Whoa. Interesting to read all of this. I am a junior designer and I fly coach overseas, but one level above myself automatically flies business. From what I’ve seen, the difference in cost for flight is about $4k. Though I’ve heard that folks at other companies in my specific industry all fly coach, even more senior level people. Weird.
I’m a small person so I know that other folks have it much worse than myself, but I am of the firm belief that no one should have to fly coach for any international flight. Borderline inhumane to keep humans all cramped up like that, IMHO.
Also interesting to hear about having to room on the road. Before my first trip overseas with work I actually assumed that that’s what we would do and didn’t realize until I got my itinerary that I’d be on my own. I imagine that working for a huge corporation (like I do) makes this a lot easier to offer though.