Short layovers are irksome, aren't they? Waiting for hours at the airport for the next flight to depart can easily become one of the most dreadful traveling experiences. And let's face it, airports are depressing, crowded, and expensive unless you're in Changi. There's nothing much you can do around them.
However, if the layover extends, you can purposefully approach your day and might even enjoy it. Long layovers allow you to explore a city you otherwise wouldn't have. All you need is an opportunistic mind that can seize adventure prospects and discover something new. If you need to figure out how to utilize a long layover, fret not. This article covers six ways to make the most of your layover while traveling.
So, without delaying it further, let's get to it.
Airports are usually built around the capital/big cities, which likely means you're standing in the focal point of a country. A long layover is, therefore, a perfect excuse to explore the place you're in. It might not be the destination of your dreams, but it's worth exploring. You might even find yourself liking it.
Certainly, exploring the entire city won't be an option, so you'll have to be very specific with your itinerary. You can use tour books, locals and the internet to find the best things to do around your location. As far as your bags are concerned, storage facilities are available at the airport.
Don't make the mistake of overbooking your time because you don't want to miss out on your ultimate destination. Also, make sure you're considering the customs lines, transportation, and transit times while planning your day.
Getting exhausted on a flight with a long layover is quite normal. The hassle of exiting one plane, waiting around for another, and then catching another flight is indeed a long and tedious process that inevitably leaves you annoyed.
If you look at the sunny side of the picture, you're getting a few hours to refresh and relax. If the layover is long, it's even more exciting because you have a hotel room to unwind from your chaotic journey. If the layover is only for a few hours, you can go to the airport spa and get a relaxing massage to prepare yourself for whatever is coming your way.
3. Try Out the Local Delicacies
Flying increases your appetite. It's a fact. And what better way to satisfy your hunger pangs than by exploring a new cuisine? Cuisine is the cheapest, quick way to understand a culture and its people. You can explore the local food in a nearby restaurant if it's a long layover.
If it's a short one, you can grab a bite of local cuisine at the airport. The point is to try something uniquely local. There are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in a culture that is different from yours. So, make sure you're putting your layover to good use.
4. Go for retail therapy.
Who doesn't love shopping? Whether it's for a loved one or yourself, you don't need a reason to shop. The concept of time is avoidable when you're out on retail therapy. Go out of the airport and get your loved ones a few souvenirs. If you don't want to leave the airport, you don't have to.
Almost all the airports have duty-free shops where you can buy samples of expensive perfumes and lotions. You can even get yourself some local treats if they're offering samples. Don't sit around idly in a new city thinking there's little you can do. If you have an optimistic mind, there are endless opportunities for you to explore and enjoy.
5. Be Productive
If you're on a business trip, using a layover to be productive is the best way to go about the waiting situation. You don't want to waste your time hopping around when you can get some work done.
You might've noticed how time flies when you're working, so milk your layover as best as possible.
If you don't have the things you need to get the job done, it's alright. You can always work on your personal goals. Maybe start journaling or straighten out your finances. The only thing you can't do is waste your time.
If you're lucky, your layover can be in a city where your friends and family live. Reach out to them and spend some quality time. This is an old and reliable way to kill time and use a layover. If you don't have your loved ones in the same city, you can always give them a call.
Instead of wasting time on naps (not to take away anything from their benefits), you can take advantage of your layover by catching up with your old buds. Tell them how badly you miss them and all about your traveling plans. You wouldn't even know how time flies when spent with loved ones.
Wrapping Up…
Taking a direct flight or a connecting one is a big decision. If you're unsure you want to make it on your own, check out the JetBlack travels. They'll help you plan the nitty gritty details of your travel, whether solo or with a group. You'll get a customized trip that suits your needs. What are you waiting for? Reach out to them, and drop all the planning from your shoulders.
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