A SAVVY flight attendant has shared a smart tactic for people who are sandwiched between two armrest-hogging neighbours.

A survey revealed that armrest hogging was ranked as one of the most unpleasant onboard practices by over a third of customers using UK carriers.

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Mary, a flight attendant for a major American airline, offered advice on how to get back that coveted armrest space, particularly when she’s stuck in a job transfer between two people and can’t choose her seat.

Mary revealed to BBC News that she frequently finds herself seated in the middle, between two people who usually take up both armrests. These people are usually men.

She acknowledged that she had to “tussle with elbows” to get an armrest, but she also disclosed her own plan for taking back the area.

Mary’s resolution? She explained that she waited until they reached for a drink and took the armrest, demonstrating patience and timing.

A guy persisted in trying to press my arm, so I had to tell him, “We’re not doing that today.”

William Hanson, a writer and etiquette coach, also recommended a mindset to have while travelling to avoid any tension.

According to the expert, people should get used to the idea of sharing “elbow rests” rather than armrests.

It comes after another flight attendant revealed the packable item she swears by on a flight.

Although blankets are sometimes provided by airlines, Lori Thompson said it’s always worth taking your own.

She said: “I have always had a packable blanket with me for those chilly flights.

“These are nice to have in case there is not a blanket available.”

Lori, who works for Delta Air Lines, also recommended taking a portable mini humidifier.

She told Thrillist: “Our hotel rooms can be rather dry, and after traveling a mini humidifier adds much needed moisture to the air.

“This item is small and all you need is a glass or bottle of water.

“Feel free to add a drop or two of essential oils to freshen the air.”

Meanwhile, other travelling experts also revealed their plane essentials.

Ben Whatman, who works for Air New Zealand, suggested a specific spot treatment – the Origins Super Spot Remover.

He said: “This is an absolute miracle product, I swear by this!

“I always keep one in my cabin bag—if I see a little spot or pimple appear, this will get rid of it in no time at all.”

The jet-setter also recommended the Kiehl’s Lip Balm, to combat dehydrated lips on long-haul flights.

SEVERAL little-known airlines are now offering the chance to sleep in lie-flat beds — even in economy class.

Once a luxury reserved for business and first-class passengers, the future of lie-flat beds in economy seating is now here, and it’s changing the way we think about air travel.

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This innovation could make long-haul flights far more comfortable for economy travellers by transforming three-row sections into adaptable sleep zones.

Surprisingly, the idea of lie-flat beds in economy isn’t entirely new.

It all started in 2010 when Air New Zealand introduced its revolutionary “Skycouch” model.

The Skycouch is still in service today, using special panels to bridge the space between seats, effectively creating a lie-flat bed across a row.

At 35,000 feet, passengers can stretch out in what amounts to their own mini-bed, a game-changer for economy flyers.

But Air New Zealand isn’t stopping there.

The airline is now pioneering an even more radical solution: economy-class bunk beds.

Known as “SkyNests,” these pods, available on flights between New York and Chicago, offer a new level of comfort.

The SkyNest could set a trend, and other airlines may soon follow suit.

While Air New Zealand may have sparked the movement, other smaller airlines have also embraced this concept, providing similar options for budget-conscious travellers who want a good night’s sleep at cruising altitude.

Here are five airlines that offer economy lie-flat beds as of 2024:

Air New Zealand

As the trailblazer of the lie-flat economy experience, Air New Zealand’s Skycouch continues to impress.

This feature turns a row of seats into a 5’1″ sleeping space, providing enough width for two adults to comfortably lie down.

The “cuddle belt,” a special seatbelt designed for use while lying flat, ensures passengers are safely secured, even during turbulence.

For those looking to sleep during a long-haul flight, Air New Zealand remains the gold standard.

Azul Brazilian Airlines

Brazil’s Azul Airlines quickly followed Air New Zealand’s lead with its “Skysofa” option.

Unique to Azul, its planes have a two-four-two seat arrangement, giving passengers in Skysofa sections even more room.

This is especially beneficial for families, as it provides ample space for kids to stretch out or even nap comfortably during a long flight.

Skysofa isn’t just about sleeping — it’s a family-friendly solution that adds flexibility to travel.

Air Astana

Kazakhstan’s Air Astana has created a different approach with its Economy Sleeper cabin. Unlike the Skycouch or Skysofa, the Economy Sleeper is a dedicated cabin offering solo travelers their own lie-flat bed.

While narrower than some of the other options, it offers a flat sleeping surface that’s ideal for individual passengers.

Air Astana sweetens the deal with extra perks like separate boarding and in-flight entertainment for Economy Sleeper passengers.

All Nippon Airways (ANA)

Japan’s All Nippon Airways (ANA) offers its own version of a lie-flat bed with the “Sky Couchii.”

Like Air New Zealand’s Skycouch, leg inserts fold out to create a spacious and comfortable bed, making it ideal for couples or families traveling together.

Some of ANA’s aircraft also feature a four-row layout, providing extra room for passengers, a key advantage for those flying with children on long-haul routes.

Lufthansa

Germany’s Lufthansa takes a different approach with its “Sleeper’s Row” model.

While it doesn’t feature special panels or pop-out sections like the others, Lufthansa allows passengers to book an entire row for themselves on certain flights.

While simpler than the Skycouch or Skysofa, the Sleeper’s Row still provides a spacious, lie-flat option for those looking to maximize their comfort without upgrading to business class.

It’s offered according to availability and while that means they aren’t always bookable, it also means that Sleeper’s Rows are more affordable.

You can add on this option for between $180-250 on a long-haul flight.

These innovations mark a significant shift in air travel, making long-haul economy flights more comfortable than ever.

