New Olympic Sport

I've been traveling for business with the same company for almost 15 years.

During that time I thought that this might make a fine Olympic event. Travelatholon.



First, there's the parking place competition. Find a space as close as you can to the entrance/elevator. Watch your time! You don't want to be late for your flight. By the time you find a really close space, you could have parked farther away and walked in. Take notice of the cars that are the closest to the doors: Mercedes, BMWs, Hummers, and other high end makes.



The next event on the list is the security line shuffle. Not too difficult, but essential to get to next event. As you shuffle, you have to mentally prepare and visualize all the items that you must take out for inspection. That's where it gets tense. It's a timed event. You must pick the best line (if allowed), shuffle sideways, pull out all potentially dangerous items like computers, 3oz. liquids, phones, jackets, shoes, belts, coins, etc. Remember, there are others behind you who are trying to get as close to you as possible--you can feel their evil thoughts as they curse the amount of stuff you're passing through the x-ray machine. Points are taken off if you set off the metal detector. Once you get through the check point, you still have to gather up all your possessions, replace them in your carefully packed bags, and put your shoes and clothes back on. If you forget an item, you're disqualified.



After getting it all together, make your way to the gate. Check the overhead monitors because your departure gate may have been changed. Going to the wrong gate adds precious minutes to your time. You have to avoid other passengers, electric carts, credit card kiosks (get more frequent flier miles so you can go through all of this for free!).

Always check in online and don't check bags...you'll never be in medal contention if you do!

Once you get to your gate, you must stake out a strategically advantageous space where you can hear the gate agent announce the pre-boarding message; your cue to stand in line, even if you're group is the last one to board. It is imperative to get on the plane early. It's not so you can sit in those ultra-comfy seats, it's so you can claim the very limited and rare overhead bin space.



The competition is only about a quarter completed. Once you land, you have to get your stuff, get into the aisle and find your way to the rental car area, taxi stand, shuttles... whatever. Don't forget the return portion of the trip.