Flying to the US on my own, never flown on my own before, advice please?

[astragirl]

OK. I'm going to go to Memphis, Tenn maybe in April for my dream trip. I was considering American Airlines. I am thinking of going "Business Special" as it's a trip of a lifetime and I could just about afford it. Any ideas what "Business Special" is? as I can't find anywhere on their website what it would mean ie would I get bigger seat, better food and drink?

Have never gone anywhere without dp before and feel nervous, but really want to go.

Yes, bigger seat (but not lay flat in AA business class), better food and drink.

Flying on your own is lush - you get to saunter round the airport, read all the trashy mags you like on the flight, and watch terrible movies without anyone commenting on them. And sleep as much as you like.

What airline?

Will you rent a car? You'll probably need to as American cities can be a bit spread out, and not very good with public transport.

Once in Memphis, will you be on your own or will you be meeting up with other people?

Flying alone is really good fun - enjoy it. You can please yourself.

Reckon you would prob not regret the Business Special, providing it is not ridiculously more expensive than a normal seat. You prob would never be able to afford it if you were both going, so make it a treat for yourself

American Airlines Earlybird. I'm not sure about hiring a car, I was thinking of using taxis or there is a shuttle to the hotel I plan to stay at. I will be totally on my with only Elvis for company

A flight? All on your own? Business class? !

It all sounds great. When I was flying longhaul with my 6month old LO last year, I remember thinking to myself - we were in business class - how indulgent and enjoyable it would've been on my own (not regretting the existence of DH or my LO! but still...) So I bet you would enjoy it - you can relax and enjoy drinks, films, and sleep and read before your holiday. I am jealous already!

Memphis in April should be lovely - warm sun, spring in full swing with trees and flowers sprouting.

Business Class will be lovely. Bigger seats, choice of movies with probably your own screen, nicer food/wine than 'cattle class' in the rear, amenities bag, fluffy blankets, more spacious bathrooms, etc. IME, even the stewardesses are happier/nicer 'up front'.

Is it a direct flight?

Have fun!

Would not think you'd get a direct flight from the UK to Memphis but if it is a direct flight then that would be preferable.

If a stopover is required give yourself around 3 hours in order to transfer (you will need to clear both Immigration and Customs at the first point of entry and that takes time. Also you will need to recheck your luggage). It all takes time.

The ESTA (electronic travel authorisation) is now a mandatory requirement for entry into the US. There are lots of dodgy sites out there who charge and ask for credit card information; ESTA is free. Only use the official US govt site to imput your information.

esta.cbp.dhs.gov

You will be given the green visa waiver form along with the white customs form to complete at check in.

Have a great time in Tennessee!

Thank you AttilaThemeerkat that's great info

If transitting and you have to move between terminals there are usually facilities to check you baggage in at the terminal you arrive in. DONT DO THIS. The extra hassle of dragging your luggage between terminals is worth it as it greatly decreases the chance of the airline losing your luggage.

Ah, Graceland! I've been twice (once when they had human tour guides, and again with the audio guide - but they'd also opened the kitchen to the public so it was a trade off). I also met Elvis's Uncle Vester who was hanging out in the gift shop because he didn't have any power/heating at his house (it was January at the time).

I'd definitely upgrade to whatever business class you can. I'm not a huge fan of AA but then I've only ever flown in coach with them.

I'd seriously reconsider the car rental. Graceland is a bit off the beaten path and I'm not sure what bus service is like in Memphis - I have a vague recollection of going through some dodgy areas. On our way to Graceland. As Earlybird said, US cities aren't built for public transport. You should be able to get a decent deal for an economy car and petrol isn't as expensive as it is here.

You'll definitely want to stop at Sun Studio and Beale Street too.

And depending on how long you're there, you could head to Nashville to the Grand Ol' Opry - even if you don't like country music, it's something to see!

And eat BBQ. Lots and lots of BBQ. Oh, I love BBQ ribs. And pulled port sandwiches with coleslaw.

Okay, I'd better go now before I get too .

Thank you Iaraeo for the info. I don'yt think I'll hire a car just because I'm rubbish at map reading and I'll probably scratch the car, like I did when I hired one when I went to Canada a few years back, but I may reconsider nearer the time.

Right, my next dilemma is where to stay in Heathrow as my flight leaves at 07:55 and as I live in Cambridge i thought it would be easier to stay in a hotel near the airport. Any suggestions on where to stay anyone?

I need to proof read. That should be pork sandwiches. Not port. .

As for the car, you can always splurge on a GPS....