In a separate post, I shared the details of an upcoming review trip that I’ve planned, where I’ll be flying Porter, Air France, Aircalin, Thai Airways, and SWISS. There’s one thing I’m trying to decide on, and I’d very much appreciate some feedback…
In this post:
What should I do with a couple of days in Paris?
Due to award availability, my upcoming review trip has me in Paris for a couple of days. Now, Paris is of course an incredible city, but I’ve spent a lot of time there, and I’m alone, and I always try to maximize the “content” I can get out of my review trips.
Normal people would think “well I’ll just spend a couple of days enjoying Paris.” But I’m not a normal person. Something is wrong with me. My thought process instead goes “hmmm, I wonder if I could squeeze in some other interesting flight during that time?” Paris has a lot of interesting service to Africa, which got me thinking…
For example, I could fly Air Mauritius on the A350 to Mauritius (MRU), but I’m kind of struggling to come up with a fun itinerary from there. I don’t just want to fly there and back on the same plane in the same cabin (even though there’s award availability). I could fly in the other direction on Kenya Airways, but it’s just not a very pleasant schedule, and would give me zero nights in a hotel room.
But that did get me thinking… Air Côte d’Ivoire recently took delivery of its first Airbus A330-900neo, and the airline is flying the plane between Paris (CDG) and Abidjan (ABJ). I’m absolutely fascinated by the airline, especially since there’s a first class cabin on the A330neo, and I’m someone who tries to review every single first class in the world (no matter how random).
The flight is even timed so that you can depart Paris in the morning and return the same day, without even having to take a redeye. Is this finally my chance to fly Air Côte d’Ivoire, especially given the recent drama? 😉 In terms of timing, this seems ideal, since I have the time built into my schedule. However…
It pains me to pay Air Côte d’Ivoire prices, though!
Obviously whenever possible, I try to redeem miles for flights. I’m also happy to pay cash for premium tickets, but only if I can get a good deal. After all, I have flexibility in my schedule, and I’m always happy to position to Cairo to get a good deal (okay, maybe not Cairo, but you know what I mean). 😉
Here’s the thing — Air Côte d’Ivoire ticket pricing is very high, and shockingly straightforward. Like, there are just no deals to be had, unless I’m missing something. With most airlines, adding a connection lowers the fare, since people are willing to pay a premium to fly nonstop. Like, I’m usually pretty good at this, and can almost always find a way to get a deal on a ticket.
However, based on every city pair I’ve looked up, adding a connecting flight is more expensive, rather than less expensive. Furthermore, regardless of where you originate, a one-way is way more expensive than half of a roundtrip.
So basically, the lowest premium cabin fare I can find is what you’ll see below — we’re talking around €1,300 one-way in business class, and around €3,400 one-way in first class. The only good thing is that you can mix the two, so you can fly business class in one direction, and first class in the other direction.
So if I were to fly from Paris to Abidjan roundtrip, one direction in business class and one direction in first class, it would cost me over $5,000. Look, money doesn’t grow on trees, and that’s an absolutely massive amount of money to spend on a day of flying. The only time I ever spent that much on a ticket was when I flew Etihad’s A380 The Residence, back when it was a fully separate, dedicated product (and that’s because I basically got it for 75% off the standard price, by starting in Cairo).
It absolutely pains me to potentially pay that, especially since I can’t imagine there’s any way that first class is worth it… I feel like I’m setting myself up for disappointment. So I’m really conflicted:
- On the one hand, this seems like a stupid amount of money to spend on an experience where you can’t even get a deal, so it’s not like this will actually be useful to many
- On the other hand, I pride myself in reviewing every single first class product there is, and that should include Air Côte d’Ivoire as well, right?
So, I leave it up to the OMAAT community, because I value y’all, and it’s ultimately thanks to you guys that I can do this for a career.
Do you really, really, really want me to review this experience, even if I’m going to be ridiculously sad when the charge hits my credit card? Or should I save my money here, and instead put that toward like six Turkmenistan Airlines business class tickets? 😉 Like, I’ll happily do this for you guys if the response is “OMG, yes, this would be the most interesting thing ever,” rather than “meh, sure I’ll read it.”
I think the only reason I’m even entertaining this idea is because I’ve spent the past two decades trying to review just about every premium product possible. So at this point, I’m almost viewing it incrementally in terms of “well, it’s a few thousand extra bucks in order to truly review every first class product in the world.” But what value does that really add, if the product isn’t actually useful to many people? I suppose there’s the entertainment factor…
By the way, does anyone see any sort of a deal for any premium cabin Air Côte d’Ivoire A330-900neo flight? Like, anything, even one-way? It’s funny that Air Côte d’Ivoire and Starlux Airlines (the two airlines I haven’t flown in first class) are literally the two airlines where it’s seemingly possible to get a deal. But I would love to be proven wrong!
Lastly, does anyone know about the logistics of a direct turn in Abidjan, with two hours? I should probably apply for a visa in advance, since it sounds like that’s required? Does anyone know how long that actually takes to get approved, as I’m on a bit of a tight timeline? I know it says it can take days, but I’m not sure if that’s the case in practice, or just a worst case scenario situation.
