Travel Buddies
I’ve grown quite accustomed over the past couple years to traveling alone. I usually fly home for holidays, or to cities where I’m going to visit friends, so it’s not like I’m vacationing solo, but the trip to, through, and from the airport is generally done solo.
I’ve also realized that most people think this is sad. I’ve had flight attendants, fellow passengers or friends ask, “Who are you traveling with?” and when I reply, “No one,” I generally get a pitying look. I actually think it’s great because I pack when I want, am never running late based on someone else’s plans, and I can sleep all I want without feeling like I have to hold a plane conversation.
Jet Blue just inspired me to change my views. As a frequent flier, they offered me a free buddy pass during off-season flying anywhere I wanted to go. One of my best friends in New York has been missing one of his roommate who moved home, so I offered him the extra seat. It turns out we’re great travel buddies!
I was thrilled to have someone to eat crappy airport food after arriving sufficiently early to get through the security check that makes sure I’m not carrying “Terrorist Tangerine” lip gloss. I had someone to laugh with at pre-packaged martinis sold in the airport gift shop (genius idea!).
I had someone who shares my love of magazines, so we raided the newsstand and took turns buying things we agreed on sharing once we were through. We commiserated together when we realized we would miss that night’s episode of Grey’s Anatomy because ABC is the one network not included on Jet Blue’s direct TV (damn you!), but we also took turns channel surfing and pointing out something good to watch during commercials.
As much as I value independence, finding the right travel companion can make flying a little less of a chore and a little more enjoyable. Of course, missing my travel nap meant I was a little groggy when we landed, but I perked right up as soon as my friend pulled up to the airport. Besides, I’m used to a lack of sleep anytime I come home- it just gets in the way of having fun.