I would like to try Virgin America before it gets totally absorbed by Alaska Airlines. I wish airlines in the US would retain the separate brands the way they do following mergers in Europe, but that is not the case. I will plan the trip during my next visit to the US in September or October as a round trip that will begin on the East Coast (NYC or BOS), but not necessarily restricted to those parameters.

A quick look at fares to the West Coast reveals pretty decent Main Cabin fares but highly expensive First Class ones ($999 upwards OW). First Class reduces a lot (I saw $551) when flying via somewhere else to the West Coast (via Dallas, I think) but I am not sure there is any value to doing it this way and enjoying the VX experience. Is there any way to get a better price for First, through special offers (in a similar way to SWISS (LX) business saver fares), or through an offer during check in (perhaps if Main Cabin Plus is booked originally)? Obviously, First would be the best way to try a US airline's product, but I don't mind traveling in a lower class.