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December 30, 2006
Earn Up to 12,000 Bonus Starpoints at Starwood Hotels - But Hurry...
...as the deadline to sign up for this offer expires 31 January 2007.
One can earn up to 12,000 bonus Starpoints, depending on the number of stays and the terms of the offer. Starpoints may be earned at eligible Starwood Preferred Guest properties until 28 February 2007.
Go to the Starry Nights Promo - Earn up to 9,000 Starpoints (12/1/2006 - 2/28/2007) thread for details on how to sign up for this promotion to see if you qualify.
Note, however, that different FlyerTalk members received different offers with different terms.
Vincent Van Gogh and Don McLean both might have been proud of the Starry Nights Promotion.
Posted by Canarsie at 11:11 PM
December 29, 2006
The Secret to Reducing Travel Security Hassles is...
...what - do you think I am going to reveal it here?
Besides, it is the secret of FlyerTalk member joe_s, who reveals it in the My secret to reducing travel security hassles... thread.
Posted by Canarsie at 10:18 PM
Points too expensive?
When jsandresen1 posted that no longer chases points but instead goes for best rate, I thought there might be an outcry from other FTers. Check out the discussion.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 10:29 AM
December 28, 2006
Five FT Finds
An FTer birthday this week - wish sfvoyage a happy birthday on 30 December.
A FT Do in the next 30 days - the traditional FT London pre-Christmas drinkies are being held January 13, come along to Detox Do (surely false advertising?).
A FT Do in the next 3-6 months - y'all invited to a Kansas BBQ May 4-6.
Something from the talking heads, err Talk Board - Spiff has been re-elected FT TB VP, ok? FMH1964 asks whether a boutique hotels forum is needed.
Something random - with a thread title of Air Canada is amazing, I just had to read it to find out what had changed at AC :p
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 10:31 AM
December 27, 2006
What extra coupons/vouchers do you carry?
Some FTers are a prepared lot - carrying coupons, vouchers and the like which we don't expect to use on the trip. What do you carry?
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 3:20 PM
Drive 7 hours or Fly 5 Hours: What Would You Rather Do?
When FlyerTalk member mapsmith posted this question in the Drive 7 hours or fly 5? thread concerning traveling from Tucson to Las Vegas, I thought I knew what would be the overwhelming answer, considering that this is FlyerTalk, where every last mile and point counts.
Boy, was I wrong.
Please read the Drive 7 hours or fly 5? thread and see if you are not surprised at some of the thoughtful responses posted by other FlyerTalk members.
My question is: would flying drive you crazy, or would the time spent driving fly by?
Posted by Canarsie at 2:31 PM
Are Handcuffs Allowed In Carry-on Luggage?
I had locked in on this arresting thread posted by FlyerTalk member Michelle2385, who asks the key question pertaining to whether or not handcuffs are allowed in carry-on luggage.
There are many off-the-cuff comments handed out by other FlyerTalk members who tested their mettle, as they seem to be tied up with the subject matter of the Are Handcuffs Allowed In Carry-on Luggage? thread, which resulted in a chain reaction of replies.
Posted by Canarsie at 12:59 PM
How Much Does a Toll-Free Telephone Call Cost?
One would think that is like asking me what color is my silver car or who is buried in Grant's Tomb - yet that is the question asked by FlyerTalk member wxguy upon reviewing his receipt of the room charges at the Marriott hotel at the airport in Los Angeles.
Imagine being charged an access fee of US$1.00 for each toll-free telephone call.
Read all about it in the Charging for Toll-free Phone Calls thread.
By the way, reading this will cost you US$1.00.
Posted by Canarsie at 12:47 PM
I Don't Want My Elite Status Now. May I Please Have It Later?
That is what FlyerTalk member kaiserjoeicem is asking, as he is preparing to join the Peace Corps for a year and cannot take advantage of his Delta Air Lines Silver Medallion elite status while he is gone.
Whether one is joining the Peace Corps or having a baby, find out if elite status can be deferred in the Anyone ever tried to defer status? thread.
Posted by Canarsie at 12:40 PM
His Proposal is Up in the Air about Proposing Up in the Air...
...so please assist FlyerTalk member leech27 in coming up with ideas for a memorable wedding proposal to his girlfriend on their United Airlines flight to Hawai'i...
...but then again, on the other hand, should leech27 actually propose to his girlfriend in mid-flight, or wait until they arrive in Hawai'i?
Find out what advice other FlyerTalk members offer - and feel free to offer your own advice as well, if you have a romantic bone somewhere in your body - in the Request for help - marriage proposal thread.
Stay tuned to find out if the girlfriend agrees to become Mrs. leech27...
Posted by Canarsie at 12:02 PM
San Diego to Los Angeles: US$5.15
This is a one-way fare, of course.
Don't expect any meal service, upgrades, lounge access or decent in-flight entertainment to be offered or included. Also, don't expect to earn miles or points, and don't expect to reach your destination anytime soon or arrive in style.
If you are truly budget-minded and you need to get from the San Diego area to the Los Angeles area - and you have time but do not want to raise that thumb and hitch-hike - then the San Diego - Los Angeles : $5.15 on public buses ~6 hours thread is for you...
Posted by Canarsie at 11:42 AM
Can One Ignore Nor1? Are Current Fee-Free Upgrade Policies at Risk?
In the Hilton San Francisco- New Upgrade policy? (Nor 1) thread, FlyerTalk member The _Banking_Scot, a Diamond level member of the Hilton HHonors program, was recently offered his choice of upgrades at a Hilton HHonors property recently - at a cost.
Aren't upgrades supposed to be complimentary for Hilton HHonors Diamond members? Will this policy spread to other Hilton HHonors properties? Will other frequent traveler programs adopt similar policies?
There is indeed a possibility that it may very well happen. Please read on...
