Travel Etiquette!!

The holiday season is here!!! Time to pack our bags and visit family and friends! Travel brings out the best in individuals, but for others, it can bring out the worse! Instead of thinking negatively about travel, think of your final destination! Remember, even if you are a frequent traveler, others may not be. Please remember that!

College Lifestyles (TM) loves travel, and even the most savvy individual can be a bit frustrated; but always remember that holding your composer is more important that losing your cool at the mom and 3 kids sitting behind you on a plane ride. Remember, put yourself in their situation, and offer 'gentle suggestions.' Finally, remember that some individuals have a fear of flying, and talk just to calm themselves down. Suggest to them a crossword or Soduko found in the plane pocket seat.

Other tips:

1. When walking on the plane, carry your bag in front of you. If you hit someone, apologize. If you are one who gets hit, offer to assist them (don't blow up at them - how unprofessional).
2. When entering your seat, enter with your backside facing the back of the plane. You will be able to 'scoot' into your seat easier.
3. If you don't want to talk to the person next to you, quickly place your earphones in your ears. Don't yell at them if they ask you where you are from. You can gently tell them, 'I have such a huge, busy trip planned! I am going to relax.' Then, shut your eyes.
4. Remember, kids are kids. It's hard for them to sit down for a while. If bothersome, politely tell their parents. This sounds crazy, but suggest a game for the kids - ask them about a movie or TV show that they have seen recently. Encourage them to play an game of naming the ABC's with animals, food, colors, etc.
5. The first thing individuals look for when exiting a plane is a bathroom, don't get upset if they are walking slowly and you know the airport well. Remember, they may not. Politely excuse yourself and pass them up.

What does our director do when traveling?

'I always carry books and magazines and read. I am more than willing to lend a magazine or Soduko puzzle to my talkative neighbors!'

Safe travels to all for the holidays!