CO757,
I'm with CameraGuy on this one. Yes, the first time I saw the handshake thing, I was startled. A part of me was a bit unsure whether or not I felt it was a "personal space violation." However, a personal "thank you, Mr. so-and-so, for choosing Continental today" is a very welcome gesture.
My favorite story about CO's exemplary service came in the early Bethune days. I had just a week prior reached Elite Gold, and was about to do a quick IAH-AUS run, so I was on the first flight of the day. I went to the gate to check in, and was greeted by "Mr. Weiss! We've been waiting for you. Here's your boarding pass." Not even a few entries into the computer...just handed me my first class boarding pass. I thanked the agent, and she replied "We very much appreciate your business. Have a great day!"
Needless to say, I was astonished. I haven't had that experience duplicated yet, but there have been a few that came close.
Being treated as if I really am important to CO is what keeps me coming back.
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Michael
OnePass Platinum