I fly short haul just enough to keep silver with BA but learnt several years ago that, although the grass isn't always greener on the other side there are times when it most certainly is. My long hauls are mainly IAD, so not that long, and if I have the time I always go via CDG or FRA. The general improvement all round in service, cabin ambience, catering especially, is worth it. Yes it costs more generally, although not always, but it comes down to paying to get something you don't feel you're being scammed out of, like a brunch for an F ticket.