Not so bad for a low cost carrier.  On board movie, Casino Royale, and all meals for only $5.  Beside the fact that I had two kids sitting in the row behind me kicking the seat infront of them and one kid correcting the others grammar for 5 hours, it was quite an enjoyable journey.  Must've been the company.  thanks Ruari

I bought an economy class ticket to travel South African Airways from Johannesburg, South Africa to Washington, USA and upgraded using some of my 100,000 airmiles that I accumulated over the years.  All I can say is that business class rocks!!!  Priority Check-in so you don't have to wait in the long SAA queues at OR Tambo airport.  Extra luggage capacity so no issues regarding overweight, but only one boarding pass.  Why?  I have been flagged for a security check in the US.  Damn...

 

After going through passport control, we chilled out at the business class lounge.  Free food, nice sofas and peace and quiet.  Of course, as this was my first time, I try to fit in and pretend like I belong.  Man, that was the toughest part.  Getting in line at the gates to board the plane, and you're treated like an average Joe.  The entire capacity of the plane waiting in line to board the A340-600 airbus.  The door is getting closer and the anticipation is killing me.  Boarding the plane, and the air hostess points you to the LEFT of the door.  Bye bye everbody - its time to live it up.

 

I get to my seat and WoW, if there ever was a moment that needed to be surrounded by sparkly lights, this had to be it.  A comfortable chair which has about 14 buttons to adjust the seat - including a massage function.  This was going to be one cool journey.  Juice on entry, air hostess taking your jacket away to hang in the closet...hmmm - no wonder these seats cost more than double an economy seat.  After take off, I just had to press all the buttons to see what each one does.  The best position : 108 degree flat bed. 

Meal time and table clothe dorns your table, salt and pepper shakers, a tray of mini rolled-up butter.  First starters, then main meal followed by desserts.  Again, no wonder these seats cost more than double an economy seat.  We land in Washington's Dulles Airport.  The same airport from Die Hard 2.  Well, after an incredible 16 hours of flying in a metal tube, I feel as fresh as a daisy.  No wonder these seats cost more than double of an economy seat.