11/08/2012
I haven't blogged in so long that there is just so much to tell. How was United? What happened with the interview for GOES? Patience grasshopper.
Speaking of grasshopper, did you know that there is a grasshopper on the weather vane at Faneuil Hall? During the Revolutionary War, if you were suspected of being a British spy, locals would ask you what was on top of the weather vane. If you got it wrong, you were labeled a British spy and arrested.
It' s a shame my timeline of events went United then interview as opposed to vice versa. I paid ungodly amounts to have a better seat on United since I don't have any status with them. It was a good opportunity for them to show me what they have in case American goes the way of the dodo. Lots of travelers are being skeptical of the airline, and United could be where they jump to. Unfortunately they did not impress.
To be fair, if I decided to fly them, I should be able to transfer my status on American to United. It would take a couple weeks/months, but it would work. Let's start with Logan and go from there.
I arrive in plenty of time, and Terminal C looks to be somewhat dead. This was just an assumption, and we all know what happens with assumptions. I must have stood in the security line for close to 45 minutes. It was a bottleneck. There were too many people and not enough security personnel. Technically I cannot blame this glitch on United, but since they are in this terminal, I chose to do so. When I finally got through, I was so out of sorts that I forgot my bag at security. I was halfway to the gate before I realized that I forgot my bag, so I ran back. Lucky for me, it was there. I didn't have any time to get breakfast. The location of the gate was in some ass end corner of the terminal, and there MORE bottlenecks. I understand that those with status get to board first, but it was ridiculous that I was group 5 and there wasn't any overhead space left. While the seats were very comfortable (I paid an extra $35 for them), it wasn't anything special.
Then there was the ride home. The security to get back was perfectly fine. Once again, I didn't have status, so I boarded later than I am used to. Once again I had to stuff my stuff in first class. At the very beginning of boarding, the guy asked if there were any Global people (along with servicemen/women in uniform, etc)....this is what got me. I had my interview the day after. Had I had the Global interview a week prior, I would be able to board first.
The worst part of flying United was being deposited in Terminal A instead of C. Yeah, Hi, I left from Terminal C so my car is in Terminal C. Do you think you can turn the plane around? No? Fine. I'm never flying you again. I think it had to do with Continental and how they are still working out the kinks, but it was pretty ridiculous.
*******************************
My interview with the U.S. Customs agent was great. The thing to really acknowledge is that the Global Entry program is run by U.S. Customs. If you have a beef with TSA, join the club. I haven't had that many bad experiences with them, although on one side, I feel for them with the monotonous job, and on the other side, I feel like they could do a much better job as well. The thing about Global Entry is that it is technically for those traveling internationally more than anything. However, when you get your approval for Global Entry, you get a PASS ID#, which you then put in a specific place for the 4 major airlines (United, Delta, US Airways, American). This gives you the opportunity to do TSA Precheck. I could potentially get through security faster and easier than those in First Class now due to this program. I used it on Monday, and I didn't take off my shoes, watch, wedding band...it was fantastic. I took of my belt because it was bulky. The TSA agents are MUCH nicer in the precheck line as well. It took me all of 2 minutes to go through. This is what security should be.
If you have doubts about TSA Precheck, you should have faith in Global Entry. The program is run by a well known and respected agency of the government, and these guys know what they are doing. If you fly enough with a particular airline, you can get TSA Precheck without the Global Entry piece, but it is just for that airline. I can do TSA Precheck for any of the 4. It is a glorious thing.
Funny thing during my interview with Customs. They take your fingerprints, and they get rated on a scale from 1-20, with 1 being easily readable and 20 being sandpaper. After checking my FBI file (which is empty...I hope!), they take my fingerprints and the guy tells me never to commit a crime. I may be guilty of speeding my fair share of times, but I wouldn't commit a crime anyway. He says that I have all 1s and 2s, and would get identified really easily if I left my fingerprints anywhere. I found that entertaining. He was telling me how some people go in for their interviews and have outstanding warrants against them, so he ends up arresting them.
Showing posts with label Status. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Status. Show all posts
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Monday, September 10, 2012
Cheers
********September 6th
This is my second week, albeit shortened, at the Residence Inn. The moment I walked in, they knew my name, but they had a hard time pronouncing it. My last name is quite a clusterfuck of letters, like Coach K from Duke/Men's Olympic Basketball Team although it isn't that bad, nor is it Polish. Anyway, I was really surprised that they knew. The entire time I was there, even when leaving right now, "Goodbye Mr. Potsie." It really is the little things.
I got in on Tuesday and a card was waiting for me. It was my birthday yesterday, and my wife sent me a card from my son of 7 months. It was one of the best welcomes I could have had. I brought it in yesterday and have it displayed at my desk. I guess I'm one of "those guys" now...one of those situations where you'll never know until you are in that person's shoes. Now that I'm a dad, I find myself looking at online articles where you are supposed to do XYZ in order for your kids to be brought up right, and make sure they don't start drinking too early, and if they don't put their shoes on in the proper order, I'll have raised a serial killer. I suppose I just don't want to fuck up. Yeah...I'm swearing a lot in my blog today. My bad. Shall we talk about posies and tulips? They're fun!
