I have a long history in travel and consider myself quite good at my job. Or, rather, should I say, at part of my job? The part I am less good at – and, frankly, which I can’t stand – is booking air. And so I have had, over the years, the valued assistance of different air specialists.
Sarosh Waghmar, the founder and CEO of Spotnana, lives and breathes air travel; he and his staff, the fare spotters, are “air obsessed”. I have witnessed this both as a friend and as a client. That blackberry (one of a number) is never out of his sight and never goes unanswered. He has trained his spotters to the same efficient standards.
What do they do? They specialize in First and Business Class air travel (because it is the only “civilized” way to travel, in his speak), particularly on international routes – although they handle domestic flights itineraries as well. They are well-connected with all the airlines and get excellent rates, but there are a few favorites on which they offer extremely favorable rates. Amazing rates, actually. British Airways is just one of them.
What else? They also specialize in knowing, and advising, their clients, on cabin configuration, seat pitch, new routings, changing air partnerships and – oh my god! – the gamesmanship of mileage reward programs. Their invaluable tips come to you on Faceboook, in tweets or emailed news feeds. With their ears to the ground and eyes on the discounted ticket prize, Spotnana spotters can save you money, time and the incredible hassle of sorting it all out for yourself.