It seems that the Hilton San Francisco is now using the services of Nor1, an external independent company, to offer upgrades at a charge. Gold and Diamond Hilton HHonors members will still be able to upgrade at the Hilton San Francisco for free, but they will reportedly be offered a one-category upgrade only. All other upgrades, such as to an Executive Lounge level or a suite, will be charged accordingly.
Because Nor1 is an independent company, their services may potentially affect any frequent traveler program, whether it be airlines or hotels. If a travel-related company offers an upgrade for a product, Nor1 can upsell it for a fee.
For additional details and information, please visit the Hilton San Francisco- New Upgrade policy? (Nor 1) thread, which is focused primarily on the Hilton San Francisco.
In addition, once you have read the above thread, please then voice your opinion and be heard in the Nor1: Elite Members Paying For Upgrades? thread.
Posted by Canarsie at 11:14 AM
When Will FlyerTalk Proudly Welcome Its 125,000th Member?
Care to venture a guess?
Posted by Canarsie at 11:11 AM
December 26, 2006
No elite status - which airline to fly?
Imagine you have no elite frequent flyer program status. Yes, really try hard to imagine this.
Now, which airline(s) would you fly?
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 12:32 PM
Where to live?
If you had the choice of any place in the US to live and travel from, where would you be based?
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 12:13 PM
December 23, 2006
Award seats on NZ not visible to other programs
Apparently the link between Air NZ and other frequent flyer programs is currently down (also here).
So for the meantime you can't check award availability online but need to put in a request through your FFP to ask NZ manually. Stayed tuned for updates.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 1:21 AM
Status run out of the ordinary
How many segments do you think you could rack up inside 2 days to acquire status? mplsmdflyer has done a lot - find out how many and whether his/her but has recovered here.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 1:19 AM
December 22, 2006
Which Laptop Computer is Recommended for Travel?
Except for FlyerTalk members such as Randy Petersen, who reportedly does not believe in traveling with a computer, the Your favourite laptop for travel.... thread is a good place to start in terms of researching for a laptop computer that would best fit one's needs, especially when traveling.
Price, weight and features are just some of the key factors taken into consideration in terms of what FlyerTalk members recommend as the best laptop computer for traveling.
By the way, I was not picking on Randy Petersen. Alas, I, too, travel with neither a computer nor a mobile telephone.
Posted by Canarsie at 6:03 PM
Gay Nightlife in Seattle
If you find yourself in Seattle and are looking for nightlife catering to people who are gay, look no further than the must-read Seattle Gay Nightlife Review thread.
FlyerTalk member westcoastman was generous enough to devote his time to provide a comprehensive list of gay-friendly nightclubs, restaurants, pubs, lounges and bars. Other FlyerTalk members contribute to fine-tuning the list and offering their opinions about which places are the best to patronize.
Posted by Canarsie at 5:45 PM
FlyerTalk Pictures
Do you have any pictures or images of FlyerTalk events which you would like to share?
Would you like to view the pictures of FlyerTalk events as posted by other FlyerTalk members?
Picture this: The Centralized FlyerTalk Photo Directory thread is where you can post links to your Internet web site where your pictures of FlyerTalk events reside, or you can view the links to the Internet web sites of other FlyerTalk members where their pictures of FlyerTalk events reside.
It has been said that a picture is worth a thousand words. FlyerTalk pictures are worth thousands of stories.
Posted by Canarsie at 1:26 PM
500 Starwood Preferred Guest Points for Simply Sharing Your Sheraton Story
Surely you shall share your Sheraton story? It would be shockingly shameful to shun Starwood points should you shoot down the idea of sharing your Sheraton story.
Find out how in the 500 Bonus Points: Sheraton Share Your Story thread.
Posted by Canarsie at 1:03 PM
December 21, 2006
Star Alliance loses a member airline
No suprise given their financial difficulties that Varig has now left Star Alliance.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 2:03 PM
Five FT Finds
An FTer birthday this week - wish the following FTers happy birthday on December 25 Bigbit, pbiondo, tamara25, amenachem, veryfrequentflyer and melliehoney.
A FT Do in the next 30 days - can't wait for Soup Do 4, then come along to NYC Soup Dinner December 28.
A FT Do in the next 3-6 months - tour de southeast asia with Sweet Willie (doesn't exactly roll off the tongue) SIN April 6, KUL/CGK April 7, HKG April 8.
Something from the talking heads, err Talk Board - FT admin to be able to make technical changes in member handles.
Something random - what to do, visiting Manhattan on Christmas Day?
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 11:05 AM
Free 5,000 LANpass Kilometers!
That's right - you read that correctly.
Details can be found in the Free 5,000 LANpass kilometers for opening frequent flyer account by Dec 31 thread.
Hurry! Like the thread title states, you only have until 31 December 2007 to take advantage of this offer.
Posted by Canarsie at 12:14 AM
Starwood Hotels That Do Not Participate in the Starwood Preferred Guest Program?!?
Say it isn't so!
Okay, I have waited long enough for you to say it isn't so, but you kept silent, so it must be true.
Proof of that can be found in the List of Starwood hotels NOT participating in SPG program thread.
Could your next stay at a Starwood property be affected? Might you not earn points?!?
That is the equivalent of a nightmare to a FlyerTalk member, but chances of that happening is highly unlikely, as there are few Starwood-affiliated properties that do not participate in the Starwood Preferred Guest program.
Be sure to check the List of Starwood hotels NOT participating in SPG program thread to see which Starwood-affiliated properties do not participate in the Starwood Preferred Guest program - otherwise, you may be surprised when checking out at certain Starwood properties.
Posted by Canarsie at 12:06 AM
December 20, 2006
The Airfare Drops Immediately After You Purchase Your Airline Ticket...
...and your stomach drops along with the airfare.
