Random Musings – February 15, 2013

I did not forget that I need to write a blog. I’ve just been letting merger drama and Carnival drama settle down, reading, and working quietly. The first thing I did after hearing that American and US Airways were making it official was apply for the US Airways Dividend Miles MasterCard. Extra bonus miles in what will eventually become my AAdvantage account is a good day. There has been an offer out there for more miles for Chairman’s Preferred members of US Airways’ Dividend Miles program that many have reported success with whether Chairman’s members or not. Sadly, that offer appears to have gone away.

One of the most interesting things about all the merger hoopla for me has been reading what all the pontificators, armchair CEOs and Monday morning quarterbackers have to say about it. This hub will close, those fares are going to rise, it’s the end of food in first class, blah blah blah. This much we know. American Airlines and US Airways are seeking to conduct a business transaction that will lead to a combination of the 2 airlines, to become a much larger American Airlines. That is just about it. All the speculation about who paid who off for what, and the AAdvantage program is about to be gutted is not worth the brain power it takes to stress about it at this point. We’ll see what happens.

And then, there’s the Carnival Triumph. I’m so happy those poor passengers AND crew are finally in port and released from what must surely have been an awful experience. One thing I’ve noticed of interest, almost all the passengers have praised the crew’s handling of the situation. Not so sure how they feel about Carnival management though. It’s easy to sit back and try to blame someone. I’ll wait for the investigations that are underway. One thing is for sure, the lawyers are circling. Talk about a PR nightmare. By the way, I still haven’t cancelled any of my upcoming cruises.

Other business – I know I promised a Cruising with MJ piece this week, but I’m moving that to early next week. Might even be more fun to read as more pictures and stories emerge from Carnival Triumph.

-MJ, February 15, 2013