Today I left Des Moines at 8:30 for Atlanta, flying through Chicago's O'Hare airport. I failed to realize that my itinerary included almost a 3 1/2 hour layover. Awesome
Determined to stay positive (it is the holiday season, after all) in my least-favorite airport; I decided to take in as much as possible.
I also got a chance to enjoy my favorite travel-breakfast, a chorrizo breakfast burrito and glass of milk :)
Full from my delicious breakfast, one of the first things I noticed were the holiday decorations around the terminal - the greenery and lit globe were beautiful and made me want a big mug of hot chocolate. Thank goodness for Starbucks!
Hot chocolate in hand and a little less than three hours to kill, I noticed the underground tunnel linking Concourses B and C. When I decided to scoop out the other concourse, I remembered that I had my little point and shoot camera and decided to try to make a video. The quality is iffy (at best) but it was fun to take and make. Enjoy :)
Slowing down gave me the opportunity to appreciate an airport I usually avoid, and made for an enjoyable day!
Determined to stay positive (it is the holiday season, after all) in my least-favorite airport; I decided to take in as much as possible.
I also got a chance to enjoy my favorite travel-breakfast, a chorrizo breakfast burrito and glass of milk :)
Full from my delicious breakfast, one of the first things I noticed were the holiday decorations around the terminal - the greenery and lit globe were beautiful and made me want a big mug of hot chocolate. Thank goodness for Starbucks!
Hot chocolate in hand and a little less than three hours to kill, I noticed the underground tunnel linking Concourses B and C. When I decided to scoop out the other concourse, I remembered that I had my little point and shoot camera and decided to try to make a video. The quality is iffy (at best) but it was fun to take and make. Enjoy :)
Slowing down gave me the opportunity to appreciate an airport I usually avoid, and made for an enjoyable day!
Keeping a Layover From Being a Lame-over
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Today I left Des Moines at 8:30 for Atlanta, flying through Chicago's O'Hare airport. I failed to realize that my itinerary included almost a 3 1/2 hour layover. Awesome
Determined to stay positive (it is the holiday season, after all) in my least-favorite airport; I decided to take in as much as possible.
I also got a chance to enjoy my favorite travel-breakfast, a chorrizo breakfast burrito and glass of milk :)
Full from my delicious breakfast, one of the first things I noticed were the holiday decorations around the terminal - the greenery and lit globe were beautiful and made me want a big mug of hot chocolate. Thank goodness for Starbucks!
Hot chocolate in hand and a little less than three hours to kill, I noticed the underground tunnel linking Concourses B and C. When I decided to scoop out the other concourse, I remembered that I had my little point and shoot camera and decided to try to make a video. The quality is iffy (at best) but it was fun to take and make. Enjoy :)
Slowing down gave me the opportunity to appreciate an airport I usually avoid, and made for an enjoyable day!
Determined to stay positive (it is the holiday season, after all) in my least-favorite airport; I decided to take in as much as possible.
I also got a chance to enjoy my favorite travel-breakfast, a chorrizo breakfast burrito and glass of milk :)
Full from my delicious breakfast, one of the first things I noticed were the holiday decorations around the terminal - the greenery and lit globe were beautiful and made me want a big mug of hot chocolate. Thank goodness for Starbucks!
Hot chocolate in hand and a little less than three hours to kill, I noticed the underground tunnel linking Concourses B and C. When I decided to scoop out the other concourse, I remembered that I had my little point and shoot camera and decided to try to make a video. The quality is iffy (at best) but it was fun to take and make. Enjoy :)
Slowing down gave me the opportunity to appreciate an airport I usually avoid, and made for an enjoyable day!
I've professed my love for the new rental car center at Atlanta's airport before, and I had another great experience November 14th. My rental car this time is a 2010 Ford Escape. The two hour drive from Hartsfield-Jackson Airport to Augusta, Georgia was painless and made getting around Augusta for the week fairly easy. This last weekend, I spent another 10+ hours between Augusta, Atlanta and surrounding suburbs. After all those miles - here is my review.
What I love:
What I don't love:
The final grade: B+
What I love:
- The aux input and cigarette lighter/power source conveniently located in the dash.
