Dumb question:

I'm puzzled about the purpose of this particular forum. Do you guys all just write in and say how your trip went? What is the goal?

My apologies if this is contained on a FAQ somewhere on here, but I couldn't find one.

Yes, Grice. Many do, but not all. See various samples throughout! It's really up to you!

Grice: The "purpose" of this forum for me anyway is to just know what's going on out there in the world of air travel. I find it interesting and useful to read others' stories about great or horrible travel experiences, tips, etc. I suppose there may be an element of vicarious pleasure in it since, having lost elite status years ago, I rarely sit up front anymore and don't have too many great first-hand experiences of my own. As long as I'm posting, I might suggest some points for format that make this an interesting forum; I enjoy reading about the check-in process, in-flight service details (e.g. menu choices, food quality, in-flight entertainment), warmth of airline personnel (or lack thereof), timeliness, and any unusual events that make the flight memorable.

I enjoy reading these reports, though I've not had time to post any of my own trips.

I usually get a chuckle or two out of each report and many times feel I know exactly what the author is going through.

ditto what myleguy said.

I have picked up many useful tips from the trip report section of FT. And let's face it, this board is read by people who love to travel by air, so when we are not flying, we like to read about it. Crazy ain't it.

[This message has been edited by geo1004 (edited 09-21-1999).]

Yes, the key word to remember regarding this forum is: commiseration!

Its a great way to get a "heads up" if you're going to a destination that has been reported. Details like how smooth is the checkin process, any difficulties with security (templates for x-ray), how long is the concourse, how far are gates if connecting, how to get upgrades, seating arrangements, inflight service, food, food and food, baggage claim, car rental and hotel checkin process, and where to go at the destination. I pick up lots of little things, what to do and what to avoid, that makes my next trip smoother.

That's also what I try to do in my reports so someone else can benefit from my experiences.

I have not personally posted any trip report as I don't have a lot of time, but I very much enjoy reading most of them. Sometimes we are able to learn things from other people's experience which might come in handy.

Regards,
Empress

The empress is right. Mostly we learn from others and post when we think our experience will help others.