EMIRATES

Your jet: Boeing 777-300ER

Killer app: Your own en-suite mini bar, stocked with soda, juice, and water—ideal when summoning an attendant is just too tiresome

Amenity you'll want to steal: The leatherbound in-flight menu to show off later to friends

Ultimate itinerary: New York City to Dubai, to see how your property on the Palms is coming along.

Life up front: In summer 2007, Emirates spent $50 million spiffing up its first-class cabins to the tune of $125,000 each. The results are suites that might remind you of a nice little Manhattan studio. That six-figure sum guaranteed not just comfort but also a cutting-edge entertainment system. The 23-inch monitor is one of the largest in the air and comes with a wireless remote. It even has a USB port, which allows you to browse those digital vacation snaps long before you reach home. Each suite is tricked out with gold trim, beige leather, and an impressive honey-walnut wood effect. There are no overhead bins, just aisle-side personal closets. And if even that suite isn't roomy enough, there's a freestanding, mingle-ready bar for swinging business singles. The seven-course meal includes such niceties as Beluga caviar.

Platinum card–smashing price: New York City to Dubai from $11,700 round-trip.

Emirates
Tel: 800 777 3999