- Cruise and volume controls on the steering wheel
- Plenty of cargo and passenger space
- The blind spot mirror made it really easy to change lanes
What I don't love:
- The ride was a bit bumpy (especially when compared to the Buick Lacrosse)
- The windshield wipers aren't the easiest to control while driving
- The turn signal doesn't consistently turn off after completing a turn
The final grade: B+
Rate the Ride: 2010 Ford Escape
Thursday, November 25, 2010
I've professed my love for the new rental car center at Atlanta's airport before, and I had another great experience November 14th. My rental car this time is a 2010 Ford Escape. The two hour drive from Hartsfield-Jackson Airport to Augusta, Georgia was painless and made getting around Augusta for the week fairly easy. This last weekend, I spent another 10+ hours between Augusta, Atlanta and surrounding suburbs. After all those miles - here is my review.
What I love:
What I don't love:
The final grade: B+
What I love:
- The aux input and cigarette lighter/power source conveniently located in the dash.
- Cruise and volume controls on the steering wheel
- Plenty of cargo and passenger space
- The blind spot mirror made it really easy to change lanes
What I don't love:
- The ride was a bit bumpy (especially when compared to the Buick Lacrosse)
- The windshield wipers aren't the easiest to control while driving
- The turn signal doesn't consistently turn off after completing a turn
The final grade: B+
Unless you’ve been hanging out in a cave, I’m guessing you’ve heard about the TSA’s new x-ray machine or “enhanced” pat-down policy. Before blogger John Tyner shared his experience (and thus, started the “don’t touch my junk” meme), I hadn’t done much research on these new policies.
I’d like to take a few moments and share what I have read and my opinions on airline security. For each topic, I’ll label some background information, what others are saying and my opinion. I will post as many links as possible. Most of my research was done through the Gawker media group, including Gizmodo (the group that leaked the iPhone 4). You’ll find their source work attributes reliable sources such as “New Scientist”.
“Backscatter” OR millimeter wave scanner machines – not the same thing
Background: These machines allow TSA professionals to essentially look through your clothes and see the image of a naked person to check for weapons, explosives, etc; like an x-ray machine (backscatter machines actually are x-ray machines). Travelers are chosen at random* while others simply use the traditional metal detector. According to the TSA, the individuals viewing the images are in a different location and there are no ways to save images. TSA states that the x-ray exposure is completely safe as it is a minimal amount of radiation exposure.
*random according to the TSA. A better term might be selective as individuals are deciding who needs to walk through the backscatter, and who just walks through the metal detector. To my knowledge, there is not a publicized list of conditions that would make a traveler a backscatter/millimeter wave candidate.
Research: There have been reports of abuse of the imaging capability, read here and here and while those examples are internal employee issues – the potential for abuse obviously exists. Recently, Gizmodo leaked images of 100 travelers and their backscatter image. Rather interesting, as the TSA still maintains that the images can only be saved during training, and that feature is turned off the rest of the time. According to New Scientist, the TSA hasn’t provided how difficult it is to reactivate the feature, nor how they stop employees from using camera phones to capture images. In a statement to Gizmodo, the TSA claims that it is impossible to save the images, and they made this claim AFTER 100 images were leaked.
The UCSF oncology department thinks they pose a serious health risk, especially to children or anyone at risk for breast cancer. When reading an article about these machines, the part that alarmed me was the following paragraph:
“Are there health concerns surrounding millimetre-wave scanners?
In theory, these ought to be safer than X-rays because millimetre photons do not have enough energy to break chemical bonds. Last year, however, researchers at Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico suggested that these low energy photons could damage DNA in an entirely novel way. They say that while these photons cannot break DNA, they can shake it. This shaking may be so strong that it unzips the two strands in DNA, interfering with the genetic machinery that keeps cells working and healthy.
The team at Los Alamos did their calculations for submillimetre or terahertz waves, whose photons are slightly more energetic than those of millimetre waves. Their results are probabilistic rather than deterministic, they say. This explains why some experiments show that terahertz waves can damage DNA while other, practically identical studies show nothing.
While terahertz full body scanners are not yet widely used, the work does show that the effects of electromagnetic waves on DNA are not fully understood.”
My opinion: My first (an only, so far) experience with the backscatter or millimeter machine (not sure which it was, the TSA uses signs for both interchangeably) was in Atlanta on October 23rd as I prepared to fly home. I went through the machines not understanding the risk nor did I understand my rights. Here are my concerns and opinions, starting with my highest priority concern:
· Oh. In theory. Like how in theory, lead paint is safe. Or in theory, letting kids play with mercury in science class is safe. Or, in theory, asbestos insulation is a great product for your home, school or office. These are three of the countless examples of things that were approved for use, exposing toxic chemicals to millions of people until the government admitted it wasn’t safe. Maybe if you travel once or twice a year, a small dose of radiation doesn’t scare you. Multiply that by hundreds of trips, DNA damage could be a real concern. I don’t want my life to be cut short because the TSA exposed me to radiation.
