Our drive from Denver to Vermejo usually takes about four hours, and it can be pretty exciting.

The route we take often includes a number of great stopping points — Colorado Springs, Great Sand Dunes National Park, and the charming municipality of Trinidad, which has a lovely downtown area.

The scenic drive is often sprinkled with wildlife sightings. We've even seen bears on the road leading into the main Vermejo lodge.

The property has various options for guests, from private cottages to suites in a mansion.

On our first visit, we stayed in the property's stone mansion, Casa Grande. However, our favorite place we've stayed so far has been the Bernal Lake Cabin, which is complete with two suites, a private deck, and incredible lakeside views.

It felt luxurious and cozy with wood walls, a clawfoot tub next to a window, and restored antique finishes and furniture. My husband's favorite part of the cabin was its lakeside location because he could roll out of bed and go fishing before breakfast.

Booking prices can vary widely depending on the time of year, current bundling deals, and the property you choose. On most of our trips, we've spent over $1,700 a night for two of us after lodging taxes and service charges.

Although staying on the property isn't cheap, each booking includes just about anything we could need — three meals a day, snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, and a range of excursions and activities (although some cost extra).

Before our trips, Vermejo ambassadors usually help us arrange our itinerary and schedule our activities of choice.

Included offerings include things like a wildlife safari, bison expedition, and other excursions led by knowledgeable guides.

We've also gone hunting for elk sheds, which are left behind when the adult males shed their antlers every spring, and enjoyed lakeside picnics, where hummingbirds and chipmunks joined us.

One of the best experiences we've tried so far, though, is the high-country horseback ride. The views have taken our breath away and feel so majestic that even a Disney Imagineer couldn't replicate them.

My husband also loves taking part in non-scheduled activities on the property, like hiking or fly-fishing at one of Vermejo's 19 fishable lakes.

I like going to the on-site spa, which costs extra but is well worth visiting.

One of our favorite parts of vacationing in Vermejo is just being on the sprawling nature reserve, which is over 550,000 acres.

We never know what we'll see during our activities. Over the years, we've spotted bison, pronghorn, elk, bobcats, eagles, and wild horses.

Vermejo guests have three meals a day at the main dining room included in their rate — plus, there are other culinary experiences available on the property.

For example, the Merrick Fish Fry is a fun, weekly cookout for guests in the summer, and those staying in the Bernal Lake Cabin have nightly dinners prepared by a private chef included in their stay.

For an extra fee, visitors can even book an afternoon high tea or private dinner.

No matter where or what we've eaten on the property, we've been very impressed. I love that meals use fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

We're glad we discovered this North American gem that combines access to wildlife and nature conservation with luxury hospitality.

Although it's certainly not cheap and isn't a substitute for an African safari, a trip to Vermejo scratches our itch to enjoy wildlife. Plus, a stay here is far more economical and way closer to home.

This spring, we look forward to bringing our entire family to the resort to show them the beauty they can find in their own North American backyard.

Before I found seat 1A on the Boeing 787-9 aircraft, I was already being treated like royalty. 

One flight attendant was pouring me a glass of sparkling wine. Another one was helping lift my carry-on bag into the overhead bins. A third soon followed to introduce herself and welcome me on the Air New Zealand flight. 

If those first few minutes were any indicator of how the rest of my ride would go, I knew I was in for a glamorous time. 

I also knew that business-class passengers around me had likely dropped around $6,000 for their ticket, which was the flight cost in 2022. (Business Insider received a media rate for a round-trip flight.)

As of May 2025, the airline has redesigned its business-class cabin, and round-trip flights from Los Angeles start at $7,000.

Before this flight, I'd never spent more than $1,400 on a plane ticket. Most of my vacations involve free campsites and nights spent in a $20 tent I bought off Facebook Marketplace. 

I appreciated the indulgent flight — years later, I'm still thinking about the chocolate tart served for dessert.

Even after all the perks, I'm convinced flying business class isn't worth the splurge. 

Every part of the 12-hour flight was filled with luxury.

I was handed a warm towel before a three-course dinner. I received a turndown service, and flight attendants converted my seat into a lie-flat bed. I slept better than I had on any flight before and woke up to a fruit smoothie and warm coffee.

Even with those perks, it was hard to ignore that the flight was the same 12 hours as it was in coach.

No amount of wine could distract me from the fact that I was still confined to a tight space. No number of free toiletries could make me forget I was about to spend days jet-lagged. 

Now, if my business-class ticket came with turbo speed, perhaps I'd think twice about the cost. 

When it comes to traveling, I'm typically willing to sacrifice comfort for the experience. I'd rather pay money to go skydiving or bungee jumping than stay in a five-star hotel.

And $6,000 could fund a lot of life experiences. The cost of my business-class seat on the same route could buy another vacation, pay for multiple months of rent, or be used as a down payment on a new car that could take me on adventures across the US. 

I could also replicate my entire 21-day trip to New Zealand and Australia for less than the cost of a round-trip ticket to New Zealand. 

While I loved the business-class experience, I'd trade it in a heartbeat to go diving in the Great Barrier Reef again, stay in more magical tiny homes, and continue exploring the two epic countries. 

I've probably reiterated the phrase dozens of times. To a degree, I stand by the concept that life is often about the journey. 

I've embarked on plenty of road trips where the best memories happened in the passenger seat — not the destinations we were driving to. 

But when I look at the highlights of past trips, plane rides never stand out.

I think that's because the entire experience still has challenges regardless of your cabin class. Between possible delays, dry air, cabin pressure, limited space, and potential jet lag, I've never been too eager to board a plane.

I love the rush when the plane lifts off the ground, and I savor the views and conversations with strangers on each flight.

But my excitement is more about where I'm going. It's not about being cramped on a plane. 

Before my trip, I knew that flying was one of the more carbon-intensive transportation options. In 2023, aviation made up about 2.5% of global energy-related carbon emissions.

Two months after my business-class flight, I chatted with sustainability experts about how to make vacations more sustainable. They told me that a large part of a vacation's carbon footprint will likely come from the flight, and if I do need to fly to my destination, it's more responsible to sit in economy class. 

A business-class seat takes up significantly more space on a plane, which means fewer passengers can fit onto the aircraft. And that results in a larger carbon footprint.

For example, a business-class row of seats on Air New Zealand's Boeing 787-9 fits three people. Meanwhile, a row in economy on the same plane fits nine passengers. Those nine people have a much smaller personal carbon footprint than the three sitting in business class. 

Before this trip, I had never had the chance to sit in premium economy, much less business class, so I hadn't considered the different carbon footprints each cabin class has on planes.

As I continue searching for more sustainable ways to travel, like train travel, I'm also booking economy for future flights.

I'm young and able-bodied. While sitting in economy is never a blast, especially on long-haul flights, I am fortunate that I can. Planes aren't designed for everyone.

