I Flew in a Semi-Private Jet from L.A. to Napa—and Guys, It's Not Just for Billionaires

As soon as I heard that I could avoid LAX traffic en route to this flight, it was an immediate "Yes!" from me, but there's so much more to Aero's private terminal in Van Nuys than that. Besides not having to wait in any kind of line upon arrival (a true L.A. miracle), the terminal feels totally luxe from the second you walk through the doors. A variety of refreshments, all included in the price of your ticket, are provided, along with tons of toiletries you might have left behind. So, if you're like me and are somehow always forgetting to pack a toothbrush, you won't have to make a Target run the second you get to your destination.

There's also no TSA line to deal with at the terminal (a second miracle in my book) and boarding takes no more than a few minutes—seriously, this boarding process puts PreCheck to shame. Passengers are able to bring two checked luggage items and a personal item, which are included in the cost of the ticket, and pets are allowed on board—just be sure to check the regulations first if you're bringing your furry friend.

Once I snagged my seat on the 16-seat jet, I immediately started perusing the complimentary in-flight menu, which includes a wine tasting specifically curated for the Napa route (the merlot was a personal fave if you're a red wine kinda gal) and Erewhon snacks.

The seats themselves are super spacious and comfortable, and I especially loved that they was only one on each side of the jet, so you get the benefits of both the window (amazing views) and aisle seats (no climbing over anyone if you need to stretch your legs or use the restroom). Not to mention, you have plenty of room to recline if you want to close your eyes for a bit, and the fold-out tray table has space for any and all snacks you choose, or a laptop if you want to get a little work done while you have access to in-flight Wi-Fi.

After a super smooth flight that took just over an hour, we landed at the Napa County airport. From here, the Aero team can arrange for a driver to pick you up to take you to your stay-of-choice—but, psst: Aero's partnered with Stanly Ranch Auberge Resorts Collection, where I was lucky enough to enjoy a truly amazing dinner, if you want to go all in on a "treat yourself" weekend.

When it was time to head back, we again took off from the Napa airport just as easily as we boarded in Van Nuys—no long check-in lines, security or waiting around for hours until your flight actually starts boarding. The airline again offers an in-flight menu, this time with some tasty "reset" options like tea and green juice, which I found to be totally relaxing as we made our way back to the bustle of L.A.

If you can't already tell from all the gushing I've done above, Aero's semi-private jet flights are without a doubt my new favorite way to travel. And while the prices are higher than your usual commercial flight (seats start at $725 each way), they're totally worth it in my opinion, especially for a special occasion or celebration—note this down as a great gift for your wife or husband. Considering how much is included without extra charges, you're getting some real VIP treatment for a steal.

If, like me, you're already blocking out weekends when you can take your own semi-private flight up to Napa, you'll need somewhere to stay. Luckily, there's no shortage of options, whether you want a splurge-worthy hotel or something budget-friendly so you can put your cash towards all the best wine tastings. Here are a few worth checking out:

• Splurge-worthy: Stanly Ranch Auberge Resorts Collection
• Cozy aesthetics: Harvest Inn
• Highly rated: Archer Hotel Napa
• Budget-Friendly: Senza Hotel

While any of the stays above will provide you with more than enough to keep you occupied for a weekend, it's worth it to expand your horizons while in wine country, with a few unique activities and tours. Here are a few experiences that caught my eye, and that you might want to bookmark for your visit:

• Fun wine tasting: Napa Valley Wine Trolley
• For groups: Small Group Winery Tour of Napa
• Unique thing to do: Hot Air Balloon Rides in Napa Valley Launching from Yountville
• Outdoor experience: Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour