...constantly searching to find the best travel deals and places to visit. A never-ending quest for adventure!

Tuesday, September 24, 2024

US Passport Renewal is now Online!

I was very happy to see the recent news that US Passport renewals now have an online option available!



As with any new program, there are bound to be occasional glitches though I'm hopeful this option makes the entire workflow easier. The renew by mail option is also still available.

Sunday, September 22, 2024

Fall Travel Soon to Commence

Fall is here!

And so is an increased travel schedule.

I'm looking forward to being back on the road starting this week through early January.  My flying frequency has considerably dropped this past year for good reasons though I miss that routine.  I will have both personal and work travel over the next bunch of weeks - this will include visiting a new city!  I'll also have some points travel in October and our regular Thanksgiving trip that will take us to Qatar and Switzerland.  Then I'll be home for Christmas and back east for the New Year.

Saturday, September 14, 2024

United to offer Starlink in 2025

Very excited to read this news from United - Starlink will become the preferred Internet provider for most flights and will be offered for free!


My wifi experience on United has overall been good - through all of my flying last year, the connection was consistent though slow at times.  And for most international flights the speed and connectivity has been excellent.  I'm looking forward to having this service be no cost though am curious whether they will implement any controls to mitigate phone and video calls.

Thursday, September 5, 2024

Jetblue to PQI starts today

I knew it would be here eventually and now it is - today begins Jetblue nonstop service from Boston to Presque Isle replacing United service.

The service is only once a day for now since Jetblue was given an exemption from twice daily service.   

Monday, September 2, 2024

SAS Joins Skyteam

During our most recent trip to Svalbard, the best (and only) option to get there was to fly SAS.  The experience overall was fine and it was a bonus to be able to book and credit back to United since SAS has been part of Star Alliance from the beginning.  However, that has now changed with the start of September. 

SAS had previously announced a shift away from Star Alliance to Skyteam.  This takes away some valuable redemption and booking options throughout northern Europe.  And while some may think a partnership with Delta/KLM/Air France is positive, I tend to find those award options difficult to find and use.

More info here: https://www.flysas.com/en/eurobonus/skyteam/