Don,

We were AA JFK flyers for as long as they've been servicing SXM but as they've curtailed their n/s services to SXM we've been forced to change carriers.

We've pretty much switched our allegiance to JB due to a number of reasons, price and n/stop flights being foremost, but also, I've actually come to like their three-tiered ticket choices. When we go for a long weekend we don't have to pay for a checked bag but when our stay is longer, we can choose the middle tier with one bag included or not.

The best time I've seen to purchase, short of huge sales, is within 2-3 weeks of my preferred travel dates first becoming available. I also like the idea of being able to purchase the up-front roomier seats though I do think they've gotten pricey of late. With these seats you often get pre-check approved as well as early boarding which gives you ample opportunity to convenient overhead storage of belongings.

Service is basically the same - free NA beverages but including DD coffee with real half and half and not low fat milk - along with unlimited free snacks but everything else comes with a price tag. I miss AA and their Business Class service but I've accepted JB and usually like their flight times.

We haven't done Mint yet but I've heard it's nice and you do get two checked bags included with these seats. It's very easy to accumulate points for free tickets on JB.

We've only flown Delta a few times but they always seem to be considerably more expensive when I check on their flights to SXM. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" />