s0ssos

Between flying premium classes and getting lounge access, and Priority Pass when I am not, I realized I miss out on many things in airports and on planes.
Some airports, like Singapore's Changi, are wonderful and have so many things to do. Video games, movie screenings, lily and butterfly and cactus gardens. But I don't explore anymore. I just head to the lounges.
And on flights, even though the big seat upfront is nice, you miss out on interesting passengers (seated in economy last time on a domestic US flight I encountered a strange experience with a lady asking to plug her headphones into my laptop. Something that I could never imagine would happen upfront), the view outside (first in some airlines blocks out your windows), edutainment (Berlitz anyone?) which is like a blast from the past.

I guess you cannot have it all.

rickg523

This is why, despite the crowds, I always take second class on trains.
Biz is boring.

tmiw

If I didn't have lounge access on my last trip, I probably would have tried for Proud Bird during my long layover at LAX. Seems like it'd be a cool place to visit once. As it was, the layover was just short enough that I was too worried about missing my connection. Maybe next time I fly through there.

Long Train Runnin

If you feel like your missing out change your patterns.

When I am at a new airport lounge access or not I will make a point to walk the concourses that are connected post security. In some smaller airports this may only take 5 minutes end to end, but at least I did a little extra walking before I end up stuck sitting on a plane. At larger airports this can also be interesting for example at a place like IST its interesting to walk past a boarding gate for an Iraqi Airways flight to Baghdad, or the TK flight to Somalia. In PTY to see people flying back into Valenzuela with everything going on there right now. At a place like ORD where so many terminals and concourses are connected this can really eat up a layover. I spend enough time in Admirals Clubs taking a walk from the L concourse to the B concourse at ORD is always a nice way to break up a layover.

Your lounge access doesn't get revoked if you don't head straight there post security. Take a moment to wander through the terminal and then head to the lounge, or leave the lounge before they make your boarding announcement so you have some extra time to see more of the airport.

pinniped

If I'm in a cool airport, I wander around instead of going to the lounge. I mean, I *like* lounges, but unless I'm heading to one of the best int'l F lounges I would definitely find checking out a new airport more interesting.

Yes, flying J/F means you're missing out on the joys of flying Y. But sometimes you gotta just suffer and power through it.

Exterous

Yeah I do that too. I like to get that little bit of extra time walking before sitting on my duff for hours

gfunkdave

Allow me to break out my tiny violin.

mandolino

When AMS was the only decent international hub from ABZ, every Rig Pig (me included) was KLM Platinum.
Believe me, it was often nicer to just sit out in the main concourse!

EuropeanPete

At least in the 21st century, those excluded from society can console themselves with warm nuts.

sethweinstein

Wait...which airlines do this? If I booked F and couldn't ever see outside I'd be livid.

I agree with your sentiments, though. I've had some good times meeting people in the back, and some airports are worth more than a hasty walk to the gate.

Seth

sbm12

Sounds like a personal choice. You don't have to do that. And why would you if you'd rather be in the terminal?
None.

Also, I've had some great conversations in F/J over the years. Whether a seatmate or in the galley or in the on-board bar. There are opportunities everywhere if you choose to take advantage of them.

KDS777

I always explore new airports out of sheer curiosity, but disagree with the premise of the OP's thread.

For me, personal comfort, relaxation and privacy far out rank "unwanted" personal interaction (or otherwise) when travelling..........

GadgetFreak

s0ssos

For seats without a window? Never flown ANA? Don't speak like you've flown every airline in the world then.

sethweinstein

Wow...I haven't flown ANA in F so I had to look up a picture. That's some sloppy design, with the equipment blocking two of three windows including the one most visible from the seat. Thanks for the warning!

Seth