***************
Why is it that birthdays get so mehhh when you get older? My coworker will be turning 33 soon and she is ready to party like it is her 24th. I haven't gotten excited about a birthday in forever. I thought 30 was going to be a big one, but my family was struggling a bit financially, so I put the kibosh on anything big. I did get my son during my 30th year, which is all I wanted, so I suppose it worked out in the end. Who needs a party where we stay up all hours when we can have a perfectly healthy baby boy screaming at all hours keeping us up instead?
****************
I completely forgot to check in! This is a first ladies and gentlemen. I will now be checking into my flight to see what seat assignment I can procure. Let's see how Potsie fares:
Oh well. I have a decent aisle seat in the front of the main cabin. I suppose I can't really complain.
ON TO THE TRAVEL!!!!!
Security is still empty. It better fill up soon so I can point my ever large nose up at people. Or is it down? I don't recall. Either way, you peasants should be thankful to be graced with my presence in the security line at all.
Check this article out about the TSA Pre-Check. I signed up for GOES and I'm supposed to have an interview next month, although since I have status with American, I don't necessarily need it for domestic travel. Even though this chap is on a special list with Delta, AND is square with the GOES program, he still got ushered into the regular line. That sucks pal.
http://overheadbin.nbcnews.com/_news/2012/08/30/13568373-tsas-precheck-program-reveals-promise-and-problems?lite
I find myself not getting frustrated with TSA, but with other travelers who look like deer in headlights. Security hasn't changed much in the past 10 years. It still sucks but we all have to deal with it. If you have a valid argument, fine...otherwise take off your damn shoes and keep the line moving.
It's interesting to see so many familiar faces week in and week out. I don't recall if I wrote about it, but 5 or 6 weeks back, some dude got picked to have his carry-on looked at by TSA before boarding. I ended up sitting next to him on my flight and chatted him up a bit. I see him on almost every single one of my flights on Mondays. Last Thursday, I sat in the same exact seat that I did 4 weeks back. The same guy that was on my flight 4 weeks ago one seat in front was once again, 1 seat ahead of me. I remember him because he got bumped into first and I stole his seat a month ago. I wasn't as lucky this time around.
The one thing I don't understand about getting bumped to first class on my flight is "why use the 500 mile upgrades?" If I buy a full fare economy, I get bumped into first class for free, if there is a spot. Otherwise, I need to use vouchers to get bumped in. So if the flight is 1200 miles, I need to use 3 500 mile vouchers. The thing is 1200 miles isn't a lot. My current flight is less than that...so why waste it? The flight is so short! I'd rather save my vouchers for a long haul. Sure, maybe i'll only have enough for 1 leg, but 1 leg in first class and 1 leg in economy for a long flight is better than first class on multiple <2.5 hour flights.
That's just my opinion, and I'm sticking to it. I just hope the dude in front is there today and decides to use vouchers again. His gain/loss is my gain.
This is my second week, albeit shortened, at the Residence Inn. The moment I walked in, they knew my name, but they had a hard time pronouncing it. My last name is quite a clusterfuck of letters, like Coach K from Duke/Men's Olympic Basketball Team although it isn't that bad, nor is it Polish. Anyway, I was really surprised that they knew. The entire time I was there, even when leaving right now, "Goodbye Mr. Potsie." It really is the little things.
I got in on Tuesday and a card was waiting for me. It was my birthday yesterday, and my wife sent me a card from my son of 7 months. It was one of the best welcomes I could have had. I brought it in yesterday and have it displayed at my desk. I guess I'm one of "those guys" now...one of those situations where you'll never know until you are in that person's shoes. Now that I'm a dad, I find myself looking at online articles where you are supposed to do XYZ in order for your kids to be brought up right, and make sure they don't start drinking too early, and if they don't put their shoes on in the proper order, I'll have raised a serial killer. I suppose I just don't want to fuck up. Yeah...I'm swearing a lot in my blog today. My bad. Shall we talk about posies and tulips? They're fun!
***************
Why is it that birthdays get so mehhh when you get older? My coworker will be turning 33 soon and she is ready to party like it is her 24th. I haven't gotten excited about a birthday in forever. I thought 30 was going to be a big one, but my family was struggling a bit financially, so I put the kibosh on anything big. I did get my son during my 30th year, which is all I wanted, so I suppose it worked out in the end. Who needs a party where we stay up all hours when we can have a perfectly healthy baby boy screaming at all hours keeping us up instead?
****************
I completely forgot to check in! This is a first ladies and gentlemen. I will now be checking into my flight to see what seat assignment I can procure. Let's see how Potsie fares:
Oh well. I have a decent aisle seat in the front of the main cabin. I suppose I can't really complain.
ON TO THE TRAVEL!!!!!
Security is still empty. It better fill up soon so I can point my ever large nose up at people. Or is it down? I don't recall. Either way, you peasants should be thankful to be graced with my presence in the security line at all.
Check this article out about the TSA Pre-Check. I signed up for GOES and I'm supposed to have an interview next month, although since I have status with American, I don't necessarily need it for domestic travel. Even though this chap is on a special list with Delta, AND is square with the GOES program, he still got ushered into the regular line. That sucks pal.
http://overheadbin.nbcnews.com/_news/2012/08/30/13568373-tsas-precheck-program-reveals-promise-and-problems?lite
I find myself not getting frustrated with TSA, but with other travelers who look like deer in headlights. Security hasn't changed much in the past 10 years. It still sucks but we all have to deal with it. If you have a valid argument, fine...otherwise take off your damn shoes and keep the line moving.
