"First Class All the Way" - Paris & Monaco
November 5, 2008 by Jane Boursaw
(Season 1, Episode 1)
I talked to Sara Ryan-Duffy today, the travel agent extraordinaire and head of SRD International whom "First Class All the Way" revolves around. Look for my interview with her later this week.
But one of the things I mentioned is that she seems to fit easily into both worlds — the world of the rich and famous, and the world of everyday people. Sara can be talking with Prince Albert one minute and consoling her weepy assistant, Tonya Newbould, the next. That’s probably why she’s so good at her job (well, that in addition to just plain loving it).
I also love that, like the rest of us, she lies awake at night worrying about the little details of a trip. She may work with the rich and famous, but Sara Ryan-Duffy is still one of us, harking back to her childhood in Minnesota.
In the premiere episode, Sara arranges a trip to Paris and Monaco for a group of girlfriends. Not just any trip, though. The girls get to stay at the Ritz, participate in a private cooking class in the Ritz kitchen, drive a flashy, ultra-expensive sports car, and rub shoulders with Prince Albert himself.
Sara not only arranges the trip, she also travels with them, making sure all the little details are cared for, including special chocolates for their arrival. But, of course, it doesn’t go off without a hitch. One of the women, Sharyl Bloom, loses her purse to a thief at the eleventh hour — including all her credit cards, I.D., passport, and traveling cash. Thus, she’s forced to stay behind until things get sorted out, which Sara and her team expertly care for.
But Tonya, one of Sara’s team who also goes along on the trip, doesn’t feel like she fits in. Like me, Tonya grew up in Michigan, so I really identify with her! But Sara reassures her that it’s not about how much money Tonya has — she loves her regardless. So sweet!
The previews promise lots more drama to come, and I’m excited to see this show take shape. Where are we going next week, Sara?!
Images: Bravo
What’s happening to Bravo?? I thought this last a(hopefully final) attamptat Million Dollar Listing was incredibly annoying with really annoying cast. But First Class All The Way is actually worse. The first 30 minutes offers nothing but shots and people yapping without much of a set up. Then those annoying clients and the non-drama. Dull show, never mind the incredibly bad judgment call of launching the show during this economy.
Jade - I hear ya. The timing couldn’t have been worse on “First Class All the Way.” I’m guessing these decisions are made way down the line, and maybe it’s hard to stop something once it’s set in motion. I haven’t been a huge fan of “Real Housewives of Atlanta,” because the women are just so annoying and materialistic.
Some upcoming promising shows are new seasons of “Real Housewives of Orange County” and “Top Chef.” I sort of have a weird girl-crush on Rachel Zoe (and Brad, not so much on Taylor), so I’m really hoping “The Rachel Zoe Project” gets another season.
I also love “Tim Gunn’s Guide to Style.” Just watching that show has helped my own personal style exponentially!