One can imagine that that is exactly how FlyerTalk member g1ant felt after the round-trip airfare between Manchester and Austin that was just purchased six hours earlier decreased by US$358.00.
Ouch. I know that feeling. That has to hurt.
g1ant asks for advice from fellow FlyerTalk members in the Yicket price drops by over $150 6 hours after booking. Any recourse? thread.
Posted by Canarsie at 11:46 PM
TalkMail, You Have Nothing About Which to Worry!
As one of the two official Gate-keepers - yes, I just coined that term just now - I am bending the rules (?) slightly here in response to the following quote that was part of the December 6 issue of the TalkMail newsletter:
" (Sounds of scuffling, a desk drawer being slammed ... off in the distance, an angry voice, "FINE, I'LL WRITE IT, BUT I DON'T HAVE TO BE HAPPY ABOUT IT!" ... another slam, this time an office door) ...
If you like TalkMail, you'll love our newest addition to the site (sigh) -- our member-authored blog (yawn).
Like the hugely popular and much-loved TalkMail, this new blog (or whatever you call it) highlights all the most informative, humorous, and entertaining aspects of our vast community. But unlike TalkMail it's updated every day, several times a day (sounds like information overload to me), and is written by members of the community who know of where they speak (um, yeah, no offense taken at the implication there, thank you very much).
Anyway, if you have absolutely nothing better to do, head on over to http://blogs.flyertalk.com/blogs/thegate/ to check out this latest offering.
No rush though. Really, if you have a report to write for work, or maybe your spouse needs you to run some errands, or, you know, your cat needs washing, don't feel a need to rush on over to the link or anything. It'll probably still be there when you're ready.
And remember, the latest and greatest issue of TalkMail will anxiously be awaiting the click of your mouse in another two weeks, just where it's always been, like a loving, faithful dog that deserves your pity :D
(Ah, who are we kidding ... we're dead meat ;) )."
To the editor of the TalkMail newsletter - whose identity will not be revealed by me - you have nothing about which to worry.
First of all, unlike The Gate "blog", your TalkMail newsletter is e-mailed to FlyerTalk members.
Second, with me as one of The Gate-keepers, it is no competition. I mean, whose bright idea was it to choose me of all people to be one of to co-writers of this "blog"? Granting me the right to write the right writings is a rite which should rightly have the right writing without writing righteous right-wing writings about the Wright Amendment rights, right?
Third, after pawsing for a moment, I do not think I would want to wash a cat. Scratch that idea.
Fourth, dead meat tastes much better than meat that is still alive. Trust me on this one.
Lastly, think of this "blog" as the TalkMail newsletter's younger cousin. In fact, I do not believe The Gate would even exist without the TalkMail newsletter as its precedent-setting predecessor.
Click here for access to past issues of the TalkMail newsletter.
By the way, TalkMail newsletter editor: please do not let anyone know about you allegedly bribing me to post an advertisement for the TalkMail newsletter, as well as some compliments about it in this "blog". Let's just keep this our little secret...
Posted by Canarsie at 10:50 PM
Cash Co-Pay and Miles Redemption Required for Certain Destinations After 1 March 2007
American AAdvantage members, be forewarned: in the CoPay for AA Miles Upgrade to Increase 3/1/07 thread, FlyerTalk member skAAtinsteph warns that starting 1 March 2007, certain destinations will require either an increase in the existing cash co-pay or a new cash co-pay in addition to the redemption of American AAdvantage miles:
A one-way domestic upgrade between Hawai'i and either the continental United States, Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean, which once required 15,000 American AAdvantage miles, will require 15,000 American AAdvantage miles plus US$150.00.
A one-way international upgrade between North America and either Europe, India, Japan, Northern China, Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay or Uruguay, which once required 25,000 American AAdvantage miles plus US$250.00 will now require 25,000 American AAdvantage miles plus US$300.00.
Please read the CoPay for AA Miles Upgrade to Increase 3/1/07 thread for additional details, as well as reaction and comments from American AAdvantage FlyerTalk members.
Of course, as always, you are invited to post your opinion and input as well.
Posted by Canarsie at 10:31 PM
With Which Airline Should Delta Air Lines Merge?
Should Delta Air Lines merge with American Airlines, Continental Airlines, Northwest Airlines, United Airlines or US Airways?
Perhaps Delta Air Lines should not merge with any airline.
Here is your chance to vote in a poll in the Which combination would make the best merger for Delta? thread.
The poll closes on December 30, 2006, so please vote now!
Posted by Canarsie at 9:54 PM
No Miles on Cheap Tickets? What's the Point?
United Airlines is apparently contemplating eliminating the ability to automatically earn frequent flier miles on its least-expensive tickets.
However, one would be able to purchase frequent flier miles - for an additional fee.
What do you think about this idea?
Before you decide, please read both the UA Bare Fares and UA thinking of eliminating ff miles on cheap tickets threads, and post your opinion on this issue.
Posted by Canarsie at 1:42 AM
Casts, Crutches and Wheelchairs
Traveling is tough enough as it is for able-bodied people these days.
Now imagine that you are disabled.
Perhaps you are Flying with crutches?, you have your Foot in a cast/boot or, if you are wheelchair-bound, what are the proper Wheelchair Procedures and/or Etiquette?
In addition to the typical issues associated with travel, disabled travelers must deal with these and other additional issues and situations every time they travel, whether their disability is temporary or permanent. Regardless of whether you are disabled or simply imagined that you are disabled, find out more information with how these issues and situations are dealt in the three FlyerTalk threads which are linked here.
Posted by Canarsie at 12:59 AM
No More Panty Hose!
Hey - I'm a guy.
It is only natural that the title of this thread caught my attention.
I can honestly admit that from now on, I vow not to wear panty hose - not that I ever did wear panty hose at any time during my life, mind you.
