9/13/2012
I'm a huge fan of Top Gear UK. I have tried getting into the United States version, and like most shows, the British just do it better. Jeremy Clarkson, who is hilarious on multiple levels, loves to utilize as much power as a vehicle will give him. He gets to drive all sorts of toys, like Ferraris, Mercedes, Lambo-whatevers...but the funny thing is when he is driving a shitbox and is racing, the moment he passes one of the other co-hosts, he yells "POWERRRRRRRR!!!!!!". I swear he must have one of the best jobs in the world.
I, on the other hand, have no POWERRRRR!!!! I got my status, and while I can book all these great seats (if available), I can't seem to ever get myself into a better seat. It's better than what it used to be, but it really sucks right now. I got stuck in the middle seat on Monday. How the fuck did that happen?
Monday was ridiculous in its own right. I get to the airport, and it is bustling a bit, meaning I'll finally get to use my "Priority Access" to bypass the line of peasants. I get in line, and see that the cattle line isn't really that long. As I am standing in line, I see the line to my right which is First Class and airline personnel. That line and my line lead to the same TSA agent, and they get precedence. I'm waiting there and finally that line is empty so my line starts up again. And then a bunch of foreign nationals show up in the line, and I can guarantee that they are not flying first class...I know that might sound a little harsh, but the truth is they were in wheelchairs and that is why they got pushed to the front of the line. Ok, I understand. But I see a young kid, late teens/early twenties, get into the cattle line and zoom right through. I have a conversation with the guy in back of me "Why do I have this if I can't get through? This is a rip off....blah blah blah". Honestly though...People are paying for access that doesn't mean a damn thing. If Priority Access could be split up into "Security Access" and "Board Plane Early Access", I'd probably go for the latter.
I get into my destination, and I forgot to rent a car. I had to have my wife book me a rental, and I ended up getting a Mazda 5. I think to myself "Self, a Mazda 3 ain't so bad, and a Mazda 6 is pretty good. Maybe a 5 will be a great car!!!" I was mistaken. It is a rectangular minivan. I should have had spent McDonald's cups and dirty cleats in my trunk.
******************
I cooked for some coworkers last night. The grill at the hotel is beastly, but not in a great way. It is extremely hot, but while I was searing the steaks, you couldn't really judge how long they should be on there for because the extreme heat was sizzling the outside, and I am positive the inside was still relatively raw.
After dinner, a coworker and I go out to a local bar for a quick beer and conversation. As we come back, she suggests the side door because it is closer to her room. Thank heavens she chose that door, because not 2 seconds after entering the hotel, we see a guy exit his room in his boxers with a hooker in hand. It was fan-fucking-tastic! Sorry. It was inappropriate. No..It was pretty cool. The problem is, my coworker kept purposely blocking my vision so I couldn't see this young lady in her undies. She has SEX for a living!! Let me see this girl's rear end in all its glory. He already paid her for her services I'm sure. She won't care if I sneak a peak.
*******************
My coworker mentioned that every time she gets on the shuttle to and from the airport/car rental building, she gets "evaluated" by the gentlemen on the bus. To be fair, she is an attractive woman, but I find that the nonchalant glances work a lot better than making a woman uncomfortable by staring...which is apparently what guys do to this girl.
Don't stare at girls on the bus. It makes them uneasy. Please, when stalking, do it from a distance. End of Public Service Announcement.
Thursday, September 20, 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.
Monday, August 27, 2012
Fidgety
I was reading that people who constantly move their legs, especially if they are sitting/laying down/relaxing, have some sort of health issue. Unfortunately I don't remember what it is called, and since my legs were fidgety, I got up to take a walk and forgot all about searching for that article. Ooops.
*****
I'm in a Fantasy English Premier League League. I tried not to write League twice, but I had to. I root for West Ham United, and I have one of their players on my team. My father likes Liverpool and has a couple of them on his team. My sister's boyfriend is a Manchester United fan, which, in my humble opinion, is like rooting for the Yankees. My main problem with this dude is that he is from Minnesota, and instead of his main team being the Twins, Timberwolves, Wild (or Dallas Stars I suppose) or the Vikings, the team he follows the most is Man U. I write Man U because most Man U fans hate it when you refer to their team as Man U. It's either Man United or United. So, my father and I decided that it doesn't matter which one of us wins, as long as our team beats his.
