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We’ve all seen those happy flyers sitting up in the front, enjoying a hot towel and a glass of champagne while we trudge back to seat 42B. Comfort, relaxation and luxury — there’s no denying that first class will get you where you want to be in style, but is first class worth it?

Here's a look at the differences between economy and first class, domestic versus international first class and other options you may want to consider before your next flight.

The differences between economy and first class

The most obvious difference between economy and first class is the price. Generally, first class is more expensive than economy class, though the actual difference in price depends on the route, when you purchase the ticket and how many seats are available.

Economy class seats are fairly standard, while you can experience a variety of seats in first class. These may be similar to reclining leather chairs but can also move to lie down to a fully flat bed.

First class passengers can also expect different food when flying, complimentary alcohol and more attentive service.

On the ground, first class tickets can come with:

Airport lounge access.

Expedited security lines.

Extra free checked luggage.

Fast-track immigration process.

Separate check-in service.

In short, first class tickets provide a wealth of benefits for the additional cost, but you’ll want to be sure you’ll take advantage of the extra perks.

» Learn more: A beginner’s guide to flying in business or first class

Domestic vs. international first class

There are also huge differences between domestic versus international first class, both on the ground and when flying. If you buy a ticket from San Francisco to Miami thinking you’ll get a lie-flat seat, you'll be disappointed to find that you’ll be spending five hours in a chair that simply reclines.

International first class products, on the other hand, are some of the most luxurious in the world. On some carriers, this means enjoying a shower mid-flight. On others, you’ll have an entire cabin to yourself, featuring a chair and your own separate bed. You can also expect amenities such as a chauffeur service and high-end airport lounge access.

Meanwhile, there are far fewer domestic first class features. Lounge access, for example, isn't always included except in some specific situations (such as flying a premium transcontinental route).

Seating is also usually fairly limited. Although some domestic first class routes will have seats that lie flat, for the most part, you can expect a leather lounger-type chair. Most of the time, you’ll receive a complimentary full meal with alcohol available as well.

You’ll also receive other benefits, such as a separate check-in line and additional free checked baggage.

» Learn more: The best first class award flights

First class, business class or premium economy?

You aren’t limited to just economy or first class when flying. The options you’ll find vary depending on the airline and where you’re going, but you may also want to consider business class or premium economy.

On long-haul international flights, business class is often a great alternative to first class — and they tend to be pretty similar. You’ll find a seat that converts into a bed, and some business class offerings include doors that turn your seat into a suite. You can also expect high-end food, complimentary alcohol and amenities such as pajamas and mattress pads.

Premium economy, meanwhile, functions similarly to domestic first class on long-haul international flights. It's a step up from standard economy and can feature different food, better alcohol and amenity kits. Premium economy seats tend to be similar to domestic first class seats. They’re larger than a regular economy seat and have a decent amount of recline but don’t lie down.

» Learn more: Delta Comfort Plus versus first class cabin

Is first class worth it?

The short answer to this question is that you’ll need to decide if it’s worth it based on your personal situation. First class can be a lot more costly than economy class, especially on international flights.

In a search, we found an American Airlines economy class ticket from Los Angeles to Paris for $1,180.

Eleven hours is a long time to sit upright in a cramped economy seat, but flying that same route in first class was almost sixteen times the price, coming in at $18,606.

For that rate, you’ll be able to experience Air France’s spectacular La Premiere product. But is it worth paying for the upgrade? It depends on how much you want the upgraded seat and experience, and whether you may be able to make a first class trip more affordable by booking with points or miles.

» Learn more: The best first class airline in the U.S.

Using miles to fly first class

If you want to fly in first class, you may want to consider redeeming miles rather than spending cash. Frequent flyer miles can help offset the costs and redemption rates can also be good.

For example, when we last checked, a first class flight from Houston to Frankfurt in Lufthansa’s first class came in at $12,707.

Instead of paying more than $12,000 for the flight, you can instead choose to redeem miles. That same flight will cost 87,000 Lifemiles and around $22 in taxes and fees.

This is a great value when compared with cash, and you can acquire Lifemiles by transferring your credit card points from American Express Membership Rewards , Citi ThankYou points , Bilt Rewards and Capital One Miles .

Here are some cards to consider:

on American Express' website

on Bilt's website

on Citibank's application

• 4 points per $1 at restaurants worldwide (on up to $50,000 in purchases per year).

• 4 points per $1 at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 in purchases per year).

• 3 points per $1 on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel.

• 2 points per $1 on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases made through American Express Travel.

• 1 point per $1 on other eligible purchases.

Terms apply.

• 3 points per $1 on dining.

• 2 points per $1 on travel.

• 1 point per $1 on rent payments up to 100,000 points per calendar year.

Note: You must use the card 5 times each statement period to earn points. If you do not make at least 5 transactions in a statement period you’ll earn a flat 250 points when you use your Bilt Mastercard to pay rent through the Bilt App or Website.

• 5 miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.

• 2 miles per $1 on all other purchases.

• 10 ThankYou® points per $1 spent on hotels, car rentals and attractions booked through the Citi Travel site.

• 3 points per $1 on air travel and other hotel purchases.

• 3 points per $1 on supermarkets.

• 3 points per $1 on gas stations and EV charging stations.

• 3 points per $1 on restaurants.

• 1 point per $1 on all other purchases.

» Learn more: The best airline credit cards right now

So, is flying first class worth it?

Flying first class can be an amazing experience, especially if you’re traveling internationally. Along with premium treatment in the airport, you can expect better seats, better food and better service onboard.

However, first class tickets can also be expensive. If you’re looking to save money, consider instead using points and miles to pay for first class flights, allowing you to enjoy some bubbles with cash in your pocket.

The Main Differences Between Business Class vs. First Class — and Tips for Booking Each

Here's what to know about each premium cabin type — and how to book them.

Business Class

Domestic first class, international first class, how to book (or be upgraded to) business class, domestic first class, and international first class.

imaginima/Getty Images

If you're tired of flying in economy, it might be time for an upgrade. For a more enjoyable flight, booking a premium cabin — that is, business class, domestic first class, or international first class — provides vast improvements. But each of the cabins offers a fairly different experience, and it's important to know what to expect with each. Here's everything you need to know about the premium cabins available on planes today.

• Typically lie-flat or angled seats
• Multicourse plated meal service
• Priority check-in and boarding
• Extra baggage allowance
• Lounge access
• Amenity kits
• Business class seats, amenities, and services vary greatly per airline and aircraft
• Usually a very expensive option
• No complimentary upgrades

Business class is a premium cabin available on international long-haul flights . Seats are typically lie-flat or angled, not just recliners, offering far more space than in the economy or premium economy cabins . Service is elevated both in the air, from free alcohol to plated multicourse meals, and on the ground, from priority check-in and boarding to lounge access. But not all business-class cabins are created equal. Some more outdated products lack in seat comfort and privacy, while newer ones might include closed-door suite-style seats with extra space. Even within an airline, business-class cabins can vary greatly on different aircraft. Pricing is dramatically greater than economy, often thousands of dollars no matter the route.

Bloomberg/Getty Images

• More spacious and comfortable seats
• Often served plated meals
• Complimentary upgrades for elite status holders
• Not as expensive as business class or international first class
• Typically no lie-flat seats
• Lounge access is not guaranteed

Domestic first class is the top cabin on domestic flights and some short-haul international flights. On most airlines and aircraft, this means you'll sit in a recliner-style seat that offers more space and legroom than economy. Some transcontinental flights, however, may have business-class lie-flat seats, but this varies based on the airline and aircraft. On flights that are a few hours or longer, you'll be served plated hot meals, and on all flights, alcohol is complimentary. Before your flight, you'll receive priority check-in services (including extra baggage allowances), but you usually won't receive lounge access. You'll be one of the first groups to board your plane. The tickets cost more than economy, of course, but they're typically not as expensive as business-class fares — perhaps a few hundred up to a thousand dollars.