Ladies, by all means, toss those panty hose in the trash, and travel freely and comfortably! Liberate yourselves!!!
Next thing you know, someone will post a No More Bra! thread - and the trend may not stop, as it could continue from there.
One can only hope...
Posted by Canarsie at 12:49 AM
What City Has the Nicest People?
Could it be Sydney? New York? Abidjan? Tokyo? Buenos Aires? Lisbon?
What would be your choice?
Find out what FlyerTalk member haniboo has to say in this thread and see if you agree.
Posted by Canarsie at 12:33 AM
Check In. Sleep. Shower. Check Out.
Many of us who travel frequently want to either travel in style or earn boatloads (or aircraft loads) of miles and points - and many of us are willing to pay extra in return.
Often, when we stay at a place of lodging, we like to sleep in a comfortable bed covered with fine linens and plenty of pillows, watch television equipped with all sorts of extra capabilities such as movies and e-mail, eat in the room using room service, shower or bathe with an abundance of amenities such as shampoos and soaps, or simply stay at a property located on a beach or in the mountains for several days and make a vacation out of it.
However, sometimes we travel on a budget, and we do not want to stay at a place for very long. In other words, the place in which we stay is used primarily for sleeping, but without having to resort to sleeping overnight in an airport.
I recently stayed in a place that served that sole purpose in the Slovenian city of Ljubljana. To me, it did not make sense to spend more money for any luxuries which I would not have time nor the chance to use, so I simply stayed in a place that had minimal accommodations for the few hours I would sleep each night, as I was scheduled to be busy each day from morning until evening. It served my basic needs: it was clean, it had a decent bed, and it had a private bathroom with a shower. At least I was not sleeping in an airport, which I dislike, although I rarely ever do it.
For those of you who are looking for spartan accommodations whose sole purpose is to give you a basic place to sleep and shower, the List of worldwide short term accommodations sites... thread is a perfect place for you to start in finding those accommodations.
Posted by Canarsie at 12:14 AM
December 19, 2006
Los Angeles to Sydney in Fewer than 5 Hours!
Ninety minutes from New York to Paris
Well by seventy-six we'll be A.O.K.
I remember when Donald Fagen sang those words when he marveled about flying from New York to Paris in only 90 minutes in the 1982 song I.G.Y from the album The Nightfly.
It was only natural, therefore, when FlyerTalk member BrisbanePE checked and reviewed the itinerary and found that the duration of the flight from Los Angeles to Sydney was only 4 hours and 52 minutes - less time than it takes to fly from San Francisco to Los Angeles - there was certainly cause to be excited and celebrate.
Perhaps the Concorde has returned to service? What aircraft could possibly perform that feat of flying from the United States to Australia in fewer than 5 hours - and at what speed? On what airline should one book to attempt to experience this incredible flight?
Click here to find out more information...
Posted by Canarsie at 11:53 PM
What to get for the uber flyer?
ruckflyer needs help with gift suggestions for his ex-boss and mentor who is an uber flyer.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 8:04 PM
Wrong drink
So after a long day on the road you grab a drink from the minibar, check that it hasn't been tampered with, open it and find it is water instead of the spirits you were expecting. What do you do?
Do you have any suggestions for WBHM?
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 7:57 PM
Shoes on or shoes off
To show it isn't just US airports that have fun and games with shoes, some reports from UK on inconsistencies about shoe security
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 4:53 PM
Free Subscription to www.zagat.com
Imagine having complimentary access to reviews of many of the finest restaurants in the world.
How would you like a subscription to www.zagat.com for an entire year, free of charge?
It is easy to do...
...but you must be a Starwood Preferred Guest member, and you must be eligible to participate in the offer.
For further details on this offer, which expires April 30, 2007, please see the Enjoy a Gift to Tempt Your Palate thread.
Posted by Canarsie at 1:56 PM
December 18, 2006
Generosity and trust of FTers
This thread speaks for itself - free accommodation in LA for the holidays.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 11:13 PM
Fuel surcharges lawsuit
Some travel agents in Australia are suing airlines over fuel surcharges. Good news for consumers if they succeed.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 11:10 PM
Some like it hot
tictac posted the aircraft cabin temperature on a recent flight was too cold. Others have posted they like it like that. What do you think?
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 1:22 PM
The ethics of earning miles on Christmas gifts
Someone thought it wasn't right that Christmas gifts earned miles, can you believe it?
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 12:20 PM
December 17, 2006
Sick at the gate
No, I'm not talking about myself trying to blog after a wicked night out (not that I would be posting in that state).
But rather BamaVol noticed someone being sick at the airport gate and wonders if they should be denied boarding. Opinions differ, voice yours.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 10:38 PM
Closet rally driver?
cpx wonders whether any FTers would be interested in driving 1/4 of the way around the world in the Mongol Rally
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 10:15 PM
Identity Theft or Overagressive Marketing?
FlyerTalk member cesco.g received confirmation for the application of a credit card with the ability to earn an abundance of frequent flier miles.
Normally, this would be great news, especially for a FlyerTalk member - except that cesco.g never applied for the credit card.
Is this a case of identity theft, or is it simply overagressive marketing that has gone too far?
Find out in the Did I become victim of attempted I.D. theft or overboarding AX/DL marketing? thread, and find out what other FlyerTalk members have to say.
Posted by Canarsie at 9:24 AM
December 16, 2006
The Passenger Next to You Purposely Wakes You Up by Poking You to Chat Incessantly with You...
...what would you do if this happened to you?
Poor bmxbboy. This FlyerTalk member simply wanted to post this experience to other FlyerTalk members.
It seems that bmxbboy was in the Business Class section...
...and he had just performed a good deed by moving to another seat to allow a family with a baby to be more comfortable, making the flight that much easier for them.
bmxbboy was then rewarded by a passenger who purposely pokes him, thus awakening him from a sound sleep so that she may chat profusely with him.
