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.

Access Over 600 Airport Lounges With Priority Pass

I must admit, when I first heard of this lounge access program, I was a bit skeptical. The idea of a company selling day-use access to airport lounges at a discounted price brings unwelcoming visions: families with kids running around as if the lounge was some sort of playground; a single tray of refreshments only to be swooped up by the vultures; herds of people jockeying their way through the masses for access to the bar. In fact, Priority Pass isn’t that – at least usually.

This past year I had the pleasure of trying out a standard membership to the Priority Pass network. The plan normally costs $99 a year plus a pay-per-visit fee of $27, which enables access to over 600 airport lounges throughout the world, including select airline-branded ones such as United's Red Carpet Club, Singapore's Kris Flyer and Delta's Sky Club Lounge – to name a few.

The amenities vary at each lounge. Soft drinks, light refreshments, Internet, and a wide variety of magazines are pretty standard. Some lounges even provide hot food, cocktails, resting rooms, and shower facilities. Best of all, lounges are often a quiet (though not always) break away from the hustle and bustle of the main thoroughfare and boarding area of airport terminals. And with Priority Pass, you need not fly that particular airline to access their lounge – often a restriction with airline-branded memberships. For example, if you are flying United Airlines through Tampa, Florida, you have access to the Delta Sky Club Lounge with your Priority Pass membership.

Families who travel infrequently may find the $99 annual fee plus day use fees a bit to steep to justify the purchase. This probably goes a long way in preventing the lounges from overflowing with guests, allowing for a more relaxing visit.

If you travel frequently, consider a membership with Priority Pass. Different levels of membership are available depending on the frequency of your travels and how often you wish to have guests accompany you (for a fee) into the lounges. Click here for more information on the Priority Pass Airport VIP lounge access

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

Oakland Airport Event Today Celebrates Free Wi-Fi

As we announced late last month, Oakland International has been busy testing the newly installed - and free to passengers, Wi-Fi service throughout the airport. With this new service, Oakland passengers will no longer need to whip out a credit card to pay for wireless Internet access. Instead, users will notice non-intrusive advertisements from companies such as Microsoft, American Express and Holiday Inn as they connect to the web.

To celebrate the new service, airport officials will hold a small wire cutting event later this morning, demonstrating the new service and its associated benefit to travelers.

More information on the new service:

Los Angeles-based FreeFi Networks is the company providing the installation at Oakland Airport. "Air travelers like Wi-Fi, but don't like paying for it," said Lawrence laffer, FreeFi's director of sales and marketing, in a press release.

Oakland Airport is the second major airport installation for FreeFi. A successful launch at Denver International Airport earlier this year has been cheered by business and leisure travelers alike, commenting on the overall quality of service and limited advertisements while connected.

Oakland Airport Rolling Out Free WiFi

FreeFi Networks, Inc., the new WiFi service provider at Oakland International Airport, is in the process of rolling out free WiFi service throughout the airport.

Oakland Airport spokesperson Joanne Holloway said the wireless technology is being rolled out in phases. By the end of this week, Gates 20-24 and 29-32 in Terminal 2 should be up and running.

The FreeFi Network is known for their ad-based model of WiFi, allowing users free Internet usage provided they can sit through a brief series of advertisements. Although Oakland Airport officials have not said what, if any, type of advertising will we bundled into the free service, there is a general consensus it will be unobtrusive and fairly-low key, based on feedback from other FreeFi clients.

Renovation Plans For SFO Released

Initial plans for the currently vacant terminal 2 at SFO have been released, and things are looking up. According to SF Gate, the 2 1/2 year project, expected to cost $383 million will include 50,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space, with a Main Street feel. Planners are also reportedly taking steps to minimize the hassle and discomfort of the security checkpoint area, including a "passenger recomposure" area post-security, allowing travelers to collect themselves after security.

Free Wi-Fi Now Available At San Jose Airport

Travelers flying through Mineta San Jose International Airport will now have access to complimentary WiFi on their next trip. According to the Silicon Valley Business Journal, the airport officially began offering the service on Thursday, and is available throughout the entire airport facility. In addition to San Jose, Sacramento airport also offers from WiFi for Bay Area flyers.

The complimentary San Jose WiFi service will eventually include ads, but users can opt for ad-free service for an $8 per day charge. About 30,000 passengers fly through San Jose airport each day.