· I’m sure I’m not alone here – I don’t want people looking at dark, grainy pictures of me naked. Heck, I don’t want to look at those pictures either.
· The “random” nature is ineffective.
· The leaked images creep me out and if my image was leaked out, I would feel violated, at the very least.
Enhanced Pat-down:
Background: Any passenger (regardless of age) selected for additional screening in a backscatter or millimeter-wave machine who declines is subjected to an “enhanced” pat-down. This is beyond checking the outside of your pockets for concealed weapons, but also includes contact with the passenger’s genitals. This screening takes place in public by a same-sex TSA employee, unless a private screening is requested.
Research: The TSA’s statement about the policy doesn’t describe the policy, it merely defends their reasoning. After searching the TSA website, I could not find a complete description of the procedure. I did read an ExpressJet pilot’s account of how shaken the pat-down (essentially, a groping) left him shaken – he was so upset by it, he was unable to fly. There are plenty of horrible stories about the pat-down procedure, read a few here, here or here. TSA employees have stated that the enhanced pat-down is as uncomfortable for them as it is for you. (It’s not like this SNL sketch)
My Opinion: The thought unwanted physical contact (male or female) leaves me extremely uncomfortable. My concerns are elevated with a stranger touching my chest, inner thigh or groin - it makes my stomach turn. I’m not sure that my reaction would be as profound as the pilot, I can certainly empathize. I’ve read a few accounts of rape survivors suffering anxiety attacks during and after the enhanced pat-down, further compounding the trauma of their attacks. I find little to no comfort that passengers will be assigned a screener of the same sex – if I don’t know you and your touching my butt, I have a problem with this. I am also very concerned with the thought of children being touched by screeners. What emotional damage is at risk by allowing an adult to touch your child’s buttocks or genitals? What assurance is there that the screeners are not pedophiles?
That’s it. Those are your two options if you are selected for additional screening. In response to the growing criticism, TSA administrator John Pistole issued a video statement about the TSA policy. As a warning to travelers - if you refuse the scanner and the enhanced pat-down, you could be threatened with a $10,000 fine. Here is one guy’s story of how he peacefully and effectively refused the scanner and submitted to the pat-down.
More information:
· Ms. Deidre Walker, former Assistant Chief of Police in Montgomery County, Maryland shared her concerns based on her 24 years of security and police experience on the risks of the TSA’s inconsistent procedures. If there is only one link you click in this post, please let it be this one.
· Orlando’s Sanford Airport is kicking the TSA out and hiring a private company
Overall Opinion:
Lack of consistency: In the last two years, I have arrived home and realized that my carry-on (screened by TSA) contained
· A 4oz bottle of contact solution (the rules state that it should be under 3oz and in a ziplock bag)
· A 1lb tub of Aquaphilic lotion
· An epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) in case of an allergic reaction. This device includes a needle and liquid that is not in a sealed container, nor have I been asked to see a prescription. Couldn’t this pose a risk?
Which will I choose? I’ve thought long and hard about this. While I feel that the screeners should at least buy me dinner and drink before they cop a feel (joking), I think I have an obligation to my physical well being. There are too many unknown risks to this new technology, and I’m not willing to play Russian Roulette with radiation.
As long as there are people trying to blow up, crash or hijack a plane, or try to sneak a dozen monkeys in their pants; security will always be something air travelers have to deal with.
I’ve heard that “you give up certain rights when you buy a plane ticket” and while I don’t agree with it, I’m not going to fight it. As a frequent traveler, whatever your thoughts and opinions on the TSA’s policies, I beg of you - don’t do anything that would jeopardize your fellow passengers’ ability to travel – don’t make a scene, don’t start a fight, don’t joke around. No one will be impressed with you if they miss spending the holidays with their friends and family.
Update - it appears that the TSA was not using the Backscatter or Millimeter machines the day before Thanksgiving.
TSA Touching your T&A
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Unless you’ve been hanging out in a cave, I’m guessing you’ve heard about the TSA’s new x-ray machine or “enhanced” pat-down policy. Before blogger John Tyner shared his experience (and thus, started the “don’t touch my junk” meme), I hadn’t done much research on these new policies.