One thing that intrigues me is that these Air Côte d’Ivoire flights look absolutely empty. Of course seat maps are never a fully accurate indicator of how many people are booked, but if they are to be believed, there are maybe a few people in the massive business class cabin, and there’s no one in first class.
Bottom line
I have an extra couple of days in Paris on my upcoming trip, and while I could spend that time in Paris (like a normal person), I’m wondering if there’s any other adventure I can add to this trip. That brings me to Air Côte d’Ivoire, an airline I’ve desperately been wanting to fly since it recently launched, but I just can’t come to terms with the pricing.
This is no small sum of money to me, so I’m conflicted. Do I spend a fortune to fly Air Côte d’Ivoire first and business class on the new A330-900neo, given that I have the time and this is as good of an opportunity as any? Or do I just avoid this given the lack of a deal, and instead try something less offensively priced?
OMAAT readers, please help me decide — to Air Côte d’Ivoire, or not to Air Côte d’Ivoire?
With a few extra days in Paris, I’d really enjoy seeing a train review. It would be great if you could also mention any routes or deals that offer airline points.
It is pricey, but it would be truly something if you take the flight and review it from a somewhat more balanced view! Please do it!
I would say, wait and put off reviewing this airline until you hav
*have better reason to do so.
Wait and review it another time, when prices drop.
You can spend a day in Paris or fly there for drama? Seriously, what's wrong with you? Get a bottle of wine and enjoy Luxembourg Gardens.
Go to Mauritius , fly back on some other airlines if possible .
The four seasons just completed full renovation , also one & only and St regis (re branded as such after being “downgraded” to JW)
I think business class would be enough in terms of a review, and go visit the city!
It's tax deductible right?
Doesnt make it free
1st world problems big guy
Just wrote to them and say who you are.... Or is that not your policy?
Absurd amount of $$. Pass
Ben, it is blatantly obvious that whatever advice any reader chooses to offer you, you will steer your own path towards your initial goal. Therefore, the subject is academic, yes?
I would recommend reviewing some regional european airlines, like air baltic, air malta, cyprus airways, lux air. While european business class is nothing to get excited about, a regional european airline might be more useful for a review.
Another option is turkish airlines on european routes.
This is just silly. WHY on earth would you do that? Is there nothing better to do with the money?
Another no from me. At least Starlux has a full VIP service on ground (dedicated access to private terminal at LAX/TPE etc) and upscale meal service onboard, which I hope you get the chance to try out one day!
If you have a couple days free in Paris I'd much rather read a train review. Especially if you can show us a train deal which attracts airline points.
World’s longest domestic flight?
An Air Mauritius trip can easily made fun. Fly Paris to Mauritius, and add on the very short hop from Mauritius to Réunion. Air Mauritius will charge almost nothing for the Réunion add-on, it’s barely 50 minutes, mostly in an ATR (eco only), although there is a daily Airbus 330/350 MRU-RUN but they don’t sell business on that leg. The Réunion capital St Denis we really liked, certainly a night there...
World’s longest domestic flight?
An Air Mauritius trip can easily made fun. Fly Paris to Mauritius, and add on the very short hop from Mauritius to Réunion. Air Mauritius will charge almost nothing for the Réunion add-on, it’s barely 50 minutes, mostly in an ATR (eco only), although there is a daily Airbus 330/350 MRU-RUN but they don’t sell business on that leg. The Réunion capital St Denis we really liked, certainly a night there not a hardship if you want a stop over.
Then from Réunion to Paris direct - it is considered a French domestic flight - I think they call it the world’s longest domestic flight - Réunion is a department of France. Air Austral and Air France fly the route.
So, Josh said he would meet you whereever you want and would cover your expenses. Am I the only one seing an opportunity here? Come on Josh, let's talk in Abidjan, mediated by the government of Cote d'Ivoire. Put your money where your mouth is!
don't do it
Considering the pricing and the timing, I'd definitely stay away from Air Cote d'Ivoire right now. 5 grand is a lot of money to part with, and there's the fact that Josh Cahill will likely use your experience as evidence against both you and the airline. Probably best to stay away until the drama dies down and prices drop.
@Ben,
Not worth the money at all.
It is such a niche airline that a blog on it will provide pretty much NO value to your readers.
Perhaps Josh could help ;)
Ben, SKIP IT...
Al the airlines in the region, most of which defunct now, Air Gabon, Cameroon Airlines, Air Madagascar, Uganda Airlines, Rwandair and Air Senegal had no other justification than being those countries leaders' wet dream so that the "glory" would reverberate on them. African Aviation nowadays is only Ethiopian and maybe Kenya Airways. The last West African Aviation company which made sense was Air Afrique which died in 2001 (I think), sunk...
Ben, SKIP IT...
Al the airlines in the region, most of which defunct now, Air Gabon, Cameroon Airlines, Air Madagascar, Uganda Airlines, Rwandair and Air Senegal had no other justification than being those countries leaders' wet dream so that the "glory" would reverberate on them. African Aviation nowadays is only Ethiopian and maybe Kenya Airways. The last West African Aviation company which made sense was Air Afrique which died in 2001 (I think), sunk by those leaders' competing egos.
Two things to consider:
- As many already said here, the prices will be MUCH lower in a year. That is obvious.
