It’s 1992, the first day of spring training. We’re in the dugout of the Gulf Coast Royals, a Kansas City Royals farm team. The guys are clustered around pitcher Matthew J. Bennett, who’s explaining how he flew from Monterey CA to Orlando FL for half the money the team gave him – allowing him to keep the change.

“Hey, Matthew,” one of the guys says, “can you do that for us too?”

And Mr. Upgrade was born.

Matthew washed out of the minor leagues, to the everlasting gratitude of travelers who enjoy flying up front – but insist on the most value for their dollar – often flying First Class for the price of coach.

For ten years Mr. Bennett has been pulling fare-saving rabbits out of hats for CEOs, Hollywood stars, professional athletes and just plain luxury travelers.

He was mentored from the start by many of the world’s most knowledgeable travel consultants. In the course of putting their secrets to work he evolved his own repertoire of tactics. The tables are turned as the world’s top agencies ask for his seasoned advice.

Value-conscious business and leisure travelers from coast to coast and around the world can acquire Mr. Bennett’s money-saving luxury travel guidance, thanks to the Internet. Corporate travel managers also rely on his cost-cutting strategies.

First Class Flyer, Mr. Bennett’s newsletter and website (www.FirstClassFlyer.com), shares insider information on the best values and sweet deals. It’s become the top resource for timely advice and guidance on ...

Mr. Bennett is frequently asked to provide expert advice from top news agencies including ...

"...ingenious ways to use frequent flier miles for upgrades, and other ways—both obvious and sneaky—to escape from the cattle car... It's a great reference for anyone who hates flying Coach"
Ed Perkins, Founding Editor
Consumer Reports Travel Letter

"Anyone who has flown first class knows how much more comfortable, roomy and enjoyable... check out First Class Flyer."
Fine Living Magazine

"Mr. Upgrade and First Class Flyer are a user friendly service that does everything possible to make my travel more comfortable -- in the air, and in my wallet."
Mike Steinberg, Senior Vice President
Salomon Smith Barney

"FirstClassFlyer.com, a Web Site that shares insider information on first- and business-class values and upgrade tactics.”
USA TODAY

"Matt, I've been a subscriber for over 5 years, and use your information regularly -- my subscription fee is worth every penny! Keep up the good work!"
Gary Caplan, President
Caplan Management

"Mr. Upgrade writes about deals I can't find anywhere else!"
Nell Edgar, Travel Agency Owner
C arlson Wagonlit Travel

More than 90,000 travelers subscribe to Mr. Bennett's newsletters.

And he puts it all together from his office in Monterey, CA, where most of his travel these days is to a favorite hideaway down the coast on Highway 1, to spectacular Big Sur.