I helped found and used to put together the programs for Frequent Traveler University. I gave four talks at the very first Chicago Seminar for frequent travelers about 14 years ago. But I haven’t spoken at many consumer-facing events in recent years.
Most of my talks have been more industry-focused. I gave keynotes a couple of times for a payment network hosting the brands whose rewards cards they issue, and for airline and co-brand rewards card conferences. But my roots are in talking to, and most importantly with, frequent travelers.
So when Michael Trager asked me to speak at this year’s ZorkFest he hit me at the right moment, and on dates that worked, I was excited to do it.
- Location: Harrah’s Lake Tahoe
- Dates: October 13-14, 2023
- Focus: Miles and points – and gaming and casino loyalty
Honestly I haven’t been to Tahoe in a dozen years. But I have a soft spot for it owing to the 1988 David Mamet film with Don Ameche, Things Change. Far less flash but far more beautiful than Vegas. And I hope to meet several of you there.
Good luck at your event..
This is unrelated but did not see a post yet. It will probably cause a long-winded defense from unowho. One major US airline is not ready…..
https://ca.finance.yahoo.com/news/air-travel-isnt-hard-enough-043845243.html
@Gary Leff. I haven’t been to Vegas. I would like to go and it would be nice to meet you. I have a question. Do you have a favorite airline? Which one would you recommend flying from DFW to Heathrow? I’d like a nonstop. I won’t have to worry about any connections. Thanks.
@Carol Lewis – so this is in Lake Tahoe (Reno airport) and not Las Vegas.
“Do you have a favorite airline? Which one would you recommend flying from DFW to Heathrow?”
The two airlines flying non-stop Dallas to London Heathrow are American Airlines and British Airways. My answer may depend on the class of service – for business class I would pick American over British Airways, since BA is using the Airbus A380 on that route and they do not currently have plans to upgrade to their new business class suite on that aircraft.
Favorite airline overall? Tough!
Favorite first class? New Emirates first class, on a limited number of 777s
Favorite business class? Qatar QSuites
Favorite main meal service? Singapore first class Favorite meal service overall? ANA first class
Favorite lounge? Air France La Premiere Lounge, Paris
I have opinions! 🙂
@A Texan – I covered all of these issues the first go-around, I just didn’t have much more to say 🙂
@Gary Leff. I haven’t been to Lake Tahoe either but I would like to go. Thanks for the info. I guess I’ll go with American nonstop.
Thank you, Gary; we are all so excited! I also like to mention that we will have a blend of miles&points (with Bonus FTU Sessions on Sunday), Nevada and Gaming history (David G. Schwartz, Ph.D. aka “Dr. Dave” of UNLV and author of At the Sands: The Casino That Shaped Classic Las Vegas, Brought the Rat Pack Together, and Went Out With a Bang, Grandissimo: The First Emperor of Las Vegas, Roll the Bones: The History of Gambling, and Boardwalk Playground: The Making, Unmaking, & Remaking of Atlantic City), as well as Casino Loyalty Discussion which includes Sports Betting and Sports and Gambling Apps (yes, you can manufacture MGM Platinum Status with all benefits!). Oh, and some mixology lessons and discussion, plus a lovely cocktail reception and dinner with sweeping views of Lake Tahoe.
For those curious about logistics, see the ticket page, but here are some core details. Our room block includes only the newest (non-smoking) renovated rooms at Harveys Lake Tahoe (attached to Harrah’s Lake Tahoe).
Airports Located Near Lake Tahoe:
• (RNO) Reno-Tahoe International Airport (59 miles from Harrah’s Tahoe, Approx. 1-hour 15-minute drive)
Many rent a car when visiting the Lake Tahoe Area, but you will not need a car if participating in ZorkFest and staying in the Harrah’s/Harveys area.
Airport Transfer from RNO: South Tahoe Airporter
Harrah’s/Harveys does have VIP Limos for (qualified) Caesars Rewards Players – inquire with your host.
• (SMF) Sacramento International Airport (116 miles from Harrah’s Tahoe, Approx. a 2-hour drive)
• (SFO) San Francisco International Airport (202 miles from Harrah’s Tahoe, Approx. 3-hour 25-minute drive)
Feel free to ask questions or drop a message to TravelZork/ZorkFest; our team is always happy to assist.
Are you going to cover the history of the MIT mainframe version before Infocom adapted it for micros? Are you going to discuss strategies for handling the thief, and the game’s various easter eggs? It was a pretty successful series, though really the first three are the canon. I mean, as long as the theme is lavish nostalgia.