- Then, with the noise already generated by Josh, you and all the articles written, can you seriously say that your "La Cote d'Ivoire Premiere Experience" will be similar to what is offered to the average passenger?. The minute the name Schlappig enters their reservation system, all bells and whistles will roar and you will be offered an experience probably very nice but totally different from the norm.
Air Cote d'Ivoire, by their unreasonable pricing, has already shown their complete marketing incompetence. It will take Air France a second, if that airline succeeds, to blow them out of the water. If, on the contrary, they fail, they will not need Air France to disappear.
I have flown with all those African Airlines and I know how they come and go. Rwandair and Air Senegal SEEM slightly more serious, if only through the humility and sensible pricing which they bring their passengers. None of them has improvised a "First Class" in a mere "Business Plus" space, even less at a price higher than Air France La Premiere.
As several have already said, bring the kids and Ford something nice instead. At least you will not feel let down by a mediocre Business-like service at the price of gold, or by a fantastic lunch and treatment, maybe very nice but only because you will have been spotted.
I'm just here to chime in how to get a deal on Starlux F - You redeem their own miles, which can be transferred from Taiwanese domestic bank.
No..just no!
It’s a no from me. I would find the review interesting but I (and other readers) will likely never fly with then (at these prices and lack of points availability). Also I tend to agree wait until this stuff with the idiot Josh cools down.
If loads are consistently empty then either prices will be lowered (then you can take it) or they will get rid of it and make it a business class...
It’s a no from me. I would find the review interesting but I (and other readers) will likely never fly with then (at these prices and lack of points availability). Also I tend to agree wait until this stuff with the idiot Josh cools down.
If loads are consistently empty then either prices will be lowered (then you can take it) or they will get rid of it and make it a business class plus product or something.
I say either stay at nice hotel in Paris or do a train trip somewhere or even fly yo another city in Europe for a hotel review (maybe even fly Ryan air ahaha)
Buy a return journey with business class outbound and economy inbound, and skip the return leg. By choosing the right date it will bring the price for an effective one-way business class to $1800 or so. Still on the steep side, but doable, no?
No. Don't do it. It maybe might be justifiable if you needed to go to the country anyway and spend quality time there, but certainly not worth it just for a review. Just relax in Paris.
If you can afford it, and you think it’d be good for the blog, then why not?
But don’t just do a return flight. At least spend a couple of days in Côte d’Ivoire.
You could combine it with a review of Corsair business class. Else you could also combine Air Mauritius with Discover or Condor back. If you find a way to go from Abidjan to Kampala you could combine it with Uganda Airlines. Finally you could also do a quick turn to La Reunion on Corsair, FrenchBee, Air Austral.
The French Bee Premium review would be interesting. I second that.
Would the expense of this trip not be tax deductible as an expense to the business since you are doing it to produce a review? If not you must find a new CPA & tax advisor
Tax deductible doesn’t make it free.
It’s mind-boggling to me how many people don’t understand this. Reminds me of the episode from Schitt’s Creek where David thought tax deductible meant free.
Not free but a huge discount. It could be a 30% discount. Whatever your tax bracket is.
@Karen
Depending on the business structure, "your tax bracket" could be irrelevant.
I hate to say this, but people like you are the worse than Ryan.
Ryan knew too little but so obvious he is wrong.
Karen knows too little to be correct but enough to convince Ryan with wrong information.
Let's just hope Karen isn't a CPA or does anything tax related.
Unfortunately, reviewing Air Côte d’Ivoire right now would take you further into the kerfuffle with Josh Cahill. Like the flight, and you are essentially “proving” him wrong. Have a bad experience, and you’re backing up his bad review. I suggest staying out of the issue until things cool way down!
I think you answered your own question. Not worth it. I’m curious about the Waldorf Trianon - have you been recently? That might be a fun, quick jaunt from Paris.
I'd also vote No. I'd love to read the review, but not at this cost. You could wait for the price to drop, as it seems to be unsustainable long term, given the competition. If they cancel the route, you shouldn't sweat too much as the review would not have provided much benefit to the readers anyway... For now, it's better to spend the $$ to review something else, or just enjoy Paris!
Definitely not worth it! Your readers may get more value from some hotel reviews in France or neighboring countries that might be a short train ride away.
A challenge!
Price: Try for a travel agency in Paris, eg through a department store to avoid unfortunate fly by night stuff. Best if you or a buddy do that in French.
You could call the Ivory Coast tourism office and ask if they have any advice.
Visa: I see your readers have covered this!
Not worth it man, put the $ towards your kids’ college funds. Not many of us are that intrigued with the airline tbh.
What about flying with Luxair to Luxembourg?
I agree with the others. Go somewhere on the train instead :) Bordeaux has lovely hotels.
Come on, dont throw your money away. We all know it is going to be bad. Wait for a better deal and enjoy your time in Paris. Or do some other airline
I’d say skip it or maybe book business class and see if you get a cheap upgrade offer (if they offer those). Hopefully if the airline keeps growing and adding more planes, it might add more partners and eventually you might find a better first class deal.
Yes, you should book it. What spending a fortune are you talking about? Just think of the points you will accumulate on one of your dozens of credit cards. You'll be a happy man.
Bon voyage!
Skip it and wait one day in the future there will be a good way to book this flight with miles or a steep discount
What about taking the Chunnel train to London for a review of an alternative method of traveling between the two cities?
Chunnel is for drivers with cars and lorries ( which Lucky doesn’t have in Paris) to Calais, Eurostar is for passenger travel only to Paris.
I’d say skip it for now. If their planes really are running that empty as you surmise, fares are sure to creep down. I’d be immensely happy if you did some train trip PAR-anywhere, flew from city B to LON, then Eurostar Premier LON-PAR. Maybe not air-travel related but surely of value to readers and a little something different! There is a vlogger “Nonstop Eurotrip” that does train reviews but they’re video based and I much prefer reading.
Dont they offer upgrades? If the F cabin isn’t fully you might be able to get that for a decent price?
OMG, @Ben, yes, this would be the most interesting thing ever!
I know how you can get a cheaper ticket on Air Cote d'Ivoire!
I've heard they have cheap Business Class fares on Booking.com. It may or may not ticket correctly. If it doesn't, I've heard that you can show up at the airport and make a scene, and then they will upgrade you to a Premium Cabin out of their generosity!
In all seriousness, I love your reviews of less common airlines. They are just as valuable to me as any other review, mostly because of my curiosity. However, $5K is a lot to spend for a day trip. So, I don't think it would be worth it to spend so much just for your readers on this exact ticket. If you really want to, then go for it. But I think you could use that...
In all seriousness, I love your reviews of less common airlines. They are just as valuable to me as any other review, mostly because of my curiosity. However, $5K is a lot to spend for a day trip. So, I don't think it would be worth it to spend so much just for your readers on this exact ticket. If you really want to, then go for it. But I think you could use that cash for a larger quantity of interesting flights, and fly with Air Cote d'Ivoire later on when their prices are lower. Enjoy Paris, though it can feel a bit lonely in my experience as a solo traveler. Then again, just eat some pastries and bread and that feeling goes away.
If you really want to fly with Air Cote d'Ivoire right now, you could book a ticket in Economy. That may satisfy your curiosity and also save you some cash.
Agree with others that you should wait for the fares to drop to a more reasonable level.
That said, this may be a case where their first class offering will be short-lived, as the demand is just not there for it (especially if AF already offers a product that can’t be beat).
"I have a really tight timeline and everything needs to work on schedule."
*flies to West Africa*
lol
I mean, This airline has pretty good on time performance so far and there are three alternatives back to paris in case things don't go as planned.
One option if you decided to fly to Mauritius on Air Mauritius is that you could then try to fly the other three airlines that are part of the Vanilla Alliance: Air Austral, Madagascar Airlines & Air Seychelles.
TIL there is a “Vanilla Alliance.” What an adorable and appropriate name.
I strongly doubt that paying so much out-of-pocket for what is effectively a "business class plus" experience, especially when you'll be flying in substantially the same seat in the other direction, will be worth it.
Do it. It's part of your job. It's a business expense and a write off anyway. Thanks
Would be fun to read but per your recent post about the internet business getting tougher to make a living in perhaps you should save the $5k.
If Cairo, you can take Egypt Air's 787 to Dhaka (it's their new service) with Biman Bangladesh (which you haven't flown) to London or even Toronto from Dhaka?
I’d rather Ben not disappear from the face of the earth.
Is that because I suggested Biman/Dhaka?
No, it’s because you suggested Cairo. Search the blog and you’ll understand.
I think it would be more relevant to your readers and have more long-term value to review some of the points hotels in Paris that you haven't covered yet (Marriott, Renaissance, etc).
As much as I love reading OMAAT for these obscure airlines, I have to agree that the juice isn't worth the squeeze here, especially for a quick turn on the same airplane. I like the idea of a Reims (or other city with a direct TGV to CDG) hotel and train review for something different that would appeal to a lot of people who love Paris but are interested in convenient destinations nearby with points...
As much as I love reading OMAAT for these obscure airlines, I have to agree that the juice isn't worth the squeeze here, especially for a quick turn on the same airplane. I like the idea of a Reims (or other city with a direct TGV to CDG) hotel and train review for something different that would appeal to a lot of people who love Paris but are interested in convenient destinations nearby with points properties.
At these fares, I'd save Air Cote d'Ivoire for a broader Africa trip when you can combine with more stuff (maybe returning to the US via Accra)
This. A random airline I’ll never fly is less interesting than hotels in nice places.
You should totally explore Abidjan and Cote D Ivoire for a few days as it’s a unique nation.
Oh yes I'd love him to. That'd be an occasion to fly domestic with them on their Dash-8 planes as well.
Lucky doesn’t explore anywhere. He checks out lounges at 5am and flies somewhere else right afterwards.
Yeah this isn't an exploring blog
The most exploring that will be done is the lounge of a chain hotel.
A bit late on this and as much as I want to cheer you on I'm going to have to vote "no." Balking at cost and I see it as you're paying premium for "hype pricing" with partial purpose of "completing the deck" and with partial purpose of entertainment and with partial purpose of engaging in a pissing match. Any way to review another African airline that is undergoing development like Air Algerie or Air Senegal instead?
