"Travel is one of the finest and most life-enhancing stimulants to good health, happiness and longevity."

In a later column I'll be suggesting some ways of getting that much-sought upgrade from Economy airline seats to Business or - if you really play your hand well - First Class.

But let's face it. It doesn't always work, particularly if the posh classes are heavily booked and Economy (Coach) is only sparsely filled. So here are some suggestions for making the most of a mediocre situation - how to turn Economy Blues into Bonanzas!

Reserve a specific seat when you book your flight

Try not to leave seat-selection until you get to the checkout counter. No matter how much the airline staff insist that pre-booking is not possible, you'll always find the prime seats allocated and, if you're not adamant, you might find yourself stuck in a dreaded 'middle seat'! It can happen even if you're among the first to arrive at check-in, although early arrival gives you a little more room for negotiation.

Ensure Maximum Leg Room

If it's extra legroom you're looking for, select a seat just aft of a bulkhead or an emergency exit row. And try to minimize your carry-on luggage, especially if you have to stow it under the seat in front, in which case you'll end up with your knees tucked under your chin.

'Best Seat' Strategies

In order to maximize your chances for selecting your ideal seat, try to travel 'off-peak' (Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday afternoon and overnight are often the best bets) and, if it's in a 2-seat row, ask if the other seat can be kept free! Counter staff will usually try to accommodate your needs, particularly if the flight is lightly booked.

Gourmet Snacks

Beyond the airlines' ubiquitous peanuts and teeth smashing pretzels, there's usually not much in the way of nice nibbles and tasty tit-bits on offer between meals. So, think ahead and pack a few of your favorite snacks beforehand - even a homemade sandwich or two if it's a long flight. And we know all too well the terrors and traumas of Economy meal mystery-dishes, so at least come prepared with a few options of your own - fresh fruit, candy, croissants, and maybe even a box of decadently-rich chocolates.

Entertain Yourself

Airline earphones have a notoriously bad-track record and in-flight movies are - well, you've been there. So to ensure custom-selected entertainment don't forget your own Walkman, portable CD player or - if you're a truly well-equipped traveler - your own DVD player with sumptuous stereo sound.

Sleep Seats

Only a fortunate few ever seem to get a decent sleep on standard tip-back seats, so, if sleep is your primary concern on a long or overnight trip, take a reconnaissance of open central aisle seats as soon as possible after takeoff. If the flight is lightly booked you may find a line of three or even four seats just waiting to be turned into your flight-bed. But you'd better move fast. Others know the trick too. Of course, some airlines have installed non-movable seat dividers and that's just not fair!

Make a Friend of the Flight Attendants

Forget tips and titillation. Just be pleasant - really pleasant. Show empathy for their hard work and glean a little sympathy for your unfortunate state ("Listen, I know you're really busy but if you have a seat with a little more legroom..." "What I need is a really large martini, it's been a terrible week...." "I'm amazed how you can serve all these people and keep smiling...") Kindness stimulates kindness, as long as you're sincere. You'll be surprised what a little eye contact and a smile will do. You might even try: "I heard this airline - which I love to fly - has some of the best First Class snacks..." Who knows, a little pâté or caviar may be substituted for your peanuts and pretzels. Well - it's worth a try!

After all, "nothing ventured, nothing gained" is actually a fine motto for all your many travels.