Walkabout - 2/18: The costs of airlines merging and a perk for turning 40 - NYTimes.com When Two Become One While executives of American Airlines and US Airways argue that the two companies' merger will benefit customers by offering more destinations, some economists and consumer advocates say it will come at a cost. Escape Pod Miniature rooms offering a short respite for delayed travelers are making their way into some of the country's busiest airports. Minute Suites, which start at about $30 for the first hour and then bill by 15 minute intervals, are already operating in Atlanta and Philadelphia. NPR.org Brooklyn Bound The masses drawn to performances at the Brooklyn Academy of Music and the newly-opened Barclays Center will soon have another option for lodging. Plans for a 200-room hotel, designed by Thomas Leeser and complete with a basement performance space and rooftop bar, are in the works. Mapping Moguls Google is expanding its mapping empire to include ski area trails and lifts available online and on smart phones. So far, the list includes 38 North American resorts. The Salt Lake Tribune Beginning April 22, KLM is going to be one of the first traditional carriers over in Europe to start charging for checked baggage for travel within Europe. Jaunted.com Budget Birthday As part of its 40th anniversary celebration, Red Roof Inns is offering rooms for $19.73 to patrons who spend their 40th birthday at one of the hotel's locations in 2013.