Just so I don't sound like a hypocrite, the team I follow more than any other is the Boston Bruins, and not because they won the cup in 2011. I have been a serious follower for 30+ years. It goes Bruins, West Ham/Patriots, Red Sox/Celtics, Whoever plays the Yankees/Man U/Chelsea FC.
*****
I don't know what it is, but I love seeing back to school stuff at Target, Staples, etc. I never liked going back to school, but I loved getting all the crap I would end up using. I still get that feeling of nostalgia, but I don't buy anything anymore. No need. I have a feeling my wife is going to go nuts on our joint account the moment "he who does not sleep at night" is old enough to go to school. Hell, she refers to daycare as "school".
*****
Octoberfest is almost upon us. I'd like to go to Munich once in my lifetime for the party, but I hear it is an absolute shitshow. So instead, I'll just cook lots of brats and drink lots of Oktoberfestbier. I had my first Sam October the other day. It was very good. I normally like to buy 5-8 different types and do a blind taste test to see which one made the best that year. 3 years ago, it was Spaten. 2 years ago, Paulaner. Last year, surprisingly, I thought it was Sam Adams.
*****
On to the TRAVEL!!!
Jet Blue was delayed, like most flights last Thursday (16th). Due to them being delayed, we got free movies, which was nice. I watched Wrath of the Titans, which was very "ehh". My jet was a lot smaller than I wanted. 2 seats on each side. Right as we took off, it seemed very wobbly.
There was an article about how the added a la carte fees benefit those that pay for them, but seriously hurt the ones that don't. Here is the scenario:
Two people pay for the same flight on Jet Blue. Remember: the first bag is free, they have free entertainment, free food. But, they still charge for early boarding and faster security lines.
Person A pays $30 per flight to get through security faster, get onto the plane faster and gets more legroom.
Person B does not pay the extra money for any of those a la carte items.
The flight leaves Boston @ 7:30 on Monday morning. They both get to the airport 2 hours prior to departure. Person A gets into the "Even More Speed" in Terminal 3 at Logan. Person B gets into the regular line.
Person A is through security in <15 minutes due to the line being so short. Person B stands in line easily for 45 min+. It is a good thing they are there early. I'm not lying about the length of that line. It was ridiculously long last week Monday. I have to assume it is always like that. So while Person A is figuring out what he/she wants to do about breakfast since they have time to spare, Person B is still waiting in line longer. Person A COULD HAVE slept 30 min longer, shown up and gotten through security before Person B.
Person A and Person B have carry-on luggage. Person A gets on the plane because the money paid for "Even More Speed", which is for security and access to the plane. Person B wanted to be in the front of the plane, but didn't want to pay for the extras, so they got an aisle in row 7. After people from Person A's group get on, they start boarding the plane starting with the last row moving forward. Person B doesn't get onto the plane until rows 5 through the back of the plane get called, ergo the last people to board. Person B doesn't get any overhead space because everyone has boarded first, and therefore must check.
NOTE: Even though the first bag is free on Jet Blue, if you already checked a bag and there wasn't any room for an overhead compartment, Jet Blue won't charge you for the extra bag. Nice job Jet Blue.
Person A and Person B are both around 5' 11". Person A paid the extra money for "Even More Space", so they are able to get more legroom. This legroom is at the expense of Person B. Person B took the aisle seat because it would allow him/her to stretch their legs into the aisle, except that there is a constant flow of people/flight attendants. Person B would like to recoup the rest they lost since coming to the airport early to stand in the security line. However, due to the lack of legroom and constant bumping into fellow travelers, this is not going to happen.
So $30 gets you through security faster, onto the plane faster and more legroom, which is all at the expense of the travelers that do not pay for it. And while Jet Blue touts that there aren't typical "classes", they have created a system that is quite similar.
