Trifter

Experts tell us that travelling is one of the most stressful times in our dally life, together with buying a house and losing a job. I can’t comment on the latter two items but I have flown a lot over the past 30 years, always on business and usually long distance and several flights to get there. For example I recently flew to the Middle East from Poland for a meeting, this required 11 flights in three days. Let me tell you how I handle flying in today’s busy air transport industry.

Purchasing tickets is always a lottery, I used to chase low prices all over the net and then check with the local travel agent. After years of this exercise I have realised that mostly it is a waste of time. I have found that using a site that you trust, (I use Expedia), is much the simplest way and once you select your final itinerary then check with your local travel agent for the same trip. For me the local business works out cheaper around 30% of the time. Always try to book all the tickets at the same time with the same agent and reference number, you may be able to reduce the price booking the different sections of multi transfer flights but you are on your own if any flight gets delayed, it’s not worth it in my experience.

Always make sure you have a mobile phone that will work in the country you are going to, you may need to enable roaming with your local operator, although usually a more cost effective method is to obtain an international pre-paid SIM card on the net United Mobile or similar company. The other option is to purchase a Pre-Paid SIM once you arrive in the country; many airports in the Middle East have a Kiosk on arrival where you can purchase a Pre-Paid SIM. Some countries such as India require you have a permanent address in the country. I advise checking on the net before you go.

When you set off for the airport try to maintain a relaxed attitude, if you become wound up due to traffic problems on the way to the airport then the rest of the journey will be tense. Try to relax or listen to music, setting the theme for the whole journey. Arrive at the airport in good time; the last minute rushes starts the journey badly, check in and then go and find a corner somewhere with your favourite beverage, preferably somewhere near your gate.

Security checks, we all get frustrated at long quest to pass through detectors etc. so prepare before you reach the electronic walk through detector, put your mobile, belt, loose change and watch etc. into your bag or briefcase. If you think you may be travelling in the same direction often then fill out a form for a frequent flyer card, certain programs such as Star Alliance and One World, Sky Team etc. cover multiple airlines. It is surprising how quickly points mount up and the real bonus is the facilities in the airport lounges where you can eat, drink, relax and even sleep with certain airlines.

Boarding can be either a relaxed stroll onto the plane or similar to a cattle market, particular in some Indian airports. You have your seat and the aircraft will not leave without you, wait until the rush is over and calmly walk onto the aircraft. Once seated on the plane, set your watch to the time at your destination, in fact if possible try to start living in the time where you are going before leaving home. This has a major effect in reducing jet lag. Modify your meal times to your destination from the time you get up on the day of travel.

During the journey everyone has their own way of passing the time, nowadays aircraft have a good selection of entertainment to smooth your way to the destination. I personally am a sleeper; normally I can fall asleep just after takeoff and sometimes wake up on landing. For me this is ideal having recharged the batteries somewhat.

Once you have arrived at your destination the stress can still get to you, normally the ideal is to get to your hotel, shower and get some sleep. I would suggest a short nap even if you only have a couple of hours before that important meeting. The 15 minute cat nap during a journey makes quite a difference of how you feel at the destination.Always try to normally a courtesy bus is available free of charge. Whilst I understand that there are marked differences in assistance and comfort throughout the world when arriving at the destination airport the same rules apply don’t use airport taxi’s or organise a taxi from the hotel in which you are staying, whilst they are not the cheapest option, at least they know where the hotel is located. In Asia normally a pick up from the airport is included. In Europe people that approach you as you come out the airport. Make sure you have the number of your hotel keyed into your mobile memory.

Have a good trip.