I am a huge proponent of flying Business/First Class. Unless there are absolutely no other  options, I would prefer to never fly economy again. #Bougieandproud. As the airline industry  increasingly scales back amenities such as in-flight meals and leg space, (as well as itemizing  every single pound of luggage you bring), more and more, it seems like Business/First class  looks increasingly attractive. (In other words, Steve Harvey was right!)  

The obvious con? Clearly, the price. However, there’s a couple of hacks you can use without  making your wallet cry:  

1. You can bid for an upgrade. In some cases, after you book your ticket, you can bid in  an auction for a seat. I’ve done this a few times, and I’ve upgraded for as little as $70!  2. Last minute upgrade. Wait until about a week before the trip. Many airlines often cut  prices to fill unsold seats, so by this time, they are often available at a steal.  3. Points/Miles. Some credit cards/airlines offer loyalty points you can redeem towards the  fare.  

The biggest advantage of flying Business/First is EASE. For example, I’m #TeamOverpack.  Most Business/First fares allow for at least 30kg (70 lbs), or more for luggage. I love shopping  and bringing gifts back home when I travel, so not having to worry about whether I’m going to  

wear a few extra layers of clothing from my suitcase to avoid fees is an immediate stress  release! #IYKYK  

• Check in time: I hate rushing. Business check-in usually requires less time. I’ve gotten  to the airport 80 minutes before an international flight, and still made through with time to  spare *NOTE: EVERY airport ain’t created the same. Do not try this for example at  ATL or LAX. You WILL be watching your flight take off from outside the club for  sure.*  
• Priority Security and Boarding: Usually the queues for Business/First class check  in/immigration are much shorter, especially for international flights. So, no standing  around in line waiting for 1-2 hrs to get your passport checked!  
• Lounges: Listen; being able to stretch out on a chaise, drink a glass of champagne, or  have an entire private room for yourself before or between flights is wonderful. Some  Business/First Lounges even offer free massages.  

I recently had the opportunity to visit Al Safwa First Class Lounge for Qatar Airways. It  did NOT disappoint. It has its own check-in gate and provides direct shuttles to your gate. So,  no sprinting across the airport trying to slide before they close the cabin. Here you can have a  nice glass of Rose, whilst waiting for your flight taxi to arrive.  

There were also actual hotel rooms available inside. The layout was much like a museum with  paintings and figurines dotting the long hallways. A gorgeous waterfall located in the center of  the lounge added an air of calm and peace to the already comforting atmosphere. The design  was an ode to Qatari culture and their incredible focus on architectural design. 

• Comfort: I’m a long-legged lady, being able to stretch out on a GODSEND. Especially  on longer flights. I recently joined the 40 and over club, so my circulation and joints thank  me every time I descend.  
• Food: I LOVE food. This is my opus. Normally business class gives very much  restaurant with the food choices. Being able to enjoy lamb chops, a juicy sirloin, caviar,  or a full plate of prawns, with a tiramisu for dessert brings so much joy to my day. Also,  the wine options, especially on long flights are usually a decent range.  
• Unexpected perks: Networking at 35,000 feet: Need a business funded? Looking for  an investor? Or just plain old need life advice? THEE CONVERSATION.  Listennnnnnnnn. This is probably my second favorite aspect of flying Business/First!  You really get your weight in gold through simply, talking!  
• Oftentimes, especially frequent Business/First fliers, are well traveled. Many are  fellow entrepreneurs. I use these flights as an opportunity to further my network and  industry knowledge. I often meet many long-term business owners, and just through  conversation, I have been left with incredible professional gems of advice that I still use

As noted earlier, I’ve flown business on a number of airlines, (Singapore, Oman, KLM,  Jordan, Egypt, FlyDubai, Vistara, etc etc) So far, Qatar Airways definitely takes the W. (I haven’t  had the chance to do Emirates Business/First yet, and I heard that it’s the best product on the  market. Singapore was definitely a close second to Qatar, so we will see.) Below is my  experience for my first time with Qatar Airways Business Class. (Aka: The Q Suites!)  

Customer service: 10/10. Hands down the sweetest crew. The reason for my travel was that I  was transporting my mother’s remains for burial. Once the crew learned that I was the  passenger flying with remains, I was immediately moved to a larger, central suite so that my  partner and I could be next to each other. They didn’t have to do that, and it was super  appreciated. They also checked in frequently, often leaving warm notes and words of  encouragement. 

Food: 9/10. Decent selections and good portions. The only reason why it didn’t get 10/10 is due  to the tea selections. (Singapore definitely tops the list here. They legit had 40 tea selections.)  

Dranks: 10/10 mainly because of the unlimited bubbly. 

**For reference:  

Aircraft: Airbus 350  

Flight: WV 667/WV 6045 MCT-DOH-IAD 

 All in all, though it may be a pretty penny, with Business/ First Class what you will get in  convenience and peace, it is well worth the price of admission! 

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