This question that crosses every passengers mind as they are about to board a flight.....if it is a flight longer than 4 hours..... the question will usually cross the mind at least twice....especially as you walk on the aircraft and they make you do the walk of shame past all the First or Business Class passengers.  "He's no better than me, why is he there and not me?" Or "How did she get in that seat, only in her early 20's, they should put the older people here, the people who need it more".  The truth of the matter is, that just about every flight that offer Business or First Class usually has at least one passenger in the front end that has been "bumped up".

So how do they do it?

In the old days, going back about 10 - 15 years ago, it used to be a case of "who you know"....if you had a friend on the gate or check in, they would bump you up with a wink and wish you a nice flight.  But as technology has become so advanced in recent years, this really does not happen anymore.  Every seat on every aircraft is accounted for.  Sure there may be some staff or travel agency staff with a note in a file for an upgrade, but this really has to come from someone high up at the airline, someone with the authority and a budget to write it off from.

But for the rest of us, here is what you need to increase your chances of an upgrade.

1.  Always ask at the gate...they can only say no, and they will many times...but if you don't mind the rejection, one day they might say yes.  But remember, No means No!
2.  Show loyalty to one airline.  If the plane is heavily booked in economy class, the airline goes through their flight manifest to identify their regular loyal customers for a person to upgrade. (this happens a lot)
3.  Dress repectably.  You don't need to have a suit on, but don't look like you just came from an all night bender.
4.  Be polite and friendly at all times.  If you have an issue that has occured on board or perhaps something with your booking leading up to the flight and feel as though your are owed this upgrade, and show this in your attitude....it will never happen.

Now days, these are the only ways that "non travel industry" people can obtain the bigger seat, flat bed (in some cases), great meals and over all a lovely flight.

I hope this helps improve your flying experience.

It was a pleasant surprise on a recent trip to the Beautiful Cooks Islands to find the Cooks are really forging ahead with their cuisine.

Typical Cook Island Recipes include the local fish/root plants/coconut and papaya....but the Cook Islanders are recreating themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the kitchen.  Not only are there dozens of places to eat, but the food is fantastic and the price point even better. 
For dinner out at a very nice restaurant in the Cooks, expect to pay around CAD45.00 per person, and this would include a couple of drinks each.  It is important to note that it is not customary to Tip in the Cook Islands and there is no other tax to add to this bill. 
There are plenty of places to grab a quick bite at a lesser price and again the price is very affordable.

Most of the accommodations in the Cook Islands include breakfast in your room cost.  So big breakfast, afternoon snack and then a nice dinner out makes the Cooks a very affordable place to stay on your vacation. 
Talk to a Cook Island Specialist to get more in depth recommendations for your needs.

Above, the plane you will take to Aitu Taki from Rarotonga.

To most people in the world the quite un assuming islands of Aitu Taki is a complete mystery....for that matter so are the Cook Islands.

It will be no mystery once you have stepped foot in this country.  But let's talk about Aitu Taki for now.  This is (in my opinion) THE most Beautiful Islands in the entire world.  I have visited a lot of island groups in the world, but never seen anything better than this one.  Located 45 minute (flight) from the Captial of the Cook Islands, Rarotonga and situated on a stunning blue lagoon.  Golden Sand and Light Blue Water as far as the eye can see.  There is one particular white sand beach off the coast of One Foot Island which is called Heaven....I was there and live to tell the tale.  It is a short stroll across ankle high crystal clear water....and there is nothing else in heaven except you and your partner, making it one of the most romantic beaches in the world.

You do have to be careful as not all the resorts in this island group are located on this lagoon, however, no matter where you stay you will be able to access this lagoon easily and comfortably.

Perhaps rent a scooter (no helmets necesarry), you just need a valid drivers licence (in English) and then pay for a temporary Cook Islands Licence (around $10) and you are off on an adventure anywhere you deisre....but I can guarantee that you will end up at the Aitu Taki Lagoon at least twice during your stay.

The recommended time spent in this paradise is around 3 to 4 days, but if you are looking for a little more quiet time to relax, then Aitu Taki is the best place for you....spend as long as you want.  Te Manu Resort hosts a brilliant Island Dance / Fire Show every Thursday.  Included in the price is a wonderful buffett of Cook Island Cuisine.  The food will more than satisfy you, the host Mike Henry (decendant from the oldest family name in the Cook Islands dating back to 900ad) will personally make you more than welcome and the high energy dancing / fire show will WOW you!  A really good night out for anyone on Aitu Taki for that night of the week.

Some people go to the Cooks and do not make it to Aitu Taki, they all regret this decision.  Some people make it to Aitu Taki for just a day tour from Rarotonga, these people always regret they did not stay longer.  Others have the forsight/guidance from a travel professional who knows better, and stay a minimum of 2 Nights....these people are the ones who feel satisfied that they have seen and experienced this beautiful destination.

I would recommend talking to a South Pacific Destination Specialist who knows the destination well and the resorts well, seek their advice as to where to stay and how long.  You will not pay more for this service and you will most certainly enhance your holiday experience in the Cook Islands.

The most important point here is....Don't Miss Aitu Taki when you explore the Cooks and give the Cooks serious consideration when searching for your island paradise holiday.