Post #22: First Flight

Today, I embarked on my first work trip in Brazil and had my first airline and airport experiences. Those well-acquainted with my job know that I am on the road constantly and spend a serious amount of time hanging out in airports going from to and fro. Here are a few observations from my first trip out:

- Brasília's airport is situated a short drive from my house and it is not traumatic or congested to get there. This is going to make life really wonderful.
- The airport is pretty organized. Brazilians have a culture of lining up and no one seems to cut, even though the lines often move pretty slowly. No one invaded my personal space or tried to elbow past. Another good point for travel here.
- Online check in, clear signage, and availability of Uber makes departing and arriving more straightforward and less stressful on both ends.
- July is the month of vacation and families were everywhere with small, medium, and big-sized kids in tow. The airport was busy and a bit noisy!
- Gates can be a bit difficult to navigate. Sometimes the gates change minutes before departing and the loudspeakers do not necessarily announce your flight. I will have to be alert.
- Airlines here are legit and have nice, roomy planes. I would say it is on par or a step up from flying in the U.S.
- Prices for airline tickets will not break your wallet if you plan in advance. Sometimes you can get to Rio or Sao Paulo for around USD $50-60.
- There are good places to stop for snacks, including a roasted nuts, gelato, and coffee.
- Many connections go directly through Brasília, making this a decent hub, even if the population centers are elsewhere in the country.

All in all, I was excited to check out the experience and to know that flying is not likely to be one of the stressors of travel here. Hooray!