After a break of a few years, I have decided to bring back my blog, On the Road. Live Events took a beating in 2020 and I’ve seen changes both good and bad. I will be sharing some of my observations about the future, both practical and fantastic. Today I start with travel.
Traveling for work has always been a bit of a grind. Getting to the airport an hour early, parking, luggage, check-in, security lines and maneuvering for upgrades were a fact of life in the Live Event world even before COVID19. Today, we have the added dimension of a world-wide pandemic, a pandemic that drives an internal debate whether to double mask and how to social distance in the TSA Security line.
I’ve found that instead of the empty airports and empty planes that I experienced back in August 2020, travelers of all types are on the move again. The airlines are working diligently to follow a protocol that will keep us safe and to keep them flying. Companies and their employees want to go back to work, and the airlines are no exception.
The lessons I have learned so far aren’t profound just practical. First, leave yourself plenty of time to make your flight. Like many businesses, the TSA are jockeying staff and who knows how many lines will be open. I’ve gotten to the point where I like to be early, grab a seat at one of the airline lounges and bring out my computer to work. Next, put a couple of extra masks in your computer bag or luggage. As a TD, I always err on the side of safety, and I want to avoid a hassle with other fliers about masking up. I’ve made my decision on how much risk I want to take, and I follow the law. Man, I just want to work.
Next, remember everyone is Done and I mean Done with a capital D with the Pandemic. Nerves are raw. Remember at 9/11 when the littlest comment at the airport could get you arrested. Today it is a punch in the nose. Remember your end goal, getting safely to show site so you can do the work you love.
On the flip side, I’ve found that people are more receptive to friendly conversation. A single comment can lead to a few laughs and a more pleasant trip. Additionally, technology continues to evolve. In 65 U.S. cities, the app Curb connects you to a yellow cab. Another app LoungeBuddy tells you what lounges are in your airport and how to purchase access if you aren’t a member or if you prefer, there is Priority Pass. You pay a fee for Priority Pass unless you have a Platinum Card from American Express or a Chase Sapphire Reserve card. The Priority app offers you access to more than 1300 lounges and meal vouchers at select airport restaurants.
And finally, In the past, when fortunate enough to sit in a row with an empty middle seat, it was nice. Today, when that happens, I feel a combination of relief and contentment. Such a small thing to bring such comfort.
