I should have been more clear but figured I was already pushing the wordy limit.

I travel ZERO for work.

I am looking at mostly long or even short weekend trips domestically, just a night or two somewhere, and the occasional international trip with the most interest in Central/S. America though might be willing to go anywhere if the deal is right. A few of the most interesting and fun vacations were places I wouldn't have thought of going but came upon an interesting offer from one of those weekly emails.

I realize that picking an airline and sticking with it is very important, which is why I want to get advice as to which one is right for me out of RDU. I like American, but find so few good deals with them domestically that I don't know if they are the right option for me.