Flight Attendant Friday: What To Do on Layovers

by Mary Jo Manzanares on April 18th, 2008

This is another question that I’m asked frequently.

Q. What do you do on layovers?

A. It depends, of course, on the destination and the length of time of the layover. Here are some typical choices:

Slam Click. Slamming the hotel door, clicking the lock, and enjoying time alone in the room, away from people. It’s time to read, sleep, watch television, relax, blog, whatever.
Go out with co-workers. If I’m flying with friends or other fun people, it’s a great time to share a favorite place or to discover a new one.
Meet up with friends. Whether it’s friends who live where I’m traveling, or who may be traveling to a destination themselves, it’s always fun to connect. Sharing experiences with friends and loved ones always makes for an enjoyable layover.
Wander by myself. Sometimes I enjoy exploring a city all by myself. It’s occasionally nice not to have to accommodate other people and their preferences and time schedules and just be selfish.
Shop. I’m a girl. It’s in my DNA. Nothing more to say.
Walk, bike, hike, swim. A little physical activity is good for the soul. And for the body.
Lay on the beach. Or by the pool, or on the balcony of the room or where ever I can grab a little sun. Even better if it’s a peaceful location.
Eat and drink. I love discovering fun places to eat and drink. Whether it’s a restaurant, a picnic, or just sitting and watching the sunset with good conversation, one of the joys of life is food and friends.

Basically, the things that I do on a layover are the same kinds of things that any business traveler does — enjoy our personal time.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re traveling? I’m always looking for new ideas on how to make the most of time on the road.

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