This passenger was not in her originally assigned seat. You see, she is allergic to nail polish, and her neighbor in the Coach Class cabin was applying nail polish. As a result, the flight attendant upgraded her to the Business Class seat next to bmxbboy.
As one can imagine, the responses were quite imaginative and interesting, to say the least. Find out the advice and solutions offered by other FlyerTalk members in the FA moves 'chatty' pass. to sit beside me thread and, if you like, share your experience or post some advice of your own.
Posted by Canarsie at 11:34 PM
Holiday Cards from Different Airlines and Hotels
Delta Air Lines SkyMiles members physically received a holiday card in the mail, while Continental Airlines OnePass members electronically received a holiday card via e-mail.
Despite some research, I have found no evidence of a discussion concerning American Airlines giving their American AAdvantage members a holiday card at all. Either they never received one, or they simply did not want to discuss it.
Marriott Rewards members received an electronic holiday greeting from none other than J.W. himself.
Whether or not you have received a holiday card from the airline or hotel of your choice, I hope you have a happy holiday season!
Posted by Canarsie at 11:18 PM
On This Date Four Years Ago...
...I officially joined as a member of FlyerTalk and posted on FlyerTalk for the very first time.
To celebrate and commemorate this anniversary, please allow me to point you to a few FlyerTalk threads that are related to this anniversary which you may find interesting:
To see what I have posted for the first time on FlyerTalk, as well as what other FlyerTalk members posted for the first time on FlyerTalk, please visit the Your First Post on FlyerTalk thread.
Years before the current iteration of FlyerTalk even existed, I had been receiving the MilesLink e-mail as a subscriber from WebFlyer, the parent company of FlyerTalk. Through those MilesLink e-mails is how I first found out about FlyerTalk. Please tell us: How did you first find out about Flyertalk?
I had the opportunity to become a coveted Original Member of FlyerTalk but did not do so because I did not believe in posting to Internet bulletin boards. In fact, FlyerTalk is still the only Internet bulletin board of which I am an active member.
By the way, it is not too late to sign up and subscribe to MilesLink e-mails. Simply click here for additional information.
As to how I found out about the MilesLink e-mail subscription, I am embarrassed to say that I really do not remember. After all, it was greater than ten years ago!
Once one is a FlyerTalk member, one eventually meets other FlyerTalk members in person. Find out in the A List of FlyerTalk Members You Have Already Met in Person thread which FlyerTalk members I and other FlyerTalk members have met in person. You can also find out in this thread which FlyerTalk member I met in person first.
I hope you enjoy reading the few threads I have linked from here. By all means, please add your own little portion of FlyerTalk history to these threads.
Posted by Canarsie at 8:31 PM
December 15, 2006
*A Tool Improved
A popular tool for star alliance FTers, Austrian's Air Manager booking tool, has been improved. Of course in typical marketing doublespeak this means valuable functionality has been removed. Find out more in this discussion.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 1:00 PM
December 14, 2006
Looking for info?
Flyer Talk and FTers have a wealth of information to share. It can be daunting to find it sometimes.
Check if the information is already posted. Use FT search (advanced search helps with more tailored searches). FT search has difficulty with some terms (eg common or short words) - in these cases try google search of FT by adding "site:www.flyertalk.com" into your search phrase.
Check out the FT wiki. Some pages have a lot of info - eg see flying Northwest Airlines - others not so much, yet.
Post a question soliciting information. Depending on what kind of information you are after, it is generally best to be as specific as you can. Eg instead of simply asking which frequent flyer program (FFP) is best for me, to which the answer is it depends, provide some information about how much flying you do, in what class (and cheap or higher fares), which airlines, what is important (upgrades, awards, status benefits), whether non-flying earning (eg credit cards) is important. That way a more tailored answer can be provided, with more details on specific features of FFPs that may be attractive or repulsive.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 3:04 PM
Passport damage
iwebslinger's passport was damaged recently when on a visit home mom did some washing. Oops. I know from personal experience that immigration officials treat damaged passports with suspicion, passport laundering is almost as bad as money laundering.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 2:58 PM
Five FT Finds
An FTer birthday this week - wish aaronma happy birthday on December 16.
A FT Do in the next 30 days - escape the winter weather and post-Christmas blues (or post-NYE hangovers) onboard a piece of history at DC10 Retirement Do January 7 and HNL pre-do January 5-7.
A FT Do in the next 3-6 months - the 4th annual Oz Fest is on May 25-27 in Melbourne.
Something from the talking heads, err Talk Board - Gleff has been reappointed El Presidente, and in response to Mary2e's question we learn about changes being made to stop spammers.
Something random - check out what FTers think the 3-letter airport codes really mean.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 2:34 PM
December 13, 2006
Flatulence: It's a Gas!
Read the bizarre story of how an American Airlines aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing in the Flatulence Forces Emergency Landing thread.
I am certain that it would have been a pain in the rear to hold in the offensive assault to the olfactory sense, but to leave it behind can cause more significant consequences, as demonstrated here.
Rather than be anal and make a crack for every disgusting term pertaining to flatulence, thereby steering this "blog" fart-her away from its intended purpose and leaving you on the edge of your seat, please read the thread for additional de-tail-s.
I personally would have thought that American Airlines has a "flatulence-tire" rule which would have allowed the offender to board another flight within two hours of the incident, but I suppose I was wrong...
Posted by Canarsie at 12:32 PM
Save $30 and Buy Your National Parks Pass Before January 2007!
If you truly enjoy the natural wonders of the many national parks and federal recreation lands in the United States, such as Yellowstone National Park or Zion National Park, and you would like to purchase an annual pass, you had better hurry — the fee increases to $80 starting January 2007.
