Recommendations for Sleeping in an Airport

By Mike Grasso

For most travelers, the idea of spending any unnecessary time in an airport makes them cringe. So the thought of sleeping in an airport would probably beyond the possibilities of imagination. That's what I said too, until I discovered a website appropriately titled, "The guide to sleeping in airports." and gave it a shot. On this site, travelers passing through a particular airport can read the stories of past travelers - super troopers if you will, who've scouted out the best spots to cuddle up for a few hours nappie.

Reviews often describe the atmosphere of the airport in the overnight hours, when few, if any, flights are operating. Key themes in the reviews often relate to the frequency of announcements in airport P.A system (think- "this is a security advisory, keep luggage with you at all times) as well as comfort and versatility of sleeping areas (i.e., post-security, away from rift raft coming in off the street, whether armrests move up so you can lay down on a set of seats). My personal experience of sleeping in airports has been pleasant, and never have I had airport personnel question me (yes, even post 9-11), or my sleeping arrangement. Of course if someone did come by, I'd kindly ask them for a pillow. =)

The novelty of sleeping in an airport probably isn't sufficient for most people to try this out. So, why do it in the first place you ask? Experienced airport nappers often cite a long connection - such as 4 or 6 hours, as the principal reason. The hassle of locating a nearby hotel, transportation, and the struggle of waking up early then re-clear security seemed a bit much, when one could simply take a nap next to the boarding gate.

Not all airports are created alike, and there are several to avoid at all costs. Few U.S., airports make the top 10 world list, yielding instead to newer, and spacious airports within Asia and Curious where San Francisco fits on the list? How about checking the ratings of your hometown airport? See all the reviews at sleepinginairports.com.

Palm Springs Airport: An Enjoyable Layover in the Desert

By Mike Grasso

In the hot and dry desert of the Coachella Valley - 100 miles inland from Los Angeles lies the resort town of Palm Springs. Sure almost 

everyone in the Bay Area has heard of Palm Springs, many have even visited, but how many have traveled through their quaint little 1960s-airport? It's quite a treat! 

Although year-round flights are available from the Bay Area direct to Palm Springs (PSP), the aircraft are generally smaller regional jets, only accommodating up to few dozen passengers. With demand high, airfare sales are few at best. Many choose to fly a more economical route offered by Southwest flying into Ontario, about 45 minutes away. But those passengers are missing out on a charm in the desert! 

Using some creative routing, I had the pleasure of using Palm Springs as my layover point while heading East. While there, I was able to roam the two concourses and enjoy the many airport amenities. Tip: Regardless the airline you are flying on, be sure to pay a visit to the newer Bono concourse - post security, where a large selection of fresh foods, smoothies and iced coffee are available for travelers. 

While at the airport, enjoy the desert heat with plentiful open-air sections to relax on the lawn, at one of the benches, or a sun sheltered table. The airport also features live palm trees, a water feature, and proudly displays the work of Dale Chihuly's glass art. And, don't forget your Wi-Fi device, as complimentary Internet is available to all passengers. Best part of all, the airport is small enough that once you pass security, you are never more than a few minutes from your departure gate. 

Sure flying into Ontario or even Los Angeles may be more economical, but the experience and convenience of flying directly into Palm Springs may be a few extra bucks well spent. 

Click here for more information about Palm Springs Airport

SFO Opens Walkway Between International and Domestic Terminals

Amidst the hustle and flow of passengers throughout San Francisco Airport the day before Christmas, San Francisco Airport officials quietly opened up a long overdue convenience for passengers connecting through the airport.

Next to Gate 75 in Terminal 3, a new walkway opened up, allowing connecting passengers the convenience of remaining within the airport, instead of taking a shuttle bus between the International and Domestic (United Airlines) terminals. Although the bus operated throughout the day, passengers had to wait 10-15 minutes at times before boarding. The new walkway is a direct passage linking the terminals with just a couple minutes walk.

Be sure to let friends and family flying through SFO know about this helpful improvement at the airport.

Horizon Begins Sacramento to Santa Barbara Flights Today

Nonstop service between Sacramento and Santa Barbara returns today thanks to Horizon Airlines. The route was recently discontinued by regional airline ExpressJet.

Two daily flights, one in the morning, one in the evening, operated by a 70-seat Bombardier region jet will be available during the week, and one daily flight on weekends. 

Santa Barbara airport (pictured above) is one of my favorite airports to fly through. The charming little airport resting near the mighty Pacific is a preferred alternative to the hustle and bustle of LAX to the south. For example, upstairs at the Overlook Cafe, there is an observation deck to watch the small commercial planes come and go. Downstairs, the inviting back patio, complete with lawn and wooden benches, provides the perfect opportunity for waiting passengers a last minute chance to soak up the warm Southern California Sun.

Horizon Adds Sacramento to Santa Barbara Route

Flights down to wonderful Santa Barbara Airport resume.

Nonstop service between Sacramento and Santa Barbara returns beginning November 9th - thanks to Horizon Airlines. The route was recently discontinued by regional airline ExpressJet.

Two daily flights, one in the morning, one in the evening, operated by a 70-seat Bombardier region jet will be available during the week, and one daily flight on weekends. 14-day advance tickets are available for just $79 each way. Click here for more information.

Santa Barbara airport (pictured above) is one of my favorite airports to fly through. The charming little airport resting near the mighty Pacific is a preferred alternative to the hustle and bustle of LAX to the south. For example, upstairs at the Overlook Cafe, there is an observation deck to watch the small commercial planes come and go. Downstairs, the inviting back patio, complete with lawn and wooden benches, provides the perfect opportunity for waiting passengers a last minute chance to soak up the warm Southern California Sun.

Wine Bar Takes Flight

(Sherman's Travel)

These days, serving time in airport limbo is an expected part of travel. Vino Valo, a wine bar and retail chain popping up in airports around the country, is ameliorating the experience glass by glass. Debuting at Dulles International in 2005, it has since opened outposts in Seattle, Baltimore, Sacramento and New York. Up to 10 more locations are planned for 2008. Wine comes by the glass, bottle, or location-appropriate flight ('Sierra Reds" in Sacramento). Volos are post-security, so customers can bring their favorite bottles on the plane (from $4; vinovolo.com). -BB.

Demolition of San Jose's Terminal C begins

Demolition of the north end of Terminal C at Mineta San José International Airport began last night in order to clear the site for the start of construction of the airport's new Terminal B.

Over the next month, construction crews will work nights from about 10:30 p.m. to 4:30 a.m. to take down the structural frame of the building,remove debris, and prepare the site for new construction.

The work is part of the airport's comprehensive $1.3 billion program to replace and renovate all the terminal facilities, roadways, and parking over the next two and a half years. When Terminal B is placed in service in mid-2010, the remainder of Terminal C will be removed so that the final section of the new terminal roadway can be completed.

More information about the airport improvements can be found here.

Airport Sighting...

Makeover for Southwest Airlines Gates

Here's a picture of the new gates Southwest is promising to roll out to airports across the country through 2008. (click on pic for better view)
-Business focused area with padded seats, tables with power outlets, power stations with stools, and a flat screen television for news programming
- A family area with smaller tables and chairs, “kid friendly” programming on a flat screen television, and power stations for charging electrical devices.