• The most privacy, with some seats being fully enclosed
• Fine dining
• First class-only lounges at some airports; general lounge access at others
• Only available on certain airlines and aircraft
• The most expensive option

International first class is the ultimate flying experience — it's the best cabin across the board on commercial aircraft, ranked above business class, and it has the price tag to match. Many airlines don't even offer an international first class; a few notable ones that do have the product include Singapore Airlines , Etihad, and Air France. What makes the cabin so exceptional is the space and privacy of each seat. On some airlines, first-class seats are private suites with closed doors. The dining experience is usually elevated beyond that of business class, with fine wines and over-the-top menu items. As with business class, you'll receive a number of perks on the ground, from priority check-in to exclusive lounge access — some airlines have special first-class lounges that are not accessible to frequent fliers or business-class travelers. And, of course, expect to board in one of the first groups. You'll find this type of first-class cabin on international long-haul flights only — and solely on certain routes on certain airlines.

NurPhoto/Getty Images

You likely already know you can select any of these classes instead of the economy cabin when booking a flight. And you're probably also aware you can use either cash or miles to purchase seats in business or first class.

But what you might not know is that on most airlines, there are other ways to score an upgrade — though it likely won't be free.

Paid Upgrades

It's often possible to pay for upgrades to business or first class in cash or miles later on, depending on availability — and they might be cheaper than the full price at booking. "A lot of airlines these days will tempt you with an option to upgrade during the check-in process that sometimes can be cheaper than buying a business ticket outright," Katy Nastro, travel expert at Going , tells Travel + Leisure . "If this is your game plan, don’t always count on the ticket being downright cheap. It will still be more expensive than your original ticket price, and it all depends on if there is any availability in a higher class."

Even after check-in, you can ask an agent at a transfer desk if you're on a layover or a gate agent if there are any paid upgrades available. "Sometimes, airlines have unsold premium seats that they're willing to upgrade passengers to at a lower cost," Kristin Winkaffe, founder of Winkaffe Global Travel , tells T+L. "It's a bit of a gamble, but it's always worth politely inquiring at the gate if any upgrade options are available. This method can be especially fruitful if you are traveling during off-peak times."

Meet the Expert

Katy Nastro is a travel expert at Going, a website that finds flight deals to more than 900 destinations around the world.

Kristin Winkaffe is the founder of Winkaffe Global Travel, a travel agency with a focus on sustainability and off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Bidding on Upgrades

Additionally, some international airlines allow you to bid on upgrades to premium cabins before your flight. "It's like an auction; you make an offer, and if it's accepted, you get upgraded," says Winkaffe. "The key here is to make a reasonable bid, keeping in mind the flight duration and destination."

Free Upgrades

If you're a "regular" passenger, you probably won't get a free upgrade. "Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that dressing nicely will afford you an automatic upgrade. This is a travel myth that might have been true decades ago, but is just not the case today," says Nastro.

But if you're a frequent flier with elite status, complimentary upgrades are one of your perks — on domestic flights and limited short-haul international trips, that is. Elites can request to be added to the complimentary upgrade list on certain flights, with seats doled out based on availability. "A warning for these methods, though — you will need to fly quite a lot to really reap the rewards of elite status," says Winkaffe. "It's a long-term strategy, but definitely rewarding for those who travel often."

There is one rare case in which you may be able to score a free upgrade without status: accepting a voluntary bump on an oversold flight. "When a flight is oversold, you may see the airline ask for volunteers to switch, and likely will sweeten the deal with cash," says Nastro. "To sweeten the deal even more, inquire whether they would be able to upgrade you on the alternate flight if you give up your seat. No guarantees this will work, as sometimes policies prevent it, but it doesn't hurt to ask."

Related Articles

9 amazing first-class seats you can book with points and miles

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

If you're preparing for the ultimate points and miles redemption in 2024, a few select airlines still offer both domestic and international genuine first-class experiences.

The best part is that you can use your points and miles to book any of these luxurious first-class offerings. This article will explore various options for using your points and miles to secure amazing first-class tickets.

Emirates first class

Naturally, we must start with the most over-the-top first-class product in the sky: Emirates first class .

Emirates has an iconic first-class product. On its retrofitted 777-300ER aircraft, you'll find its first-class product effectively gives you full room on the plane. There's a huge lie-flat seat, a large entertainment screen and an en suite minibar with refreshments. Plus, you'll be treated to delicious inflight food and excellent service.

The older A380 product that normally serves U.S. routes isn't half-bad either and offers the same top-notch onboard service.

The airline started restricting first-class bookings to its own loyalty program, Emirates Skywards . The price for first class varies by route and booking type. But as an example, you can book New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Dubai International Airport (DXB) for as low as 165,500 miles one-way when booked as a part of a round-trip itinerary, plus taxes and fees.

Emirates also operates a fifth-freedom route between Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and Athens International Airport (ATH). Each seat will set you back at least 102,000 miles. Emirates also tacks on a hefty fuel surcharge on most tickets.

You can transfer your American Express Membership Rewards , Bilt Rewards , Capital One Rewards , Chase Ultimate Rewards , Citi ThankYou and Marriott Bonvoy points to Emirates. If you're under Chase's 5/24 rule, your best bet is to apply for a Chase card with one of these heightened welcome bonuses:

• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card : Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
• Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card : Earn 120,000 bonus points after spending $8,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
• Chase Sapphire Reserve : Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

You can also book Emirates first-class awards with Air Canada Aeroplan , but award rates are astronomical.

Related: Getting my money's worth in Emirates first class: Bottomless Champagne and endless caviar

ANA first class

ANA first class is one of the easier first-class products to book with points and miles.

The airline flies first class on most U.S. routes, including flights to Chicago's O'Hare International Airport (ORD), Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and JFK. On board, you'll find a great product, hospitable service and excellent food and drink options. Watch for flights operating ANA's new The Suite product — it's truly a sight to behold.

The best way to book this flight is using Virgin Atlantic Flying Club points . First-class awards to its Tokyo hubs start at just 72,500 points one-way from the West Coast and 85,000 from the East Coast. You can view round-trip pricing for all flights in the table below — you can book one-way tickets at half the cost .

To book, find award space using a Star Alliance search tool and call Virgin Atlantic to book your flight. Confirm award space over the phone before transferring points to Virgin Atlantic. Most transfers process instantly, so you don't have to worry about losing award space.

You can transfer points to Virgin Atlantic from American Express Membership Rewards, Bilt Rewards, Capital One Rewards (to Virgin Red), Chase Ultimate Rewards, Citi ThankYou and Marriott Bonvoy.

Related: How to book a $20,000 ANA first-class ticket for just $34

Japan Airlines first class

Japan Airlines — commonly called JAL — is another major airline in Japan. It operates flights to a handful of U.S. cities and offers first-class flights to major cities like Chicago and New York. If you book it, you'll be showered in luxury from the moment you enter the JAL first-class lounge .

One of the best ways to book JAL first class is with American AAdvantage . A one-way flight from the U.S. to Japan costs 80,000 miles plus nominal taxes and fees.

American Airlines miles are among the hardest miles to earn , but it's not impossible. Your best bet is earning with an American cobranded credit card or transferring points from Bilt Rewards or Marriott Bonvoy to American.

Related: Best uses of American Airlines miles

Cathay Pacific first class

The Hong Kong-based Cathay Pacific is a TPG favorite. It offers consistently fantastic service in all its cabins, but first class is truly amazing. Its first-class lounges in Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) are relaxing. The onboard service includes incredible food, Champagne, caviar and even its own custom-brewed beer.

You'll find Cathay Pacific first class on select 777-operated routes from the U.S., including from JFK and LAX to Hong Kong.

Currently, you'll get the best redemption value with Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan as award tickets from the U.S. to Asia cost 70,000 miles one-way in first class. However, in March 2024, Alaska Airlines will follow a new distance-based award chart . Therefore, you may have better luck finding award space with Cathay Pacific Asia Miles .

One-way first-class tickets generally cost 110,000 miles from the West Coast and 125,000 from the East Coast to Hong Kong. Even though this is still a bookable redemption, Cathay Pacific has significantly reduced service to U.S. destinations, so it may be hard to find award space for the time being.

You can transfer Amex, Capital One, Chase, Citi and Marriott points to Asia Miles. To boost your Capital One balance, you can open a Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card . Right now, the Venture card offers 75,000 bonus miles after you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening, plus a $250 Capital One Travel credit in the first cardholder year.

