Hi

Thanks for the welcomes! No Spirit does not fly out of MEM I will try another carrier that they have agreements with. When I travel normally, I always have back-up plans, now I understand how even more important they are now. Last year, we were "stuck" a big delay of our flight to Venice, well, I already knew that there was a flight going to Verona, switched flights, short train ride to Venice. Done!
I have read a lot, and I think I have a pretty good handle on the do's and dont's and the how's and why's. Like for my trip to SRQ, I would be willing to go to TPA or RSW and to go north to go south.

I plan to try not to check a bag. I travel pretty light usually. A 21.5" carry-on and a small canvas purse/tote. Have even do this for a 10 night Med cruise!

Because my airport is MEM, I understand getting to South Africa will be a "challenge"... OAL (other airlines?) are Lufthansa, United, AA, Virgin Atlantic, among others. I think LHT will prob be my best bet??? I think getting to Europe and then to JNB? Trip is not til September/October so lots of planning going on.

MEM is the challenge for me!