Good morning!
I apologize for the delay in my response, but 'real work' issues - and a busy travel schedule
- are commanding much of my time this week.
Several early posters have questioned my reasoning for placing this post here in 'The Buzz.' The primary focus of my earlier post was really
not about a 'THE Mileage Run' or some 'phenomenal deal' that I've discovered, nor was it a request for a personal ego stroke prior to posting, as some have suggested - but rather about an issue which in 'the bigger scope of things' now effects
ALL forums and
ALL FTers, regardless of ones 'Godiva of Choice!'
'To Post - or Not To Post' - that was
the central theme ... and the dilemma that I face! And that is why I chose to place it up for discussion here in 'The Buzz' - for
ALL to view and 'chew over' - in what may well be our most central location - and most prominent 'everybody included' forum!
Perhaps, I didn't originally make that clear... but
Ken hAAmer certainly picked up on it, and I have him to thank for raising the level of discussion to its intended 'higher plane.' Thanks again for your valued expertise, for the MHD input, and the added perspective, Mr.
Ken hAAmer!
What seems to me to be the overwhelming response to this post, is to 'POST IT - and let the chips fall where they may.' But it's interesting to note, that this early prevalent view, seems to be changing as the posting numbers increase. And, my rather extensive e-mail this week tends to include the comment,
'Could you include me on the list?'
What I can tell you at this point is that I am researching all the options - so that at least a few - may benefit from my 'discovery.' But, I would like to make one thing perfectly clear. There's no 'hanky panky' here! It was simply a matter of putting together itineraries which allows one to move smoothly thru the system - in an expeditious manner - at competitive fares and hopefully 'every day' fares - which the airlines themselves have determined to be fair - and then applying coupons which the airlines so graciously offer!
The Baht Run will still remain as my mileage run of choice. Why? Because everything about it is simple! No convoluted advance purchase fares to deal with... just J, Y, and M. And they're available every day! Simple is good! My US idea is complex ... doable, but complex nonetheless. It's more or less a 'topper off-er,' rather than a 10 day vacation.
As an e-mailer so aptly stated to me this morning, ' I have to say that it makes it difficult to create and continue to maintain our community if we have to be restrictive in the LEGAL things we share on the board'. It is for this simple reason - and that being to maintain the community - that I am
still leaning towards a post!
And yes, I've come to the sad conclusion that the airlines may well be our enemies! (At least we seem to have to fight with them - all the time - of late!). But then again, from time to time, our wives, husbands, or significant others, can be our enemies as well;
but we do love them just the same! 
I can only attribute this to the insane pricing structure which exists in 'our world' today! And, if you think it's getting any better, just price out a few domestic itineraries without a Saturday night stay. I think we're in for an expensive road ahead! At least it's looking like there will be fewer and fewer competitive fares...
I will be traveling into what for me will be 'new territories' for the next several days, and I may be 'out of touch' internetwise. I'm analyzing the options, and will either post my discovery, or let you know of my decision and/or the options I've unraveled, when I return on Friday nite - after the close of the airline business day - in the very late PM.
If in fact the airlines are watching... let 'em get ready... and pay for overtime!
In the mean time, let the discussion continue!
Sincerely,
tvl4free
PS I am presently analyzing the associated per segment fees. I would appreciate some comments from members in regard to what
YOU consider to be a good deal ... and what YOU consider to be a really great deal, PER SEGMENT... bearing in mind that you and I may not agree.
In making comments in this regard, please EXCLUDE tax ... as these will vary from ticket to ticket and country to country due to the various taxes and fuel surcharges, etc. (I realize that we are looking at a 30 - 40% additional cost when tax is factored in... but ignore it at present). This will allow for what I consider to be... a better way to compare pricing. I am looking at this as a cost per segment issue, rather than cents per mile. (My preference is for $ 9-16 per segment).
Cya Friday!
[This message has been edited by tvl4free (edited 05-22-2001).]