Off We Go

We know summer is almost here when the papers (at least in the US) are filled with articles about books to read on the beach.  As if everyone would be spending days and hours in June, July and August relaxed with book in hand.  Lovely thought.

But often to get to that place where we can delve into a new book requires that we travel.  And again this year surveys are predicting record numbers of travelers.

For those of us who are lucky enough to love travel, airports in particular, (that’s me) this season can even stretch our patience.  But for those for whom flying is uncomfortable, even frightening, this may be your least favorite season.

According to some studies as much 40% of the population have some level of anxiety related to travel.  For some it’s so extreme they refuse to fly.

But not everyone can avoid flights entirely.  For those a Google search will lead to tips for coping.  You can request a seat up front to feel less of turbulence, turn on the air vent to keep air flowing on you, do/don’t drink alcohol, avoid caffeine and more.  Check out the NBC News “10 tips for the Fearful Traveler” (http://www.nbcnews.com/id/7549546/ns/travel-travel_tips/t/tips-fearful-flier/#.VWTGNKaBA28) or an article from Independent Traveler: http://www.independenttraveler.com/travel-tips/air-travel/fear-of-flying

Even airlines try to help. Virgin Atlantic has a “Flying Without Fear” course (http://www.flyingwithoutfear.co.uk).  British Air now offers in flight meditation program (http://www.springwise.com/in-flight-meditation-program-helps-nervous-fliers/). 

Even those of us who love to fly experience moments when we’d rather be elsewhere.  For me the best thing to do when a flight get bumpy (and scary) is immerse myself in that new book or game on my I-pad, dip into the potato chips which seem to offset the onset of motion sickness or talk with person next to me. 

How do you cope when you don’t love the flight?