I’d like to take a few moments and share what I have read and my opinions on airline security. For each topic, I’ll label some background information, what others are saying and my opinion. I will post as many links as possible. Most of my research was done through the Gawker media group, including Gizmodo (the group that leaked the iPhone 4). You’ll find their source work attributes reliable sources such as “New Scientist”.
“Backscatter” OR millimeter wave scanner machines – not the same thing
Background: These machines allow TSA professionals to essentially look through your clothes and see the image of a naked person to check for weapons, explosives, etc; like an x-ray machine (backscatter machines actually are x-ray machines). Travelers are chosen at random* while others simply use the traditional metal detector. According to the TSA, the individuals viewing the images are in a different location and there are no ways to save images. TSA states that the x-ray exposure is completely safe as it is a minimal amount of radiation exposure.
*random according to the TSA. A better term might be selective as individuals are deciding who needs to walk through the backscatter, and who just walks through the metal detector. To my knowledge, there is not a publicized list of conditions that would make a traveler a backscatter/millimeter wave candidate.
Research: There have been reports of abuse of the imaging capability, read here and here and while those examples are internal employee issues – the potential for abuse obviously exists. Recently, Gizmodo leaked images of 100 travelers and their backscatter image. Rather interesting, as the TSA still maintains that the images can only be saved during training, and that feature is turned off the rest of the time. According to New Scientist, the TSA hasn’t provided how difficult it is to reactivate the feature, nor how they stop employees from using camera phones to capture images. In a statement to Gizmodo, the TSA claims that it is impossible to save the images, and they made this claim AFTER 100 images were leaked.
The UCSF oncology department thinks they pose a serious health risk, especially to children or anyone at risk for breast cancer. When reading an article about these machines, the part that alarmed me was the following paragraph:
“Are there health concerns surrounding millimetre-wave scanners?
In theory, these ought to be safer than X-rays because millimetre photons do not have enough energy to break chemical bonds. Last year, however, researchers at Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico suggested that these low energy photons could damage DNA in an entirely novel way. They say that while these photons cannot break DNA, they can shake it. This shaking may be so strong that it unzips the two strands in DNA, interfering with the genetic machinery that keeps cells working and healthy.
The team at Los Alamos did their calculations for submillimetre or terahertz waves, whose photons are slightly more energetic than those of millimetre waves. Their results are probabilistic rather than deterministic, they say. This explains why some experiments show that terahertz waves can damage DNA while other, practically identical studies show nothing.
While terahertz full body scanners are not yet widely used, the work does show that the effects of electromagnetic waves on DNA are not fully understood.”
My opinion: My first (an only, so far) experience with the backscatter or millimeter machine (not sure which it was, the TSA uses signs for both interchangeably) was in Atlanta on October 23rd as I prepared to fly home. I went through the machines not understanding the risk nor did I understand my rights. Here are my concerns and opinions, starting with my highest priority concern:
· Oh. In theory. Like how in theory, lead paint is safe. Or in theory, letting kids play with mercury in science class is safe. Or, in theory, asbestos insulation is a great product for your home, school or office. These are three of the countless examples of things that were approved for use, exposing toxic chemicals to millions of people until the government admitted it wasn’t safe. Maybe if you travel once or twice a year, a small dose of radiation doesn’t scare you. Multiply that by hundreds of trips, DNA damage could be a real concern. I don’t want my life to be cut short because the TSA exposed me to radiation.
· I’m sure I’m not alone here – I don’t want people looking at dark, grainy pictures of me naked. Heck, I don’t want to look at those pictures either.
· The “random” nature is ineffective.
· The leaked images creep me out and if my image was leaked out, I would feel violated, at the very least.
Enhanced Pat-down:
Background: Any passenger (regardless of age) selected for additional screening in a backscatter or millimeter-wave machine who declines is subjected to an “enhanced” pat-down. This is beyond checking the outside of your pockets for concealed weapons, but also includes contact with the passenger’s genitals. This screening takes place in public by a same-sex TSA employee, unless a private screening is requested.