However, if you act now, you can still purchase the annual pass for $50.
For additional information, please see the National Park pass price going up -- get one this month thread.
Posted by Canarsie at 12:24 PM
Traveling to Buenos Aires? Read This First...
If you are planning a trip to Buenos Aires and need information, look no further than the Buenos Aires (EZE) - the ultimate Q&A thread thread.
FlyerTalk member and Buenos Aires native Gaucho100K says it himself in the very first milepost of this behemoth of a thread:
"It's not important that you go to EZE, what's important is that you go there and leave wanting to return."
How many of you knew that the full name of Buenos Aires is Santa Maria de los Buenos Aires?
Anyway, whether it is information pertaining to food, clothing, entertainment, sporting events, currency, transportation, wine and other alcoholic beverages, you will find it in this thread. If it is not already in this thread, Gaucho100K and several other helpful FlyerTalk members who are quite knowledgeable about Buenos Aires and its surroundings will happily provide the information for you.
I can personally vouch for this, as I have truly benefitted from reading this thread. I embarked on my first trip to South America last year. I had many questions pertaining to Buenos Aires. They were answered in detail, and helpful information was provided for me in a timely manner.
Needless to say, I had a great time, and the information and advice was accurate.
I can personally vouch that what Gaucho100K posted is indeed correct: I went to Buenos Aires and left, wanting to return.
If you are planning a trip to Buenos Aires, reading the Buenos Aires (EZE) - the ultimate Q&A thread thread is an absolute must.
Posted by Canarsie at 12:09 PM
UniContiDeltairTranAmeriNorthMidUSWestAirways
The Merger mania:UAL/continental airtran/Midwest Air thread title says it all, as discussion about the latest news and rumors pertaining to the merger of domestic airlines in the United States runs rampant.
Of course, this thread does not (yet, anyway) include the possibility of Air France/KLM taking over Alitalia, but it does take into account the possible residual effects concenring the re-shaping of the airline alliances as a result...
Posted by Canarsie at 12:02 PM
UK travel woes
There is much gnashing and wailing on the British Airways forum lately and for good reason. It seems travel to/from/in the UK is about to get that much harder. As if the new rules introduced this year about liquids in carry-ons, only one carry-on piece (no plus personal item) and bad security queues through understaffing weren't enough.
Read about it all in the links below.
Maximum checked baggage weight 23kgs per bag. Yup - this policy of British Airways which had been put on hold in August is now back on for February.
The Air Passenger Duty (APD) is doubling from next February. So a longhaul departure from UK will cost £80 just in APD (there are other taxes as well)! But wait, it gets worse. The APD rise will be retrospective applying based on date of travel not date of ticket purchase.
But wait, there is still more (possibly). A cabin crew union is threatening to go on strike, perhaps in February.
Oh yeah, BA have also changed the seating pre-allocation rules. Some like the changes, some loath them and many are confused.
Is this the perfect storm for UK travellers?
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 9:36 AM
December 12, 2006
Interesting airports
Which US airport can you experience the local smells (and it is a good thing)?
Which airports have regular art exhibitions?
Where can you see old aircraft?
Find the answers to these and other interesting airport sights.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 4:34 PM
Things you don't want to hear on United Airlines channel 9 audio
United Airlines has an audio channel, channel 9, which is switched in to air traffic control at the pilot's discretion. It can be fun listening in to the exchanges. However, there are some things you don't want to hear.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 3:22 PM
December 11, 2006
Mileage run gone bad
karthik shares the tale of how the planned trans-atlantic mileage run went bad and cost dollars and lost miles. Read about it and offer suggestions for remedies here.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 4:54 PM
Ask and ye shall receive (2)
I've been pointed to a thread with feedback on the very recent change to show original date of posting - link here. Love it or loath it, post your opinions.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 3:48 PM
Ask and ye shall receive
rapariga asked whether FT could show the date of original posting in the thread listings.
I see this has now been added. Thanks to the techies for adding this useful feature.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 3:21 PM
December 10, 2006
Elite benefits above 300k?
For most people 300,000+ status miles in a year is unimagineable. For a small number of very frequent flyers (and FTers), 300,000 status miles are earned each year. groundradar asks why Air Canada has no extra benefits for uber-flyers above 300,000 miles.
Other than accumulating to lifetime status, there aren't many extra benefits above 300,000 status miles on any frequent flyer program. Lufthansa Miles and More has HON Circle status at 600,000 HON Circle miles (status miles but limited to certain airlines) within 2 consecutive calendar years.
Other programs may provide invitational status or comp lifetime status to their most frequent of frequent flyers. But formal benefits at these heady heights are few and far between.
Personally I split my mileage between programs to attain top status on several - and including more than one alliance for maximum flexibility.
What do you think the FFPs should provide?
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 8:03 PM
December 9, 2006
We apologise for the delay to your flight
Frequent flyers will have heard many excuses for delayed flights. serfty thought had heard them all before, until given a reason of exploding melons. What weird reason have you been given for a delayed flight?
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 4:01 PM
The long and the short of it.
Vacations - everybody needs them and it seems like there is never enough. How do you compare in the number of holidays you get? Check out in this thread.
As for how to best spend your vacations? I think we have that covered in the rest of Flyer Talk.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 3:58 PM
Star Alliance expands (again)
In what seems to be an annual event, Star Alliance has confirmed another new member. Check out the discussion here.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 1:34 PM
December 8, 2006
Screening Out Locations for Your Entertainment Pleasure...
If you reel-y want to know what places became increasingly popular as a result of movies and television programs, you must peruse the places that were popularized by film/tv thread.
As a result of what is posted in that thread, you may even want to travel to those places yourself!
While that thread is certainly interesting, I believe that it would be even more interesting if more specific places were mentioned, such as where the house used for the television show Designing Women or the apartment building used for the television show The Odd Couple are located.