There is no reason to do this trip now, except to dunk on Josh Cahill. As many before me have said, it is probable that they will adjust their fares when the load factors and yields suck.
However, I do think this kind of trip, where there is a significant (to you) outlay of cash, is why you should have a patreon, subscription, or paid membership model. I have been reading OMAAT for 10+...
There is no reason to do this trip now, except to dunk on Josh Cahill. As many before me have said, it is probable that they will adjust their fares when the load factors and yields suck.
However, I do think this kind of trip, where there is a significant (to you) outlay of cash, is why you should have a patreon, subscription, or paid membership model. I have been reading OMAAT for 10+ years now and would be happy to pay you the same annual fee I pay for my local soccer blog $75/year.
Please be advised that I do not actively seek the attention of the resident website trolls.
However, please be aware that if you come ‘knocking’ at my door, then you may not appreciate the response which you receive.
Are you that desperate for attention?
No thing screams more than making an announcement that "I do not actively seek the attention".
You have to make a 2nd separate post?
Especially when no one is even responding or even trolling your first post.
Book It! It’s a business expense.
Business expense isn't free money.
This isn't politician hush funds.
Ben, thank you for asking about our preferences.
Actually, if I had to vote on this, it would be reviewing a hotel in Reims, and the train journey to get there from CDG!
Depends on how you would handle this as a business expense. But there doesn't seem to be sufficient interest in the airline to justify the effort.
Don't do it. Expecially not to satisfy trying to fly every first class.
Skip it
Would much rather read about hotels and restaurants in Paris. We need a young Rick Steves.
It’s not first class. Neither is Starlux. You’ve flown all first class products.
I don't think it is worth it, especially considering most of your readers will never fly them.
If you are looking for new products I would be interested in the LuxAir LUX-DWC new J product (either way), the fares don't seem to be too bad for a 7hr flight ($1300 to DWC or $1100 to LUX). You could then find some good fares or awards out of DXB or AUH on a one stop...
I don't think it is worth it, especially considering most of your readers will never fly them.
If you are looking for new products I would be interested in the LuxAir LUX-DWC new J product (either way), the fares don't seem to be too bad for a 7hr flight ($1300 to DWC or $1100 to LUX). You could then find some good fares or awards out of DXB or AUH on a one stop routing back to CDG (Air Algere, Azerbaijan, Condor, Fly Dubai, IndiGo (with the new Europe flights))
You could always do a review of a TGV in First Class and go see the French countryside, or maybe EuroStar to London.
Agree with the first sentence. Ben, if you took the flight it would be more about you personally checking every first class box than adding value to your readers. The chances that more than a couple, or even anyone, reading this blog will fly that product are negligible.
Most readers wouldn't fly LuxAir LUX-DWC either.
There are a lot of readers in Europe and it is good J fares to a popular destination, plus the cost is significantly less
@Brad B
Right.
There are a lot of readers in Africa and it is good J fares to a popular destination, plus the cost is significantly fun.
Yourself and a few buddies doesn't make it "a lot of readers"
Unless Ben publish his traffic, I still insist.
Most readers wouldn't fly LuxAir LUX-DWC either.
I wouldn't, but if you really want to then you should go for it.
As someone who recalls flying Air Afrique often from Paris to Abidjan, I'd love to see a review. Agree the price is steep, though. Economy-only? Still would be great to see.
Looks like i'll have to wait for air Côte d'Ivoire's reputation to be cleansed :')
Reposting this as the blog's munching my comments again.
Why don't you mix business with premium economy? This type of sector length is where premium economy is at its best - too long for an economy seat, too short for a proper night's sleep. They'll certainly be using some generic lounge at CDG, so doing the ABJ-CDG leg in business should allow you to review the ground service without missing out on anything important.
Premium Economy is the WORST value product in the market.
Especially on Côte d'Ivoire, I'd admit. Cause the Economy class seats are already quite wide in our configuration (2-4-2 instead of 3-3-3 on higher density a339s) so I don't really see the benefit of flying with them in premium.
That's a silly aphorism, and you know it.
Beyond the obvious observation that premium economy can be a decent award redemption option (which, to be fair, isn't too relevant to Air Cote d' Ivoire unless and until they start partnering with major foreign carriers), fares are never static. Travel-Dealz.de currently show premium economy offers between Europe and the Far East being sold for less than €800 return all-in. Surely at that sort of price...
That's a silly aphorism, and you know it.
Beyond the obvious observation that premium economy can be a decent award redemption option (which, to be fair, isn't too relevant to Air Cote d' Ivoire unless and until they start partnering with major foreign carriers), fares are never static. Travel-Dealz.de currently show premium economy offers between Europe and the Far East being sold for less than €800 return all-in. Surely at that sort of price it's worth the extra over Y and simultaneously represents a substantial saving over J!
@throwawarname/ Yes. And the Premium eco fare is currently cheaper than the eco fare for Air Côte d'Ivoire because the premium seats went on sale later due to certification hurdles.
@Throwawayname
That's a cherry picking aphorism, and you know it.
Every rare €800 you find, there are mostly €1500+ fares on average.
What you didn't say it's still 40% more than economy.
Even award redemption comparing what cost you in economy and business and what you get for the cost in premium economy.