Related: The ultimate guide to Cathay Pacific first class

Singapore first class

Singapore Suites first class is one of the most well-known first-class products in the sky. The new Suites product features a single bed and seat, giving you a full bedroom. Plus, you'll be treated to excellent food, drink and inflight service and access to first-class lounges at Singapore Changi Airport (SIN).

Singapore's 777-300ER aircraft features a standard first-class product that's still excellent. From the U.S., these planes operate routes from LAX to Tokyo's Narita International Airport (NRT). As you'd expect, you can continue to Singapore if you'd like.

Singapore Airlines is a Star Alliance member but generally restricts premium-cabin award space to its KrisFlyer loyalty program . From the U.S., you'll find the best pricing from New York to Frankfurt. This ticket costs 97,000 miles one-way, which is a pretty solid deal, considering paid flights are usually more than $5,000. You can continue to Singapore for more miles.

Although still bookable, we found no saver award availability on the JFK-to-FRA fifth-freedom route. Keep a close eye on Singapore awards and be flexible with your travel dates for your best shot at booking this incredible award ticket.

You can transfer Amex, Capital One, Chase, Citi and Marriott points to Singapore KrisFlyer. Here's a look at the best American Express cards that can help you earn points with your everyday spending:

• American Express® Gold Card: Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible restaurant purchases (up to $100) within the first six months of card membership. Earn 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants , (on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar). 4 points per dollar spent at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent), 3 points per dollar spent on airfare purchased directly from airlines or American Express Travel, 2 points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com, and 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases ($325 annual fee; see rates and fees ).
• The Platinum Card® from American Express: Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in your first six months of card membership. Earn 5 points per dollar spent on airfare purchased directly from airlines or with American Express Travel (on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year), 5 points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel and Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts , and 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases ($695 annual fee; see rates and fees ).

Related: Singapore Airlines resumes retrofitting A380s with new cabins, much-improved suite

Lufthansa first class

Even though it isn't the most modern product, Lufthansa first class remains one of the best ways to fly between the U.S. and Europe.

You'll generally get the best deal when booking with Avianca LifeMiles . You'll pay 87,000 LifeMiles and minimal taxes and fees for a one-way flight from the U.S. to Europe in Lufthansa first class. This pricing is valid if you also choose to connect beyond a Lufthansa hub.

One thing to note: Lufthansa only opens first-class award space to partners within 14 or 30 days of departure. You'll have to book at the last minute if you don't have Lufthansa Miles & More miles .

You can transfer Amex, Capital One, Chase, Bilt, Citi and Marriott points to LifeMiles. If you're interested in earning Citi ThankYou points, the Citi Premier® Card (see rates and fees) comes with a welcome offer of 60,000 points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening.

Related: Chase Sapphire Preferred vs. Citi Premier: Which mid-tier travel card is better?

British Airways first class

British Airways has first class on a number of its routes and has continued offering it throughout the pandemic. Some of these flights are operated by planes equipped with BA's first-class seat that offers sliding doors — a huge step up from what was previously offered. It's still not as luxurious as other first-class products on this list, but it's a great way to fly transatlantic in luxury.

The best way to book BA first class is generally with Cathay Pacific Asia Miles . You'll pay a similar number of miles as booking with AAdvantage miles or BA Avios , but you'll pay fewer taxes and fees.

A British Airways first-class seat from Washington D.C.'s Dulles International Airport (IAD) to London's Heathrow Airport (LHR) will set you back 100,000 miles and between $200 and $350 in taxes. This is far cheaper than the $750-plus BA charges when booking with Avios.

Again, you can transfer Amex, Capital One, Bilt, Chase, Citi and Marriott points to Asia Miles.

Related: Still better than business class: A review of British Airways First on the 777 from London to Washington

American Airlines first class

American Airlines is the only U.S. airline that offers a true first-class product. You'll find its Flagship First product on several international routes on four-cabin international flights and transcontinental routes like JFK to LAX and SFO. You can expect upgraded lounge access, seats and service in Flagship First.

You'll generally want to book with AAdvantage to fly Flagship First.

Related: Flight review: American Airlines Flagship First from Dallas to Hong Kong on the 777-300ER

Etihad Airways first class

Finally, we have Etihad first class. The airline operates a true first-class cabin on its Boeing 787 and Airbus A380 aircraft fleet. You'll find these on flights from the airline's Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) hub to IAD. You can connect to many international destinations in Asia, Africa and the Middle East from AUH.

U.S.-based travelers have two good options for booking Etihad first class: American Airlines AAdvantage and Air Canada Aeroplan . Both loyalty programs offer significantly lower award costs than Etihad's own loyalty program.

However, Etihad has been restricting partner first-class award space, so you might not find any options to redeem, especially with Aeroplan.

If you find award space, you'll pay 115,000 American miles for a one-way flight from the U.S. to the Middle East in Etihad first class when you book with AAdvantage. On the other hand, you'll pay 120,000 Air Canada Aeroplan points for a one-way first-class ticket from IAD to AUH when you book with Aeroplan.

If you don't live near Washington, D.C. or New York, you can add connecting tickets with American's and Air Canada's network of airline partners. Since Aeroplan is a distance-based program , you could pay more points if you add a connecting ticket. AAdvantage will charge the same amount regardless of if you connect.

You can transfer Amex, Bilt, Capital One, Chase and Marriott points to Air Canada Aeroplan. You can also transfer Bilt and Marriott points to AAdvantage.

Related: The best way to book Etihad award flights with transferable points

Bottom line

International first class isn't as common as it once was, but several airlines still offer it.

Though booking first-class tickets can set you back thousands of dollars, you can use your points and miles to score an excellent deal. This can make for a memorable (and more comfortable) international trip.

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Art & Culture Travel Blog

History of travelling: how people started to travel.

• Tea Gudek Šnajdar
• Cultural Tourism

Although we often have a feeling like people are travelling for the last few decades only, the truth is – people are travelling for centuries. Old Romans were travelling to relax in their Mediterranean villas. At the same time, people in Eastern Asia wandered for cultural experiences. I’ve got so fascinated with the history of travelling, that I did my own little research on how people started to travel. And here is what I’ve learned.

History of travelling

I was always curious about the reason people started to travel. Was it for pure leisure? To relax? Or to learn about new cultures, and find themselves along the way?

I wanted to chaise the reason all the way to its source – to the first travellers. And hopped to find out what was the initial motivation for people to travel.

According to linguists, the word ‘travel’ was first used in the 14th century. However, people started to travel much earlier.

While looking at the history of travelling and the reasons people started to travel, I wanted to distinguish the difference between travellers and explorers. Most of the time, when thinking about travel in history, people like Marco Polo or Christopher Columbus are coming to mind. However, they weren’t really travellers in a modern sense. They were explorers and researchers. So, to really learn about how people started to travel, I wanted to focus on ordinary people. Travellers like you and me, if you wish.

Romans and their roads

First people who started to travel for enjoyment only were, I’m sure you won’t be surprised, old Romans. Wealthy Romans would often go to their summer villas. And it was purely for leisure. They could, of course, start doing that because they invented something quite crucial for travelling – roads. Well developed network of roads was the reason they could travel safely and quickly.

However, there is another reason that motivated people in Antiquity to travel. And I was quite amazed when I learned about it.

It was a desire to learn. They believed travelling is an excellent way to learn about other cultures, by observing their art, architecture and listening to their languages.

Sounds familiar? It seems like Romans were the first culture tourists.

⤷ Read more : 20 Archaeological sites you have to visit in Europe

Travelling during the Middle Ages

It may come by surprise, but people started to wander more during the Middle Ages. And most of those journeys were pilgrimages.

Religion was the centre of life back in the Middle Ages. And the only things that connected this world with the saints people were worshipping, were the relics of saints. Pilgrims would often travel to another part of the country, or even Europe to visit some of the sacred places.