Research: The TSA’s statement about the policy doesn’t describe the policy, it merely defends their reasoning. After searching the TSA website, I could not find a complete description of the procedure. I did read an ExpressJet pilot’s account of how shaken the pat-down (essentially, a groping) left him shaken – he was so upset by it, he was unable to fly. There are plenty of horrible stories about the pat-down procedure, read a few here, here or here. TSA employees have stated that the enhanced pat-down is as uncomfortable for them as it is for you. (It’s not like this SNL sketch)
My Opinion: The thought unwanted physical contact (male or female) leaves me extremely uncomfortable. My concerns are elevated with a stranger touching my chest, inner thigh or groin - it makes my stomach turn. I’m not sure that my reaction would be as profound as the pilot, I can certainly empathize. I’ve read a few accounts of rape survivors suffering anxiety attacks during and after the enhanced pat-down, further compounding the trauma of their attacks. I find little to no comfort that passengers will be assigned a screener of the same sex – if I don’t know you and your touching my butt, I have a problem with this. I am also very concerned with the thought of children being touched by screeners. What emotional damage is at risk by allowing an adult to touch your child’s buttocks or genitals? What assurance is there that the screeners are not pedophiles?
That’s it. Those are your two options if you are selected for additional screening. In response to the growing criticism, TSA administrator John Pistole issued a video statement about the TSA policy. As a warning to travelers - if you refuse the scanner and the enhanced pat-down, you could be threatened with a $10,000 fine. Here is one guy’s story of how he peacefully and effectively refused the scanner and submitted to the pat-down.
More information:
· Ms. Deidre Walker, former Assistant Chief of Police in Montgomery County, Maryland shared her concerns based on her 24 years of security and police experience on the risks of the TSA’s inconsistent procedures. If there is only one link you click in this post, please let it be this one.
· Orlando’s Sanford Airport is kicking the TSA out and hiring a private company
Overall Opinion:
Lack of consistency: In the last two years, I have arrived home and realized that my carry-on (screened by TSA) contained
· A 4oz bottle of contact solution (the rules state that it should be under 3oz and in a ziplock bag)
· A 1lb tub of Aquaphilic lotion
· An epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) in case of an allergic reaction. This device includes a needle and liquid that is not in a sealed container, nor have I been asked to see a prescription. Couldn’t this pose a risk?
Which will I choose? I’ve thought long and hard about this. While I feel that the screeners should at least buy me dinner and drink before they cop a feel (joking), I think I have an obligation to my physical well being. There are too many unknown risks to this new technology, and I’m not willing to play Russian Roulette with radiation.
As long as there are people trying to blow up, crash or hijack a plane, or try to sneak a dozen monkeys in their pants; security will always be something air travelers have to deal with.
I’ve heard that “you give up certain rights when you buy a plane ticket” and while I don’t agree with it, I’m not going to fight it. As a frequent traveler, whatever your thoughts and opinions on the TSA’s policies, I beg of you - don’t do anything that would jeopardize your fellow passengers’ ability to travel – don’t make a scene, don’t start a fight, don’t joke around. No one will be impressed with you if they miss spending the holidays with their friends and family.
Update - it appears that the TSA was not using the Backscatter or Millimeter machines the day before Thanksgiving.
I've been looking forward to traveling to the Philippines before I knew for certain that I would be going. Just the possibility had me ecstatic. You've seen my excitement for the Philippines before, and I know that very soon I will be jabbering on and on with how excited I am.
But right now, reality has set in. Actually, my reality check was last Monday at 2pm as I spoke with our Travel Department to book my flights. I'm not sure if it was the shock in her voice as she confirmed that my return flights was three months after my arrival, or the slight gasp in response to my "no" after she asked if I would be returning home in the middle. Sigh. Even the travel agent knew I was in for an adventure.
Up until a week ago, this trip has been theoretical. Yes, I would go to the Philippines. Yes, I would be there for about three months. But making airline reservations brought a new level of reality to this trip.
For 89 days this spring, I'll live on my own in an apartment in Manila, Philippines. I have quite a few unknowns for this trip - where will my apartment be? Will I be able to text message? The longest I've been away from friends and family back in Des Moines is about six weeks. This will be twice that long. My longest trip out of the country is 21 days, or about a quarter of this trip. While away, my childhood best friend will give birth to her first child, another dear friend is expecting her 2nd child and by the time I see them, they'll be two months old.
I'm not sharing this to be a downer or to seek pity; but I think its only fair to share every aspect of my life of travel. I've heard people say "I envy your travel" or they are "living vicariously" through me, and the reality is that its not always perfect. In comparison, friends of mine are moving to Africa for two years. It makes my 3 months look pretty darn easy.
