I'd been flying yearly since I was 2. But they don't have FF program in Asia back then.

I started with FF accounts when I came here for college back in late 80s. Had to fly long haul on NWA coach (oouch). I signed up because I saw the flyer at the checkin counter. Just thought, maybe I'll collect enough miles some day to fly free coach to Florida (I know....). And then 1 time, I got upgraded, and I was like, wow. That's when I learn about being elite / tier system.

Back then there is no internet (well, Gopher doesn't count). So I would religously read through all the mail-in brochure, called in to sign up for promo, looked forward to my account balance monthly. My thought was, why not? Something for nothing. (BTW I still have those NWA miles in my DL account now. After all these years, total devaluation).

So for the entire 90s, I didn't know about alliance (or didn't believe that will work). I didn't know you can earn XX miles & spend on YY. I didn't know about SPG, credit card churning, buying bonds..etc. And then 7+ years ago, I stumpled onto this site. My life changed. Finally, I'm know I'm OK. I'm still the mileage addicts in my circle, but I know where to get my fix.