The most popular destinations for all those pilgrims was Santiago de Compostela, located in northwest Spain. People would travel for thousands of kilometres to reach it. To make a journey a bit easier for them, and to earn money from the newly developed tourism, many guest houses opened along the way. Pilgrims would often visit different towns and churches on their way, and while earning a ticket to heaven, do some sightseeing, as well.

Wealthy people were travelling in the caravans or by using the waterways. What’s changing in the Middle Ages was that travel wasn’t reserved only for the rich anymore. Lower classes are starting to travel, as well. They were travelling on foot, sleeping next to the roads or at some affordable accommodations. And were motivated by religious purposes.

⤷ TIP : You can still find many of those old pilgrim’s routes in Europe. When in old parts of the cities (especially in Belgium and the Netherlands ), look for the scallop shells on the roads. They will lead you to the local Saint-Jacob’s churches. Places dedicated to that saint were always linked to pilgrims and served as stops on their long journeys. In some cities, like in Antwerp , you can follow the scallop shell trails even today.

Below you can see one of the scallop shells on a street and Saint-Jacques Church in Tournai , Belgium.

Grand Tours of the 17th century

More impoverished people continued to travel for religious reasons during the following centuries. However, a new way of travelling appeared among wealthy people in Europe.

Grand tours are becoming quite fashionable among the young aristocrats at the beginning of the 17th century. As a part of their education (hmmm… culture tourists, again?) they would go on a long journey during which they were visiting famous European cities. Such as London , Paris , Rome or Venice, and were learning about their art, history and architecture.

Later on, those grand tours became more structured, and they were following precisely the same route. Often, young students would be accompanied by an educational tutor. And just to make the things easier for them, they were allowed to have their servants with them, too.

One of those young aristocrats was a young emperor, Peter the Great of Russia. He travelled around western Europe and has spent a significant amount of his time in the Netherlands. The architecture of Amsterdam and other Dutch cities definitely inspired a layout of the new city he has built – Saint Petersburg . So, travelling definitely remains an essential part of education since Roman times.

⤷ Read more : 15 Best museums in Europe you have to visit this year

The railway system and beginning of modern travel in the 19th century

Before the railway system was invented, people mostly travelled on foot (budget travel) or by water (the first-class travel at that time). However, when in the 1840s, an extensive network of railways was built, people started to travel for fun.

Mid-19th century definitely marks a real beginning of modern tourism. It’s the time when the middle class started to grow. And they have found a way to travel easily around Europe.

It’s coming by no surprise that the first travel agency, founded by Thomas Cook in England, was established at that time, too. He was using recently developed trains together with a network of hotels to organise his first group trips.

⤷ Read more : The most interesting European myths and legends

History of travelling in the 20th century

Since then, things started to move quickly. With the development of transportation, travelling became much more accessible. Dutch ships would need around a year to travel from Amsterdam to Indonesia. Today, for the same trip, we need less than a day on a plane.

After the Second World War, with the rise of air travel, people started to travel more and more. And with the internet and all the cool apps we have on our smartphones, it’s easier than ever to move and navigate your way in a new country. Mass tourism developed in the 1960s. But, with the new millennium, we started to face the over-tourism.

We can be anywhere in the world in less than two days. And although it’s a great privilege of our time, it also bears some responsibilities. However, maybe the key is to learn from history again and do what old Romans did so well. Travel to learn, explore local history and art, and be true culture tourists.

History of Travelling , How people started to travel , Travel

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First class flying experiences you need for your next vacation

In this exploration, we delve into why first-class flights outshine their business and economy counterparts.

First-class flying experiences epitomize luxury and comfort, elevating travel to unparalleled splendor. Vacations adorned with first-class amenities are not merely journeys; they are transformative experiences that redefine the very essence of travel. In this exploration, we delve into why first-class flights outshine their business and economy counterparts, making them an investment worth every penny for those seeking an extraordinary travel experience .

Elevate your journey: The ultimate guide to first-class flying experiences for your next vacation Embarking on a vacation is not just about the destination but also the journey. However, upgrading to first class is the key to transforming air travel into an indulgent experience. From exclusive lounges and gourmet dining with internet access to gamble on crypto & Bitcoin poker sites to spacious cabins with personalized service, first-class flying offers an unrivaled experience. This section will discuss the essential elements that make first-class flying an absolute necessity to enjoying crypto poker on your next vacation.

Unmatched comfort and space One of the most significant advantages of flying First Class is the abundance of space and comfort. As you step into the premium cabin, you are greeted with expansive seats that can often be converted into fully flat beds. The extra legroom, wider seats, and increased recline make it possible to relax and rest in an impossible way in economy or even business class. This comfort becomes a game-changer for long-haul flights, ensuring you arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and revitalized.

Exquisite dining experience First Class flying is synonymous with gourmet dining at 30,000 feet. Airlines invest heavily in creating menus that rival those of five-star restaurants. Passengers can expect a curated selection of dishes, often designed by renowned chefs, focusing on quality ingredients and meticulous presentation. The dining experience is complemented by premium wines and champagne, creating a gastronomic journey that adds a touch of indulgence to your travel adventure.

Exclusive lounges and pre-flight amenities Before boarding the plane, the first-class experience begins with exclusive access to premium lounges. These lounges provide a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the airport, offering gourmet snacks, fine beverages, and comfortable seating. Some airlines even provide spa services and private suites within their lounges, allowing passengers to unwind in luxury before their flight. These pre-flight amenities set the stage for a seamless and stress-free travel experience.

Personalized service First-class passengers enjoy a level of service that goes beyond expectations. Flight attendants in the premium cabin are trained to anticipate your needs, providing personalized and attentive service throughout the journey. From assisting with boarding to ensuring your comfort during the flight, the dedicated staff in the suite aims to create an experience tailored to your preferences, making you feel like a VIP from takeoff to landing.

Cutting-edge entertainment and connectivity First-class cabins have state-of-the-art entertainment systems, offering various movies, TV shows, and music to cater to diverse tastes. High-quality noise-canceling headphones further enhance the immersive experience. Additionally, many first-class cabins now feature in-flight Wi-Fi, allowing you to stay connected with the world or catch up on work while enjoying the unparalleled luxury of your surroundings.

Designer amenities and comfort kits To enhance the overall experience, passengers have luxurious amenity kits featuring high-end skincare products, comfortable sleepwear, and other travel essentials. These kits, designed by renowned brands, add a touch of glamor to your journey and serve as a thoughtful reminder of the exclusivity that comes with flying First Class.

Priority boarding and baggage handling When flying first class, you’ll enjoy the privilege of priority boarding, ensuring ample time to settle into your seat and make the most of the premium cabin amenities. Additionally, your checked baggage is given priority handling, minimizing the time you spend waiting at the baggage carousel upon arrival. These small but significant perks contribute to a seamless and stress-free travel experience.

Some of the best airlines with first-class services First-class airlines have set the gold standard for first-class services, turning air travel into an extraordinary experience. These carriers redefine the concept of luxury travel, creating an environment where every detail is meticulously curated to ensure an unforgettable journey. Here are some of the best airlines renowned for their exceptional first-class services.

Singapore Airlines Renowned for its commitment to service excellence, Singapore Airlines consistently ranks among the best for first-class travel. The airline offers spacious suites featuring sliding doors for enhanced privacy, gourmet dining curated by world-class chefs, and attentive service that caters to every passenger’s whim.

Emirates Emirates has set a benchmark for luxury travel with its first-class cabins. Passengers enjoy private suites with fully flat beds, a personal mini-bar, and mood lighting. The onboard shower spa adds an extra indulgence, providing a rejuvenating experience at 40,000 feet.

Qatar Airways Qatar Airways Qsuite has redefined first-class travel by introducing the first-ever double bed in business class. The airline offers privacy panels that can be adjusted to create shared spaces for companions, making it an excellent choice for those traveling with a partner.

Etihad Airways Etihad’s first-class Apartments provide passengers with a personal living space with a dedicated butler service. The airline’s commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its à la carte dining options, ensuring a gourmet experience at every altitude.

Cathay Pacific Cathay Pacific’s first-class cabins exude sophistication and style. Passengers can unwind in private suites with adjustable lighting, enjoy multi-course meals, and indulge in an extensive selection of wines and champagne. The airline’s commitment to providing a seamless travel experience contributes to its reputation for excellence.

