0. Always make it a point to say "Hello" to any agents I recognize at check-in and make time to pop into the RCC and the 3333 room to say, "Hi", even if just for a second. Never know when you might need their help.
<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">1. never never check bags. Use a rollaway and a large tote bag.
If they give me flack for having a roll-on, a tote and a purse, I throw my purse in the tote.
2. My bag has a bunch of electronic goodies: headphones, power adapters for plane, car and foreign hotels, car and hotel phone charger, and often a small tape player/recorder. I have two medicines dispensers, make-up, skin care products, hairspray, toiletries, etc., always packed.
3. Take lots of books. I will have 2 to 6 books with me depending on the length of trip. I would hate to run out of reading material especially in a foreign country.
4. Always preboard. Have status, will preboard. Then I get overhead space and do not have to use the seat in front of me (or a frontal lobotomy). This is a huge benefit of airline status. I always hang up my coat, make acquaintance of the crew and, if they offer, I will have a bloody mary relax and check out/meet my fellow passengers as they board.
5. In my hotel room, I hang up everything that needs to be hung up and leave everything else in my suitcase. </font>
6. We always use public transportation whenever possible when we travel. It really does give us a better feel for our destination city. It can also same a huge amount of time and hassle in high traffic areas.
[This message has been edited by Punki (edited 02-22-2003).]