Flying can be challenging for plus-sized passengers. Planes are also not often a comfortable experience for many people with disabilities. Rebekah Taussig, a wheelchair user, wrote for Time that "flying has always felt disempowering."

Flying — especially in economy class — isn't something everyone has the privilege to do. I'm fortunate that I can relax in an economy seat on a long-haul flight. For me, wanting the luxury of a business-class seat doesn't seem necessary in my current life. 

There are a few circumstances where I'd consider splurging on a premium economy ticket, such as a monumental birthday trip or a honeymoon. But I can't envision an instance where I would pay $6,000 for a regular long-haul, business-class flight.

From the environmental toll to extra time in a destination, I plan to stick with economy class for future flights. 

After receiving quotes from five different agencies, we booked a seven-night excursion through Fair Wind Charters, where we'd sail round trip from the historic city of Split.

We chose a 40-foot catamaran with four bedrooms plus two crew berths and paid extra for our ship to have a captain and skipper on board.

Our catamaran felt sleek, inside and out, with many windows from which we could take in the superb views.

Each of the four bedrooms offered an en-suite bathroom that included a shower. The kitchen felt well-equipped with an oven, a range, tons of refrigerator and freezer space, and an ice machine for drinks.

Rooms were air-conditioned, but only when the boat was docked and connected to electricity. Otherwise, we relied on the breeze coming off of the water.

There was a large dining room table inside and one outside, so we could choose where to eat depending on the weather conditions.

One of the biggest highlights of our private trip was that we had the ability to customize the itinerary.

With advice from the skipper, we charted our own course for the sights and experiences that we wanted. We were able to make adjustments to the itinerary on the fly depending on the weather and our whims.

For example, one night we dined at a lovely terraced restaurant that included moorage for the evening. We enjoyed it so much that instead of exploring a different cove as planned the next day, we decided to swim at the beach nearby and have another meal there.

Our days were spent relaxing and admiring the passing boats, panoramas of natural beauty, and picturesque villages. It was also easy to climb right off of the boat and into the warm, clear water.

Since we were on a smaller ship, we were able to enjoy lesser-traveled areas that bigger crafts don't visit.

Throughout the trip, our captain navigated us to secluded swimming areas and our skipper found calm coves for daily dips in the sea. We even spent one night in a quiet cove on Bisevo, an island with only about a dozen residents.

Although this trip wasn't cheap, I'd say the price felt on par with a small luxury cruise.

Costs for weeklong cruises in the Adriatic I found start at about $1,675 per person (before taxes and other fees). For four people, we would've spent over $6,700 or about $957 a day to split two small staterooms.

In contrast, we paid $1,100 a day for an entire private boat. The size of our yacht felt big for just two couples, too, so we could've shared it with even more people to bring the price per person down.

Unlike a typical cruise, our rental did not include meals. We were responsible for feeding ourselves and our small crew. However, I appreciated that this meant we could eat what we wanted, including local food and wine that we purchased ashore.

If we didn't want to deal with the logistics of this, we could've added a host to our booking for about $1,300. They'd handle grocery shopping, preparing meals, and cleaning dishes.

Overall, we had a dreamy experience. My family loved getting to visit under-the-radar destinations while controlling our own itinerary and having plenty of space on the boat.

The only difficult thing about the trip was occasionally being asked to lend a hand with the ropes, but that's just part of the charm of sailing with a small crew.

Chartered vessels are a great way to take peaceful getaways around the world, and I would absolutely put together another private trip like this with family or friends.

Maybe next time we'll head to the Caribbean.

The 912-foot-long ship was stacked with 17 decks full of staterooms, venues, restaurants, and activities.

Every room felt thoughtfully decorated with sleek furniture, unique sculptures, and multicolored lights.

I noticed design themes throughout the ship. The brand's signature bold red color was always in sight, often contrasted with other bold colors, from pinks and greens to blues and purples. Most spaces also featured iridescent panels, adding a rainbow glow that made me feel coated in luxury.

Exploring the ship felt like wandering through a work of art — or being in a movie about the ultrawealthy. There was no shortage of Instagram-worthy photo ops to take selfies while feeling like a true VIP.

I booked a mid-tier cabin with a sea terrace that cost $5,910. It was a step above a stateroom with just a window and a step below a suite.

As soon as I stepped into the 225-square-foot room, I was blown away by how spacious it felt. Modern furniture matched the design style of the communal decks, and the cabin was full of space-saving hacks.

A sectional couch transformed into a comfy, queen-sized bed. A closet hidden behind an iridescent curtain revealed drawers and empty storage bins.

There were also high-end details that made me feel wrapped in luxury from morning to night, like a rainfall shower head and a tablet for controlling mood lighting, curtains, and TV entertainment.

When booking the cabin, I simply hoped for a wide-open view to stand in front of while feeling the breeze in my face.

It was much more than that.

On the terrace, I found a small table with two chairs and a large, cozy hammock. Spending time in the outdoor space watching sunsets, spotting passing islands, and getting a preview of each port stop before disembarking made the room worth the price.

Virgin Voyages cruises are only for guests who are 18 or older. Since I was traveling with a partner — and I don't have kids — I was excited to lounge on quiet, calm pool decks, dine at relaxing restaurants, and access a range of activities for grown-ups.

And that's exactly what I got.

The ship was packed with indoor and outdoor activities for adults. An indoor game room was full of long tables, board games, and puzzles. An arcade had virtual racing and retro machines, igniting a sense of nostalgia.

Outdoors, there was a deck with two large pools and several plunge pools.

All of these offerings were delightful yet unsurprising to me.

But on a cruise ship with no kids, I never expected to find a playground for adults.

On one of the ship's top decks, I found grown-up-sized swings and seesaws, a foosball table, a basketball court, and a giant chess set. I had so much fun playing like a kid with no child in sight.

Next to the playground was a slew of 1920s-inspired athletic equipment, from a boxing ring and punching bags to benches and bars for strength training.

While I steered clear of the ship's indoor gym because I don't like working out on vacation, I enjoyed kicking and punching boxing bags. It was so unique to the exercise I do at home that I forgot I was working out at all.

Sailing through the Mediterranean, there's a wide range of port stops. We stopped at four, each with standout features that set it apart.

Perhaps the most unique stop was Marina di Carrara, Italy. I took an excursion through a marble mountain range to see quarries where artists like Michelangelo traveled for the finest materials.

But the port that surprised me most was the last — Ibiza.

I expected nothing but a nightclub scene from the "party capital of the world," so I was amazed by the city's vibrant buildings and ocean views while wandering up and down hilly streets. I was mesmerized by Ibiza's old town, where I saw cobblestone streets, Renaissance cathedrals, and 16th-century walls lined with cannons.

Standing over the Bastion of Santa Lucia in Ibiza during the final sunset of my trip, I felt like I was in a storybook. As I soaked up the island view, I thought about how special the entire voyage felt, from the destinations to the ship itself.