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First Class Cultural Travel Experience

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About First Class C.T.E

First Class C.T.E is determined to ensure that J1 students have an awesome Summer Work and Travel Experience at the lowest price, while also receiving the best service!

We believe this can only happen by linking students with great employers. Employers who are flexible, fair and fun. Treating you just like family.

We connect students with the best sponsors. Sponsors who provide DS forms in a timely manner. Sponsors who are ready to help when you need them.

We provide an experience that is like no other from the moment you SIGN UP through YOUR TRIP back home.

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First Class takes its responsibility to help combat the virus very seriously. Tap the button below to see the steps we’ve taken to ensure the safety of all our participants and staff.

First Class Experience

We’ll guide you on your journey to a awesome work and travel experience. Let’s talk Work and Travel, first class informational session.!!!!

Requirements for U.S. Entry

As of May 12, 2023, non-citizen non-immigrant air passengers will no longer need to show proof of a full COVID-19 vaccination to board a flight to the United States.

The Experience

Love the outdoors Want to truly experience American Culture Love Swimming

Spend your summer working with Continental Pools Join the hundreds who do each year.

Become a Lifeguard

Get Trained by the Best!

Get Trained and Certified by Ellis Instructors!

Jeff Ellis And Associates Lifeguard Training Program Will Certify you as a Lifeguard; w hile developing:

The leader in you; Your Communication and People Skills; Self-Confidence; and Teamwork skills.

Earning you skills that will last a lifetime!

Work for the Best

Working with Continental Pools gives you a shot to work for the best, an employer who pays great, treats staff with respect, fairly and believe in a healthy work-life balance.

Experience Maryland

From the home of the Star Spangled Banner in the East to the adrenaline offered by Six Flags America in the South; the state of Maryland is the Mecca of rich history and cultural activities. The experience offered here spans across many different counties; whether your interests are history, hiking, “chowing down” seafood, fishing or sightseeing then Maryland is the place for you.

Experience Massachusetts

Massachusetts is one of the original thirteen states of America and has a rich colonial history. This green state has a beautiful coast and many patriotic landmarks. Boston, the capital always buzzing with activities from kayaking, to fine dining and shopping. Massachusetts has something special to offer the enthusiastic traveller looking for an adventure.

Experience Deleware/OC

Delaware/Ocean City has a lot to offer any who lives there. If you love the feel of sand between your toes and the cool ocean breeze, not to mention Mini Golf, Go Karting, Jolly Rogers, Kite Flying, Great Food, Water Sports, a 2.5 mile long boardwalk, Longwood Gardens, the wildlife at Brandywine Creek State Park or the many museums in Delaware, then this is the place for you!

Experience Virginia

Known to be in the top 10 wealthiest states in America. Virginia offers a one of a kind experience to the open minded traveller looking for adventure. Comprised of North and South Virginia you have an opportunity to live and work close to the beautiful Virginia Beach or Washington DC.  This state has a lot to explore from white river rafting, to expeditions in the Seneca Caverns, shopping at the many affordable brand-name outlets, to the thrills of Water Country and Kings Dominion. Experience Virginia like you have never experienced it before!

You might ask…

Is registration open.

Yes! Registration for Summer 2025 is now open and early bird discounts are available.

Why is our program fee so low?

First Class C.T.E works directly with your Employer who discounts your program fees.

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First Class offers a variety of summer job opportunities:

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Yes! All lifeguards are training here in Jamaica and given a license before attending there embassy interview.

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What to do in Moscow

Ballet at the bolshoy, cathedral of christ the saviour, drinking & nightlife, entertainment, house-museums, the museum of modern history, the new tretyakov gallery, novodevichiy convent, patriarch’s ponds, the pushkin museum of fine arts, sandunovsky baths, the tretyakov gallery.

Travel in Moscow is easier than you might think: the city’s general layout is a series of concentric circles and radial lines emanating from Red Square and the Kremlin, and the centre is compact enough to explore on foot. Moscow’s sights can also be mapped as strata of its history: the old Muscovy that Russians are eager to show; the now retro-chic Soviet-era sites such as VDNK and Lenin’s Mausoleum; and the exclusive restaurants and shopping malls that mark out the new Russia. A CityPass is a good bet if you plan on seeing several of the city's heavyweight attractions.

Despite its size, Moscow's concentric layout is easier to grasp than you'd imagine, and the city's famous metro ensures that almost everywhere of interest is within fifteen minutes' walk of a station. Red Square and the Kremlin are the historic nucleus of the city, a magnificent stage for political drama, signifying a great sweep of history that includes Ivan the Terrible, Peter the Great, Stalin and Gorbachev. Here you'll find Lenin's Mausoleum and St Basil's Cathedral, the famous GUM department store, and the Kremlin itself, whose splendid cathedrals and Armoury Museum head the list of attractions. Immediately east of Red Square lies the Kitay-gorod, traditionally the commercial district, and originally fortified like the Kremlin. Stretches of the ramparts remain behind the Metropol and Rossiya hotels, and the medieval churches of Zaryade and the shops along Nikolskaya ulitsa may tempt you further into the quarter, where you'll find the former headquarters of the Communist Party. Take a private Kremlin tour to skip the lines for the Kremlin grounds and cathedrals.

The Kremlin and Kitay-gorod are surrounded by two quarters defined by rings of boulevards built over the original ramparts of medieval times, when Moscow's residential areas were divided into the "White Town" or Beliy Gorod, and the humbler "Earth Town" or Zemlyanoy Gorod. Situated within the leafy Boulevard Ring that encloses the Beliy Gorod are such landmarks as the Bolshoy Theatre and the Lubyanka headquarters of the secret police – with its "KGB Museum" – while the Zemlyanoy Gorod that extends to the eight-lane Garden Ring is enlivened by the trendy old and new Arbat streets, with three Stalin skyscrapers dominating the Ring itself.

Beyond this historic core Moscow is too sprawling to explore on foot. Krasnaya Presnya, Fili and the southwest describes a swathe which includes the former Russian Parliament building (known as the White House); Tolstoy's house and the Novodeviche Convent and Cemetery; Victory Park, with its war memorials and Jewish museum; and Moscow State University in the Sparrow Hills – the largest of the Stalin skyscrapers.

Across the river from the Kremlin, Zamoskvorechye and the south are the site of the old and new Tretyakov Gallery's superlative collection of Russian art. Private guided tours are recommended for art enthusiasts. Here too you'll find Gorky Park, the Donskoy and Danilov monasteries that once stood guard against the Tartars, and the romantic ex-royal estates of Tsaritsyno and Kolomenskoe – the latter known for staging folklore festivals and historical pageants.

Taganka and Zayauze, east of the centre, likewise harbour fortified monasteries – the Andronikov, Novospasskiy and Simonov – and the erstwhile noble estates of Kuskovo and Kuzminki, but the main lure for tourists is the Izmaylovo art market. Inside the Izmaylovo Kremlin, a cultural centre, there are also a range of attractions, from the Bread Museum and the Vodka History Museum to the fascinating Museum of Russian Toys.

Moscow's Northern Suburbs cover a vast area with a sprinkling of sights. Foremost is the Memorial and Museum of Cosmonautics and VDNK. For anyone interested in the glory days of the space race, and its monumental landmarks and propaganda, a visit is a must, like on this guided tour . In the vicinity are the Ostankino Palace, Moscow's Botanical Gardens and TV Tower. West from here, the Museum of Soviet Arcade Machines will appeal to visitors with an interest in Soviet social history, too.

Outside Moscow there's scope for day-excursions to the Trinity Monastery of St Sergei, the Abramtsevo artists' colony, Tchaikovsky's house in Kiln, Lenin's estate at Gorki Leninskie, and the battlefield of Borodino, where the battle is re-enacted every September. You can also head out to the village of Aksakovo for a beautiful two-hour troika ride. Further afield, the historic towns of Vladimir and Suzdal are graced by splendid cathedrals and monasteries attesting that they were the seat of a principality when Moscow was merely an encampment. Suzdal is one of the loveliest towns in Russia, and definitely merits an overnight stay. It's also possible to visit the Aviation Museum at Monino air base, en route to Vladimir, if you take the trouble to get permission ahead of time.