The ups more than outweigh the downs of traveling, and this too shall pass. :)
Reality Check
Monday, November 22, 2010
I've been looking forward to traveling to the Philippines before I knew for certain that I would be going. Just the possibility had me ecstatic. You've seen my excitement for the Philippines before, and I know that very soon I will be jabbering on and on with how excited I am.
But right now, reality has set in. Actually, my reality check was last Monday at 2pm as I spoke with our Travel Department to book my flights. I'm not sure if it was the shock in her voice as she confirmed that my return flights was three months after my arrival, or the slight gasp in response to my "no" after she asked if I would be returning home in the middle. Sigh. Even the travel agent knew I was in for an adventure.
Up until a week ago, this trip has been theoretical. Yes, I would go to the Philippines. Yes, I would be there for about three months. But making airline reservations brought a new level of reality to this trip.
For 89 days this spring, I'll live on my own in an apartment in Manila, Philippines. I have quite a few unknowns for this trip - where will my apartment be? Will I be able to text message? The longest I've been away from friends and family back in Des Moines is about six weeks. This will be twice that long. My longest trip out of the country is 21 days, or about a quarter of this trip. While away, my childhood best friend will give birth to her first child, another dear friend is expecting her 2nd child and by the time I see them, they'll be two months old.
I'm not sharing this to be a downer or to seek pity; but I think its only fair to share every aspect of my life of travel. I've heard people say "I envy your travel" or they are "living vicariously" through me, and the reality is that its not always perfect. In comparison, friends of mine are moving to Africa for two years. It makes my 3 months look pretty darn easy.
The ups more than outweigh the downs of traveling, and this too shall pass. :)
Yesterday, I got my "Etiquette Tip of the Week" from the Culture and Manners Institute, these weekly emails are helpful and humorous guides through personal and professional situations. This week's tip seemed quite topical, so I wanted to share.
In the crowded gate area in the airline terminal there are few empty seats. A tiny woman with dark hair places her laptop on one seat with her bag in front of it and leaves an empty seat next to it where she plans to sit. Then she moves to another set of seats and sits and chats with two co-workers. An older man comes along toting his luggage and makes for the empty seat. She stops him and says, “Oh no – that’s mine.” The man pauses and looks at her sitting in the other seat, then shuffles on.No one should be able to hog three seats in a crowded gate.In adult life, there is no such thing as “I called it!” There is no such thing as “this seat is saved” when the seating area is filled, when the train or bus is filled, when the theater is filled. If your friend or kin has not arrived, that is not the problem of the person who is there and looking for a place to sit down. Your bag, no matter what kind of day it's had in the underbelly of the airplane or going through security, does not warrant a seat of its own.Make room for others. Place bags on the floor or on your lap. Give up your own seat for those who are elderly, frail, pregnant, juggling small children or anyone who looks like they could really use it. Rather than say, "Do you want this seat?" say, "Please take this seat."
Thanks, Callista!
Consider subscribing to this great newsletter, email cgould@cultureandmanners.com
Travel Etiquette
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Yesterday, I got my "Etiquette Tip of the Week" from the Culture and Manners Institute, these weekly emails are helpful and humorous guides through personal and professional situations. This week's tip seemed quite topical, so I wanted to share.
In the crowded gate area in the airline terminal there are few empty seats. A tiny woman with dark hair places her laptop on one seat with her bag in front of it and leaves an empty seat next to it where she plans to sit. Then she moves to another set of seats and sits and chats with two co-workers. An older man comes along toting his luggage and makes for the empty seat. She stops him and says, “Oh no – that’s mine.” The man pauses and looks at her sitting in the other seat, then shuffles on.No one should be able to hog three seats in a crowded gate.In adult life, there is no such thing as “I called it!” There is no such thing as “this seat is saved” when the seating area is filled, when the train or bus is filled, when the theater is filled. If your friend or kin has not arrived, that is not the problem of the person who is there and looking for a place to sit down. Your bag, no matter what kind of day it's had in the underbelly of the airplane or going through security, does not warrant a seat of its own.Make room for others. Place bags on the floor or on your lap. Give up your own seat for those who are elderly, frail, pregnant, juggling small children or anyone who looks like they could really use it. Rather than say, "Do you want this seat?" say, "Please take this seat."
Thanks, Callista!
Consider subscribing to this great newsletter, email cgould@cultureandmanners.com
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