The 3 Most Expensive Plane Tickets in the World
You've heard it before: it's not the destination that matters, but the journey. It's a lovely sentiment, but for the average passenger, the sooner they can get off that plane and out of the airport, the better.
Let's be honest. Airplanes can be cramped, loud, and woefully lacking in suitable dining options. But for those with a little extra change in their pocket, flying offers a completely different experience. Suddenly it can be comfortable, relaxing, delicious.
Those who routinely do business on the other side of the world are probably aware of how important comfort is on flights lasting 16 hours or more. That's why a select few airlines with the longest flights in the world offer luxury class flying so extravagant that the cost of a single trip could put most people through university or buy them a new car.
Here are three of the most insane plane tickets you wish you could buy:
Singapore Airlines, New York-Singapore, Suites Class - C$24,500 round trip
Dom Perignon, Givenchy upholstery, double beds, and 5 course meals? Sign me up. The New York to Singapore flight lasts 21 - 24 hours each way with a layover in Frankfurt. By all accounts, this flight is one of the best experiences a person could have at 40,000 feet. Or anywhere, really.
Qantas Airways, Melbourne-Los Angeles, First Class - C$26,625 round trip
One of the most overlooked features of these extravagant plane tickets is that the VIP treatment begins before you're even on the plane. First class passengers on the 16-hour flight between sunny California and the land "down under" are treated to an exclusive lounge with a menu created by famous Australian chef Neil Perry. Once you're on the plane you can kick back in your suite and enjoy an eight course tasting menu and fine wines complete with access to a sommelier for suggestions.
Etihad Airways, New York-Abu Dhabi, "The Residence" - C$85,000 round trip
You can do a lot of cool things with $85,000. Buy a fancy new Tesla car. Purchase a new house. Feed a struggling family for a couple of years. You can also get yourself the most ridiculous plane ticket in the world. Say goodbye to simply having a seat on an airplane. Passengers who check into The Residence on Etihad's A380 enjoy a three-room hotel suite complete with flat screen television, an appropriately stocked drinks refrigerator, a double bed complete with Egyptian cotton linens, and an ensuite bathroom. Oh, and you have your own butler, chauffeur, and an inflight gourmet chef, ready to prepare any meal you want.
Not a bad way to spend 14 hours, right?
Whether you're more about jet-setting in luxury or travelling as frugally as humanly possible, there's one thing everyone should remember to buy: travel insurance. Because medical emergencies don't care how much cash you've got. Safe travels, everyone!