It's interesting to see so many familiar faces week in and week out. I don't recall if I wrote about it, but 5 or 6 weeks back, some dude got picked to have his carry-on looked at by TSA before boarding. I ended up sitting next to him on my flight and chatted him up a bit. I see him on almost every single one of my flights on Mondays. Last Thursday, I sat in the same exact seat that I did 4 weeks back. The same guy that was on my flight 4 weeks ago one seat in front was once again, 1 seat ahead of me. I remember him because he got bumped into first and I stole his seat a month ago. I wasn't as lucky this time around.
The one thing I don't understand about getting bumped to first class on my flight is "why use the 500 mile upgrades?" If I buy a full fare economy, I get bumped into first class for free, if there is a spot. Otherwise, I need to use vouchers to get bumped in. So if the flight is 1200 miles, I need to use 3 500 mile vouchers. The thing is 1200 miles isn't a lot. My current flight is less than that...so why waste it? The flight is so short! I'd rather save my vouchers for a long haul. Sure, maybe i'll only have enough for 1 leg, but 1 leg in first class and 1 leg in economy for a long flight is better than first class on multiple <2.5 hour flights.
That's just my opinion, and I'm sticking to it. I just hope the dude in front is there today and decides to use vouchers again. His gain/loss is my gain.
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Just My Luck
Drafted on 8/30. I am a lazy SOB
I was at the airport on Monday, and after printing out my boarding pass, I walked over to security. I was in for a shock. I paid $140 to do the AA challenge. I attained Gold status to get through security, to get on the plane faster and possibly check bags for free (which I don't intend to do often). Security was empty. For the past 7 weeks, it has been a zoo. I'm away for one week, and the place became a ghost town. I didn't need any status to get through security fast. I have to keep reminding myself that it'll still work out for seats, bags and speed. But why try to attain an elitist status when it doesn't mean anything? Yeah...I'm an elitist prick.
*******************
This week I stayed at a Residence Inn by Marriott. This is my fourth hotel in 6 weeks of being on site. This should be it though. I'm not bouncing to anymore hotels. I left a bag at this one, meaning I'll be back next week, and the week after...maybe the week after that. Since I have stayed at so many hotels recently, I'd like to think I am somewhat of a pro when it comes to hotels. Let's start at the beginning:
My first job had me stay at Hampton Inns. This was when I was single and traveling to implement software. I didn't travel as often as I'd like, but it still scratched that itch. I really wanted to stay at hotels where they had bars, where I would meet women who are also on the road, and potentially turn conversation into some sort of tryst. Sorry, this is an adult blog, isn't it? I'm just telling the truth. I was in my early 20s and didn't get out of Massachusetts enough. It never happened though. Hampton Inns do not have bars. So instead, my coworkers and I would hit the hot tub with a 12 pack of bud lights, and talk about who is/is not attractive at the company we worked for. THE LONG OF THE SHORT OF IT, is that if I had to choose a business hotel that served breakfast, the Hampton Inn would definitely be my choice. Nice facilities; nice rooms; decent breakfast; cheap, for those who would be footing my bill.
I have stayed at a couple Courtyard Marriotts, and while in the same class as a Hampton Inn (in my opinion anyway), they just don't match up to the Hampton. Sure, I had a real crummy experience the last time I stayed there 7 weeks ago, but the people going at it in the next room definitely made it interesting. They did have a bar downstairs, so maybe they fulfilled my dream? The pillows stink. I need a fluffy, yet firm pillow. I can't sleep otherwise. This place just did not cut it.
The Hyatt Place is next on the list. It has great TV, comfortable beds, decent breakfast, bar, and a few other odds and ends. It really wasn't a bad hotel, but I had just stayed at the Hyatt House, and I kept longing for it instead. If I was just staying for 1 or 2 weeks, then I would definitely do the Hyatt Place. They had the cheapest rate for the company I am consulting for, which is a bonus. Overall, not a bad place if you haven't stayed at their sister hotel.
I stayed at the Hyatt House for 3 straight weeks. It was glorious, except the handicap room I stayed in. I wasn't a big fan of that particular room. It has all the amenities that the Hyatt Place has, and more. Breakfast wasn't bad, but the big thing is that they have an early evening social. They serve food and beer/wine. I'm a bit of a beer snob, but I will not turn down free Miller Genuine Draft. They also have to beastly Weber grills outside, where I cooked a couple steaks. The first steak I cooked was too thin and the second was the beautiful choice NY Strip that was excellent. They also have a full kitchen in every suite, which is great. Unfortunately the Hyatt Place had a better rate and I hate to leave the House to go to the Place.
Which leads me to the Residence Inn. The company was able to get a matching rate from the Residence Inn, so I basically get all the amenities of a Hyatt House, at the Hyatt Place price. The room isn't as nice, but I think that is because I got a studio instead of a 1 bedroom. The 1 bedroom truly costs more, so maybe after staying there long enough, I'll get an upgrade. Status, Status, Status.
If I really wanted to be nit-picky, I'd ask my wife where she wanted to go. Then, I would have figured out which airline flies there. Then, I would have booked solely on that airline (based on price). Then I would have researched what nice hotels are in the area. Then, which brand are they affiliated with. An example would be the Waldorf-Astoria. When I watched Coming to America with Eddie Murphy, I thought that it was a one off hotel. It was only a few years ago that I realized it was part the Hilton brand. When I went to Paris for my anniversary, we stayed at Le Meridien, which was part of Starwood. Normally you can find one of those really nice hotels whenever you go to a decent city, but you always have the option of being scrupulous.
