Boutique Business Class: Our Honest Review of La Compagnie from Newark to Paris
For E’s milestone birthday, we planned a 10-night trip to Southern Italy, repositioning through Newark to fly La Compagnie business class. While the "Lounge & Co" at EWR was disappointing, the on-board experience featured standard lie-flat seats, high-speed Wi-Fi, and excellent French cuisine. Despite small glassware and limited wine, the $2,400 round-trip price made it a fantastic, high-value alternative to legacy carriers for crossing the Atlantic.
Marriott vs. European Boutiques: When is the Points Redemption Actually Worth It?
On our trip to Paris and Naples, I utilized Marriott Bonvoy points for redemptions averaging 50,000 points per night. I found great value in the central locations and excellent breakfasts. Highlights included receiving a "courtesy room" for a post-flight nap in Paris and enjoying rooftop views in Naples.
Returning to Sandals Royal Caribbean 14 Years After Our Honeymoon
Returning to Sandals Royal Caribbean the first time since our honeymoon 14 years earlier, we found the resort conveniently located but showing its age. While the butler service and dining (specifically the Indian restaurant) remained highlights, the rooms felt only partially renovated. They noted small pools and a mediocre beach compared to other Caribbean destinations. Ultimately, they concluded that the dated facilities no longer justify the price, prompting them to seek different operators for future trips.