And I didn't even get into CZ premium economy product comparison.
But please keep booking that cabin and stay out of economy...
@Throwawayname
That's a cherry picking aphorism, and you know it.
Every rare €800 you find, there are mostly €1500+ fares on average.
What you didn't say it's still 40% more than economy.
Even award redemption comparing what cost you in economy and business and what you get for the cost in premium economy.
And I didn't even get into CZ premium economy product comparison.
But please keep booking that cabin and stay out of economy and business class. I thank you for subsidizing my fares.
@Eskimo ,
I very rarely fly on premium economy, in fact I think I've only ever done two long haul segments in it. I actually agree with you that it's often very expensive for what it is.
Nevertheless , that doesn't change the fact that each purchasing decision should be examined in its own context, saying 'premium economy is the worst value' isn't that any more sensible than saying 'I always buy the cheapest ticket...
@Eskimo ,
I very rarely fly on premium economy, in fact I think I've only ever done two long haul segments in it. I actually agree with you that it's often very expensive for what it is.
Nevertheless , that doesn't change the fact that each purchasing decision should be examined in its own context, saying 'premium economy is the worst value' isn't that any more sensible than saying 'I always buy the cheapest ticket I can get for a direct flight' (and suffer 14 hours in the back of the plane in order to avoid an easy connection with a rival airline which would have me travelling in flat seats 90% of the way for less money) or 'I can't stand hoi polloi in economy class so I'll always fly up front' (and end up rewarding an airline with crazily overpriced Eurobusiness-type service on a two hour flight).
It's a pretty niche flight in the grand scheme of things. I would do something else Ben.
Ben, some of us have been paid a lot of money for decades to fly around the world. You are contemplating paying with your own points or cash, to achieve what exactly?
This is a sign from the gods.
God is smiling at you with a wink and telling this is your chance to crush him.
Rub it in.
Send a message you paid for PREMIUM cabins made for gods not the fake booking.com mortal fares.
Crush him and you become one of the almighty travel influencer gods that rule the eternal land of the internet.
Did I mention just ask for his birth certificate?
Now go exterminate Josh.
Gott der Benjamin!!!!!
I love your enthousiasm bro XD
BOOKED: I'm Immortalized God in Ivory Coast.
Gott der Benjamin!!!!!
Place of Birth: Air Côte d’Ivoire
You can put that in your birth certificate.
@eskimo/ He might realistically be crowned honorary king of an ivorian people for saving the flag carrier from Aljoscha's evil smear campaign LMAO.
If you don't want to do this, it might be interesting to see what other day trips you could do within Europe. Air Corsica could be a cool review, and there also seem to be a few interesting regional airlines that fly domestically out of Orly (Amelia, Chalair, Twin Jet).
Don't! African Airlines and destinations are always a pain in the A##. Those guys only intend to grab money from others. Remember your TAAG experience. I hardly doubt this would be any different. Albeit, I have to say, Paris is far from my desired city in the world but surely better than any african destination.
I doubt they intend to grab money from anyone - it's more like a government attempting to boost tourism and show the electorate that they're putting the country's name out there in the world. This isn't Ryanair trying to catch people out with hidden fees - there may be poor service at times, but it's more likely attributable to the fact that the cabin manager has only been appointed because she's the niece of a Minister.
Nice money grab scheme with a 52 % market share in it's area of operations. :). As my name implies, I am very much biased and you're entitled to your opinion, but it kinda hurts to read you. :(
Meh, sure. I’ll read it.
Agree with others, while I'd love to read it, I would never fly it, and it definitely feels like it's something you could look at in the future once they work out that their fare structure is unsustainable.
If you do go for it, though, you could fly back on Air Senegal or Air Algerie, depending on your dates - these are both more reasonably priced than Air Côte d'Ivoire? Brussels Airlines also flies...
Agree with others, while I'd love to read it, I would never fly it, and it definitely feels like it's something you could look at in the future once they work out that their fare structure is unsustainable.
If you do go for it, though, you could fly back on Air Senegal or Air Algerie, depending on your dates - these are both more reasonably priced than Air Côte d'Ivoire? Brussels Airlines also flies from ABJ if you want a safe option (maybe there's even award space?)- their premium economy seems reasonable.
Skip this one. That's a chunk of change for a flight that has a very very limited number of readers who would ever need that review. I think people would get far more out of reviews of Paris hotels.
Dude just vibe in Paris. Get dinner at L'Ambroisie, browse book stalls by the Seine, stroll through Montmartre, buy a baguette, get lost in the Luxembourg Gardens. If you want to make it about ROI, I can't imagine you'll get that many more clicks out of busting your hump on one of these trips. You only have one life.
Just like with your recent question on flying from London to the ME to try their airlines with an inconvenient schedule, I recommended you stay in London to review points hotels. Same here - what's your take on how the Park Hyatt Paris is holding up? What's the best Marriott option? Etc.
Fares might change. Perhaps it's not just "whether" you do it, but "when". Personally I have no interest in the content but i'll read it if you do it. And I get the "all First Class products" checklist thing. Obviously you have to do it someday, but must it be now?
Skip it. I'd read the post but I'm not super curious or anything. Not worth the $5K outlay.