My co-worker pays the $60 round trip for these extras. I'm on American, and now have status, so I get all these perks for free. I think that loyalty should be rewarded. I also think that if you pay more, you should get more, but not necessarily at the expense of others. Faster security? Sure. Faster boarding? Ok. More legroom at the expense of others? No. Sorry.
I am flying American for the perks that I built up through loyalty. If I flew Jet Blue every week, while a nice experience when in flight, the pre-flight crap would probably drive me nuts. I'm not spending $60 out of my own pocket every week. I don't want to have to pay to work.
Ok. I'm off my soapbox.
*****
I'm in a Fantasy English Premier League League. I tried not to write League twice, but I had to. I root for West Ham United, and I have one of their players on my team. My father likes Liverpool and has a couple of them on his team. My sister's boyfriend is a Manchester United fan, which, in my humble opinion, is like rooting for the Yankees. My main problem with this dude is that he is from Minnesota, and instead of his main team being the Twins, Timberwolves, Wild (or Dallas Stars I suppose) or the Vikings, the team he follows the most is Man U. I write Man U because most Man U fans hate it when you refer to their team as Man U. It's either Man United or United. So, my father and I decided that it doesn't matter which one of us wins, as long as our team beats his.
Just so I don't sound like a hypocrite, the team I follow more than any other is the Boston Bruins, and not because they won the cup in 2011. I have been a serious follower for 30+ years. It goes Bruins, West Ham/Patriots, Red Sox/Celtics, Whoever plays the Yankees/Man U/Chelsea FC.
*****
I don't know what it is, but I love seeing back to school stuff at Target, Staples, etc. I never liked going back to school, but I loved getting all the crap I would end up using. I still get that feeling of nostalgia, but I don't buy anything anymore. No need. I have a feeling my wife is going to go nuts on our joint account the moment "he who does not sleep at night" is old enough to go to school. Hell, she refers to daycare as "school".
*****
Octoberfest is almost upon us. I'd like to go to Munich once in my lifetime for the party, but I hear it is an absolute shitshow. So instead, I'll just cook lots of brats and drink lots of Oktoberfestbier. I had my first Sam October the other day. It was very good. I normally like to buy 5-8 different types and do a blind taste test to see which one made the best that year. 3 years ago, it was Spaten. 2 years ago, Paulaner. Last year, surprisingly, I thought it was Sam Adams.
*****
On to the TRAVEL!!!
Jet Blue was delayed, like most flights last Thursday (16th). Due to them being delayed, we got free movies, which was nice. I watched Wrath of the Titans, which was very "ehh". My jet was a lot smaller than I wanted. 2 seats on each side. Right as we took off, it seemed very wobbly.
There was an article about how the added a la carte fees benefit those that pay for them, but seriously hurt the ones that don't. Here is the scenario:
Two people pay for the same flight on Jet Blue. Remember: the first bag is free, they have free entertainment, free food. But, they still charge for early boarding and faster security lines.
Person A pays $30 per flight to get through security faster, get onto the plane faster and gets more legroom.
Person B does not pay the extra money for any of those a la carte items.
The flight leaves Boston @ 7:30 on Monday morning. They both get to the airport 2 hours prior to departure. Person A gets into the "Even More Speed" in Terminal 3 at Logan. Person B gets into the regular line.
Person A is through security in <15 minutes due to the line being so short. Person B stands in line easily for 45 min+. It is a good thing they are there early. I'm not lying about the length of that line. It was ridiculously long last week Monday. I have to assume it is always like that. So while Person A is figuring out what he/she wants to do about breakfast since they have time to spare, Person B is still waiting in line longer. Person A COULD HAVE slept 30 min longer, shown up and gotten through security before Person B.
Person A and Person B have carry-on luggage. Person A gets on the plane because the money paid for "Even More Speed", which is for security and access to the plane. Person B wanted to be in the front of the plane, but didn't want to pay for the extras, so they got an aisle in row 7. After people from Person A's group get on, they start boarding the plane starting with the last row moving forward. Person B doesn't get onto the plane until rows 5 through the back of the plane get called, ergo the last people to board. Person B doesn't get any overhead space because everyone has boarded first, and therefore must check.
