Airlines tend to pamper first- and business-class passengers, and overlook the majority in cattle class, so it is nice to see that Emirates, which is offering passengers travelling to the UK complimentary rental of a mobile phone for up to 28 days, is including those with economy class tickets.
Passengers who wish to take up the offer only need to inform the Hong Kong office of Emirates 24 hours before departure. They need to pay a nominal insurance charge, and the cost of their calls, which must be paid for by credit card.
Phones can be collected at the airport on arrival. Emirates also offers free limousine transport from some airports, but economy class passengers must sit this one out, although they are offered preferential rates from Budget Rent-A-Car.
Nights in jail Some of the world's most off-beat accommodation can also be the cheapest, according to Ms Connie Au, administration officer of the Hong Kong Youth Hostels Association.
For example, there's a renovated jail in Ottawa whose 'inmates' are paying guests; Room 27 in a castle on Loch Lomond in Scotland is said to be haunted by a love-lorn maid who killed herself there 200 years ago; and some of the United States' old lighthouses now offer comfortable shelter.
Each is a member of the worldwide Youth Hostels Association, which boasts 5,000 non-profit-making hostels in 60 countries, with prices from US$4 (HK$31) a night.