Why don't you try booking.com? I heard they have great deals on Air Côte d'Ivoire ;-)
Ben, if you have some time by Charles de Gaulle airport why not visit Musée de l’Air et de l’Espace, Le Bourget (National Air & Space Museum of France). See the Concord, Lockheed Super Constellatio and more. You could even review it.
I will second this, was there last year, you can easily spend 4 hours or more there.
Would spending even any amount of time on the ground in Abidjan make it more worth it than not even leaving the airport?
@ Jacques -- That would definitely make it a bit more interesting, you're right. The schedule would be really tight, though, in terms of lining up with the rest of the trip. But still, it's something to consider.
I can't tell you whether it's worth it, since I'm not sure about the economics of running a blog and how much revenue that particular review would generate, but I can say that I would love to read about it. In a way, getting to read your blog posts for products I'll never fly myself is a way that I get to imagine the experience through your post. If you could swing it, I'd love to read about it, and I'll continue to use your links when signing up for CCs regardless.
So you'd rather pay for this instead of Starlux first class?
@ yoloswag420 -- The two aren't necessarily mutually exclusive. But I struggle even more with Starlux pricing. We're talking $9K one-way for one segment.
I'm perplexed by your view that this is so expensive. $1300 for a business class ticket on a flight like that seems like a great deal to me. I just spent that much on some economy delta tickets from New York to Salt Lake! (Granted over a holiday weekend in ski season). So, do it!
@ 747-400 -- The one-way business class fare isn't unreasonable. The issue is that you can't book it just one-way, and also how much more first class is, even though I'm not convinced it offers a lot more value.
Why not book business Class one way and premium eco the other way? Business doesn't differ much from first imo. It's just more legroom you don't really need and a bigger display.
I'm personally a little over all the articles about ABJ and related.
My vote is to test out two carriers on the nonstops to RUN -- Corsair and Air Austral.
Some random ocean front restaurant reviews in Reunion to accompany it...
oooh. I forgot AirCaraibes also randomly does that route Paris>RUN. That would be cool too
https://www.flightradar24.com/FBU72C/3d1df0bc
guess you'll have to look this one up more though. Seems ORY-RUN is normally a French Bee plane vs Air Caraibes. I feel like you've addressed this in previous articles and I've forgotten.
@ MaxPower -- Funny you say that, I looked at Air Austral and Corsair, as both are high on my list. However, fares are high, and there's no practical way to redeem points, so I can't actually find a good angle there either...
fair enough. Look forward to the great trip reviews, as always!
5000 for that trip really sounds like a bit much, however, where are you at in terms of your budget for travel in 2025? If you have spent less than you anticipated then why not treat yourself to a totally new experience? If it really will sting paying that amount, give it a miss!
Ben, if you do not think it is worth it then it is not worth it.
If you do take the flights in first class and business class then you can cross that off your list of must try airline cabins.
It will give you something to talk about if and when you have that interview with Josh Cahill and you will do one better than him since you also tried first class as...
Ben, if you do not think it is worth it then it is not worth it.
If you do take the flights in first class and business class then you can cross that off your list of must try airline cabins.
It will give you something to talk about if and when you have that interview with Josh Cahill and you will do one better than him since you also tried first class as well besides business class. You can also give him the logistics of actually paying to fly in business class by buying that ticket directly with the airline rather than booking a supposed mistake fare on an OTA. And yeah do give him the benefit of the doubt as he will tell you his side of the story.
Please don't pretend that this tax-deductible expense is actually a lot to you. Not everyone is that stupid.
@ Gene -- I'm happy you think that's the case, but let me reiterate that in over 17 years of blogging, I've only once spent that much (or more) on a ticket, and that was for a flight in Etihad's The Residence from Abu Dhabi to Sydney.
There is no way you would have posted this if you weren't going to book it! Get it booked!
Coming soon, joining the Patreon account at the Air Cote d'Ivoire tier... I presume that will be priced slightly higher than the "I love Cairo Airport" tier?
I mean, if you don't do it, what will you talk with Josh C. about when you sit down for that interview? ;-)
Do it please. Did you spend hundreds of dollar on a yellow fever shot so you could review African airlines?
@ Josh -- I do indeed have my yellow fever vaccine, so I have that going for me!
I could get a shot for 15$ on arrival at ABJ airport last time I checked. I had lost my vaccine book a.k.a the only way to prove I was vaccinated so I had to retake it on Arrival after 7 months spent in France. Don't know if only Ivorians pay that cheap for a shot on arrival though.
First class one way - for completeness reviewing first class products - and economy the other. That would be more interesting content than business class. I just used one of your links to apply for a credit card (I was approved). Maybe that helps...!
Please do it!!! This is the kind of content I love to read, I get a sense of wonder from airlines like this! I have an idea—how about Air Côte d’Ivoire first class in one direction, and Air France La Premiere in the other? Who knows which will best the other in a head to head? LOL.
Also, in terms of this being your most expensive ticket, I’m surprised it wasn’t your JFK-CDG-JNB ticket in...
Please do it!!! This is the kind of content I love to read, I get a sense of wonder from airlines like this! I have an idea—how about Air Côte d’Ivoire first class in one direction, and Air France La Premiere in the other? Who knows which will best the other in a head to head? LOL.