I suppose it doesn't matter right now. The chances of me going on vacation are ZERO. My sister is getting married, and there was a chance of going to Israel for it, but that got nixed. I was hoping to fly BA, hang out in one of their posh lounges, maybe even take a couple of days in England, stay at The Dorchester, have a couple decent pints of Fullers London Pride and call it day. Oh well. I'll just stick with Massachusetts for now.
BTW, I would NEVER stay at The Dorchester, and not because of the price. I'd rather stay at The Savoy.
I was at the airport on Monday, and after printing out my boarding pass, I walked over to security. I was in for a shock. I paid $140 to do the AA challenge. I attained Gold status to get through security, to get on the plane faster and possibly check bags for free (which I don't intend to do often). Security was empty. For the past 7 weeks, it has been a zoo. I'm away for one week, and the place became a ghost town. I didn't need any status to get through security fast. I have to keep reminding myself that it'll still work out for seats, bags and speed. But why try to attain an elitist status when it doesn't mean anything? Yeah...I'm an elitist prick.
*******************
This week I stayed at a Residence Inn by Marriott. This is my fourth hotel in 6 weeks of being on site. This should be it though. I'm not bouncing to anymore hotels. I left a bag at this one, meaning I'll be back next week, and the week after...maybe the week after that. Since I have stayed at so many hotels recently, I'd like to think I am somewhat of a pro when it comes to hotels. Let's start at the beginning:
My first job had me stay at Hampton Inns. This was when I was single and traveling to implement software. I didn't travel as often as I'd like, but it still scratched that itch. I really wanted to stay at hotels where they had bars, where I would meet women who are also on the road, and potentially turn conversation into some sort of tryst. Sorry, this is an adult blog, isn't it? I'm just telling the truth. I was in my early 20s and didn't get out of Massachusetts enough. It never happened though. Hampton Inns do not have bars. So instead, my coworkers and I would hit the hot tub with a 12 pack of bud lights, and talk about who is/is not attractive at the company we worked for. THE LONG OF THE SHORT OF IT, is that if I had to choose a business hotel that served breakfast, the Hampton Inn would definitely be my choice. Nice facilities; nice rooms; decent breakfast; cheap, for those who would be footing my bill.
I have stayed at a couple Courtyard Marriotts, and while in the same class as a Hampton Inn (in my opinion anyway), they just don't match up to the Hampton. Sure, I had a real crummy experience the last time I stayed there 7 weeks ago, but the people going at it in the next room definitely made it interesting. They did have a bar downstairs, so maybe they fulfilled my dream? The pillows stink. I need a fluffy, yet firm pillow. I can't sleep otherwise. This place just did not cut it.
The Hyatt Place is next on the list. It has great TV, comfortable beds, decent breakfast, bar, and a few other odds and ends. It really wasn't a bad hotel, but I had just stayed at the Hyatt House, and I kept longing for it instead. If I was just staying for 1 or 2 weeks, then I would definitely do the Hyatt Place. They had the cheapest rate for the company I am consulting for, which is a bonus. Overall, not a bad place if you haven't stayed at their sister hotel.
I stayed at the Hyatt House for 3 straight weeks. It was glorious, except the handicap room I stayed in. I wasn't a big fan of that particular room. It has all the amenities that the Hyatt Place has, and more. Breakfast wasn't bad, but the big thing is that they have an early evening social. They serve food and beer/wine. I'm a bit of a beer snob, but I will not turn down free Miller Genuine Draft. They also have to beastly Weber grills outside, where I cooked a couple steaks. The first steak I cooked was too thin and the second was the beautiful choice NY Strip that was excellent. They also have a full kitchen in every suite, which is great. Unfortunately the Hyatt Place had a better rate and I hate to leave the House to go to the Place.
Which leads me to the Residence Inn. The company was able to get a matching rate from the Residence Inn, so I basically get all the amenities of a Hyatt House, at the Hyatt Place price. The room isn't as nice, but I think that is because I got a studio instead of a 1 bedroom. The 1 bedroom truly costs more, so maybe after staying there long enough, I'll get an upgrade. Status, Status, Status.
If I really wanted to be nit-picky, I'd ask my wife where she wanted to go. Then, I would have figured out which airline flies there. Then, I would have booked solely on that airline (based on price). Then I would have researched what nice hotels are in the area. Then, which brand are they affiliated with. An example would be the Waldorf-Astoria. When I watched Coming to America with Eddie Murphy, I thought that it was a one off hotel. It was only a few years ago that I realized it was part the Hilton brand. When I went to Paris for my anniversary, we stayed at Le Meridien, which was part of Starwood. Normally you can find one of those really nice hotels whenever you go to a decent city, but you always have the option of being scrupulous.
I suppose it doesn't matter right now. The chances of me going on vacation are ZERO. My sister is getting married, and there was a chance of going to Israel for it, but that got nixed. I was hoping to fly BA, hang out in one of their posh lounges, maybe even take a couple of days in England, stay at The Dorchester, have a couple decent pints of Fullers London Pride and call it day. Oh well. I'll just stick with Massachusetts for now.
BTW, I would NEVER stay at The Dorchester, and not because of the price. I'd rather stay at The Savoy.
Friday, August 10, 2012
That time already?