NOTE: Even though the first bag is free on Jet Blue, if you already checked a bag and there wasn't any room for an overhead compartment, Jet Blue won't charge you for the extra bag. Nice job Jet Blue.
Person A and Person B are both around 5' 11". Person A paid the extra money for "Even More Space", so they are able to get more legroom. This legroom is at the expense of Person B. Person B took the aisle seat because it would allow him/her to stretch their legs into the aisle, except that there is a constant flow of people/flight attendants. Person B would like to recoup the rest they lost since coming to the airport early to stand in the security line. However, due to the lack of legroom and constant bumping into fellow travelers, this is not going to happen.
So $30 gets you through security faster, onto the plane faster and more legroom, which is all at the expense of the travelers that do not pay for it. And while Jet Blue touts that there aren't typical "classes", they have created a system that is quite similar.
My co-worker pays the $60 round trip for these extras. I'm on American, and now have status, so I get all these perks for free. I think that loyalty should be rewarded. I also think that if you pay more, you should get more, but not necessarily at the expense of others. Faster security? Sure. Faster boarding? Ok. More legroom at the expense of others? No. Sorry.
I am flying American for the perks that I built up through loyalty. If I flew Jet Blue every week, while a nice experience when in flight, the pre-flight crap would probably drive me nuts. I'm not spending $60 out of my own pocket every week. I don't want to have to pay to work.
Ok. I'm off my soapbox.
Thursday, August 23, 2012
I found my sock!
NOTE: THIS WAS WRITTEN ON THE 16th. I AM FINDING MYSELF A WEEK BEHIND.
I went out with a bunch of co-workers last night. There is an unwritten rule about fraternization with the client, but this was perfect because it was a bunch of consultants like myself. It was definitely a much needed deviation from the normal GET BACK TO ROOM, CHANGE, GO GRAB SOMETHING TO EAT, DRINK A BEER, WATCH TV, GO TO BED routine.
***********
As I was pseudo packing on Tuesday, just to get stuff a bit organized, I realized that I lost my sock. It had to be in the room somewhere. I looked everywhere for it, and it was not to be found. As I put on my pants this morning, I felt something odd in the leg, so there you go. Little bugger.
***********
I'm not sure if I mentioned this, but I had this beer a couple weeks ago that was fantastic and I can't find it anywhere. Trust me when I say I have looked everywhere. I must have spend 2-3 hours driving to places looking for it. I wanted to smuggle it back to MA so that my friend could try it at his bachelor party a week from Saturday. I am thinking about making a last ditch effort before I go to the airport but I dunno.
And yes, that means that I will have to check a bag if I try to transport liquids.
***********
ONTO THE TRAVEL!!!
I signed up for this thing called GOES, which is an official government website that lets you be expedited through security/customs/whatever. My reasoning to make the government check my background more than I normally would like it to equates to TSA-PRECHECK. I was sick and tired of waiting in the security line. Monday mornings on American in Boston are pretty tough. Coming back is worse. The only way you can get TSA-PRECHECK is if the airline asks you, or if you go through this program (I think).
Here is the funny thing. The moment I got GOLD status for my flight last Thursday, I was allowed to go through the fast security lane. Shit. There goes $100. Well, better you know from my mistake than make the same one.
The flight last Thursday was the worst one I've had yet. It was a little choppy on the take-off, but the real problem was my ears. They kept popping and blowing my nose while closing off the passages did not clear my head at all. That was truly brutal. My flight on Monday wasn't nearly eventful. I'm hoping for the same uneventful flight today.