Looking back, it was worth the price tag, and I can't wait to sail with Virgin Voyages again.

The dedicated business-class check-in and priority boarding meant our journey got off to a stress-free start. We didn't wait in any lines.

Once on the plane and seated, flight attendants welcomed us with bubbly and premium amenity kits containing basics like hand cream and a toothbrush.

We also received a form similar to a hotel's room-service card that allowed us to preorder breakfast. I checked boxes for my morning preferences and loved that I could confidently maximize precious sleep time without missing a meal.

My wife and I had the middle pair of seats in our row in business class, where two seats occupied the space of four economy spots.

Each pod featured a 16-inch HD screen loaded with hundreds of movies and TV shows, ample storage for essentials, USB charging ports, and enough space to store a small carry-on bag within arm's reach.

Plus, we each had a fully reclining seat that would later transform into a proper bed.

The multicourse dinner rivaled meals I've had at high-end restaurants.

Dinner alone consisted of three courses, starting with a confit duck salad with tomato, dates, pomegranate, and caramelized walnuts. The main course was a seasoned beef fillet served with corn purée, green beans, and red wine jus.

As someone who usually avoids sweet desserts, I enjoyed finishing my meal with a curated cheese selection paired with red wine.

The food choices didn't stop with the main meals — business-class passengers had access to a dedicated self-service area with premium snacks, fresh fruit, and beverages throughout the flight.

Flight attendants also regularly walked through the cabin to offer us water and light refreshments, ensuring we stayed well-hydrated during the long journey.

As it got later, I changed into my complimentary Qantas pajamas in the bathroom and returned to my pod to find it had been transformed into a comfortable sleeping space.

The crew had laid out a thick mattress pad, a duvet, and a large pillow. The seat-turned-bed was flat, and I had enough room to fully stretch out.

Curling up in a bed was way nicer than contorting into increasingly uncomfortable positions while trying to nap upright in economy.

For once, I was able to sleep on a plane with ease — and I did so for nine hours. When we landed, I felt refreshed rather than exhausted.

Our business-class perks also continued on the ground. We were among the first passengers off the plane, and having priority-tagged luggage meant we got our bags quickly.

We were in an Uber to our next destination within 30 minutes of landing.

By upgrading to business class, our 17-hour journey transformed from an exhausting ordeal into a luxurious experience.

Despite arriving in Melbourne at 5:30 a.m., I stayed awake all day and didn't experience the foggy head and zombie-like state I always feel after long-haul flights. I attribute this lack of jetlag to getting a full night's worth of rest on the plane.

Business class can feel out of reach for many travelers since one flight can cost thousands each way. However, trying to use frequent-flyer and credit-card points to upgrade can be a great value — especially on long-haul routes like this.

It'll be challenging to return to the economy cabin for my next trip, but I'm already saving points for our next business-class adventure.

According to World Population Review, the roughly 20-square-mile ski town has about 8,000 residents.

Real-estate agent Derrik Carlson has lived in Park City for over 20 years and began selling homes in the area in 2012. He told Business Insider that the town has grown significantly since he first moved in — and so have market prices.

"Prices have continued to increase and hold strong. I ran a report last month on a couple of homes that had traded twice within 12 to 18 months, and they were up anywhere from 8 to 12%," he said.

Carlson said about 25% of his clients move from California, and the rest come from New York, Chicago, and Florida. The city is a part of the Silicon Slopes — a fitting nickname for a stretch of land along the Wasatch Front that's grown into a tech hub over the past two decades.

But it's not just techies making their way to Park City.

"One of the most enjoyable things about working up here is everybody has a different background," he said. "You have the tech people, the finance people, the CEOs, and small business owners."

From New York City laundromat owners to Midwestern factory owners, Carlson said people of all ages are starting over in Park City.

"It's not like you can just go after a specific type of buyer because it's pretty mixed out here," he added.

Carlson said Park City is a popular place to own a second home, especially for retirees. He added that roughly 50% of Park City's incoming residents are vacation home buyers, though the demographic makes up about 85% of his client base.

"I work a lot in the second home frame. It's people who have worked really hard to be where they're at today and now have the means to come out here," he said. "They're here for one to three months out of the year."

Carlson said he moved to Park City because of its stunning natural landscapes and location near the well-connected Salt Lake City International Airport.

"One of Park City's big draws is having an international airport 30 to 45 minutes away, depending on where you are in town," he said. "With Salt Lake being so close, whether going to the airport or running to Costco, you have all the options you want."

Park City's public amenities, including public restrooms downtown and a free bus system, have been around since Carlson first moved to the area.

The private amenities have expanded since Carlson moved in, from improved ski slopes to affluent golf clubs.

"It's a great life out here. It's a time to really unplug, and you have all the amenities you need," he said.

During my trip, I visited the St. Regis Deer Valley, which gives guests access to the slopes at Deer Valley Mountain Resort. I wasn't a hotel guest, and I was surprised to learn that anyone can take the hotel's free funicular up to a patio at the top of the slopes.

I appreciated watching skiers glide down the mountainous winter wonderland without paying a cent.

Carlson said some clients opt for Old Town, the bustling downtown area filled with shops, restaurants, and ski access. I found a ski lift right in the heart of it.

"Downtown is designed to be walkable to get to Main Street or skiing," he said, adding that there's always something going on in Old Town, from summer concerts to the winter Sundance Film Festival.

I noticed a mix of mansions and more affordable real estate here. Current Zillow listings range from $690,000 to $28 million.

Many of Carlson's clients move to Deer Valley, the Canyons — which is in the 84098 ZIP code but still a part of Park City — and the Colony. The neighborhoods are known for direct access to skiing from residential properties.

"You just go right out the door and pop on your skis, and you're on the slopes," he said, adding that these areas are coveted and real estate comes at a high price.

According to Realtor.com, the most expensive home on the Park City market is a 13-bedroom, 18-bathroom mega mansion in Deer Valley listed at $50 million.

Curbed reported that A-list celebrities, including Taylor Swift and Justin Bieber, live and vacation in the private and exclusive Colony neighborhood.

Golf is a popular pastime for Park City residents when the snow melts. Carlson added that neighborhoods dotted with multimillion-dollar homes like Tuhaye and Promontory are known for their exclusive, members-only golf clubs.

The most expensive Zillow listings in Promontory exceed $18 million, and Tuhaye listings on Christie's cost nearly $12 million.

Park City is a popular luxury skiing destination for second homeowners and visitors alike, and its tourism areas are classified as such. For example, Deer Valley is a resort mecca with a slew of accommodations lining the slopes. Meanwhile, short-term rentals are only allowed in certain zones.

"Where you can and can't have nightly rentals in Park City is really well-defined," Carlson said of the restrictions. "That matters for people looking to move here full-time so they know what will be around them in the future."