UPDATE: I meant to post this on August 2nd. I must have forget to hit PUBLISH. My bad...and I definitely did not blog about AMEX PLATINUM OR TSA PRECHECK like I said I would
I was having a couple Stellas out on the patio of the my hotel last night when I realized that I hadn't printed out my boarding pass. It hadn't occurred to me. This meant two things: 1, I was finally settling. 2, I was going to get a crappy seat. I finally logged in late last night and I got 6th or 7th row economy middle seat...middle seats coming AND going this week. Not my best showing.
I'm also a little groggy. I didn't drink a ton of beer last night, but the local stuff is potent. I definitely felt off this morning. I still feel off. I'm hoping this cappuccino is going to get me back on track. I have been going through Advil like it's my job this week.
And most importantly, I found an Indian restaurant that can do a real decent Chicken Tikka Masala and still have a somewhat spicy gravy. I can handle spicier, but that isn't the idea with a Tikka Masala.
ON TO THE TRAVEL!!!
I signed up for the American Airlines Challenge. It cost me $140, and if I get 5000 points within 3 months, I'll get automatic Gold Status. If I did 10000, it would cost me $280 and I would have to get 10000 points. After 5 flights, I have 3500 points. After this week, I'll be close. After next week, I will have hit my mark. Booyah! The only question is, was it worth it? Only time will tell.
Just in case you didn't click on the link, points do not necessarily equal miles. If you buy a ticket, they have letter codes on the ticket/purchase. So, if you buy a ticket that is 500 miles, and the ticket is, say an L or H, then you get 1 point per mile...meaning 500 miles = 500 points. But, if the little letter is an S, you only get 1/2 point per mile, so 500 miles = 250 points. Get it? Other tickets are 1 1/2 points, so 500 miles = 750 points.
As I said, it may not even be worth it. If I had longer flights, I may have signed up for the platinum.
While outside last night, I got to talking to a salesmen from Vegas. Besides the fact that he is about to buy a 3800 sq ft home with 6 bedrooms, 4 baths, in-ground pool for less than $300k, he mentioned that he has the American Express Platinum card. It seems like that card is coming up more and more for business travelers. He got his family members gift cards for the holidays, and they were numerous. It was all gift cards bought on points. Granted he spends 2-3 times more per week than I do, but I still think the card may be worth it for travel. He prefers to fly Alaska Airlines, which I haven't been on yet, but he swears by it.
I am exhausted, and the lines between home and here are starting to blur a little. My company said not to go "Native", meaning don't become best friends with the client, less it interferes with your job, which I actually have seen before. I agree with the whole not going "Native" part, except that I don't live in Massachusetts anymore, do I? In 18 days, I've been on site for 14 of them. How am I not part of local society yet?So while I am not supposed to be getting too cozy, I find myself not having the pre-flight jitters on Sunday/Monday, navigating traffic like a local (a fast local...people here do not know how to drive), befriending bartenders and utilizing the features this community has that normal tourists wouldn't be privy to.
I will say that I am excited to see the family. Let's hope that security is good today. I was supposed to have a meeting with my site supervisor, and it got moved until Monday. The problem is, I maneuvered my clothing so that I had my nicest shirt with french cuffs for today. French cuffs = cufflinks. Cufflinks are going to be a pain at the security checkpoint, not to mention the fact that it was all for naught. Maybe I'll show up Monday with jean shorts, a UMass hoodie and socks with sandals.
Next week:
American Express Platinum
TSA Precheck/GOES
I was having a couple Stellas out on the patio of the my hotel last night when I realized that I hadn't printed out my boarding pass. It hadn't occurred to me. This meant two things: 1, I was finally settling. 2, I was going to get a crappy seat. I finally logged in late last night and I got 6th or 7th row economy middle seat...middle seats coming AND going this week. Not my best showing.
I'm also a little groggy. I didn't drink a ton of beer last night, but the local stuff is potent. I definitely felt off this morning. I still feel off. I'm hoping this cappuccino is going to get me back on track. I have been going through Advil like it's my job this week.
And most importantly, I found an Indian restaurant that can do a real decent Chicken Tikka Masala and still have a somewhat spicy gravy. I can handle spicier, but that isn't the idea with a Tikka Masala.
ON TO THE TRAVEL!!!
I signed up for the American Airlines Challenge. It cost me $140, and if I get 5000 points within 3 months, I'll get automatic Gold Status. If I did 10000, it would cost me $280 and I would have to get 10000 points. After 5 flights, I have 3500 points. After this week, I'll be close. After next week, I will have hit my mark. Booyah! The only question is, was it worth it? Only time will tell.
Just in case you didn't click on the link, points do not necessarily equal miles. If you buy a ticket, they have letter codes on the ticket/purchase. So, if you buy a ticket that is 500 miles, and the ticket is, say an L or H, then you get 1 point per mile...meaning 500 miles = 500 points. But, if the little letter is an S, you only get 1/2 point per mile, so 500 miles = 250 points. Get it? Other tickets are 1 1/2 points, so 500 miles = 750 points.
As I said, it may not even be worth it. If I had longer flights, I may have signed up for the platinum.
While outside last night, I got to talking to a salesmen from Vegas. Besides the fact that he is about to buy a 3800 sq ft home with 6 bedrooms, 4 baths, in-ground pool for less than $300k, he mentioned that he has the American Express Platinum card. It seems like that card is coming up more and more for business travelers. He got his family members gift cards for the holidays, and they were numerous. It was all gift cards bought on points. Granted he spends 2-3 times more per week than I do, but I still think the card may be worth it for travel. He prefers to fly Alaska Airlines, which I haven't been on yet, but he swears by it.
