Another question...Are airfares higher than usual this summer or was last summer cheaper than usual? I went last summer in June and am surprised at how much higher it seems this year, but I don't know what is normal?

I read recently in USAToday.com that airlines would offer fewer summer discounts this year as compared to last.

As mentioned earlier, I was VERY happy to "snag" a June 2010 Madrid-to-Columbus, Ohio Delta flight for $724. Last year's July flight cost me $1,074. My October 2008 flight cost me $1,170. August 2006 flight cost $1,290. So as you can imagine, I'm quite happy with this year's bill.

Saludos, MadridMan

I think you got a real deal MM!!!

Maybe so. I'm checking right now, same June dates for which I already have the ticket, and now the lowest price is $11 cheaper (on American Airlines) at http://www.Orbitz.com . What do you people use to find your airfares?

Saludos, MadridMan

I've found that the airlines websites are now usually lower than the "discount" sites like orbitz or travelocity. The discount sites have to make a buck too, and the airlines are not giving them a break, so hey add on fees. O, and taxes!! USAir is still only charging the usual $80, but United nd others are charging around $300! What is up with that??!!

I agree with SalaChic. Additionally, the sites that compare flights seem to have fewer options for times, so the direct sites seem better to me.

I think Kayak is pretty reliable. And recently I have been looking at Fare Compare

I've also heard that for international flights vayama.com is supposed to be competative. But i've never used it.

laduque,
Believe me, I'm totally bummed as I'd been planning to go this summer since my last trip (when I saw you and MM and everyone else)! I guess it's not meant to be this year but hopefully next year we can have a little reunion. I had so much fun at our dinner that evening. In the meantime, I expect lots of updates while you guys are there this summer.

Before I bought my ticket in March, I checked everywhere Kayak, FareCompare,Travelocity and then USAir. All were a bit higher than USAir for the same flights, then I just jumped when it went down $100 (thanks to a tip from Jim Costello). Of course, I made the mistake of checking the fares about 2 weeks later and they were down another $100(bummer), but now back up even more. I should say also that I am going in May, not Ju, Jy or Aug when they are higher still.