06. Airports…
I’m not sure what it is about them, but airports fascinate me. They are so intriguing with the airline staff in their pressed uniforms and immaculate hair, food and beverages, people everywhere, cleaners around most corners (great) and shopping. They are amazing, having everything we will need on our journey in one place, let alone allowing travel. However, in my opinion, they can also be one of the worst places on earth.
Pros
Travel to places on an airbus with wings
74% friendly staff
Ability to act mysterious
Treat myself to a new book despite the unread books on my nightstand
The option to have an alcoholic beverage at any time of day (pfft no one knows you’re flying domestically, why not?)
Duty-free for other alcohol-related reasons, as well as shopping reasons
Cons
It can be stressful to get to the gate on time
I sometimes manage to get lost
People everywhere
GERMS
Lack of airflow and therefore smells weird
Slow walkers always end up in front of me
Everything seems more expensive but also feels free at the same time (airport math?)
How awkward it is when your bag gets pulled from the security scanner
Aside from that general list, let’s elaborate on things. Aeroplanes are such an astonishing invention and the people pleaser in me thinks of all the intelligent engineers who worked on them and wishes I could thank them because… physics. Travelling is fun most of the time and you’re normally headed somewhere fun to do things with fun people (but if you’re spending money on plane tickets for people you don’t like, just don’t). Duty-free is like a forbidden land of confectionery, alcohol, presents and perfume, which in fact isn’t forbidden at all, it just feels like it’s for adults with money. The people pleaser in me also always stops to listen to the flight attendants act out their safety spiel because I feel bad that not many others are watching.
At the end of the day, the airport can be an enjoyable place. It’s somewhere you can always see something strange, funny or heartwarming if you look hard enough. Safe flight on your next trip, and don’t walk in front of me if you’re dawdling.