According to the Park City website, the luxury ski town needs more affordable housing to keep up with demand.

Carlson said that nearby suburbs are a great option as an affordable alternative to Park City.

"The Heber Valley and the Kamas Valley are a 15 to 30-minute drive from Park City," he said. "Everybody would love to live ski-in, ski-out at a really low price, but that's not how beachfront properties can operate either."

Both suburbs have plenty of listings on Zillow costing less than $1 million for those who aren't ultrawealthy but crave a slice of the luxurious lifestyle.

Utah's most expensive ZIP code offers walkable strips and public transportation — must-haves for city dwellers like me.

It also offers isolated homes and a range of outdoor adventures. It's a place where you can ski in the winter, golf in the summer, or go to a concert after a scenic hike.

With the blend of lifestyle options in Park City, it makes sense why people would look to the destination for an escape.

The service on my flight felt super attentive and thoughtful.

My seat was originally right next to the galley and restroom, but because there were several empty seats in the cabin, the cabin manager offered me a chance to swap to a quieter location.

My lie-flat seat felt spacious and was in a pod-like setup complete with storage nooks and a monitor. After meal service, a flight attendant made my seat into a bed with a soft mattress cover.

Although I didn't receive complimentary pajamas on this flight, I got a Bamford amenity kit that had an aromatherapy pillow mist, a body gel, and a moisturizing balm for hands, lips, and cuticles.

Bamford is a British skincare brand that is also very popular in Hong Kong. I first discovered it when staying at The Upper House hotel in Hong Kong several years ago, and it's one of my favorites.

Champagne is usually my go-to wine, and I was happy to start with a glass of Laurent-Perrier brut before takeoff.

Cathay Pacific offers all business-class passengers complimentary in-flight WiFi for the entire duration of the flight.

This was especially nice on such a long journey. The connection was fast enough for me to browse social media, watch short videos, and check my email with only a couple of brief periods of interruption.

My in-flight screen felt sizable and private, plus I had access to hundreds of movies and TV shows available ranging from brand-new Oscar winners to old classics.

There was also a broad selection of films in a multitude of languages, including Mandarin, Cantonese, Japanese, Spanish, and French.

I watched "Tales of Taipei" to brush up on my Mandarin, then a couple of rom-coms.

You won't be thirsty while flying Cathay Pacific.

The airline's drink selection is typically excellent, whether you're a wine drinker or prefer a non-alcoholic option like Hong Kong-style milk tea or the signature Cathay Delight, a refreshingly frothy drink blending kiwi fruit juice, coconut milk, and fresh mint.

Cathay also recently started offering a selection of Chinese wine on long-haul flights. I tried the 2018 Tiansai Skyline of Gobi Marselan Selection from Xijiang, an organic red blend with a lovely peppery dark-cherry aroma and notes of blackberry.

I always enjoy trying food and drinks I can't find back home when traveling, and kudos to Cathay for showcasing an emerging wine region.

Meals on the plane typically come from catering kitchens at the departure airport.

So, on many foreign carriers, I've found the food is significantly better on flights departing from the airline's home country as opposed to ones taking off from the United States.

I found this to be the case on my Cathay Pacific flights, too.

The food on my flight from Chicago to Hong Kong was good — I enjoyed the avocado toast with poached eggs for breakfast — but I had even tastier meals when departing from Asia.

On my return flight from Hong Kong to Chicago, I was able to order meals created in collaboration with chefs at Michelin-starred Hong Kong restaurants like Louise and Duddell's.

Chinese dim sum and congee breakfast and tender braised abalone were highlights from my flight back.

I enjoyed a lot of dishes that felt far from typical plane food, like wok-fried cod with sweet-corn sauce, chilled abalone, gai lan, double-boiled chrysanthemum chicken soup with goji berries, and more.

On the way home, I was able to take advantage of one of Cathay Pacific's airport lounges at Hong Kong International Airport.

Most of these lounges are available to those flying in first or business class (or who have special status).

I beelined for The Pier first-class lounge — although it's typically not open to business-class passengers, I got access through my Oneworld Emerald status.

The lounge offers complimentary 15-minute massages that are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

I waited more than two hours for the first available slot but thankfully had time to squeeze in a soothing scalp massage. I was feeling so blissed out that I could barely wobble back to my gate to board my flight home.

Overall, Cathay Pacific is still one of my favorite Asian airlines for its high standard of service and pretty comfortable cabins. I enjoyed my flight experience and look forward to traveling with the airline again in the future.

Affluent Americans from Texas to California are buying up property in Jackson Hole, a luxurious Wyoming escape.

Mansions dot mountain ranges and a stroll downtown feels like the Wild West — if you ignore the hoodies, baseball caps, and automobiles.

Jackson Hole real-estate agent Sam Haack told Business Insider that his clients are usually boomers or DINKs (dual-income, no kids).

"The baby boomers have largely gained their wealth through their appreciation of assets over the years like their equity portfolios, other homes, and businesses," he said. "Some of these clients may still work W2 jobs in finance, consulting, or real estate but are usually business owners and entrepreneurs."

Sotheby's Jackson Hole-based real-estate agent Laurie Huff told BI that her clientele is similar.

"Our clients in the past few years have ranged in age from 30 to 60 years and come from high-net-worth backgrounds," she said in a statement. "A finance/business background seems to account for a large percentage."

About 40% of Haack's sales are for full-time residents, and the other 60% are second homes and investment properties.

About half of Huff's clients move in full-time. "Others stay for six-plus months and then spend part of the year in a warmer climate," she said.

Jackson Hole is a 60-mile-long valley in Teton County, Wyoming, that includes the towns of Jackson, Moose, Teton Village, and Wilson.

Kelly is a small, census-designated place in the greater Jackson Hole area that's worth mentioning because it's home to the most expensive house in Wyoming right now, a luxury ranch listed for $65,000,000.

According to Viehman Group's 2024 third-quarter Jackson Hole Real Estate report, the average price of a listing was $6.42 million.

"As a buyer, it is so competitive because of simple supply and demand," Haack told BI. "We have always had much more demand than supply because, well, it's one of the most beautiful places in the US, and the lifestyle is unmatched."

The supply is very limited — only 3% of the county is private land that can be built on. "The rest is public land owned by the federal, state, or local governments," he added.

Since land is so scarce, Haack said buyers "tend to hang onto these properties for the appreciation and tax advantages, leading to even less inventory and supply."

As we put our seats in the upright position to prepare for landing on my flight to Jackson Hole, I looked out the window to see Grand Teton National Park from above.

Mountain ranges went on for miles between valleys and bodies of water. It was one of the most epic views I've seen from a plane.

Located inside Grand Teton National Park, Jackson Hole Airport is one of the smallest and most luxurious airports in the country. It's so tiny that passengers enter and exit the plane from outside.

