Well, I might not be a world class traveler, but I definitely have had my fair share of traveling within the past year, including many flights between Chicago, New York and Los Angeles. I do understand how lucky I am to have the opportunity to travel so much and for that I am grateful. I get to see so many different places and explore things I wouldn't have thought to explore. Plus, it does help that I currently reside in two different states. I would be a little less adventurous and not take the opportunities I've been given, but one of my very good friends and role models once told me that this is my time to live. I guess in a way I'm saying that life is short and if you don't do what makes you happy, you'll eventually regret it.
Anyway, here are seven ways traveling is a pain in the butt.
1. Airplane Fees
We all know how expensive airfare is these days. For goodness sake, a ticket to fly one way for one person is at least the same amount as two Chicago Cubs bleacher tickets.
2. Security Lines
Need I have to explain this one? It's completely necessary, but I mean, O'Hare takes at least an hour to get through the security lines. It's even longer when there's a family bickering in front of you.
3. Boarding The Flight
If your flight hasn't been delayed long enough or you haven't had a gate change, boarding the plane is the ultimate challenge for people who don't know how to find their seat and bring too much luggage that won't actually fit on the plane.
4. Sitting Through The Long Flight
Once you have met your flying partner and have sat in silence with them for at least 15 minutes, the actual flight feels like an eternity. Just don't bump elbows with the person and you'll be good.
5. Airplane Food
I appreciate the complimentary drink and food, but there seems to never be enough food. Well, at least for me. Maybe that's a good thing, the quality isn't that good, anyway.
6. Landing/Arrival
When you arrive at your gate after the bumpy landing that you knew was bound to happen, everyone rushes to the aisle as if they will get off immediately. I'm sorry, but there's an order to things. Just sit back and relax, people.
7. Baggage Claim
Last but not least, waiting at the baggage claim can take close to 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the airport and the size of the flight. It's where all the people on your flight congregate one last time to reassure that you will never see any of them again and that they are OK with it.
I have learned quite a few things from air traveling and these are just a few of the problems. I'm still waiting to be swept off my feet by my true love, telling me that I can't go because he loves me at the gate. But, hey! A person can dream. So travel lots, explore like crazy and never think that it's too late to visit that place you've always dreamt of.
