AS I GROW older, I find myself starting to dislike travel.
When I was younger, I remember getting really excited at the prospect of heading to the airport, browsing through duty-free shops, and finally getting on the plane. Once on board, I loved checking the entertainment guide to see what movies were playing, and I actually enjoyed airline meals.
Nowadays, though, the thought of a crowded airport, long lines at immigration, and the arduous security check are starting to wear me down.
Let me walk you through my most recent travel day. (As I write, I just arrived in Los Angeles; this was what happened.)
It was 6:30 p.m. on a Sunday, which translated to less than crazy traffic. Since our daughter was attending a birthday party, Rob and I left the house early to pick her up, and had her tag along to Naia Terminal 2.
As we got closer to the terminal, my little one started to get more emotional that mama was leaving her. (She’s fine now; thanks to FaceTime—Apple’s video chat software—I get to see her everyday for free.)
By 7:30 p.m. our car was at the drop-off point, and my husband grabbed a cart for me. The sidewalk was crowded with people, many of whom were not actually traveling that night. It’s a phenomenon I don’t quite understand, to be honest.
It took me about 10 minutes before I reached the check-in counter, but my efforts were alleviated by helpful people every step of the way.
At 8:30 p.m. I went through the check-in process and security. Although the airport was busy, the lines were all moving fast enough, owing to the efficiency of the ground staff.
No rush
My patience wasn’t tested, nor did I feel stressed from having to rush. Even the security guards were helpful and volunteered to help with a heavy bag. I headed to the Mabuhay Lounge to grab a few minutes of quiet time. Unfortunately, the airport’s Wi-Fi network had conked out that afternoon.
Boarding time at 9 p.m. Everyone had formed a line towards the preboarding security check. It’s usually at this time that I expect chaos to ensue, but no such thing took place that night. There was a long line forming, and passengers looked very patient as they waited.
The security check included: a bag check (manual and/or X-ray machine); a footwear check; and a manual body check. It went by very quickly.
Here’s a tip to make things go more quickly: Wear slip-on shoes or unlace your shoes while still in line. It’ll make taking them off and putting them back on easier. It also helps to smile during the check—it lightens the mood all around.
The plane took off on the dot at 10 p.m. Awesome. However, I had a feeling I would not get any sleep as my seat mate had started snoring very loudly. A few hours in, I asked the flight attendant for a pair of earplugs—they don’t block the sound completely, but they help enough. After donning my shades, I was able to get some shut-eye. And yes, the airline food was actually pretty good!
LA time
Now, we switch to Los Angeles time for the next segment.
At 7 p.m., still on Sunday night, the plane landed—a half hour later than scheduled. Disembarkation was a little slower than I’d have liked it to be, but everyone eventually got off.
Quick line
The first place I visited was the ladies room, as I knew that the immigration line might last an hour. This line actually moved pretty quickly, and I was in front of the officer in about half an hour. Tip: Know which line you’re supposed to fall into. I spied a few people getting into the wrong line, only to start over in the correct one. After a 13-hour flight, this was the last thing you wanted.
By 7:30 p.m. I got to the dreaded part: baggage claim. Because there were two PAL flights to Los Angeles that night, the luggage conveyor still had some of the previous flight’s bags on it. It took a good 30 minutes before all those bags were off-loaded. I saw the guys in charge on the ground were doing their best, but surrounded by hundreds of tired passengers who wanted nothing more than their bags and boxes.
At 8:20 p.m. my bags finally appeared. A ground staff member helped put them on my cart, and I headed to the exit line. Ah yes, more waiting. Thankfully, a familiar face in show biz, Jun Lalin, kept me company.
At 8:35 p.m. I pushed my bags to the curb and called my car to pick me up. Once in, I called my family to let them know I’ve arrived safely—tired, sleepy but grateful that my long travel day had now officially ended.
Condolences
My family sends condolences and prayers to The Dawn frontman Jett Pangan and family on the death of his mother Rosalina “Otsie” Pangan. Rest in peace, Tita Otsie. You are missed.
And finally, thanks to Lani Schoof and the staff of Peacock Garden in Bohol for taking care of my mother during her brief stay there. She really enjoyed herself and wants us to come visit soon!