Tsunami

Souvenir Sunday: Japanese earthquake relief

Despite the incredible story about an 80-year old woman and her grandson found alive nine days (!) after the earthquake, the news out of Japan just seems to get worse. Relief efforts are extensive – and expensive – so donate some money if you can.

You can donate directly to the American Red Cross through its website or make a $10 donation by texting REDCROSS to 90999 on a cell phone.

Many airlines are encouraging travelers to donate to the Red Cross by offering a mileage bonus as a reward.

Through April 15, 2011 American Airlines AAdvantage members can earn a one-time reward of 250 AAdvantage bonus miles for a minimum $50 donation, or 500 AAdvantage bonus miles for a donation of $100 or more.

Through April 30th, 2011, United Airlines Mileage Plus members can earn a one-time award of 250 Mileage Plus bonus award miles for donations between $50 and $99, and 500 Mileage Plus bonus award miles for a donation of $100 or more.

Through April 30th, 2011, Continental Airlines OnePass members can earn a one-time award of 250 OnePass bonus miles for donations between $50 and $99, or 500 OnePass bonus miles for a donation of $100.

Alaska Airlines, and several other airlines are also encouraging cash donations to the American Red Cross and other relief agencies through through their websites. Delta Air Lines has pledged $1 million in cash and in-kind support to relief efforts and set up a special website for Red Cross donations.

Many airlines also allow you to to donate air miles you’ve already banked to the Red Cross for use by relief workers and volunteers.

Hotels and other travel-related businesses are also encouraging their loyalty plan members to contribute to relief efforts. 

Hilton Hotels is matching donations of HHonors points with a cash donation of up to $250,000. Contributions will go to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

Best Western, Starwood, and Marriott are among the hotel groups encouraging the donation of points and cash as well.

Do what you can.

All eyes on Japan

Like everyone else, I’ve been holding my breath waiting for news – and hoping for bits of good news – about the aftermath of the earthquake in Japan.

I’ve also been watching – over and over – the incredible footage of the tsunami racing over the land. Especially the footage captured from Sendai Airport.

Some flights to and from Tokyo’s Narita and Haneda airports are resuming, but getting back to ‘normal’ is still a long way off.  Narita’s website has a very brief update about the Influence of the Earthquake on the airport. Haneda’s website is showing some international flights departing and arriving, but no updates on the status of the airport facilities have been posted.