If you travel a lot, you know how boring waiting for your flight is. Generally, airlines suggest you show up three hours in advance of your departure time. Following these guidelines means you will take an hour to check in and this leaves you two hours to sit and twiddle your thumbs before your flight. Rather than getting impatient or bored, why not make use of the time you have to relax or even be a tad more productive. If you look hard enough, you can find a myriad of things to do while waiting for your plane to depart.
Shop
Although there are the good old standby stores hawking books, magazines, calling cards and duty free items, if you look at the airport directory you’re sure to find some more unique shopping experiences to pass the time. For example, Japan’s Narita Airport in Tokyo has an Origami Museum and Gift Shop.
Eat
Yes it will probably be a little more expensive that eating in town, but you’ve got scads of time to kill, so why not get some grub in you before you get on that plane and are forced to devour airplane food. Many airports today have wide selection of top-notch food outlets with comfortable seating where you can enjoy good food. This is ideal since most airlines are no longer offering in-flight meals. You can check in advance the website of the airport where you can find information about the food establishments that are in the airport.
Surf the Internet
The good old internet will always be there. Sure you may have to pay for it, but at least it’s a way to kill some time. Some (but regrettably not all) airports are even offering free Wi-Fi You may even decide to get productive and do some work.
Stay in Touch
You can use that internet access for more than just Facebook and Farmville you know. There are a variety of of online programs available for making international calls to keep in touch with your loved ones. You’ve got plenty of time on your hands, so why not get in contact with your crazy Aunt Martha to get all the gossip on what’s happening in her world.
Gamble
If you happen to find yourself at McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, you can while away the hours trying your luck at the slots. The airpoert ahd over 1200 slot machines scattered throughout the terminal. Check out http://www.flightcentre.com.au/flights/product/las-vegas for your best odds of finding a flight there.
Bathe
That’s right, bathe. Certainly one of the more unusual ways to kill time during that layover, but many airports now offer shower facilities to get you spic and span before you head off to your next destination. Many even offer spas catering to the weary traveller. Now that’s a great way to kill time. Just don’t fall asleep and miss your flight.
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