BOOKED: One Week in Florida

As I approach the end of February, I was growing frustrated by my overall lack of travel. The only trip I have taken this year was the ill-fated trip to Los Angeles in January. It was a heck of a way to start the year because nearly everything went wrong. I immediately began planning my next adventure. There was a brief thought to travel back to Panama. After the Air China 777-300 First Class flight last year, I wanted to check out the same flight but in business class.

I put the trip on hold, as it did not work with my schedule. Soon after postponing the Panama trip, I received the opportunity to go to Florida for my “real” job. The booked itinerary will give me an opportunity to try mostly new (to me) airplanes and lounges.

Airplanes

I will get to fly American Airlines’ ERJ-140, A321, and CRJ-900. I have flown on the ERJ-140 many years ago, while my only time flying on the A321 was between Dallas and Charlotte, last year. I am not a fan of the CRJ series aircraft, but a flight on the CRJ-900 might change my mind. Might.

In addition to the American Airlines’ planes mentioned, I will also get to fly aboard Delta Airlines’ A321 and 737-700. The most recent Delta flight experience was aboard an ERJ-175 from Boston to Nashville, which was not pleasant. I hope these flights offer a better experience.

Hotels

The only hotel I will get to review will be the Crowne Plaza in Tampa. My most recent stay at a Crowne Plaza was not enjoyable. I would expect this property to be a significant improvement. If not, at least I will get to experience a different property. This hotel is not far from the Residence Inn and Tampa Marriott where I stayed in late summer last year.

Lounges

I will have the opportunity to visit The Club at DFW since it opened in the new location. My last visit was to the temporary location. The temporary location was crowded so I am excited to see what the new club has to offer.

During a short layover in Atlanta, I plan to visit The Club at ATL. This will allow me to do a direct comparison of the two Priority Pass lounges. The last Priority Pass lounge I will try to visit is The Café by Mise en Place at Tampa. I have not read many reviews of the restaurant so I am excited to visit.

I also plan to visit Admirals Clubs at DFW and Charlotte. As a military member, I should have access due to the American Airlines Military Benefits. If not, I might use the Minutes Suites for a quick nap. I will also try to enter the Delta Sky Clubs in Tampa and Atlanta using the Delta Airlines Military Benefits.

Final Word
I am so ready for my next trip for two reasons: 1) get rid of cabin fever and 2) make up for the first trip of the year. The lounge visits will be a huge undertaking, but I will try to review all of them. Thanks for reading and please check back for the updates.