I am exhausted, and the lines between home and here are starting to blur a little. My company said not to go "Native", meaning don't become best friends with the client, less it interferes with your job, which I actually have seen before. I agree with the whole not going "Native" part, except that I don't live in Massachusetts anymore, do I? In 18 days, I've been on site for 14 of them. How am I not part of local society yet?So while I am not supposed to be getting too cozy, I find myself not having the pre-flight jitters on Sunday/Monday, navigating traffic like a local (a fast local...people here do not know how to drive), befriending bartenders and utilizing the features this community has that normal tourists wouldn't be privy to.
I will say that I am excited to see the family. Let's hope that security is good today. I was supposed to have a meeting with my site supervisor, and it got moved until Monday. The problem is, I maneuvered my clothing so that I had my nicest shirt with french cuffs for today. French cuffs = cufflinks. Cufflinks are going to be a pain at the security checkpoint, not to mention the fact that it was all for naught. Maybe I'll show up Monday with jean shorts, a UMass hoodie and socks with sandals.
Next week:
American Express Platinum
TSA Precheck/GOES
Thursday, August 9, 2012
Can't you get out of my mind
There's tons to talk about. The local from Massachusetts, Aly Raisman, getting a bronze and a gold medal for individual talent. Misty May and what's her name getting their third straight Olympic golds; me getting sick the day before travel and coughing up a lung last night; attaining gold status and the perks that are supposed to go along with it...
Unfortunately, all I can think about are travelers that don't have a clue. I almost feel sorry for them. I say almost because they should know better. My 86 year old grandfather can move faster through security than a lot of knuckleheads that I've seen. But security isn't the only reason I feel sorry for the average traveler.
What if I were to book a flight with my wife and we didn't have any status...would I get to sit next to her? I tried to book the same flights I am always on, only 6 weeks in advance. There should be enough lead time to be able to select decent seats. I was wrong. The only seats I could book were middle seats in the back of the plane. The only way I was going to sit next to my travel companion was if I were to shell out the extra fee to have the better seat. This is where I start feeling bad for those who don't have a clue. They don't know the system. They don't know how to work it in their favor. Sure, they may think that since it is once in a blue moon, they'll fork over the dough. I'm a bit disappointed. Travel companions should be able to sit next to each other, regardless of whether it is a regular seat, preferred or preferred plus. Let them sit together in the back of the plane at least for the normal price of the ticket. They probably checked luggage, so you are at least getting $25 each way for 1 piece of luggage, maybe $50 if they decide to bring tons of shoes.
I attained gold status after flying on Monday, so I should be able to select any seat I damn well please. I got over 5000 Qualifying Points. I logged in on Tuesday to make sure it reflected online, which it did not. Of course I had to call and speak to someone to make sure I crossed the threshold, which I did. Within a few minutes, next to my name was the word "GOLD" in a golden box. LOVELY. After that, I thought I should take a look to see if I can get myself into a better seat without having to check in. All of a sudden, I see the blue normal seats (in the middle of course), the green seats (preferred, cost anywhere from $14-$24), and then I saw purple seats (preferred plus). None of these seats cost me anything now. Nor do my first 2 checked bags. I was pumped. The only problem was every time I tried to secure one of those seats, it said there was something wrong with my itinerary and couldn't book me those seats. Odd. After trying to figure out the system, I said screw it, checked in yesterday, and I'm in a middle seat at the front of the plane. Whatever. I'll try to get another seat later.
ONTO THE TRAVEL!!!!
I know. I have been speaking about travel already, but let's talk about my personal travel, ok? If you didn't realize, it's all about me.
I'm waiting in line early on Monday morning, and some donkey is acting like he has never flown before. There is only 1 aisle for people to go through the metal detector. There wasn't one of those controversial full body scanners up and running. 2 aisles for bags, 1 aisle for people. It was a cluster. To top it off, this donkey walks through the detector, and it beeps. Did you forget that you had a belt on? Oops. He walks through again. BEEP. Oh, I have to take everything out of my pockets too? I wanted to strangle this man. One thing I will say is that the TSA Agents that I have been in contact with so far have been extremely pleasant. One TSA agent was advocating for people waiting in line because another TSA agent was not acting efficiently. Bravo to you ma'am.
I didn't get any sleep Sunday into Monday, flew Monday morning, worked all day, went to Target to pick up soup because I felt miserable, checked into my hotel, had the shakes all night, didn't eat anything, passed out at 7pm. Traveling while sick is the worst. Plus, you can't drink any of the local stuff. I mean, you can, but just expect to stay sick longer.
I look forward to writing this blog next Thursday. I will have flown 1X on American as a Gold member. I'll let you know if I get through security faster, get on the plane faster, and whether it was truly worth the investment for the AA challenge.
Also, I was planning on being remote next week, but I need to be on site. The prices for American shot through the roof being so close to the departure date, so I'm flying Jet Blue next week. I'll let you know how that is, although I'm sure the 1 or 2 people that actually read this blog have already flown on it, and therefore could teach me a thing or two.
Unfortunately, all I can think about are travelers that don't have a clue. I almost feel sorry for them. I say almost because they should know better. My 86 year old grandfather can move faster through security than a lot of knuckleheads that I've seen. But security isn't the only reason I feel sorry for the average traveler.