Katz's Delicatessen in New York was mentioned as a specific place in that thread, for example. Before you find out the answer in that thread, do you know what movie was filmed on-location there?
Posted by Canarsie at 12:49 PM
Prepare to be Bowled Over by the Special Non-Stop Flights...
...that are being offered by Delta Air Lines to Ohio State Buckeyes and Florida Gators fans.
Passengers who originate from Gainesville, Florida and Columbus, Ohio can fly non-stop to Phoenix for a limited time, as the Ohio State Buckeyes and Florida Gators prepare to battle each other in pursuit of victory at the Bowl Championship Series national championship football game in Glendale, Arizona.
It is also reported in the DL will have special nonstop flights CMH/GNV-PHX during bowl games thread that fans of both teams who live in those cities may be bowled over by the airfares to Phoenix.
However, if they get their kicks by cheering on their respective college football teams once they touch down in Phoenix, then their goals will be uninhibited by the high airfares. I would now like to field this topic over to you, if you have something to say about this - and you are certainly welcome to have a ball between posts!
Posted by Canarsie at 12:37 PM
Oh, Sheet!
FlyerTalk member gretchendz asks "Do you check the sheets before you unpack?"
She asks this of women travelers, but as a male traveler, I must admit that I do check the sheets of the bed in which I am about to sleep in a hotel room. That this is a concern of female travelers is a blanket statement, in my opinion. However, I do not intend to cover up the purpose of this thread with semantics.
It does tick me off when I find hair in the bed when I uncover the blankets from the bed. Finding stains also really bugs me.
If you care to opine, please do so in the A new male/female traveler thing? thread.
You may want to check out the "thread count" of FlyerTalk members who posted in there. This is one thread where pillow talk is permitted. However, you may want to sleep on it before you decide whether or not you want to read that thread, as some of the revelations posted by FlyerTalk members reveals some disgusting discoveries...
Posted by Canarsie at 12:24 PM
Please Put Your Bra in the Bin...
...and those are the instructions for men - but what about for the women?
I am only kidding, of course - but if you are reading this, you are indeed hooked.
Unless you are strapped for time, you may want to keep abreast of the rules and regulations implemented by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the Please put your bra in the bin thread.
Let me bounce this question off of you: do you support the rules posted in that thread? Regardless of your answer, you are invited to post in that thread - provided, of course, that you do not do any "padding" of what you post...
Posted by Canarsie at 12:12 PM
Refusing a Meal in First Class?!?
Are you starving to find out why FlyerTalk member Weatherboy again refused to have his meal served to him while sitting in the First Class cabin, especially at a time when airline passengers would be thankful to even be offered a meal on-board an aircraft in the first place?
In order to digest why Weatherboy would refuse a meal in First Class, step up to the plate and bite into the discussion in the I Refused My F Meal Again Today thread, as it is full of comments from other FlyerTalk members. However, for those of you that may not be able to stomach the content of this thread, be forewarned that the reasons may be difficult to swallow.
Posted by Canarsie at 11:47 AM
One Day, You Wake Up and Suddenly Lose Greater Than 20,000 Points...
...and you have no idea why.
That is what happened when FlyerTalk member Travel The World discovered one day that at least 20,000 Hilton Honors points were missing.
Where did the points go? Why were they removed? Will they ever return to the Hilton HHonors account of Travel The World? Has this happened to anyone else?
Read all of the speculation and find out the answers to these questions and more, as well as the actual conclusion to this mystery, in the 20-30,000 points have disappeared !! thread.
Now, if only losing weight could be as easy as losing all of those points...
Posted by Canarsie at 10:19 AM
Aisle Bet You Are a Window Person...
...as I can see right through you.
Thinking that I am a pane, you would probably respond that I should look out because you are an aisle person.
Is the divide becoming greater between window people versus aisle people? I really do not know, but as FlyerTalk member wulicny opines:
"One thing I am sure of which we all agree - NO MIDDLE SEATS ... EVER!!!!"
While I agree that I would rather not have a middle seat, I have mixed feelings pertaining to this issue. I prefer an aisle seat if I want to depart from the airplane faster. However, I enjoy a window seat if there will be a nice view along the way, as to me this is the best form of "in-flight entertainment".
The disavantages of an aisle seat include being bumped by the baggage of passengers as they board and walk past you on their way to their seats. The disadvantages of a window seat include...well...if one suddenly needs to go to the lavatory...
Anyway, instead of middling around here, why not post your preference in the Are You a Window or an Aisle Person? thread?
Posted by Canarsie at 10:08 AM
December 7, 2006
Five FT Finds
An FTer birthday this week - wish Dovster happy birthday on December 11.
A FT Do in the next 30 days - redbeard911 is back in San Diego and planning an FT Gaslamp Dinner December 14
A FT Do in the next 3-6 months - the next episode in chrissxb's gastronomic FT Tour De France, plus a visit to Airbus factory to see the big bird (aka A380), great company and friendly european hospitality - what more could an FTer want? TLS Do April 21/22.
Something from the talking heads, err Talk Board - 2 new proposed forums are under discussion, travel scams (presumably how to avoid them rather than a how to guide) and travel surveys. Think they are a good idea or not? Have your say by posting on the linked threads.
Something random - do you think you are tough by sleeping overnight at an airport? Try it in a foreign country with security waving around their weapons. I think I'll pass thanks.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 8:26 PM
Do you know your FFP number?
Honestly, what kind of question is that to ask of FTers? Check out the reactions on this thread.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 8:23 PM
You are Upgraded. Your Boss is Not. What Do You Do?
How well do you know your boss?
