 16 B787s, 6 B777s, 16 B737-800s and 8 B737-900ERs. EL AL also operates low-cost flyer Sun d'Or International Airlines, which mainly services holidaymakers to Europe and the Mediterranean.EL AL's livery features a Eurowhite fuselage wrapped with a single navy-blue stripe and silver border. The vertical stabiliser sports the Israeli flag - two horizontal blue lines with the iconic blue Shield of David (aka The Star of David) set between them. Most EL AL's aircraft are named after Israeli cities - the larger the city, the bigger the plane.EL AL's Matmid Frequent Flyer Club has five tiers: Matmid, Silver, Gold, Platinum and Top Platinum. Benefits include increased baggage allowances, upgrades, priority boarding and lounge access.EL AL is not a member of any worldwide airline alliance. However, it has codeshare agreements with 19 other airlines, including JetBlue, American Airlines, Iberia, Swiss, Air China, Qantas, Air Portugal, Alaska Airlines, and Etihad. Further codeshare agreements have been made with ANA on future routes between Israel and Japan, and most recently, a strategic partnership agreement has been formed with North American airline Delta Air Lines.Note: EL AL does not operate flights on the Jewish Sabbath (Shabbat) - sundown on Friday to sunset on Saturday.
Aug 28, 2023
Review of Hainan Airlines Business Class
Hainan Airlines leads the pack when it comes to premium service from a Chinese airline. Everything about this carrier is designed to impress - from the fashionable uniforms worn by flight crew to the glamorous presentation of its inflight service. What it may lack in name recognition, it certainly makes up for with genuine hospitality. Hainan’s modest number of long-haul flights complements its impressive domestic network - connecting China with Europe and North America. While Hainan is not part of an airline alliance, it does have its own frequent flier program, Fortune Wings Club. It is best suited for China-based fliers and those that fly Hainan often. Other travellers may be pleased to know that it also has a frequent flier relationship with Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan - with Alaska members able to earn and redeem miles on Hainan. Other airline partners include Etihad and TAP Air Portugal.
Aug 18, 2023
Review of LOT - Polish Airlines Business Class
LOT Polish Airlines operates an all-Dreamliner long-haul fleet with a small, yet noteworthy Business Class product. Flat-bed seats and delicious meals – served by friendly crew - are typical on this Star Alliance carrier that is experienced in connecting North America with Europe and parts of Asia. LOT is one of the oldest airlines in Europe and was founded in in 1928. While Warsaw – Poland’s capital city - is its home base, the airline is also operating long-haul flights from Budapest (Hungary) to North America and Asia. As a member of Star Alliance, LOT Polish Airlines works with nearly two dozen airline partners with whom passengers can earn and redeem miles for their flights including Air Canada, Air India, All Nippon Airways, Austrian, SAS, Ethiopian, Lufthansa, Swiss International, Thai and United. There is also the opportunity to codeshare with these airlines meaning that travellers can fly multiple Star Alliance airlines on the same ticket. Star Alliance Gold members from other partner airlines can enjoy special benefits when flying. LOT uses the Miles & More frequent flier program and shares it with sister carriers Lufthansa, Swiss International and Brussels Airlines.
Aug 18, 2023
Review of Brussels Airlines Business Class
Belgium’s flag carrier offers a stylish premium cabin on long-haul flights, which Brussels Airlines says it developed to be similar to a boutique hotel. It comes with cosy bedding, tasty cuisine and beverages, and flat-bed seats with some rather special features. The airline operates long-haul flights to, from and between North America and Africa via its Brussels hub and has carved quite a niche for connecting passengers between those two continents - as well as within Europe. The airline has a small fleet and concentrated route network with this flat-bed Business Class product. Passengers are impressed with the number of Belgian products served aboard, from decadent chocolate truffles to a long list of the country’s famous beers. Wherever you fly with Brussels Airlines, the intercontinental Business Class experience has evolved over the years into its best incarnation yet. As a member of Star Alliance, Brussels Airlines has dozens of airline partners with which passengers can earn and redeem miles for their flights. It also means that Star Alliance Gold members can enjoy benefits when flying via Brussels, even if in economy class. Brussels Airlines participates in the Miles & More loyalty program, which it shares with other carriers including Lufthansa and SWISS International.
Aug 11, 2023
Review of Ethiopian Airlines Business Class
Cloud Nine Business Class on Ethiopian Airlines introduces its passengers to the diverse culture and fascinating traditions of Ethiopia before they touch down at the airline’s Addis Ababa base. As one of the largest hub airports in Africa and the biggest transfer airport on the continent - especially for intercontinental travellers - Ethiopian has made its mark as a global carrier. Now a member of Star Alliance, passengers can earn and redeem miles in its Sheba Miles frequent flier program or earn and redeem in partner alliance loyalty schemes. Its Star Alliance partners include Air Canada, Asiana, Brussels Airlines, Lufthansa, Swiss, TAP Portugal, Thai and United. When travelling with Ethiopian or its partner carriers, elite members and Star Alliance Gold members enjoy reciprocal access to lounges and other travel benefits.
Aug 4, 2023
Review of Egyptair Business Class
Is Egypt Air's Business Class worth the splurge? Read our honest review to find out if this premium travel experience lives up to the hype. Click now to learn more.
Apr 3, 2023
Review of United Airlines Business Class
United Airlines made exciting headlines in 2016 with the launch of its new Polaris Business Class. It delivered all-aisle access on most of its aircraft, a multi-course and beautifully presented meal service, and an unprecedented number of sleep accessories including multiple pillows and blankets. While cost cutting has scaled back the airline’s initial plans, United continues to receive accolades for its Polaris Business Class retrofit. It has taken years for United’s aircraft to undergo changes to the seat with a large number of its planes still offering configurations that require passengers to step over a seatmate. Either way, the soft touches remain, and passengers will be impressed by the bountiful pillow and blanket set from Saks Fifth Avenue. United is also a leader in flying narrowbody Boeing 757 planes from the United States to secondary cities in Europe, which means shorter travel times for many passengers. United’s coast-to-coast network in the United States is excellent with well-positioned hubs that give incredible access across the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans as well as to Oceania and South America. As a member of Star Alliance, United works with nearly two dozen airline partners with whom passengers can earn and redeem miles for their flights including Air Canada, Air India, All Nippon Airways, Austrian, Ethiopian, LOT Polish, Lufthansa, Swiss International and Thai. There is also the opportunity to codeshare with these airlines meaning that travellers can fly multiple Star Alliance airlines on the same ticket. Star Alliance Gold members from other partner airlines can enjoy special benefits when flying United, even if in economy class.
Mar 23, 2023
Review of British Airways First Class
British Airways has a strong reputation for carrying the British flag around the world with sophistication and a focus on service. First Class is its ultimate premium product, which is now offered on only a handful of its routes. British Airways First Class may not be the most groundbreaking of travel experiences as the airline evolves, but it offers plenty to appreciate and enjoy when flying long-haul around the world. From excellent lounges at its London Heathrow hub to an afternoon tea service using fine porcelain and bespoke tea blends, the experience is, as they say in the United Kingdom, brilliant! As a founding member of the oneworld alliance, fliers can earn points in the airline’s Avios program or in one of its many partner programs including American Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Finnair, Qantas or Qatar Airways.
Mar 20, 2023
End of an era as Airbus delivers its final A380
As the UAE carrier Emirates took delivery of its last Airbus A380 this month, manufacturing of the world’s largest passenger plane finally jets off into the sunset. Businessclass takes a look at how the A380 became a perennial passenger favourite.
Dec 20, 2021
Domestic Premium Cabins in the USA - The Businessclass Guide
Businessclass unravels the conundrum behind how airlines in the USA class their premium cabins.
Oct 22, 2021
Condor Airlines Boeing B767-300ER Business Class Providence, Rhode Island, USA-Frankfurt
Review: AC Hotel Miami Beach
WHAT`S IT LIKE With its terrace seating and artistic interior designed by Miami artist Dina Mitrani, this is one of the trendiest, value-based hotels along Miami Beach. AC by Marriott is one of the newest brands within the portfolio of Marriott’s family and boasts 75 hotels mostly within Europe. Born in Spain, the brand is extremely well-known there as a business-focused property with contemporary design and comfortable rooms. With its recent debut in the United States, Marriott is adding a fresh spin as a stylish, lifestyle space packed with art, modern features, and a hip vibe. So it comes as no surprise that the Miami location would become its flagship property within the U.S.
Anmeldelse: AC Hotel Miami Beach, USA
Vår medarbeider ramsey Qubein har bodd på AC Hotel, Miami Beach.
Recension: Hilton Sea Hawk Fukuoka, Japan
Vår korrespondent Ramsey Qubein har bott på Hilton Fukuoka i Japan.
Anmeldelse: Hilton Sea Hawk Fukuoka, Japan
Vår medarbeider Ramsey Qubein har besøkt Hilton Fukuoka i Japan.
Review: Hilton Sea Hawk Fukuoka, Japan
WHAT’S IT LIKE Located along Hakata Bay, this striking skyscraper provides exquisite views of the waterfront and cityscape. A taxi from the airport takes no more than 20 minutes, but the airport bus line also convenient stops directly in front of the hotel. The lower floors of the hotel are lined with meeting rooms signaling the strong convention business held here. Arrivals must take an elevator to the lobby where a giant atrium streaming with natural light and marble reception area create a grandiose welcome. A lengthy reception desk can handle the crowds, and scented water is available by the concierge desk for those parched after their travels. Two separate elevator banks ease the strain of the large number of guests that stay here nightly.