What’s next, paying with parts?
When I traveling home to see my parents, it’s no easy feat; nor is it cheap. I’ve often lamented the fact that for the same cost of an airline ticket to Dodge City, I could purchase one to several different cities in Europe, e.g., Amsterdam, Milan, Frankfurt…you get the idea.
This pains me.
But, I love my parents and they derive much joy from filial visits. With that in mind, I grit my teeth, shell out a ridiculous amount of cash (most of it spent on the puddle jumper flight from Denver to Dodge City—go figure) and take one for the team (Teamwork makes the dream work! she says while flaunting jazz hands).
I had come to terms with this expense, accepting it as part of my holiday season…until this year. I heard a news report stating that airline tickets for the 2009 holidays were going to be more expensive than usual, but I had no idea that airlines were going to start charging enough to buy a new plane per passenger. (Besides, I think I heard it on FOX, so I didn’t believe it.)
When I began researching prices, I felt more than a little violated after seeing an increase of $200. Airlines stated that fewer flights and fewer travelers were the cause of the increase. I call bullshit. It’s not enough that many airlines are charging for bag check and that they charge for both headphones and food. No, no, they want more. But where does it stop? Will those traveling soon be required to hand over their scalp, body parts and children? Oy.
I am going home for Christmas, but it won’t be via Dodge City. Instead, I’ve opted for a flight to Wichita and a three-hour ride in my sister’s minivan, which will be big fun—she always brings the beer.
The Web sites where I find the cheapest airfare for the U.S. are Kayak, Expedia, Cheap Tickets and Travelocity.
Venice Sunset
October 31st, 2009 at 7:45 am
You tell ‘em, Sister! A big f*&% you to fare increases and the nickel & diming of the American consumer. You ride in that mini-van & you drink that beer with pride and certitude.
Happy Halloween, my friend! Are you dressing this year? Of course you are! I attempted Amy Winehouse last night (at a 13yr old’s birthday party – Ha!) only to find out that the majority of Mississippians don’t know who she is and just assumed I was a whore w/ a big ass Bumpit. I almost certainly offended.
Miss you mucho!