When I stepped onto the tarmac, I was immediately taken by the freshness of the air. I smelled hints of pine trees as the wind blew through my hair. Before heading into the airport to exit, I spun around for a 360-degree view of the mountains.

Home to the famous Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, Jackson is a small town with shops, restaurants, and architecture reminiscent of the American West.

When I visited, the downtown area was full of tourists, but stores seemed to cater to locals, too. There were home furniture and decor shops on every block.

And I think tourists shouldn't miss the celebrity-loved, luxury cowboy hat store, Kemo Sabe. Staff members mold the hats and customize them with bands, features, and branding right in the store.

Haack told BI that families tend to move to East Jackson, which is conveniently located near the town square. According to Sotheby's International Realty, the area has a mix of condos, townhouses, and single-family homes costing as much as $8.7 million.

"You'll find young families that ride their e-bikes to work and to get ice cream in the summer," he said of the area.

The richest residents in Jackson Hole tend to live in the more remote areas around Jackson in the greater Jackson Hole region: Kelly, Moose, Teton Village, and Wilson.

Haack told BI that Teton Village and Wilson typically have the largest and most expensive homes in Jackson Hole.

"These two areas are popular due to their more quiet nature as well as being outside of the now traffic-filled town of Jackson," he added.

During my trip, I saw a mix of luxury cabins and modern mansions in these neighborhoods.

"The two main categories of architecture we see in Jackson Hole are log cabin (old Jackson style) and Mountain Modern (new Jackson style)," Haack told BI. "Log cabins never go out of style but do require a lot more maintenance."

I saw modern homes with mixed materials, sleek exteriors, flat roofs, and patios with water features like fountains and mini waterfalls. I even went inside a mansion and found unique features — from an indoor sauna to a double-sided fireplace.

Due to zoning constrictions, Jackson Hole's mega-mansions can only be up to three stories tall, so many are sprawled out like ranches on vast properties.

After seeing Jackson Hole for myself, I can see why people want to move and vacation there. The ultra-luxury vibe with Western flair seems like an ideal place to escape.

And now that I've seen those mountains, I know I'll be back.

Each villa is fairly far apart from the next and shrouded in lush foliage.

A covered area in front of our villa protected our bikes from the nighttime rain and provided seating where we could rest in the shade.

To get inside our villa, we crossed a secluded, pier-like wooden walkway woven through the trees.

The indoor living space of our one-bedroom villa was about 1,033 square feet.

The villa's front door opened to a central lounge area, set with a sofa and small dining table. The space also housed the bar and coffee station, plus a minibar and fridge.

Doors slid open to create a breezeway to the outside space, with spectacular pool and lagoon views.

My husband and I slept great in the king-size bed in the primary bedroom.

When we checked in, the attendant who showed us around noted the retractable TV hiding beneath the bedroom's picture window.

He recommended we not use it, though, and instead enjoy the view of the stars and sea.

We used the TV just once to watch the three-hour-long epic "Mutiny on the Bounty," which comes pre-loaded onto a memory stick in each villa.

It's the 1962 movie Marlon Brando (who helped develop the resort) was filming in the area when he fell in love with Tahiti and bought the entire atoll on which his namesake resort now stands.

Across the villa from the primary bedroom was the kids' sleeping area, which appeared to be a converted lounge space.

We had two twin beds as well as a large TV and a workspace with ample power outlets.

Since we had tons of closet space, I unpacked fully so I could really make myself at home for the week.

The closet also held a beach bag and Brando-branded flip-flops for the whole family (all were ours to use during the visit and to take home after).

The airy and bright room had a modern, crisp look and tons of space.

With curtains opening right into the trees, the room felt one with the environment.

I'm a bath person, and this tub afforded me an epic soak for the ages.

The bathroom also came stocked with a jar of bath salts to create a spa-like experience in the sizable outdoor tub.

Our villa led onto the nearby beach, where a hammock between two trees was waiting for us.

The swaying hammock was downright intoxicating. I logged some heavenly reading and naptime here while the natural environment (waves crashing, birds singing, and trees rustling) provided the dreamy soundtrack.

We spent a ton of time in our 10-square-meter private pool, though the resort also had a larger, common pool we could enjoy.

Our pool was big enough for my whole family to hang out in (and for my kids to coordinate races in).

Whenever we ordered food to the villa, the room-service staff asked us whether we wanted our spread set up indoors or outside.

Anytime we chose outside, they set up a beautiful table for us beneath our own private, shaded structure.

One of the most astounding things about this place is how few people we encountered throughout our stay. It truly has a deserted-island vibe but in a luxurious way.

Looking all the way in either direction from our beachfront space, we never saw another guest.

I arrived at 6:45 a.m. for my 7:15 a.m. train. Amtrak suggests arriving a few minutes before your departure.

Business-class passengers may enter for a $50 fee.

I'd been in this lounge while traveling in first class and thought that while there was a variety of complimentary drinks and snacks, it wasn't worth $50.

I instead went to the main waiting area for all passengers with a train ticket that day.

I found it crowded on a Sunday morning, but after a few minutes of standing around, I grabbed a seat.

As a business-class ticket holder, I didn't receive priority boarding, so I waited in line with business and coach passengers. 

Since the chairs looked larger than those in coach, I thought they'd be comfy and plush. However, once I sat down, I thought they felt stiffer than expected.

But at least it reclined slightly, like on most trains I've taken. 

An Amtrak representative told Business Insider that the business-class seats are about 20 inches wide with 42 inches of legroom.

I was able to rest my laptop and phone on it in front of me, which made it easier to pass the time. I also had an outlet for charging devices.

I got a Diet Coke and brought my own snacks, but a café car was also available to all passengers to purchase meals, drinks, and snacks.

To get my complimentary drink, I had to go to the café car.

I was expecting a nicer restroom in business class, but I didn't think it differed from the lavatories I've experienced in other train classes. 

Aside from bigger seats and a free drink, business class didn't feel very different from coach to me. Next time, I'll save my money and ride economy.

"We are constantly evaluating ways to improve the customer experience, including further differentiating the classes of service across the network," an Amtrak representative said in a statement to BI.

We had booked our cruise about a year before its departure date and were fine with the lowest-tier room available.

About a month before we left, we received an offer to upgrade to a panoramic penthouse for $8,500 more per person. When that upgrade price later dropped to $3,500 per person, we decided to do it.

Lastly, before we left, we bought waterproof outer layers, thermals, and other items that were essential for our upcoming cold landings.

We flew from the Northeastern US to Buenos Aires a day early since we were concerned about potential flight delays due to storms.

We spent a night at the Faena Hotel, which felt chic and offered fantastic service. The next day, we headed to the luxurious Avelar Palace for a one-night stay, which was included in our cruise fare.

After checking in, we visited the Seabourn hospitality room, where a representative handed us our boarding passes and told us to leave our tagged luggage outside our rooms before bed.

The next morning, we boarded an early bus to the charter flight to our ship in Ushuaia, Argentina.