This article includes affiliate links; all recommendations are editorially independent.

Top image: Komsomolskaya metro station © Gubin Yury/Shutterstock

While Moscow's Bolshoy Ballet (also spelt "Bolshoi") is going through uncertain times, plagued by infighting and rivalries (not least the recent acid attack on Artistic Director Sergei Filin), few would deny themselves the chance to see this legendary company. During the season, evening performances start at 7pm, and Saturday and Sunday matinees at noon; there are no shows on Monday.

You can see what’s on currently and for a few months ahead on the Bolshoy’s website – although the English version sometimes lags behind the Russian one. The ballet company is usually abroad over summer and sometimes also in the autumn, leaving the junior corps de ballet to entertain visitors – although star dancers are certain to be in Moscow for the opening of the new season in September. For more on Russian ballet visit www.for-ballet-lovers-only.com . For those not interested in ballet but more in the historical aspect of the Bolshoy theatre, take a guided historic tour of the grounds.

If you're more interest in Folk Dances, visit the Kostroma Folk Dance show , the most authentic one in Moscow.

Built as a symbol of gratitude to divinity for having aided the Russians’ defeat of Napoleon in 1812, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour (daily 10am–6pm), opposite the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts at Volkhonka ul. 15, was demolished in 1931 in favour of a monument to socialism. The project was soon abandoned and years later, under Krushev’s rule, the site was turned into the world’s largest public swimming pool. In 1994 the Cathedral was rebuilt and is now a symbol of Moscow’s (and Russia’s) post-Communist religious revival.

Moscow isn’t a city that goes to bed early. Many venues act as a café by day, restaurant in the early evening, and both bar and club at night. This can cover anything from an arthouse café with a spot of live music to a dance warehouse, or a fancy nightclub with a restaurant and casino. Most cater to a certain crowd, whether it’s creative professionals, students, shell-suited "flatheads" or designer-draped models. While formal dress codes are rare, face control (feys kontrol) is widespread. Russians distinguish between “democratic” face control (aimed at keeping out hooligans and bandits), and the kind that favours the rich (never mind how they behave). It’s unwise to rile club security staff, however rude they might be.

There are scores of trendy bars and clubs on Krasny Oktyabr, a former chocolate factory building located across the river from Kropotkinskaya and now home to some of Moscow’s hippest nightlife.

Learn how to walk, talk, drink and party like a Russian on a small group with Russian spirits.

Moscow's gastronomic scene has improved enormously over the last five years, with hundreds of new cafés and restaurants offering all kinds of cuisine and surroundings, aimed at anyone with a disposable income – from mega-rich New Russians and expense-account expatriates to fashion-conscious wealthy teenagers.

For cheap eats head to a canteen, where you can compile a tray of dishes smorgasbord-style. Take advantage of the great-value business lunches offered by cafés and restaurants during the week between noon and 4pm.

For well over a century, Moscow has been one of the world’s great centres of classical music, opera and ballet, most famously represented by the Bolshoy Theatre but also by its orchestras and choirs. Theatre can be tricky for non-Russian speakers though circus and puppetry surpass the language barrier. Moscow’s film industry and annual international film festival dwarf St Petersburg’s, but at other times most cinemas screen Hollywood blockbusters.

All this can be surprisingly good value, provided you ask for the cheapest ticket available ( samiy deshoviy bilyet ).

Gorky Park on ul. Krymskiy Val 9 (R100; Park Kultury) is a large park occupying an area of over 700 acres along the river. In the winter the frozen-over paths become one of the city’s largest ice rinks, while in the summer Muscovites stroll the area savouring an ice cream.

Admirers of Bulgakov, Chekhov, Gorky and Tolstoy will find their former homes preserved as museums. Anton Chekhov lived at Sadovaya-Kudrinskaya ul. 6, in what is now the Chekhov House-Museum (Tues, Thurs & Sat 11am–6pm, Wed & Fri 2–8pm; R100, student R60; Barrikadnaya), containing humble personal effects, while the Gorky House-Museum (Wed–Sun 11am–6pm, closed last Thurs of the month; free; Arbatskaya) on the corner of Povarskaya ulitsa and ulitsa Spiridonovka is worth seeing purely for its raspberry-pink Art Nouveau decor. Leo Tolstoy admirers should head to the wonderfully preserved Tolstoy Memorial Estate on ul. Lva Tolstogo 21 (Tues, Wed & Fri 10am–6pm, Thurs 1–9pm, Sat & Sun 11am–6pm; R200, student R60; Park Kultury) where the Tolstoy family lived after moving to Moscow from their country estate in 1881, and where the novelist wrote War and Peace . The Bulgakov Museum at Bolshaya Sadovaya ul. 10 (Sun–Thurs 1–11pm, Fri & Sat until 1am; free; t 495/970-0619; Mayakovskaya), is the house where the novelist lived from 1921 to 1924. There are nightly tours (1–6am; R550; phone a week in advance for tour in English).

The Museum of Modern History at Tverskaya ul. 21 (Tues, Wed, Fri 10am–6pm, Thurs & Sat 11am–7pm, Sun 10am–5pm, closed last Fri of the month; R100; Tverskaya) brings the Communist past alive with striking displays of Soviet propaganda posters, photographs and state gifts, although there’s a frustrating lack of English translation.

Opposite the entrance to Gorky Park at Krymskiy Val 10, the New Tretyakov Gallery (Tues–Sun 10am–7.30pm; R360, student R220; Park Kultury) takes a breakneck gallop through twentieth-century Russian art, from the avant-garde of the 1910–1920s to contemporary artists. Full and illuminating commentary in English is a bonus.

A cluster of shining domes above a fortified rampart belongs to the lovely Novodevichiy Convent (daily 10am–5pm; closed Tues & last Mon of month; R150; Sportivnaya), founded by Ivan the Terrible in 1524. At its heart stands the white Cathedral of the Virgin of Smolensk. In its cemetery lie numerous famous writers, musicians and artists, including Gogol, Chekhov, Stanislavsky, Bulgakov and Shostakovich.

One of Moscow’s most exclusive neighbourhoods, Patriarch’s Ponds is a pleasant spot (there’s actually just one pond) for a summer stroll or an ice-skate on its frozen waters in the depths of winter. The area is also known for being the location of the opening scene of Mikhail Bulgakov’s magical realist novel The Master and Margarita .

Founded in 1898 in honour of the famous Russian poet, the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts at Volkhonka ul. 12 (Tues–Sun 10am–7pm; R150–300, separate fee for Impressionist wing; Kropotkinskaya) holds a hefty collection of European paintings , from Italian High Renaissance works to Rembrandt, and an outstanding display of Impressionist works.

Get the city grit out of your skin at the exquisitely elaborate Sandunovsky baths (Neglinnaya ul. 14 bldg 3–7 w www.sanduny.ru ; Teatralnaya), patronized by Muscovites since 1896. Join Russian businessmen and socialites in the banya , a wooden hut heated with a furnace, where you are invited to sweat out impurities, get beaten energetically with birch twigs, and finally plunge into ice-cold water. Men’s and women’s baths are separate, with the women’s section more like a modern spa. A three-hour session costs R1000. Daily 8am–10pm.

Founded in 1892 by the financier Pavel Tretyakov, the Tretyakov Gallery at Lavrushinskiy per. 10 (Tues–Sun 10am–7.30pm; R360, student R220; Tretyakovskaya) displays an outstanding collection of pre-Revolutionary Russian art. Russian icons are magnificently displayed, and the exhibition continues through to the late nineteenth century, with the politically charged canvases of the iconic realist Ilya Repin and the Impressionist portraits of Valentin Serov, including The Girl with Peaches , one of the gallery’s masterpieces.

