Running through airports seems to be my thing. No matter how early I arrive, I am always scrambling to get to my gate with just a few minutes to spare before boarding. There was only one time that I can recall, a thanksgiving day, when I leisuredly strolled to my gate and had the chance to sit and relax. I guess everyone else was dining at their thanksgiving buffet while I was busy catching my flight.
What causes the delay? Mostly the long lines I encounter at check-in. I often feel afraid I will not make it through the lines in time for the flight. I have witnessed instances where check-in personnel would come up to the line and ask if they were persons on line to 
fast-track since their flight was about to board. The up and down curving lines, sometimes three or four rows deep can be a bit daunting. My theory is that the winding lines make you dizzy, and by the time you reach the TSA agent you are so confused from going around and around, if asked, you might just give them a wrong name. Don’t read too much into this, it’s just a theory. 😀.
Seriously, I do hate the long lines. Many airports have found the solution to this by using self check-in kiosks. This is great, until you realize a few are broken, or there may be a cue for the few that actually work. What a bummer. Is it just me? Do you notice these things too? I am not painting every airport with a broad brush and certainly my suggestions below are not a one size fit all solution.
This year’s top 10 airports are truly wonderful (I have passed through half of them). They may be so ascribed for their abundant services, architectural beauty, preferred guest lounges, finest eateries, luxury retail shops, sterile clean restrooms (if there is such a thing), whatever. These are all great, but since no one surveyed me, I would like to go on record to state what I would like to see at an airport when I arrive. Nothing crazy or unheard of, but rather simple and should be a basic consideration at every airport:
Baggage claim should not be far away. I shouldn’t have to walk two miles (exaggeration) to collect my bags before exiting the building.- A local bus-stop or train station should be nearby for the budget traveler like me who may not be able to afford taxi or the overpriced hotel shuttles.
- Free welcome maps and booklets should be available. I’m in your city, boosting your economy. I shouldn’t have to purchase points of interest information in your city.
- Information desk should be located near gates, and I am not talking about the Hudson News stores.
- Knowledgeable persons should be manning formation desk at all times. Duhhh!
- 24 hour foreign exchange should be available for departing and arriving visitors. And last but not least
- More pet rest-stops. Man’s best friend needs to relieve themself too. Do I need to say more?
My list can go on and on to the point where it may sound like I need a personal valet too. Lol. I appreciate the finer things in life but I am not always in a position to afford them. However, I still need to give some credit to the check-in process, because I have always managed to board my flights for my destination on-time.
Fellow bloggers what are your airport peeves? I may not have a solution for them but would love to hear them nonetheless.
that are durable, lightweight, and made from materials which keep my feet cool and fit comfortably. They are perfect for walking distances, gives adequate support for rough terrain, are stylishly designed and colorful too.
with a wide brim which provides the right amount of shade on a sunny day. This trendy head gear protects my face and the exposed portion of skin on the back of my neck.
and 
are an integral part of my wardrobe that does not require much manipulation.
has a dual purpose. It provides shade from the sun’s rays and protects from the driving rain. This necessary item fits in small spaces and is a daily staple in my handbag. Whether the day’s forecast predicts rain or sunshine, I will certainly be prepared for either occasion.
for my daily exercise routine. I may also use it to carry a cold beverage such as freshly squeezed lemon in chilled water or a drink of hot cocoa as I view the sunrise or watch the sunset on the horizon.
help to protect my eyes from the sun’s glare as I relax on the sand while watching the tide’s ebb and flow near the water’s edge.
to wrap around my shoulders to keep me warm in the cool evening breezes. Also, I may use it to accessorize my dress for a more semi-formal look at dinner time.
are handy items to take to the beach, supermarket and almost everywhere I go. I can fold and tuck them neatly into a clutch purse when not in use.
towelettes to wipe the exposed areas of my skin for protection against these pesky insects. The repellent properties saves me from much unnecessary itch and pain, not to mention ugly skin discolorations.
that will keep all my electronic devices fully charged. It helps to keep me connected when I am unable to access ordinary charging outlets.
Travel Itineraries 