David Smith2 February 10, 2017 09:24

Not paid for personally but, back in 1994, I had to go from London to Rio to do a presentation for the European Commission. Normally I would have jumped at the offer and happily flown cattle but commitments at each end meant I could only fly in and out with a 24-hour stay. I therefore ‘demanded’ a business ticket so that I would be on top form to deliver the presentation. That ticket cost the Commission around £3,000.

But the bonus was that I wanted a smoking seat (shows you how long ago) and, at check-in they said they had no smoking seats left in business. I expressed my regret and concern but let it go. But at the gate, they ripped up my boarding card and gave me a new one in First Class where there was still a smoking seat remaining.

Not sure if there is any moral whatsoever to that tale, but I certainly enjoyed the experience and the presentation went well, in the end.