Traveling writers test lines vs. lounges
Perks and no perks, reporters compare notes
ORLANDO, Fla. - Summer travelers may well find themselves stuck in long security lines and squeezed into cramped seats. For frequent travelers, or those who can and want to pay extra, perks are available including upgrades to first-class seats, airport lounges and free food.
Are the benefits worth the cost? The Associated Press sent two journalists on a two-day visit to Orlando, Florida — one with perks, and one without.
Scott Mayerowitz, who until recently covered the airline industry, has elite status with airlines, hotels and car rental agencies. He also has a five-year membership in a Transportation Security Administration program that lets him use fast-track lanes at airport security. Premium credit cards aimed at frequent travelers get him into airport lounges.
Candice Choi, who covers the food industry, has no such perks.
Scott saved more than 45 minutes total in waiting in lines at the airport, avoided crowds and got free food along the way. Candice thought Scott’s biggest advantage was the time he saved. The extra space and food he got seemed nice, but less meaningful for a short trip.
Here’s how their experiences differed:
Security
even those without status, get to skip the lines at the rental counter. So Scott headed straight to the garage. He spotted a BMW X3 SUV in a lane of cars for those with National’s “executive elite” status, which comes with 12 annual rentals. He settled into the plush leather seat, turned on the nine-speaker stereo and drove off.
Candice isn’t a member of any car rental programs. But on a Thursday morning, there was only one person ahead of her in line. Registration was quick and she could have picked a car from a fleet that included midsize options like the Hyundai Elantra and Toyota Corolla.
Ultimately, Scott picked her up in his rental SUV.
Universal theme park
At the parks, it was Candice’s turn to be elite. Both paid $165 for a two-park ticket, but Candice added on a $99 “Universal Express” pass that let her skip lines. With Orlando at 94 degrees and humid that day, she couldn’t have been happier.
On The Incredible Hulk roller coaster, Candice went through a separate entrance and to the front of the line. It took about 10 minutes for the entire experience. On the way out, she waved at Scott, who had barely moved in line in the sweltering heat.
It took Scott 42 minutes, despite it being a slow day at the park.
Hotel