A lot of people get down on airports. Yes, they can be stressful if you’re rushing because of a tight connection or your plane has been grounded for maintenance. But once you’re through the rigmarole of security, there’s a lot to appreciate about spending time in an airport.
1. You’re travelling, baby!
If you’re in an airport for an extended period of time, it means you’re going somewhere and unless you’re heading to a funeral or being deported, it’s a happy time. Even business travel means you’re at least not going to have to make your bed or clean the hair out of your shower drain for a while.
Also consider that according to the Worldwatch Institute, less than 5% of the world’s population will ever fly in a plane, or therefore visit an airport. Appreciate the privileged experience you’re having.
2. Nothing’s expected of you
Although it’s still a 24/7 world and an Internet connection means you could be working all the time, when you’re in transit, the expectations on you are lower. Likely no one is expecting you to write a report or come up with a communications strategy while you’re waiting for a flight, even if it’s business travel. You can just relax.
3. Airport people are fascinating
There is no better people watching than at an airport. I had a boss I travelled with on business a few times and we would while away the airport hours by making up entire life scenarios based on what we could observe about our fellow travellers.
4. Airports are stepping up
In the last several years, I’ve noticed that airports are catching on to the potential of a captive audience to highlight their city’s culture and history. From exhibits to large-scale public art, airports are starting to offer genuinely enjoyable time-killer alternatives to overpriced retail shopping. There’s even an Arts in the Airport Facebook page to keep up with new exhibits.
5. It’s a bit of a party
Whether you have access to an airport lounge or your hanging out at the bar, airports give off a bit of a party vibe, regardless of the time of day. As a consequence, people are chattier and easier to engage. You always have an opening conversation starter – “Where are you travelling today?” It’s also one of the few times you can have an alcoholic beverage at 11 a.m. without someone thinking you need a 12-step program. After all, it might be 6 p.m. in the place you’ve travelled from. So kick back and enjoy traveller!
Do you enjoy your airport time when travelling? What do you love most?
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