Remember when flying was a real event? Almost as
fun as the destination. People got dressed up and there was lots of
room on the plane, even in economy. Cocktails were free or low cost, and
the food was free and at least decent. Might be a little hard to
remember that far back. The situation today is a shadow of its former
self. They are starting to charge to put a bag in the overhead now.
Pathetic.
Well, this book takes readers back to when flying was something great in itself. Fans of Mad Men and (the early episodes) of Pan Am on TV will love this book. Mainly covers the late 1950's to early 1970's when the 707 was THE (jet) plane.
The book takes us through these times mostly by following the rich and famous members of the jet traveling public - the Jet Set. Hilton (Conrad not Paris), the Cassinis and many more. Interesting background (pre-1950's) material provided as well. Lots of photos - I would have preferred it if there were more though.
Interesting to see how the middle class was able to get on board to some extent as well. The airfare was a bit high to Europe then, but those were the days of being able to do Europe cheaply once you got there (Frommer's $10 a day etc) - no more of that now. :)
Might be a little too gossipy for some - I give it 4 and not 5 stars out of 5 because of this.
The book concludes with material on how the Jet Set and its era fell apart.
Overall, an interesting book. Great nostalgia.
Well, this book takes readers back to when flying was something great in itself. Fans of Mad Men and (the early episodes) of Pan Am on TV will love this book. Mainly covers the late 1950's to early 1970's when the 707 was THE (jet) plane.
The book takes us through these times mostly by following the rich and famous members of the jet traveling public - the Jet Set. Hilton (Conrad not Paris), the Cassinis and many more. Interesting background (pre-1950's) material provided as well. Lots of photos - I would have preferred it if there were more though.
Interesting to see how the middle class was able to get on board to some extent as well. The airfare was a bit high to Europe then, but those were the days of being able to do Europe cheaply once you got there (Frommer's $10 a day etc) - no more of that now. :)
Might be a little too gossipy for some - I give it 4 and not 5 stars out of 5 because of this.
The book concludes with material on how the Jet Set and its era fell apart.
Overall, an interesting book. Great nostalgia.
