Originally Posted by
cutsleeve
It's been a long time coming, but I finally have the opportunity to plan my own solo trip!
I'm headed to Michigan from Singapore to meet some old friends at the end of November-ish, gonna be flying economy unfortunately as it's all I can afford for my budget.
Since it's my first flight in over a decade, I'd like to ask you more experienced people about any tips to keep note of, about what constitutes a tight layover, and anything to help survive such a long flight.
Of all the places you could go for a first trip you pick Michigan? I think FT could have recommended some better places, especially in November.
On a serious note, welcome to FT. You don't say where you're going in Michigan but if you'll be in or near Detroit at the end of November, while not cheap, I would recommend trying to see if you can get tickets to either 1) the Ohio State-Michigan (American) football game or 2) the Detroit Lions Thanksgiving (American Football) game.
As for your questions about "what constitutes a tight-layover", that depends on where you're connecting and where you're coming from. For example, 1 hour 30 minutes for a domestic connection at ATL is plenty of time. 1 hour 30 minutes for an international to domestic connection at ATL would be very tight. Where are you connecting or what is your itinerary? Is it all one ticket from SIN to Michigan?
For surviving long flights, hydrate well and get up and move around. Sitting in a cramped seat for that long is painful and the effects of dehydration, especially in a low humidity environment, can amplify quickly. Wear loose, comfortable clothing. No need to "dress to impress" these days, especially for longhaul international flights.