Up in the Air

I really liked the movie "Up in the Air." And... not just because George Clooney was in it, but he is the reason why I saw it a second time.

I travel occasionally for work. Not as much as George's character, but enough to make elite status with the airline. There are a few things in that movie that I can related to. Collecting and maximizing miles has become a hobby for me -- in part because I have come to rely on those miles to help with my personal trips.

I was Silver elite with Northwest Airlines in 2009. I made it to Gold with Delta at the end of 2009, which carried over for 2010. I flew 45,000 miles in 2009, and NWA gave me 10,000 bonus miles....which put me over the 50,000 needed for Gold.

My goal for 2010 - platinum - which is 75,000 miles with Delta. I could only make it though if I take many work trips to London. (7ish, plus my typical travel.)

I could start mileage tracking as a new list. I was over 10,000 (elite qualifying) miles by mid-February, and I have 4 trips booked in the next 5 weeks. Now.... I haven't actually flown 10,000 miles yet. Sometimes I get bonus miles. I like bonus miles.

I am saving for a trip to Japan. I find it easier to save frequent flier miles than money. I am confident I will have the miles, but will I have the money when I get there???