In this situation, where the resulting consequences of your decision could be significant depending on the relationship with your boss, you have a minimum of four choices:
I do not mean to boss you around, but if you have indeed experienced this dilemma, please post your experience in the You and your Boss, Upgrades and not. . . thread.Also, read the experiences of other FlyerTalk members - as well as the results and consequences of their actions...
Posted by Canarsie at 9:40 AM
December 6, 2006
UK passenger taxes to double
As if they weren't already high enough, from 1 February 2006 UK passenger taxes will double. Get the news about the dues here.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 11:10 AM
Know the schedule
There can be consequences if you know the flight schedule less well than you think, as metacolo recently found out. See what the consequences are on Doh! Flights have different times/day with same flight number.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 10:43 AM
Do You Feel Lucky Today? Well? DO YOU?!?
If so, you may want to peruse the Free Travel Contests and Sweepstakes forum.
Current contests that are posted include trips to New York, Antigua, Jackson Hole, Mazatlan, Chicago, Australia and Los Angeles.
Links to specific threads could have been provided here, but that would be too easy. Half the fun is finding the contests yourself. Go to the Free Travel Contests and Sweepstakes forum and see which contests you prefer to enter.
Posted by Canarsie at 1:22 AM
New US Airways Dividend Miles Expiration Policy: How to Keep Them from Expiring
US Airways has recently announced that inactivity in one's Dividend Miles account for 18 months will result in the expiration of one's Dividend Miles.
There are many ways to prevent that from happening, including earning two Dividend Miles by spending US$1.00 for a song from the Apple iTunes on-line music store.
For additional information, please refer to the following FlyerTalk threads:
Additional threads pertaining to the expiration of US Airways Dividend Miles may be found by performing a Search in the US Airways Dividend Miles forum.Posted by Canarsie at 1:04 AM
Everything Counts Towards US Airways Preferred Elite Status, but Time is Running Out...
...for the promotion where every Dividend Mile counts towards Preferred elite status.
Not just what is known as "butt-in-seat" Dividend Miles count towards Preferred elite status, but also Dividend Miles earned from partners. Rent a car. Buy some flowers. Stay at a hotel. Buy toys, appliances, and even a touring boat. The Dividend Miles earned from all of these purchases count towards Preferred elite status for 2007!
Hurry to take advantage of this offer, as it expires on December 31, 2006.
For additional information, please see the New Preferred Promo: Everything Counts thread.
Posted by Canarsie at 12:54 AM
December 5, 2006
A Trip Report About North Korea
Travel vicariously to North Korea with Australian FlyerTalk member bensyd through the fascinating trip report posted by him.
Traveling to North Korea is not exactly the easiest thing to accomplish, especially if one is an American citizen. However, the trip report is not only eloquent, but it also includes photographs.
Thanks to bensyd, we can all get a glimpse of isolated North Korea and what it is like to travel there.
Posted by Canarsie at 10:29 PM
Flying while pregnant
Should she stay or should she go now? If she goes will there be trouble? If she stays there'll be no double (points). So come on and let her know.
Apologies to The Clash.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 12:42 PM
A post about nothing?
AAdvantage member ESpen36 got new PLT baggage tags with zero printed on them. Does this mean bags are destined to end up in a hole? Find out by reading new tags.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 11:59 AM
December 4, 2006
Time travel to make connection
notquiteaff noticed when checking a booked itinerary that a schedule change would require time travel to make a connection - 2nd flight departs 50 minutes before 1st flight arrives.
What to do? Since it is Christmas Day perhaps Santa could help out? Offer something more constructive here.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 10:22 PM
December 3, 2006
Trip of trips
Does the idea of flying around the world first class appeal? Taking a break for 2 months to visiting many cities, countries and cultures?
Sounds good, doesn't it? Read this trip report by jacob_m to find out more. Have plenty of time to spare as it is a good'un and with several hundreds of pictures. Warning, hazardous to your wallet/mileage balance - readers of this report may be tempted to buy a first class around the world ticket.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 9:38 PM
Travelling to Fiji and worried?
No I'm not referring to a denied boarding of those who paid $51, or to the chance of getting sunburnt, but rather the current risk of a coup (yet again).
Check out this thread for expert advice and the latest news on the slowly unfolding situation.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 9:25 PM
December 2, 2006
Favourite FT forum
It seems FT is down again, or at least I can't get it from this airport lounge computer and my email inbox tells me some other FT addicts are in the same boat.
So I thought I'd ask the question, what is your favourite FT forum and why?
For me it would be a toss up between Trip Reports forum and Travel Buzz forum. From both these forums I get a never-ending stream of ideas for future travel. Yay.
Posted by Kiwi Flyer at 8:04 PM
The Chance of a Lifetime!...
...is what FlyerTalk members want to find out in the Frequent Flyer Lifetime Status thread: on which airline can one earn lifetime elite status?
Discussion pertaining to hotel frequent guest programs is also included in the Frequent Flyer Lifetime Status thread as well.
My only question is, whose lifetime is being discussed: the frequent traveler, or the airline?...
Posted by Canarsie at 1:34 PM
AirTran and Frontier Airlines Customers, Unite!
This great news, whose details can be found in the New FF agreement with F9 thread in the AirTran forum, allows a reciprocal arrangement between AirTran and Frontier Airlines customers to earn frequent flier credit in the frequent flier program of their choice.
Additionally, customers of either airline can now fly to destinations in the United States currently not served or underserved by their respective airline, as this alliance instantly expands the number of destinations available.
Could future alliances involving other low-cost carriers, such as Southwest Airlines or jetBlue Airways, be in the works?...
Posted by Canarsie at 1:27 PM
A Dollar for Your Thoughts...
Is the plunging u.s. dollars becoming a problem for your travelling experiences?
That depends...
...if one is an American citizen, then most likely, yes.
If one is not an American citizen, then travel to the United States has recently become more of a bargain...
Posted by Canarsie at 1:21 PM