Why I Prefer Long Plane Rides Over Short Ones

I know what you’re thinking.  I’m insane.  Who enjoys sitting on a plane for 8 hours or more?  There’s hardly any space, you’re possibly subjected to sitting next to someone you don’t know who could be the rudest person you’ve ever met, you don’t have a ton of options for food, you have to use a bathroom with barely enough space to turn around, and you’re just simply…stuck.  Sounds delightful, right? Hear me out.

YOU HAVE MORE LEISURE TIME.

I hate being rushed any time in life.  Whether I’m getting dressed, finishing an important task at work, or crossing the street, I hate feeling like I don’t have enough time to do what I need to do.  The same applies when flying.  I enjoy knowing that I will have time to do all the things I need to do while in flight.  I’m almost always tired when I’m flying.  Blame my horrible ability to procrastinate. I know that I’ll be able to secure solid sleep when flying.  Don’t hate me because I’m able to sleep anywhere!  When I take long flights, I know I’ll have time to watch that movie I was too busy to catch in the theater or read that book I’ve been trying not so diligently to finish.  Short flights don’t give me the same freedom.

THE FLIGHT ATTENDANTS ARE NICER.

If you’re a flight attendant reading this, don’t be offended.  It’s just that in my experience, flight attendants tend to be a bit more cheerful when they aren’t rushed for time either.

THE FOOD TASTES BETTER.

We’ve all taken a domestic flight where we’re barely served a soft drink, given a bag a peanuts and then told to go about our merry way.  When you take longer flights, you’re usually served gourmet (ish) food that makes for a much more delightful in flight experience.  On my way to Tanzania, KLM served chicken teriyaki, a warm roll, yogurt parfait, cheese and crackers, and an egg soufflé.  This sounds like it could be a bit dicey, but I was pleasantly surprised by how satisfied I was.  And the food is usually better on European and Asian airlines, but that’s a different post for a different day.

THE BOOZE IS USUALLY FREE.

Let’s not forget the name of this blog!  I enjoy a good cocktail any day of the week, especially when it’s free.  If you’re flying for more than 8 hours, you’re most likely crossing continents.  This probably means that the booze is free and you’re able to enjoy some of your favorite cocktails, at no extra cost.  WIN, WIN.

Am I alone?  Let me know if you think I’m completely off-base and comment below!

DOs and Please DON’Ts For Hosts and Guest Travelers

Airbnb, couchsurfing and other homestay methods aren’t necessarily my first choice when traveling.  Call me old-fashioned.  However, some people seem to really enjoy getting a local experience this way. Renting can sometimes also be cheaper than a hotel stay.  Whatever your preference is, if you decide to use Airbnb, couchsurf or market your property for rent, there are ways to be a good host and guest traveler. After my horrible Airbnb experience, I reflected on what makes a good host and guest traveler.

GUEST TRAVELERS

DO…

• Research several properties before making a commitment. It’s best to see what your options are for accommodation type, location and amenities.
• Check the reviews of properties you’re interested in.  You could avoid staying at a less than stellar property or dealing with a crazy, unwelcoming host.
• Be polite and kind to your host.  They may be sharing their home and space with you so be on your best behavior.
• Make friends with your host.  You may want to stay there again!

Please DON’T…

• Leave your room a mess each day.  Even if you’re not the neatest person, you should try your best to tidy up after yourself before leaving for the day.
• Break or steal. If you do break something, offer to replace it. And this should go without saying, but no stealing!  Your momma taught you better than that.
• Be noisy and inconsiderate to your host or other guests. It’s rude!

HOSTS

DO…

• MAKE SURE THE PROPERTY IS CLEAN.  This is self-explanatory.
• Communicate with your guests before they arrive.  Make any rules or stipulations you have clear and in a visible place so there isn’t any confusion.
• Offer guests taxi numbers or bus routes that will help them get to your property or to the biggest attractions in your hometown.
• If possible, be present when your guests arrive…especially if your property is not clearly identified or hard to locate.
• Ensure your guests know where they are supposed to stay.  If your house has multiple entrances, paint a clear picture about where your guests should enter.
• Be pleasant, hospitable and welcoming.  And if you want to go above and beyond the call of duty, have cookies or wine waiting for your guests’ arrival.  You’ll make their experience more memorable and they’ll love you for it.

Please DON’T…

• Overbook your property.  Guests don’t like feeling crammed or sharing bathrooms with strangers if that’s not what they signed up for.
• Annoy your guests and be overbearing.  They are there to relax and can live without you hovering uncomfortably.
• Be unavailable.  Your renters may have a problem in their room that needs your attention. Whatever the case may be, make sure they’re able to reach you.

For both hosts and renters, I suggest leaving a review.  It’s worth letting future hosts and renters if you had a pleasurable experience…or not.  So, do you have any tips for renters and hosts alike? Let me know!