Air Travel

Because of budgetary constrains, today's economy class seating sometimes feels a little inadequate. To address this, most airlines are now offering an interesting new seating class called 'premium economy'.  Premium economy seats are one step above coach yet not quite as ritzy as business class seats.  Generally, a premium economy ticket buys you a bit more legroom and a few extra perks such as priority check-in and/or additional storage space.  The fares vary greatly.  In some cases, you pay under $65 per extra inch of wriggle-room for your toes, whereas other airlines raise the price so close to business class it leaves you tempted to make the jump.  Some airlines, such as United, require you to purchase a yearly membership which enables you to book "premium economy" seating at the time of reservation.

Are you planning a European tour, stopping in multiple countries? If so, did you know that aside from car rentals and trains there is a third option for getting around? Europe is home to a variety of budget airlines who offer inexpensive plane fares that make traveling by air far more accessible than you may think. 'Inexpensive' means as low as $155 from Frankfurt to Venice (Ryanair), or $63 from Bilbao to London (easyJet), or even $115 from London to Amsterdam, back to London again (easyJet). 

Many of these airlines offer online reservations, allowing you to research and book your entire trip before ever leaving your home.  As always, allow yourself plenty of time to make arrangements, and shop around for the best rates.  If there isn't a direct flight to the city you wish to visit, consider flying in somewhere very close to it.  Following is an 'insider's guide' to the largest, low-cost European airlines by volume: