Last week I decided to write about what other blogs I regularly read and what I’m not interested in reading. In the post, I didn’t actually list the blogs that I’m not reading anymore because – while I like to stir up controversy every once in a while – that wasn’t what I was trying to do with this post. While I listed the blogs that I enjoy reading regularly, there are tons more that I read on occasion or when I see an interesting topic posted. After all, I have a full-time job – outside the travel world – and don’t have time to read every single blog, every single day. I assume that I, like my readers, have to choose what to read based on interests and time.
So I was very surprised when I was crucified in the comments on that blog post for admitting that I don’t read One Mile At A Time on a regular basis. It all started when one reader asked if I meant to leave Lucky’s blog off the list.
I thought I left a pretty reasonable response to DeltaATLFlyer. I admitted that I don’t follow Lucky’s blog. Though that doesn’t mean I never read it. And commented that I was glad the reader enjoyed his blog and found this trip reports useful.
Who knew this could create such controversy! At first, I decided not to publish all of the ridiculous comments I was getting about admitting that I don’t read Lucky’s blog regularly. It just didn’t seem necessary. But then, after some twitter comments on the topic I decided – what the heck, I’ll publish all the insane comments I got. Yes, that’s right, I’m calling some of the comments insane (I’m sure this will stir up more controversy!) You can read all the comments here, but I’ve pulled out a few of the, well, what should we call them – most extreme?
I love that reader Ryan thinks that being a “real” blogger is tied to reading one blog
Kelly thinks that I could learn a thing or two from Lucky and that he’s the best blogger. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion as to “best blogger”
Then you had these two posts – Kevin thinks I’m insane and should get a life. Mark thinks I should be “shot” for calling Lucky arrogant – which for the record, I did not.
Honestly, people have lot of time on their hands! There were a lot of blogs that I left off that list that I do read. I read Rapid Travel Chi and none of his readers lashed out. I have actually started reading Million Mile Secrets more frequently and none of his readers commented because he wasn’t listed as a blog I read regularly. Interesting that Lucky’s followers take things so personally!
So let’s set the record straight.
I read One Mile At A Time on occasion – in fact, I actually read two of his blog posts this weekend about Starwood. I don’t know Lucky, but I’m sure he’s a lovely young man. I mean – anyone who puts a seatbelt on Elmo must be nice- right? I also quite enjoy Lucky’s banter with the AA social media team.
Why don’t I read his blog regularly? Today’s post about his problems with the showers in the W and Grand Hyatt is a good example of why I don’t read his blog more often. I feel extremely blessed to be able to stay in the W, St Regis, Waldorf and other 5 star hotels and understand that not everyone has the same opportunity. The fact that shower doesn’t work the way you like is a first world problem and one that I don’t really care about. I often disagree with his opinions and that’s okay! We are allowed to disagree. I’m sure 15 years ago my tastes might have been more similar to his or perhaps I would have shared more of his interests. But I find that I like different things. It’s just personal preference – I read other blogs more regularly.
There are something like 38 blogs on Boarding Area alone and everyone offers their own perspective and insights. I don’t read all 38 blogs and there’s nothing wrong with that in my opinion. I read what I’m interested in and what I have time for. I’m thrilled that Lucky has such a great following and such a popular blog. More power to him. While my blog post did say that I’m tired of reading arrogant bloggers in no way did I associate that comment with Lucky or any other specific blogger. And even if I had called out someone for being arrogant does that really call for someone to comment that I should be shot?
What do you think? Did people take it too far or did create the controversy by purposefully leaving Lucky off my most read list?