I flew Jet Blue this week due to pricing. American went down dramatically, but since I didn't know I was going to be on-site until last minute, there weren't any decent flights available. When checking in on Sunday, there weren't any seats available, so I coughed up the $30 to get "Even More Space" and "Even More Speed". It was nice to get on and off the aircraft faster than the others, but the real kicker was the security. Terminal C in Boston is a nightmare. Even though I had "More Speed", there were plenty of donkeys in line. Thank g-d I wasn't in with the rest of the cattle though. That line must have been an hour long. I'm hoping that security isn't as bad today, since I didn't pay for the extra room/speed.
I wish I could talk about the AMEX Platinum, but I don't think I'm going to end up getting it. $450 is a lot for just HAVING the card, nevermind purchases. If I find myself getting stuck at the airport, I'll reevaluate. I dunno. It could be on of those circumstances where I end up getting it and then start kicking myself for not doing so. I suppose it just scares me a bit since it is a "charge card" as opposed to credit card. If I don't get reimbursed in a timely fashion, I can only image the penalties associated.
I'm remote next week, which is a nice thing...so no travel. I'll pick back up at the end of August, right before Labor Day.
I went out with a bunch of co-workers last night. There is an unwritten rule about fraternization with the client, but this was perfect because it was a bunch of consultants like myself. It was definitely a much needed deviation from the normal GET BACK TO ROOM, CHANGE, GO GRAB SOMETHING TO EAT, DRINK A BEER, WATCH TV, GO TO BED routine.
***********
As I was pseudo packing on Tuesday, just to get stuff a bit organized, I realized that I lost my sock. It had to be in the room somewhere. I looked everywhere for it, and it was not to be found. As I put on my pants this morning, I felt something odd in the leg, so there you go. Little bugger.
***********
I'm not sure if I mentioned this, but I had this beer a couple weeks ago that was fantastic and I can't find it anywhere. Trust me when I say I have looked everywhere. I must have spend 2-3 hours driving to places looking for it. I wanted to smuggle it back to MA so that my friend could try it at his bachelor party a week from Saturday. I am thinking about making a last ditch effort before I go to the airport but I dunno.
And yes, that means that I will have to check a bag if I try to transport liquids.
***********
ONTO THE TRAVEL!!!
I signed up for this thing called GOES, which is an official government website that lets you be expedited through security/customs/whatever. My reasoning to make the government check my background more than I normally would like it to equates to TSA-PRECHECK. I was sick and tired of waiting in the security line. Monday mornings on American in Boston are pretty tough. Coming back is worse. The only way you can get TSA-PRECHECK is if the airline asks you, or if you go through this program (I think).
Here is the funny thing. The moment I got GOLD status for my flight last Thursday, I was allowed to go through the fast security lane. Shit. There goes $100. Well, better you know from my mistake than make the same one.
The flight last Thursday was the worst one I've had yet. It was a little choppy on the take-off, but the real problem was my ears. They kept popping and blowing my nose while closing off the passages did not clear my head at all. That was truly brutal. My flight on Monday wasn't nearly eventful. I'm hoping for the same uneventful flight today.
I flew Jet Blue this week due to pricing. American went down dramatically, but since I didn't know I was going to be on-site until last minute, there weren't any decent flights available. When checking in on Sunday, there weren't any seats available, so I coughed up the $30 to get "Even More Space" and "Even More Speed". It was nice to get on and off the aircraft faster than the others, but the real kicker was the security. Terminal C in Boston is a nightmare. Even though I had "More Speed", there were plenty of donkeys in line. Thank g-d I wasn't in with the rest of the cattle though. That line must have been an hour long. I'm hoping that security isn't as bad today, since I didn't pay for the extra room/speed.
I wish I could talk about the AMEX Platinum, but I don't think I'm going to end up getting it. $450 is a lot for just HAVING the card, nevermind purchases. If I find myself getting stuck at the airport, I'll reevaluate. I dunno. It could be on of those circumstances where I end up getting it and then start kicking myself for not doing so. I suppose it just scares me a bit since it is a "charge card" as opposed to credit card. If I don't get reimbursed in a timely fashion, I can only image the penalties associated.
I'm remote next week, which is a nice thing...so no travel. I'll pick back up at the end of August, right before Labor Day.
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.
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