The first time I was upgraded was on a flight to South Korea. The Korean Airlines flight attendant told me that "on account of long legs," he was bumping me up to business. The flight was luxurious. As we landed in Seoul the sun was setting and the sky was this breathtaking combination of fuschia, lavender and light pinks. Such is the life in business class - even the sun treats you better.

As I thought about the car rides I've taken this year, none stood out. But a particular flight did. The flight from San Francisco to Tokyo.

There was a series of unfortunate mishaps that delayed the flight out of Denver. Arriving at SFO two hours later than expected led to a night in a grubby hotel. We had the option of flying the second leg on United. Or fly Japan Airlines. The choice was obvious. Even the ground transportation staff remarked under her breath that she'd fly JAL if she had the choice - and she works for United.

JAL scored major points for upgrading us to Premium Economy the next day. It made up for the lost day of travel. The seats were like what you'd imagine it'd be like to fly in a pea pod. We had places to charge our laptops - and other gadgets. Also? Room for the long legs.

Reminds me of another flight to Japan. My first flight over. My friend Patrick and I thought we'd be smart and wear suits. We had heard they might bump us up if we looked good. We asked at the counter. The stone cold reply? He'd be happy to bump us up if we were ready to pay an additional grand to do so.

Moral to the story: enjoy free upgrades when they come along. But don't wear your best suit expecting a free ride. You'll just arrive in Asia looking like a wrinkled, exhausted traveler. In a suit.

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What was your most memorable car (train/bus/plane) ride of the year?

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