Airports are tiny microcosms of our lives. I like airports. I walk into an airport, and
I’m *happy* because I know I’m about to embark on an adventure. No one is expecting anything of me other than
to make my flight. Gotta love that.
Airports have unique shops, though some are better than
others. They have eateries and
drinkeries and local entertainmenteries.
You can spend a lot of quality time at an airport.
Many airports have shoe shiners and massagers. And, my most
recent discovery, VIP lounges! I never
knew what I was missing until the doors opened, hosannas rang in my ears, and I
stumbled forward into the light. Free
drinks, free eats, free newspapers and magazines, places to watch tv, beds,
wifi, and showers! Admirals clubs and Executive clubs… it’s like Eden at the
airport!
For the most part, the personnel at the airport are nice and
helpful. The same can be said of
travelers, by the way. I volunteer at a
visitor information booth on the weekends, and I can tell you that what makes
my day is knowing I’ve helped make some traveler’s life a little less
stressful. Even if it’s only to smile
and hand them a map or local magazine.
But, sometimes, it’s more than that.
Like helping a deaf kid whose ride didn’t show up. Between us and the airport police, we got him
where he needed to be. Or the soldier
from Fort Hood who lost his wallet (and was reunited).
Travel weary folks who just landed from far off lands (and
some not so far off) have been helped by our customer-service conscious staff.
I hear that airports stress some people out. That all the connections and layovers are
anything but a happy experience. I think
the difference is the attitude you show up with.
If you show up thinking your trip should go one way and it
takes a 90 degree turn, it’s just part of the package. It can either be an adventure, or your worst
nightmare… but YOU get to choose! Once,
at Newark, I explored and found a multi-faith meditation room. I loved the idea! At Heathrow, there are more shops than you
can find on Oxford Street. In Austin,
one of the best-known BBQ restaurants is the Salt Lick… you guessed it… at the airport!
So, plan on not planning once your feet hit the automatic
doors at the departures entrance. This is a gift you’ve been given. A chance to meet people you’ve never met
before. To lend a smile or encouraging
word as you shuffle through the TSA lines.
Decide that you are going to start this adventure… with the grace,
finesse, and humor of a seasoned traveler… and expect travel karma to respond
in kind!
Austin Bergstrom International Airport (ABIA)