With airlines constantly seeking to improve the passenger experience, the future of lie-flat beds in economy looks promising.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, these airlines offer unique options that could make your next long flight a restful one.

EXPERTS have revealed the new inflight habit that’s been deemed the “worst etiquette”.

The latest inflight trend is leaving travellers fuming, and experts have labelled it a serious breach of air travel etiquette.

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Passengers are now being blasted for taking their skincare routines to new heights—literally.

Dermatologists and etiquette pros are weighing in on the rise of sheet masks at 30,000 feet.

The beauty hack that promises glowing skin while soaring through the air is now being slammed as one of the rudest inflight habits around.

Thanks to TikTok, more and more passengers are treating the cabin like their personal spa, whipping out hydrating sprays, moisturisers, and even LED light masks mid-flight.

It might keep your skin looking fresh, but that doesn’t mean it’s polite, especially when you’re crammed into economy.

Lisa Grotts, an etiquette expert, didn’t mince her words when asked about the trend.

She told Thrillist: “It’s giving me a headache”, making it clear that slapping on a face mask in a cramped plane seat is far from discreet.

Grotts insists passengers should leave their skincare routines for the hotel room, adding: “We’re in tight quarters—you have to be mindful of others.”

The shift in post-pandemic travel has seen people acting a little more boldly in public spaces.

From mid-air meltdowns to bizarre behaviour, it seems common courtesy has taken a nosedive.

But even seemingly harmless acts of “self-care” can come off as selfish when you’re sharing close quarters with dozens of other people.

Jamila Musayeva, another etiquette consultant, also called out the habit.

She says applying a sheet mask or using an LED light mask during a flight can feel intrusive to those nearby.

And, if your skincare products are heavily scented, it’s an added nuisance, especially for passengers with allergies.

But while the etiquette brigade is up in arms, dermatologists say these mid-flight routines might actually help your skin.

Dr. Hadley King, a board-certified dermatologist, explained that the low humidity on planes causes skin to lose moisture.

Using hydrating products, particularly those containing humectants and emollients, can help keep your skin plump and moisturised.

And those LED masks are apparently not just a TikTok gimmick.

Dr. Jeffrey Fromowitz claims they’re actually good for your skin, reducing inflammation and providing a boost of hydration—ideal for long flights.

Still, despite the skincare benefits, etiquette experts agree that passengers should show some restraint.

A little moisturiser or a quick spritz of hydrating mist is fine, but leave the full skincare routine for when you’re off the plane.

After all, no one wants to sit next to someone wearing a sheet mask while they’re trying to relax on a budget flight.

So, if you’re thinking of hopping on the trend—think again.

Keep it simple and save the spa day for after you land.

Meanwhile, one passenger who’s particularly keen on inflight skin care is beauty blogger Erica Nicole.

The influencer took to Tiktok to share her skincare go-to when flying, after struggling with acne for several years.

Even flight attendants can be guilty of this, as one reveals her long-haul skin care tips that keeps her complexion looking pristine.

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A PARK named among the top 10 in the UK is home to a “well hidden” attraction with rare breed farm animals and exotic wildlife.

Cassiobury Park in Watford was crowned one of the nation’s favourite parks in last year’s Green Flag People’s Choice Awards.

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The park is often described as the ‘jewel’ of the town because of its large green space and all the facilities it offers, from tennis courts and cafes to a miniature railway and newly refurbished paddling pool.

But the park also has another attraction which not many visitors know about.

Cassiobury Farm & Fishery is tucked away between the Grand Union Canal and the park and accessed by foot.

The farm features a collection of rare breed farm animals and birds from the UK and abroad, including Gloucester old spot pigs, soay sheep, and Norfolk black turkeys.

It also has an exotic animal collection managed by the Ventura Wildlife Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation that focuses on conservation and education.

The farm has been home to agouti, similar to a guinea pig, but larger with longer legs. They are known as ‘jungle gardeners’ because they bury nuts and seeds, helping new plants to grow.

Alpacas, meerkats, wallabies and squirrel monkeys are also there.

Carpdell Fishery is also a part of the farm – a three-acre carp lake that offers a variety of fishing experiences.

Anyone with a valid Environment Agency rod license can fish at Carpdell Fishery.

And during its summer open days programme, children are offered fishing taster sessions with a qualified angling coach, and provided all equipment and bait.

Cassiobury Farm visitors who have shared their experiences on Tripadvisor have described it as a “hidden gem” and “well hidden”.

Another penned: “We visited Cassiobury farm as part of our grandson’s birthday, What a little gem.

“Tucked on the corner of Cassiobury park we didn’t even know it existed until we were invited to join our family.”

If you’re travelling from London, you’ll want to grab a Metropolitan Line service to Watford Underground Station.

From central London this will take around 45 minutes and conveniently place you less than a 5-minute walk away from Cassiobury Park if you take the road down Shepherd’s Road.

The fishery is open for booking two seasons: Summer (March 1–October 30) and Winter (November 1–February 28).

The daily fee is different for each season, with summer prices being £150 for mid-week and £175 for weekends, and winter prices being £150 per 24 hours.

The lake and clubhouse can also be hired exclusively for up to six anglers.

However Cassiobury Farm, as one Tripadvisor reviewer mentioned, is only open around six times a year during open days.

The next open day, and the final one for 2024, is its Halloween Trick or Treat event on Sunday 27th October.

Visitors are required to book tickets on the Cassiobury Farm & Fishery website – for adults over 16 its £16 and for children 2-16, £12.

As well as seeing the animals, kids can take part Trick or Treat Sweet Hunt for £5.

Taster fishing sessions will also be available for £7.

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