To see Soviet triumphalism at its most prolific, visit the Exhibition of Economic Achievements, or VDNKh (Prospekt Mira; VDNK/Prospekt Mira), with its statue upon statue of ordinary workers in heroic poses. Adding to the scene is the permanent trade-fair-cum-shopping-centre housed in the grandiose Stalinist architecture of the All-Union Agricultural Exhibition of 1939, and the People’s Friendship Fountain, flanked by Soviet maidens, each symbolizing a Soviet republic. One of the most hubristic Soviet monuments ever built is the Space Obelisk , which bears witness to Soviet designs on the stratosphere. Unveiled in 1964 – three years after Gagarin orbited the earth – it’s a sculpture of a rocket blasting nearly 100m into the sky on a plume of energy clad in shining titanium. Moscow’s giant Ferris wheel, small amusement park and numerous food vendors help to create a fairground-like atmosphere. For a fantastic view over the VDNK, take the lift to the 25th floor of Hotel Cosmos across Prospekt Mira.

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First Class: An Introduction to Travel and Tourism (The Travel Professional) Paperback

• Language English
• Publisher Glencoe/McGraw-Hill Post Secondary
• Dimensions 8.75 x 0.75 x 11 inches
• ISBN-10 0028013840
• ISBN-13 978-0028013848
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Product details

• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0028013840
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0028013848
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.82 pounds
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 8.75 x 0.75 x 11 inches
• #31,641 in Travelogues & Travel Essays
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About the author

Dennis l. foster.

Dennis Foster is the author of 24 nonfiction books, 30 textbooks, five novels, and a collection of poems. Eleven of his books have been translated into five different languages. His published volumes include two bestsellers and seven featured book club selections. His artwork has been exhibited in museums and galleries across the U.S. His photography has appeared in numerous books and magazines. He has received two honorary doctorate degrees for his writing and was cited by the United Nations Environment Program.

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This new, private caribbean resort comes with nantucket pedigree.

Even on a stormy day, Lovango , a small semi-private island resort in the US Virgin Islands, is beautiful. I arrived on the last rainy day in a week of rainy days. Picture-perfect tropical weather would come later, but the rain created colorful first impressions of deep greens and vibrant flowers.

Listening to the rain on the jungle canopy, I spent the afternoon drinking coffee in a low-slung chair on the porch of my private “tree house.”

In fact, the wooden cabin was tucked into the hillside, looking down at cerulean waves breaking on the private beach and Congo Cay, a restricted and undeveloped island bird sanctuary across the channel. I felt like I was the only person on the island.

Privacy was one of the big draws for the Snider family, Lovango’s owners and operators. Part of Little Gem Resorts, the Snider portfolio includes the Nantucket Hotel & Resort and the Winnetu Oceanside Resort in Martha’s Vineyard. Here, they’ve created an increasingly rare no-passport-necessary Caribbean sanctuary contrasting with the hulking cruise ships docked in nearby St. Thomas and the crowded beaches of St. John.

Lovango is the first newly built hotel in the US Virgin Islands in over 20 years and was designed to blend into the landscape, maximizing privacy while offering excellent and eco-friendly accommodations in varying levels of luxury.

From glamping tree houses to the private three-bedroom villa, the architecture blends brutalism with island whimsy. Poured-concrete rainfall showers, both indoor and outdoor, offer a modernist counterpoint to the soft wooden touches that allow the lodgings to disappear into the foliage.

The 20-room (and growing) resort — it debuted two new one-bedroom cottages this year — sits on 55 acres, roughly half the island.

It has two restaurants and a hilltop breakfast service, a bar, a private guest-only infinity pool overlooking the beach club, a group of small boutique shops, two famous snorkeling locations, hiking trails for those who want to walk and transportation for those who don’t. There are scuba charters, day trips to the British Virgin Islands and complimentary ferry service to and from nearby St. Thomas and St. John, should you feel trapped.

The Sniders have a laudable focus on sustainability that touches all parts of their operation. Everything from the plumbing to the sunscreen is designed to keep the island’s ecosystem healthy and restore inherited damage to the reefs.

They have also entered into a unique long-term partnership with Reef Response, a task force from the University of the Virgin Islands focused on studying resilience within reefs and rebuilding with climate change-resistant corals that encourage biodiversity. The project director, Dr. Marilyn Brandt, said that if things go well, Lovango’s reefs will be on track to be self-sustaining in just a few years.

Building in an eco-friendly manner on an isolated island is a Herculean effort and Matt Snider has spent the better part of four years working to build the relaxed luxury destination it is today.

“Sustainability is at the heart of the Virgin Islands,” he explained. “We’ve painstakingly re-permitted everything to be in tune with the environment. The coral restoration is a part of that. It’s a no-brainer for us and the right way to do business. It even shows us that we can do better in Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.”

But the synergy between their northeastern properties and the Caribbean is stronger than just eco-consciousness; many staff members work across Little Gem’s properties, offering familiar faces to repeat guests.

What comes out of the pot is a resort that by its very nature isn’t five-star everything. That’s not the point. The tree houses and glamping tents offer low-key access to slow tourism, while the new cottages and villas are more traditional high-end hideaways. The result is a new type of resort built for the 21st century (from $795).

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Upgrading your flight for the first time? Here's how to avoid being the most annoying person in first and business classes.

• Travel expert Gilbert Ott has tips for your first flight in a premium cabin.
• To blend in with seasoned first-class passengers, don't ask if everything is free.
• Don't hover over passengers, especially those in seats with doors.

With welcome gifts, multi-course meals, and private seats made for lounging, who wouldn't want to fly in premium cabins ?

Business and first-class flight tickets aren't cheap. But credit card and airline rewards programs have made the luxurious cabins accessible for those accumulating points and miles.

If you're upgrading a flight for the first time, Gilbert Ott has a few tips for those who want to blend in with the first-class crowd and avoid annoying more seasoned premium passengers.

From airport lounge manners to TSA PreCheck etiquette , the air travel expert who flies an estimated 200,000 miles a year shares tips to help other passengers have better experiences.

Don't ask if everything is free in first class.

"I think the etiquette is that first class is about indulgence," Ott told Business Insider, adding that it's best not to ask flight attendants if each bonus offering is free because everything is complimentary, from meals to sparkling wine.

He added that there's nothing wrong with "filling your boots" to make the most of the perks.

Don't expect too much in business class.

While first-class passengers often get personalized experiences where they're greeted by name, business-class passengers shouldn't expect the same level of attention.

"Business class is about efficiency. It's a comfortable seat where you can sleep or work," Ott said.

But staff members serve dozens of people in business class, whereas first-class cabins typically seat less than 10 passengers, he added.

"There's a lot of work that goes into all those meals and drinks," Ott said. "So if you're looking for an over-the-top experience, then first class is where you can expect staff to make the flight awesome. And that's what you're paying for."

Don't hover over passengers in doored seats.

Some business and first-class cabins have added doors to each seat to give passengers more privacy. Ott said you shouldn't infringe on another traveler's space to fetch items from overhead bins .

"Don't awkwardly hover over the person because the whole idea of doors is that people can't look in on you," Ott said. "So when you wake up and someone is looking over your space, it's odd."

Don't take up too much overhead bin space.

BI previously reported that premium cabin passengers are often entitled to overhead bin space , and according to Ott, the bins are usually not too crowded. But that doesn't mean you should bring extra bags and put them wherever you want, as Ott has seen many passengers do.

Instead, Ott suggests keeping your limited belongings in the space above your seat.

• Main content

The dos and don'ts of visiting Russia for the first time

Sep 24, 2021 • 6 min read

These top tips can help you make the most of your visit to Russia © MarinaDa / Shutterstock

The world’s largest country beguiles and fascinates with its world-class art, epic landscapes and multifaceted society. You may also find that perseverance  and a sense of humour will go a long way in enriching your first-time Russian travel experience. From the things you absolutely must do before you travel to the things we recommend that you steer clear of once you're there, here are some top tips for avoiding common pitfalls when visiting  Russia .

DO apply for a visa early and register on arrival

Visas must be applied for in advance by all visitors. How you do that varies depending on your nationality and where in Russia you are traveling to. Travelers from many countries, including the UK and US, need to apply in-person at an embassy or consulate and provide biometric data. An e-visa may be an option for passport-holders from 52 countries, which include many EU travelers, as well as those from China, India, Japan, Singapore, and some Middle Eastern countries. However these are temporarily suspended due to COVID-19.  Check with your local Russian embassy or consulate for confirmation, or get up-to-date information here . 

