The Pleasure of Being Prepared While Everyone Else Is Struggling.
After years of traveling around the world for live performances, I’ve discovered little tricks that make flying easier, more comfortable, and less stressful. Here’s one of my favorites.
TE-004 — The Pretty Girl Who Made Me Miss My Flight!
Here’s a lesson I learned the hard way.
During a layover in Chicago, I met a friendly gal, and we struck up a conversation.
We were having such a good time that I completely lost track of the clock.
Eventually, I headed toward my gate, planning to arrive around the scheduled departure time.
BIG mistake!
The doors were already closed, and I wasn’t getting aboard.
I was stuck in Chicago overnight!
Fortunately, the story had a happy ending.
The woman was from Chicago and offered to show me some fun local spots. What started as a missed flight turned into a pretty enjoyable evening!
And thankfully, I was on my way HOME from a performance, not on my way to one.
The lesson: Departure time is NOT your boarding deadline. Airlines may close boarding 15 minutes or more before departure. Once those doors close, don’t expect them to reopen.
The Pleasure of Being Prepared
After all these years of traveling, I’ve learned that great travel experiences aren’t necessarily about how much money you spend.
They’re about making smart choices that let you relax and enjoy yourself.
Good food. Everything organized. No frantic searching. No unnecessary stress.
And maybe a few fellow passengers looking over and wishing they’d thought of it first!
That’s Travel Envy.
Michael Israel
Got a Travel Envy Secret of Your Own?
What’s something you’ve discovered that makes traveling easier, more comfortable, or more enjoyable?
Share it! Your idea might appear in an upcoming Travel Envy article.
More Travel Envy
TE-005 — Never Gamble With an Important Arrival
Arrive a day early when it matters
TE-006 — Everything at Your Fingertips
Keep your legroom, lose the digging
TE-007 — TripIt: My Go-To Travel App
Every reservation in one place