This flight was also included in our cruise fare, and a Seabourn representative accompanied us on the journey. Our tagged luggage was already en route, so we didn't have to lug it with us.

The service was fine, though legroom on the plane was limited.

After a short walk around the small town of Ushuaia, it was time to board Seabourn Pursuit.

Our panoramic suite featured plenty of storage space, heated floors, and incredible floor-to-ceiling windows.

It also came stocked with thoughtful touches like umbrellas and Swarovski Optik binoculars for us to use throughout our trip.

We had a more sizable shower than we've had on other cruises and a jacuzzi tub.

There was a double vanity with a large mirror above it and, again, plenty of storage space.

Most days, we had breakfast and lunch at onboard restaurant The Colonnade. These meals were served buffet-style, though we could also order eggs or daily specials from the waitstaff.

The main dining room, The Restaurant, offered waiter service for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

For the most part, the food on our trip was quite good — especially considering we were essentially on a floating base camp for three weeks.

Room service was also available 24/7, which we often took advantage of during rough seas. I loved that we could order caviar anytime and anywhere.

We also spent time at the onboard lounge The Club, where we could listen to live music and order a selection of nigiri, sashimi, and rolls.

The main reason to embark on an expedition cruise like this is to witness awe-inspiring landscapes and encounter wildlife.

We frequently saw whales and birds from the boat, but the true highlights of our trip were the excursions and Zodiac cruises, where we boarded a small boat called a Zodiac to explore more remote locations.

Most days, the expedition team offered both a morning and afternoon activity.

Every day was truly an adventure, as the weather frequently changed, so too did our plans.

Our captain and expedition leader emphasized the need for flexibility throughout the trip and later reported that we'd deviated from our planned itinerary 86 times during the 21-day journey.

It didn't bother me. The Antarctic was truly breathtaking.

Each evening, we had a briefing about the plan for the following day.

Our first landing was on New Island in the Falklands.

We hiked about 5 miles through stunning terrain and saw rockhopper and Magellanic penguins, elephant seals, and other wildlife.

We also had our only "dry landing" of the trip in Stanley, the capital of the Falklands. I particularly enjoyed our visit to Bluff Cove, where we saw several King Penguins.

After three days in the Falklands, we set sail for South Georgia. Here, we saw countless fur seals amid the ruins of old whaling stations.

We also visited Salisbury Plain, home to tens of thousands of breeding pairs of King Penguins. We visited by Zodiac but did not land in order to take precautions against avian flu.

In between activities and excursions, I often headed to the cruise's onboard spa (an added cost) to indulge in a massage or enjoy the sauna.

The ship had multiple jacuzzis and a small pool, too. Most of them had incredible views of the landscape and waters surrounding us.

I also spent some of our time at sea attending talks and lectures from members of the expedition team, who spoke about a range of topics, such as marine biology, geology, history, and oceanography.

Perhaps the most incredible part of the trip was peering below the ocean floor in one of the ship's two submersibles.

After hearing about the OceanGate submersible disaster in 2024, I was nervous to set foot in one of these vehicles. However, our pilots thoroughly explained the submersible technology and how it was tested.

They also noted we were descending only 300 meters — OceanGate's vessel had attempted to go thousands of meters underwater.

Reassured, I took a Zodiac to the sub, then climbed down a short, three-rung ladder into the craft, which holds up to six guests and a pilot. I found it surprisingly easy to navigate getting in and out.

Once under the water, the experience felt otherworldly. We observed a variety of invertebrates on the seafloor, and the phenomenon of polar gigantism, where animals living in the poles are far bigger than their counterparts near the equator

The Seabourn Pursuit felt more like a luxury basecamp than a cruise ship, with a dedicated team of marine biologists, geologists, historians, kayak guides, and even submarine pilots.

Each day at sea was truly an adventure. I saw colonies of chinstrap and Adélie penguins, countless whales, and striking geological formations. I got to go under the water and explore a continent I'd long dreamed of seeing.

The trip was expensive but felt like a worthwhile investment considering our journey was long and included multiple incredible stops and excursions.

I had such a good time on this cruise that I booked another expedition trip on the Seabourn Pursuit to Australia's Kimberley region while still on board.

The independently owned hospitality company also has locations in Idaho, California, Arizona, and Wyoming.

There are four tiers of rooms. The lowest is a 700-square-foot premier room with a sectioned-off sitting area.

The second tier is an 880-square-foot executive suite with a living room.

A 1,000-square-foot kitchenette suite is the third tier, and the top tier is a 2,4000-square-foot presidential suite with two bathrooms, a whirlpool tub made of Italian marble, and a full kitchen, breakfast bar, and dining room.

The Grand America Hotel aims to be an American-sized, European-esque hotel. And I think it delivered.

The spaces were decorated with Italian marble floors and glass chandeliers, as well as French cherry-wood furniture and classic antiques.

The hotel reminded me of the lavish cars on the iconic luxury sleeper train I rode from Paris to Venice in 2023 — the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.

I booked an executive suite with a base rate of $340 a night, though BI received a media rate for the one-night stay.

Knowing the room's rate, I was astonished when I stepped inside. The accommodation was on par with luxury hotels I've booked that cost $1,000 a night.

I entered a spacious hallway leading to a large living room with a workspace. To the right was the bedroom, which had a king-sized bed. Both rooms had floor-to-ceiling windows framing the downtown Salt Lake City skyline and the hotel gardens below.

The bathroom was coated in Italian marble, with a shower and separate soaking tub. I found Grand America-branded luxury toiletries on the counter and in the shower. The lotion smelled so good that I asked for a couple more to bring home.

My tour started in the lobby, where I learned the wood paneling was sourced from West Africa.

A representative also told me that the marble flooring was bookended and matched by hand to create a geometric pattern.

In true European spirit, the Lobby Lounge has a daily afternoon tea service with snacks and live music from harpists.

For cocktail hour, guests should check out the Gibson Lounge on the same floor.

The Shops at The Grand is a collection of high-end boutiques inside the hotel selling clothing, accessories, snacks, toiletries, and other essentials.

The most surprising store was JouJou, a vibrant and whimsical toy store that felt like a child's wonderland.

The 20,000-square-foot Grand Spa welcomed guests with a grand lobby area. It had a water feature and retail items from popular athleticwear brands like Lululemon.

The representative said that visiting NBA players often exercise in the fitness center, which is open 24 hours a day.

Upon entering, the indoor pool area was calming. Natural light poured into the white, cave-like room through carved archways, and cozy nooks framed the main pool.

Bonne Vie is a coffee shop that serves local brews, French baked goods, and in-house ice cream.

Laurel Brasserie & Bar is a European-style bistro.

The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and offers a large menu that includes pasta, pizza, sandwiches, salads, and desserts.

The hotel can host up to 3,000 attendees at a time with three ballrooms, 20 meeting rooms, and a 35,000-square-foot courtyard for outdoor events.