Also, in terms of this being your most expensive ticket, I’m surprised it wasn’t your JFK-CDG-JNB ticket in La Premiere with Ford and your dad a few years back. I remember finding that so cool and I’d love to do a similar trip if/when AF brings back LP to JNB.
@ Motion to Dismiss -- Funny enough, the La Premiere ticket actually cost less than that, which makes this pricing all the more painful. You have good memory!
We obviously don’t know your finances, and it is expensive for a flight review that isn’t likely to be relevant. BUT- as a reader that’s been with you since almost the beginning, this is why we love your content! Would love to read it if it’s possible!
You will need a visa for Ivory Coast. I would not count on an African airline understanding the nature of a same-plane-return and allowing it visa-free. (Even Finnair insists on visas on their flights to India even if it is a same-plane return with airside transit.)
Would it be possible for you to treat yourself to La Premiere? Fly AF to Abidjan, spend a night and return on the afternoon Air Cote d'Ivoire flight in F to Paris?
Yes I had the same idea—I agree that would be an awesome way to do it.
@ Daniel from Finland -- I like your thought in general, the issue is that one-way first class is outrageously expensive, even more than if booking as part of a roundtrip. Otherwise I totally would.
Does anyone have actual firsthand experience with how long it takes to get a visa for the Ivory Coast approved?
@Ben - it is an eVisa and it is usually approved in no more than a couple of days. There is also a transit facility at Abidjan airport and no issues with doing same plane turnarounds.
@ Ben Schlappig - The eVisa is quite straight forward and usually take less than 72 hours. What is time consuming is having it issued at the airport (you need to bring the eVisa approval (printed version) and they will provide the actual visa sticker upon arrival), and clear imigration. However, if flying in the front of the plane and on a HF flight the queues are probable shorter. There is also a separate line...
@ Ben Schlappig - The eVisa is quite straight forward and usually take less than 72 hours. What is time consuming is having it issued at the airport (you need to bring the eVisa approval (printed version) and they will provide the actual visa sticker upon arrival), and clear imigration. However, if flying in the front of the plane and on a HF flight the queues are probable shorter. There is also a separate line for premium passengers at passport control.
I see Sean M mention the transit fasility at ABJ, and he probably know what he is talkning about, I've never used it myself. However, my experience is that only the airport printed boarding pass format is accepted when exiting the county . I've been in the boarder control trying to show both digital boarding passes and home-printed boarding passes and stil been requested to show my boarding pass. With that said, if you can use the transit fasility, you might not enter the country at all, and thus do not need to exit.
Another thing, if a physical, airport-printed BP is needed, you should check the check-in deadline for HF. AF i.e close check-in 2 hours prior to departure, others do 90 min and some airlines like ET, KQ do 60 min.
If you need to go through immigration, I'd advise to use Pearl Assist's Meet and Assist pack (https://pearlassist.com/meet-and-assist-arrival-to-abidjan), pretty pricey at 105$ but it proved valuable to me when I needed to use the e-visa. You're met at the gate by an agent, escorted to the visa office, then whisked through immigration in a dedicated line.
How about combining Premium Economy and Business?
Yes. Maximum credibility. Do it.
Ignore the naysayers and pragmatists.
This is the 'jet-fuel' you need for your upcoming 'Thunderdome' against Josh C.
Start a GoFundMe. I’ll chip in $20
I'll chip in 21
Lucky,
Do it. Even better, fly with Josh Cahill and have that chat onboard.
YESSS.
LOL
I dunno of Air Côte d'Ivoire wanna see Aljoscha's face on their planes anytime soon.
No, you have kids! Save your money. What about buying Y and seeing if there’s a cash upgrade price for a more reasonable amount?
@ Jake -- Based on Josh Cahill's "SCAM" flight on the airline, it seems the upgrade price doesn't offer much savings, since they wanted him to pay $1,500 one-way to upgrade from economy to business.
I'd definitely like to read it, it's the kind of the obscure product no one ever reviews.
Am I likely to ever fly it? No. But that applies to most first class products and it doesn't stop me from enjoying the reviews :)
I would like for you to try out Air Cote d'Ivoire's brand-new A330neo in First Class to see how it compares to Josh's experience.
Noone here will ever fly this airline, and it wont generate enough clicks. Even with a tax write off you are wasting your time and money.
Skip it!
How about a review of an overnight on a train somewhere in Europe?
I agree, I am sure early next year fares will be lower, and in the mean time, try some the trains that are alternatives to short flights in Europe. I am curious about the TrenItalia Executive class from Paris to Milan (1-1 seating in 5 rows, full food and drink service).
Not worth the money. Would have very littel relevance to the majority of your audience. Also, without knowing the details for the transit, and what would happen if you missed your return flight the same day, I would say no.
Oh, pish posh; I'm here for the subsequent 'roast' of Josh Cahill that would follow such a review...
Hop over to London and see if you can get on that sole Riyadh Air flight
Save your money! They'll eventually reduce their fares when their cabin is empty
Skip it. Buy the kids and Ford something nice in Paris.
Yes.
Would this have popped up on your radar and be under serious consideration had Mr. Cahill and his PA not contacted you?