For many North Americans, getting to their European port of embarkation can be a true ordeal. Multi-connection flights that are punctuated by too-short or too-long layovers can stress even the most ardent travelers. This, of course, comes on top of the realization that you’ll spend ten-plus hours crammed into Economy Class, as airlines ratchet seat pitch down in an effort to improve operating costs.
North American newcomer A-ROSA has a different idea, and it’s one that is likely to disappear quickly: For new bookings made between now and February 28, the line is offering upgrades to Business Class for just $799 per person, each direction when booking a French Balcony (Category C to F) stateroom aboard one of A-ROSA’s All-Inclusive river cruises.
If you live in (or near) the gateway cities of New York, Toronto, Dallas, Los Angeles, Seattle, Miami, Boston, Atlanta, Denver, Chicago or Washington, DC, you can take advantage of this offer.
Here’s why this is such a cool promotion: If you’ve looked at the cost of business class airfares on any major North American or European carrier lately, you’ll know that the fares are through the stratosphere.
They’re not just expensive; they’re downright unaffordable — unless you’ve got cash to burn or a frequent-flier account that looks like you’ve won the lottery. So to be able to upgrade to Business for a fraction of the cost places that luxury in the realm of possibility for many of us who are looking to make their vacations truly memorable.
Business Class is more than just additional leg-room and lie-flat seats — though don’t discount those. If, like us, you have trouble sleeping on airplanes, a lie-flat seat can be an absolute lifesaver. But the best reason to fly Business these days is for the comfort and luxury.
Everything about Business Class on most major airlines is designed to be pampering. On Lufthansa flights, we’ve been offered real, printed menus that cycle every three months and come complete with a choice of starters, main courses, desserts, wines, cognacs and champagnes.
Speaking of the latter, you’ll barely be seated before being served a glass of bubbly. Back in economy, the all-out battle for the overhead luggage space will just be heating up by the time you take your first sip.
And you’ll say to yourself: This is the way to go.
New to the North American market, A-ROSA has been offering river cruises in Europe for Europeans since 2000. Starting this year, the line will offer all-inclusive itineraries geared exclusively for the North American market, with complimentary roundtrip-airfare included from most gateways.
A-ROSA ships even include some non-standard amenities, like larger-than-average Spas, and whirlpool tubs or heated swimming pools.
We’ve got a complete company and fleet profile of A-ROSA on the way here on River Cruise Advisor – Stay Tuned.