You can apply at the last moment, but it may cost you a fortune. Start the application process at least a month before your trip and consider using a specialist travel agency to arrange visas and make key transport bookings. Every visitor to Russia should have their visa registered within seven days of arrival, excluding weekends and public holidays. The obligation to register is with your hotel or hostel, or landlord, friend or family if you’re staying in a private residence. Also keep in mind that your visa entry and exit dates will be written according to European calendar convention (day/month/year) as opposed to the American style, so don't get mixed up or over-stay your visa. 

DO check the events calendar

During major holidays – the first week in January (between New Year’s Day and Orthodox Christmas) and the first week or two of May (around Labour Day, or May Day, and Victory Day) – Moscow and St Petersburg empty out. Despite this, both cities are festive during these times, with parades, concerts and other events, but museums and other institutions may have shortened hours or be shut altogether. May to September is the best time to visit St Petersburg but mid-June is when the city is irresistible, with the White Nights revelry at its peak.

DO dress up for a night out

We can’t guarantee you’ll make it past Moscow’s "face control" (the term comes from clubs trying to "save face" by only letting in patrons who meet their image standards) but you can better your chances of getting in to the top clubs by making a sartorial effort – high heels and skirts for women, all black for men. Russians also make an effort when they go to the theater or a posh restaurant – you should do likewise to fit in.

DO learn the Cyrillic alphabet

Making an effort to familiarize yourself with the Cyrillic alphabet repays tenfold. It will help you decode street and metro signs, maps, timetables and menus, even if you don't know many Russian phrases. While digital tools like the Russian Metro app  and Google Translate make it easier than ever to visit countries where you don't speak or read the language, brushing up beforehand can reduce frustration and endear you to the locals.

Rideshare options such as Taxovichkoff and Yandex Taxi upended the taxi industry in Russia as much as anywhere else. That means less pressure to know the Russian phrases you'd need to hails cabs in the streets, but it still is wise to learn key phrases in case there's a navigation mixup, like the address of your hotel or intersection of your short-term apartment rental. 

DO expect to spend your money

Moscow is one of the most expensive cities in the world and St Petersburg is not a cheap destination either; wallet-thinning shock is common at many restaurants and hotels. As a foreigner you’ll also find yourself paying more than a Russian for some museums – often as much as 10 times the price Russians pay. If you’re a student, flashing your ID can save you money at museums and other institutions.

You can save on dining out a few different ways. Many restaurants offer "business lunches" that are great value and very filling. Several years ago the trend for " anti-cafes " cropped up in larger Russian cities, and there are still a few where you pay by the minute for coffee, biscuits, and a little wi-fi time. 

Food markets  that blend farmers markets and food halls are popular, and are often found in architecturally significant vintage buildings. You can shop for ingredients to cook yourself or sample cuisines from around the world from dozens of  vendor stalls. Many food markets are less expensive than sit-down restaurants and let you try a wider variety of local and international dishes. 

DON’T ask for a mixer with your vodka

Few traditions in Russia are as sacrosanct as the drinking of vodka , and any foreign notions of drinking it with orange juice or tonic are anathema to your average Russian. If you need something to wash it down, you can chase it with a lemon, a pickle or, perhaps, a separate glass of water. Vodka is drunk in swift shots, not sipped. It’s traditional (and good sense) to eat a little something after each shot, so order some vodka snacks too.

DON’T be disrespectful in a church

Working churches are open to everyone, but as a visitor you should take care not to disturb any devotions or offend sensibilities. There's no face control, but women should cover their heads and bare shoulders when entering a church. In some monasteries and churches it’s also required for a woman to wear a skirt – wraps are usually available at the door. Men should remove their hats in church and not wear shorts.

DON’T take photos of government buildings

Be very careful about photographing stations, official-looking buildings and any type of military-security structure – if in doubt, don’t snap! Travelers have been arrested and fined for such innocent behaviour.

DON’T be surprised if you’re stopped by the police

Although new laws were passed in 2011 that ostensibly reconfigured Russia's police and their interactions with the public, it's still wise to carry a photocopy of your passport, visa and registration – not to mention travel documents that indicate how and when you'll return home – and present them when an officer demands to see your documents. You may also see special tourist police near major attractions like the Red Square , who have special training and language skills to assist travelers.

If you're issued a fine, Russian authorities might expect an "unofficial payment" to expedite their service on the spot, as opposed to handling the matter later at the station. Either way, always ask for an official receipt, and consider carrying the phone number for your country's embassy in case matters get more complicated. 

You might also like: How to spend a perfect weekend in Moscow    How to plan and pack for the Trans-Siberian Railway    Beyond the Trans-Siberian: travelling Russia's unexplored northwest by train   

This article was originally published in August 2009.

This article was first published Oct 30, 2019 and updated Sep 24, 2021.

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G’day Australia to be held in Perth/Boorloo in 2024

Perth, Western Australia © Tourism Australia

Media release

One of Tourism Australia’s signature events, G’day Australia, will be held in Perth/Boorloo later this year, bringing around 300 travel agents from across the world to Australia to experience our nation’s world-class tourism offerings first-hand and meet with Australian tourism providers.

Qualified Aussie Specialist agents, who have completed Tourism Australia’s engaging online training program, will take part in G’day Australia which will be held at Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre from Sunday, 13 October to Friday, 18 October 2024.

Tourism Australia Managing Director, Phillipa Harrison, said the Aussie Specialists will see what the nation has to offer as a destination through participation in the familiarisation visits around the country, and meet tourism operators at the Perth workshop.

“Our Aussie Specialists already know so much about our country from participating in the Aussie Specialist Program, but we believe it is really important to not just tell them how incredible Australia is -but show them - and that’s what G’day Australia is all about,” Ms Harrison said.

“About half of the agents we bring to Australia for the event have never visited before, and those who have been before will be visiting a different part of the country, so they can experience first-hand why we say: ‘There is nothing like Australia’ for a holiday.”

“We know from when we have held this event in the past, that 100 per cent of the agents have walked away saying they intend to sell more of Australia as a result of attending, which is more important than ever, as we get our visitor economy back on a path of sustainable growth.”

Tourism Western Australia Managing Director, Carolyn Turnbull, said: “Western Australia truly is the Dream State, with natural wonders, supernatural contrasts of colour and texture, and rare experiences that have to be seen to be believed – which is why it's vital that Aussie Specialist Agents from our key global markets have the opportunity to visit and experience our incredible tourism offerings for themselves.

“We look forward to welcoming Aussie Specialist Agents and Tourism Australia representatives to the state as part of G’day Australia and we cannot wait to show them our most iconic tourism destinations and experiences.

“We know that everyone who visits Western Australia as part of G’day Australia forum will leave feeling inspired and ready to sell our state to their clients and drive even more visitors to Western Australia.”

G'day Australia provides an invaluable opportunity for around 100 Australian sellers to showcase their product to qualified Aussie Specialist travel agents from Asia and New Zealand to North America, Europe and the UK.

With support from State and Territory Organisation representatives, agents will also have the chance to participate in a pre or post-event familiarisation program where they can experience for themselves the incredible tourism products on offer right around Australia

G’day Australia 2024 will be delivered by Tourism Australia in partnership with Tourism Western Australia.

About the Aussie Specialist Program

The Aussie Specialist Program is Tourism Australia’s global frontline travel seller training program, run in cooperation with Australia’s State and Territory Tourism Organisations. This award-winning program provides international travel sellers the knowledge and skills to sell Australia more effectively. There are currently over 30,000 qualified Aussie Specialists around the world. 

For media enquiries, contact: Beau Mitchem M: +61 413 254 708 E:  [email protected]

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Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

*Disclaimer:  The information on this website is presented in good faith and on the basis that Tourism Australia, nor their agents or employees, are liable (whether by reason of error, omission, negligence, lack of care or otherwise) to any person for any damage or loss whatsoever which has occurred or may occur in relation to that person taking or not taking (as the case may be) action in respect of any statement, information or advice given in this website. Tourism Australia wishes to advise people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent that this website may contain images of persons now deceased.