What if I were to book a flight with my wife and we didn't have any status...would I get to sit next to her? I tried to book the same flights I am always on, only 6 weeks in advance. There should be enough lead time to be able to select decent seats. I was wrong. The only seats I could book were middle seats in the back of the plane. The only way I was going to sit next to my travel companion was if I were to shell out the extra fee to have the better seat. This is where I start feeling bad for those who don't have a clue. They don't know the system. They don't know how to work it in their favor. Sure, they may think that since it is once in a blue moon, they'll fork over the dough. I'm a bit disappointed. Travel companions should be able to sit next to each other, regardless of whether it is a regular seat, preferred or preferred plus. Let them sit together in the back of the plane at least for the normal price of the ticket. They probably checked luggage, so you are at least getting $25 each way for 1 piece of luggage, maybe $50 if they decide to bring tons of shoes.
I attained gold status after flying on Monday, so I should be able to select any seat I damn well please. I got over 5000 Qualifying Points. I logged in on Tuesday to make sure it reflected online, which it did not. Of course I had to call and speak to someone to make sure I crossed the threshold, which I did. Within a few minutes, next to my name was the word "GOLD" in a golden box. LOVELY. After that, I thought I should take a look to see if I can get myself into a better seat without having to check in. All of a sudden, I see the blue normal seats (in the middle of course), the green seats (preferred, cost anywhere from $14-$24), and then I saw purple seats (preferred plus). None of these seats cost me anything now. Nor do my first 2 checked bags. I was pumped. The only problem was every time I tried to secure one of those seats, it said there was something wrong with my itinerary and couldn't book me those seats. Odd. After trying to figure out the system, I said screw it, checked in yesterday, and I'm in a middle seat at the front of the plane. Whatever. I'll try to get another seat later.
ONTO THE TRAVEL!!!!
I know. I have been speaking about travel already, but let's talk about my personal travel, ok? If you didn't realize, it's all about me.
I'm waiting in line early on Monday morning, and some donkey is acting like he has never flown before. There is only 1 aisle for people to go through the metal detector. There wasn't one of those controversial full body scanners up and running. 2 aisles for bags, 1 aisle for people. It was a cluster. To top it off, this donkey walks through the detector, and it beeps. Did you forget that you had a belt on? Oops. He walks through again. BEEP. Oh, I have to take everything out of my pockets too? I wanted to strangle this man. One thing I will say is that the TSA Agents that I have been in contact with so far have been extremely pleasant. One TSA agent was advocating for people waiting in line because another TSA agent was not acting efficiently. Bravo to you ma'am.
I didn't get any sleep Sunday into Monday, flew Monday morning, worked all day, went to Target to pick up soup because I felt miserable, checked into my hotel, had the shakes all night, didn't eat anything, passed out at 7pm. Traveling while sick is the worst. Plus, you can't drink any of the local stuff. I mean, you can, but just expect to stay sick longer.
I look forward to writing this blog next Thursday. I will have flown 1X on American as a Gold member. I'll let you know if I get through security faster, get on the plane faster, and whether it was truly worth the investment for the AA challenge.
Also, I was planning on being remote next week, but I need to be on site. The prices for American shot through the roof being so close to the departure date, so I'm flying Jet Blue next week. I'll let you know how that is, although I'm sure the 1 or 2 people that actually read this blog have already flown on it, and therefore could teach me a thing or two.
Monday, July 9, 2012
Backstory
As I sit here with my personal laptop and my work laptop, AND smart phone, I realize that things must have been easier for the forefathers of my current quest. There was free sex, cheap drugs and nips of alcohol didn't cost $5 while cruising at 30k feet. Flights had multiple course meals that had delicious food from Michelin starred chefs. Did the chefs have stars back then? Let's just assume "YES".
What do we have now? Long security lines; X-rays where people in far off and distant lands (people not in the current purview of the flyer being scanned) can you see parts you wouldn't show until at least the 3rd date; a la carte food options; rude airline employees and fees to choose an aisle seat. It's nuts. It's crazy. It's today's flying norm. Flying used to be half the fun of the trip, but it is becoming more and more of a bus ride, if anything. There must be something an average joe like myself can do in order to make this experience more rewarding...right?
I decided to become a consultant. I'm no George Clooney though. I mean, I am, but I'm not. Right? Right? Did I just lose everyone? If it was David Schwimmer in "Up in the Air", I would have hit that joke to a T. Oh well. Let's just say that instead of flying place to place to place like Georgey, I am going to fly to the same place almost every single week for the next 8-10 months. And then, I'll be put onto a different project and start the whole cycle over.
While discussing this new job with my wife (with whom I have a 6 month old son, and YES, we weighed the options: in this economy, we need as much money as we can get ahold of in order to put ourselves into a better situation....wait, why am i explaining this to you? I shouldn't have to give you my reasoning, should I? Shit. Maybe I do. Sorry. My apologies. Where was I?) While discussing this new job with my wife, I thought to myself "Self, you will get status eventually, but when you start traveling, you should be good for at least a window/aisle seat in the middle of the plane most of the time". I was wrong. Dead wrong. But more on that when we get to my "motive".
