For the first time in forever, I'm flying on an international flight and it won't be American Airlines - after years of being Platinum (their 2nd-highest elite frequent flyer level), I've learned I've just been downgraded to Gold.
Ah, the irony of running a travel site - you spend more time in front of a computer than on a plane!
With my upcoming flight to Mexico City looming on the horizon, I've been thinking about ways I'm going to class up my sure-to-be coach experience.
Check out my top tips below. And let me know: how do you gussy up the other wise unglamorous affair of air travel?
xo,
your jauntsetter editor, Dorothy
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Classing Up Coach: How To Glamorize Your Next Airport Affair
Sartorial Savvy: Like our formerly featured Jauntsetter Jenny Slate, I'm probably going to dress up for my flight. Of course, I'll keep it cool-to-hot friendly by layering appropriately, and maybe even wearing my favorite versatile black dress.
Look the Part: An updo and a smile? Check and check. Who knows, if I look presentable enough, I just might get invited up to First Class like Kate or Kelly, despite my non-elite Continental status (that's who I'm flying with on Thursday).
Accessorize Appropriately: As always, I'll keep calm and organized with my passport holder, and I'll keep things looking classic and feeling sturdy with my quality vintage luggage.
Map Out Airport Amenities: If I have lots of time to kill, I just might consider getting a manicure or a quick massage near my gate. Almost every airport has a website, and more and more, mini spas are being offered at at least one terminal … check if yours has one, and make an appointment in advance!
Consider the Lounge: I know I'll likely have some work to do at the last second before my flight, and if there's serious stuff that needs to be done, I think airport lounges are worth it. The Continental Lounge at Newark is actually one of the nicest I've been to, so I'll spend the money to get some peace and quiet there, plus some other perks: its got showers, computers, complimentary wi-fi and alcoholic beverages (a rarity!).
Gourmet Meals a Must: One of the most depressing things about air travel these days is the food they serve you in flight - and the fact that not only is it almost always terrible, it's not even free anymore! This time, I swear I'm going to bring along my own delicious meal, Newark Food Court be damned. (If we were flying out of JetBlue's Terminal 5, this wouldn't be the case).
Bring your own First Class Kit: One of my favorite things about international business or first class travel is the little kit you get: fresh socks, toothpaste, toothbrush, moisturizer, ear plugs and an eye mask are almost always included. Not only do they make flights more pleasant, but they're good to have on trips in general. That said, they're really easy to make on your own. Flight 001 and 3FlOz.com are two excellent sources for security friendly amenities.
Indulge: OK, so this isn't really classy - but it is fun, and anything that can count as such during a flight should be indulged through and through. Like almost every other jauntsetter out there, when I fly I'll buy all the magazines I could ever want, from US Weekly to The Economist. You can guess which will get read cover to cover.
5 comments
ElaineG says:
Vino Volo past security in Terminal C at Newark has numerous (yummy) wines by the glass, including tasting flights of several small glasses, and shockingly tasty (for airport food) bruschetta, salads and other light bites.
I’ve never tried to get to go for the flight from them, but I wouldn’t be surprised if they provide it.
In any event, a glass of nice wine (or even a tasting flight) before your flight should put you in the mood you are looking for (it will be better than what you get in the lounge if you don’t need to work there).
(posted on 03/08/10, at 06:06PM)
admin says:
The last time I walked by a Vino Volo, there was a family with a crying infant and a bottle of wine. Where did they think we were – Park Slope? Here’s hoping Newark’s branch is baby free. I’m definitely checking it out. Thanks for the tip Elaine!
(posted on 03/08/10, at 06:46PM)
needcaffeine says:
Terminal C, especially for long flights; tend to go to Gallaghers & have some wine + meal of some sort. This was my normal schedule for awhile, on my near weekly commutes to Hong Kong
(posted on 03/09/10, at 10:19AM)
therain says:
best airport gourmet experience has to be the wine bar at Rome Fiumicino for me, great tuscan wine selection and lapo elkmann checked me out (at least i like to think he did).
(posted on 03/17/10, at 07:11AM)
admin says:
I bet he did!
(posted on 04/29/10, at 09:27PM)