The 24,000-square-foot suite felt like a luxury apartment. The living room was bright and spacious, with a striking marble fireplace and a wealth of seating.

Despite its large size, the two-bathroom suite only sleeps two. But guests can host their friends and family with a full kitchen and a dining room that seats eight people.

And it's an ideal pick for travelers like me who want to experience luxury on a budget.

The Hilton Enclave rooms, which start at about $570 a night, offer a premium all-inclusive experience.

It comes with a beachfront room, private check-in and concierge, and exclusive amenities — like an upgraded mini-bar and access to the Enclave Lounge stocked with top-shelf liquor and gourmet snacks.

There were also reserved areas for Hilton Enclave around the resort, which made finding a chair at the beach or pool a breeze.

I've stayed at dozens of all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and experienced various room types — including one that overlooked a parking lot and loading bay.

I love that every room at the Hilton Cancún Mar Caribe faces the ocean.

I stayed in one of the 61 Enclave suites directly on the beach and loved falling asleep to the sound of waves crashing below.

The resort was recently renovated, and the sea-inspired rooms felt super nice, with chic midcentury-modern furniture, cute wallpaper, and pops of turquoise.

My room also had a spa-like bathroom with a full-sized soaking tub, perfect for relaxing at the end of a long day in the sun.

Hilton Enclave guests have access to Chala, a private rooftop bar with gorgeous infinity pools.

It was the perfect place to relax with a book and catch the sunset.

In addition to jaw-dropping views, the rooftop bar served all-you-can-eat, freshly made ceviche from different regions in Mexico.

I also discovered my new favorite poolside drink: a cocoberry mojito. It's a twist on the traditional mojito with coconut rum, mint, and muddled berries.

The resort has three large pools, each with a different vibe.

There's a kid-friendly pool with a waterslide, an adults-only pool with a swim-up bar, and a sprawling but serene quiet pool that hosts regular floating yoga classes.

There were also smaller, adults-only infinity pools overlooking the ocean. These were the perfect spots to relax without the kids.

My friend's daughter loved hanging out in the kids' club, which offered daily activities plus a large selection of games, toys, and even princess costumes.

For older kids, there's a teen club with foosball tables, bean-bag chairs, and a complete gaming set-up.

I've seen my fair share of kids' clubs during my travels, and this one stood out.

Azulinda, the property's 24-hour coffee shop, serves all-you-can-eat churros and gelato — plus other Mexican pastries, great espresso drinks, and excellent cold-brew coffee.

Azulinda also has made-to-order crepes — something I've never seen at another all-inclusive. My go-to afternoon snack was a ham-and-cheese crepe.

Although there was no shortage of typical all-inclusive eats — like burgers, hot dogs, and nachos — I was pleasantly surprised by the diversity of food available around the resort.

I loved the wood-fired pizza and creamy risotto at La Luce, an elegant Italian eatery. The pad thai at the Asian-fusion restaurant Noriku was also delicious.

I didn't expect to find amazing cocktails at a family-friendly, all-inclusive resort. However, the beverages were inventive, and the bars felt surprisingly chic.

I'm still thinking of the passion-fruit margarita I had at the lobby bar, which was made with fresh juice and garnished with a preserved orange slice.

There were so many cute, aesthetically-pleasing corners of this resort, and the beach bar in the Hilton Enclave area was no exception.

The bar makes an excellent mojito with fresh lime juice and mint. I loved hanging out on its swings and enjoying the ocean view with a drink in my hand.

I'm so glad I went to the spa during my stay because it was one of the highlights of my trip.

After receiving an incredibly relaxing massage, I enjoyed the hydrotherapy circuit, which included a series of pools in a lush tropical garden.

Mar Caribe, or the Caribbean Sea, is truly the star of this resort.

I loved so many things about my stay, but the beach was my favorite part. The water was impossibly turquoise and always the perfect temperature.

Paired with gorgeous weather and endless mojitos, I spent most of my days alternating between my lounge chair and swimming in the waves.

Everything about the resort impressed me, but this alone makes me want to visit Hilton Cancún Mar Caribe again.

I was invited to watch the game at field-level from a corporate suite, though the stadium's field-level suites usually cost $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the event. Each field-level suite comes with 21 stadium tickets and five parking passes.

Although it's certainly expensive, it's not as inaccessible as I'd expect for such a bucket-list experience, especially if you can split the price with a group.

I entered the stadium through a special VIP entrance and was escorted to our ground-level suite — an experience that made me feel like a celebrity right from the start.

Food and drinks aren't included in the price of a field-level suite, but they can be purchased separately.

In this suite, I was pleasantly surprised to find classic game-day fare like tacos, jalapeńo poppers, pizza, and plenty of snacks and candy.

Although I'd expected to find fancier dishes, the casual menu perfectly matched the football-watching atmosphere.

Our suite also had a fully stocked fridge with everything from sodas to liquor, and I got a souvenir Cowboys cup I could refill throughout the day.

The suite had comfortable indoor seating and a screen playing the game, but the outdoor area was where the real magic happened.

The Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders performed just yards away, making me feel like I was part of their famous routines. I was so close to the action that stray balls during warm-up could've landed in my drink.

Although I had access to additional regular seats on the first level, just rows from the sideline, I couldn't bring myself to leave the suite even for a quarter. The experience was simply too good to miss for even a moment.

Plus, the suite had a private bathroom — a small luxury that made the day even better by sparing me the hassle of waiting in long halftime lines.

Watching the game from mere feet away heightened the intensity of every play.

With about 80,000 fans in attendance, the noise was incredible from my field-level vantage point. I could feel the crowd's energy in a way I'd never imagined.

During the game, I was also able to capture terrific photos, including some of a Detroit Lions touchdown, from the quarterback's setup to the celebration in the end zone.

Although some nearby suites got rowdy as the day passed, my group stayed focused on the game. The Cowboys didn't perform well that day, but the entire experience was unforgettable.

After the game, one of the Lions players even came right up to our suite to celebrate and handed his game-worn jersey to a fan.

The VIP treatment, incredible views, and proximity to the action have spoiled me for life.

In many ways, having seats yards away from the NFL action made watching the game feel like experiencing a private show.

While on the outdoor terrace, I even met a couple from Tennessee who had traveled for the game. They didn't support either team but treated themselves to one NFL game in a suite each year, paying up to $1,000 per ticket.

Maybe they're onto something. Having experienced a football game from this perspective, I worry that regular seats will never quite measure up.

And hey, if I choose a match with suites on the cheaper end ($5,000) and split the cost with 20 others, I may be able to watch the game at field level again someday for under $250.

Leading up to the 13-hour flight, I learned that my business-class ticket also granted me access to the Star Alliance Lounge at the Los Angeles International Airport.