I got the go ahead from the PM of my company stating that I can start booking flights and other required travel arrangements. Here are the variables:
*I can only book up to 4 weeks in advance
*I can only book flights for the cheapest airfare available
*I can stick with an airline if, and only if, it is within a reasonable amount of money to a cheaper carrier
*Hotels are through a client rate (there are ways to get better hotels through bartering, or so I am told)
*Hertz Gold through my company
*X amount of dollars per day for food
Fast forward, errr, rewind to when I was told I could book 2 weeks in advance. I know I said I could book up to 4 weeks, but I need to visit with the client to discuss a schedule before I can truly start booking. I was hoping to keep airlines, hotels, etc anonymous, but I'll try to be reasonable without giving too much away.
*I am flying out of Boston [insert another person from Boston sigh here]
*I will be traveling less than 1k miles, but more than 700 miles per segment
*I will be traveling to the same place for 8-10 months until my next work engagement
*I will be doing the standard 3-4-5 (3 overnights, 4 days on site, 5th day remote)
My goal is to attain status at 1 hotel and 1 airline as fast as possible. During this process, I will be:
*documenting how credit cards can help gain miles/points
*researching how some mileage cards may in fact be useless
*trying to gain access to airline lounges and scoffing at their costs
*talking about Frequent Flyer Challenges, and whether other airlines do them along with American
*gauging how my individual airline is doing in terms of customer service
*debating as to whether or not I need to change airlines and start over
Motive:
Remember when I said I was "DEAD WRONG"? I was wrong because I booked 2 round-trips back to back and got middle seats in the ass back of the plane for 3 out of the 4 flights. I ponied up $24 just to get a window seat on a return segment because I wasn't given an option to even a crappy seat. There is a potential to change seats when I get to the airport/check-in at home, but I'm balking at extra fees if they are required for me to migrate.
So there's my story. Now you are caught up to speed. My first flight isn't until next Monday, so stay tuned in case something changes. It won't though. I'll probably fly out on Monday and forget to update on how things went and it won't be until 3 weeks from now when I remember that I wrote this blog. But hey!!! Here's hoping!
What do we have now? Long security lines; X-rays where people in far off and distant lands (people not in the current purview of the flyer being scanned) can you see parts you wouldn't show until at least the 3rd date; a la carte food options; rude airline employees and fees to choose an aisle seat. It's nuts. It's crazy. It's today's flying norm. Flying used to be half the fun of the trip, but it is becoming more and more of a bus ride, if anything. There must be something an average joe like myself can do in order to make this experience more rewarding...right?
I decided to become a consultant. I'm no George Clooney though. I mean, I am, but I'm not. Right? Right? Did I just lose everyone? If it was David Schwimmer in "Up in the Air", I would have hit that joke to a T. Oh well. Let's just say that instead of flying place to place to place like Georgey, I am going to fly to the same place almost every single week for the next 8-10 months. And then, I'll be put onto a different project and start the whole cycle over.
While discussing this new job with my wife (with whom I have a 6 month old son, and YES, we weighed the options: in this economy, we need as much money as we can get ahold of in order to put ourselves into a better situation....wait, why am i explaining this to you? I shouldn't have to give you my reasoning, should I? Shit. Maybe I do. Sorry. My apologies. Where was I?) While discussing this new job with my wife, I thought to myself "Self, you will get status eventually, but when you start traveling, you should be good for at least a window/aisle seat in the middle of the plane most of the time". I was wrong. Dead wrong. But more on that when we get to my "motive".
I got the go ahead from the PM of my company stating that I can start booking flights and other required travel arrangements. Here are the variables:
*I can only book up to 4 weeks in advance
*I can only book flights for the cheapest airfare available
*I can stick with an airline if, and only if, it is within a reasonable amount of money to a cheaper carrier
*Hotels are through a client rate (there are ways to get better hotels through bartering, or so I am told)
*Hertz Gold through my company
*X amount of dollars per day for food
Fast forward, errr, rewind to when I was told I could book 2 weeks in advance. I know I said I could book up to 4 weeks, but I need to visit with the client to discuss a schedule before I can truly start booking. I was hoping to keep airlines, hotels, etc anonymous, but I'll try to be reasonable without giving too much away.
*I am flying out of Boston [insert another person from Boston sigh here]
*I will be traveling less than 1k miles, but more than 700 miles per segment
*I will be traveling to the same place for 8-10 months until my next work engagement
*I will be doing the standard 3-4-5 (3 overnights, 4 days on site, 5th day remote)
My goal is to attain status at 1 hotel and 1 airline as fast as possible. During this process, I will be:
*documenting how credit cards can help gain miles/points
*researching how some mileage cards may in fact be useless
*trying to gain access to airline lounges and scoffing at their costs
*talking about Frequent Flyer Challenges, and whether other airlines do them along with American
*gauging how my individual airline is doing in terms of customer service
*debating as to whether or not I need to change airlines and start over
Motive:
Remember when I said I was "DEAD WRONG"? I was wrong because I booked 2 round-trips back to back and got middle seats in the ass back of the plane for 3 out of the 4 flights. I ponied up $24 just to get a window seat on a return segment because I wasn't given an option to even a crappy seat. There is a potential to change seats when I get to the airport/check-in at home, but I'm balking at extra fees if they are required for me to migrate.
So there's my story. Now you are caught up to speed. My first flight isn't until next Monday, so stay tuned in case something changes. It won't though. I'll probably fly out on Monday and forget to update on how things went and it won't be until 3 weeks from now when I remember that I wrote this blog. But hey!!! Here's hoping!
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