Another new experience was the airport lounge, which caters to first-class, business-class, and some travel credit-card holders. Before landing at the airport, I had never visited an airport lounge.

Thankfully, I had a seven-hour layover in LA to discover its unexpected perks. I spent hours tasting every food item I could find and exploring the lounge's outdoor patio and quiet room.

My favorite perk was knowing that an Air New Zealand representative was stationed at the lounge, supplying flight updates so I didn't have to stress about missing an announcement or my flight. 

The lounge was a luxe respite and much nicer than the airport gates and restaurants I typically camp at during layovers. 

With a full stomach, I left the airport lounge, grabbed my carry-on suitcase, and navigated through the crowds of people waiting to board the flight. 

At my gate, I passed families and couples waiting for their boarding groups to be called while my group — business class, which is the airline's version of first class — was welcome to step onto the plane. 

I reached the jet bridge entrance, scanned my boarding pass, and joined two dozen business-class passengers. Together, we were some of the first people on the plane. 

As someone who has only ever sat in economy, boarding first was an entirely new experience. I'm typically one of the last people on the plane and accustomed to hunting for rare overhead luggage space.

Since there were fewer people, the business-class cabin felt more spacious. I had plenty of overhead storage available for all my belongings, and I didn't have to worry about being told I'd need to gate-check a bag. 

One of the biggest perks of flying business class on long-haul flights is the extra space. 

In economy, I'm used to cramped seats that hardly recline. 

Even with an expectation of a larger seat with more room in business class, I was shocked by how spacious the seat actually felt on my Air New Zealand flight. In front of me was a footrest, where at 5 feet and 8 inches, I could stretch out my legs. I also used this space to store my backpack. The tray table was larger than any I've seen in economy.

Perhaps the best part was the seat's ability to recline. I had four buttons to experiment with moving my seat backward and forward. Plus, I could lie flat, which was a valuable feature when it was time to sleep. 

As I boarded the Boeing aircraft, a flight attendant asked if I would like a glass of Champagne or something to drink before takeoff.

I'm used to a smiling flight attendant handing me a sanitizing wipe when I've boarded — not a glass of bubbly. 

I happily accepted a flute. Shortly after, another flight attendant came by with a tray of roasted nuts. I quickly learned I would never be hungry or thirsty on this flight.

I also realized the snacks I packed in my backpack wouldn't be needed. Instead, I was part of the group I'm typically envious of: the first-class travelers with space, snacks, and endless alcohol to enjoy on their plane ride.

I wasn't surprised to see a blanket and pillow waiting for me at my seat since I'd had those amenities in economy before, but I was thrilled to find a bag of complimentary toiletries.

The purple pouch contained a toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, ear plugs, an eye mask, lip balm, lotion, a pen, and a pair of socks.

As I lathered the balm across my lips, I wondered how much the tube cost. I later found out that the Ashley & Co. Lip Punch retails for $15, and the brand's Soothe Tube lotion costs $25. 

These small perks added an element of luxury throughout the flight, and they came in handy when I realized I had left my toothpaste in the bottom of my carry-on suitcase. 

After taking inventory of all the free stuff at my seat, I noticed that nearly everyone around me had their shoes off and their complimentary purple and black striped socks on.

I sat there shocked. There are a few plane etiquette rules I always follow, like giving the person in the middle seat both armrests. At the top of my list is not taking off my shoes — no one wants to smell stinky feet. 

I succumbed to the peer pressure, tossed my rules aside, and slipped off my shoes. Between the length of the flight and having more space in business class, I felt less guilty taking off my shoes, which I'm not sure I would've done in economy. 

After I took off my shoes, examined my toiletries, and settled at my seat, the flight attendants came around the cabin, introduced themselves, and offered each passenger a hot towel. 

There have been few instances in my life when I've received a hot towel, so I eyed my fellow passengers for clues on how to use it correctly. 

The people around me wiped their faces, necks, and hands, and I followed their lead. 

I felt spoiled using the towel and thought it was a relaxing way to start my flight.

Later, after a nap, the flight attendants came around with another hot towel before serving breakfast. This time, I confidently wiped the towel across my face. The warmth coated my skin, and I felt refreshed and ready for the morning. 

When it was time to eat dinner, my first meal of the flight, a menu was provided at my seat outlining options for the three-course meal inspired by New Zealand ingredients. Beetroot-cured salmon, poached chicken, and chocolate truffle ice cream were listed on the menu. 

The flight attendants kicked off dinner service by placing a cloth napkin across my tray table and laying down a set of metal silverware. I quickly realized that this meal would be nicer than any airline meal I've ever had.

On previous long-haul flights, as a vegetarian, I was given one option on a tray. The meal was typically packaged and served with plastic cutlery.

The silverware at my seat already established a drastic difference. Next, I was offered butter, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Following the condiments, the flight attendants walked around with a basket of warm sourdough and garlic bread. 

Then, the first course arrived. I opted for a pescatarian meal and was served stuffed olive leaves. This was followed by a main course of Alaskan cod with saffron sauce and finished with a chocolate tart for dessert. 

The meal was rich and filling. From its appearance and taste, I thought the meal could easily be served in a nice restaurant rather than an airplane cabin.

Our flight was a red-eye. We departed LA in the evening and were scheduled to land in Auckland in the early morning. 

After dinner was cleared, passengers slowly retreated to the bathroom to freshen up before bedtime. I headed to the restroom to brush my teeth and wash my face. By the time I was done, a flight attendant had converted my seat into a bed. 

During the turn-down service, a flight attendant presses a few buttons, which turns the upright seat into a horizontal bed. Then, they add a mattress topper, blanket, and pillow. Finally, they pull out the seat belts for safety and check in with each passenger to see if they want any final drinks, snacks, or items before dimming the cabin lights.

I thought the transition from dinner to sleep was effortless for passengers. As I grabbed my eye mask, I knew there was a good chance I'd actually fall asleep. I rarely have that confidence when sitting upright on a plane in economy. 

Sure enough, I slept for about five hours in the comfy bed and woke up to the smell of hot coffee and breakfast.

Before our plane left the jet bridge, I was getting to know the flight attendants. They stopped at every seat to confirm the passenger's dinner order and introduce themselves.

While I've encountered plenty of welcoming flight attendants in the past, this was the first time I'd been on a flight where everyone exchanged names.

By the end of the long-haul flight, we were all on a first-name basis and sharing travel recommendations for our coming trips. 

Since there were fewer passengers in business class and just as many flight attendants when compared to economy, we were able to bond much more than I expected. 

When our plane touched ground again, I wasn't ready to disembark. Instead, I could've spent another day in the glamorous cabin.

As a budget traveler, the chances I fly business class again are slim, so I soaked in every moment in my lie-flat seat and cherished every drop of Champagne. I hope I'll be able to experience the premium cabin again in my lifetime. At the very least, I'll bring my toiletry pouch on any future economy flight to replicate a small part of the experience.