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Virgin Atlantic: Where Overnight Silence Is Golden


We recently flew Virgin Atlantic from JFK to London, and had an unusual and somewhat humorous problem. Because of advanced age and gradual loss of hearing, we often carry small, portable amplifier buds for our ears.

However on this overnight flight, the devices weren’t on when a flight attendant approached our seat. The lights were low and most other passengers were asleep. She leaned over and whispered something we couldn’t hear. In a loud voice, we responded with, “What did you say?”

Of course, it awakened everyone nearby, who shot dirty looks our way. She gave us a frown and said in a normal voice, “Virgin is training us in proper whispering. Would you like a cup of tea?”

Later we found out Virgin has hired voice coaches who instruct crew members on how to whisper when cabins are dark and passengers asleep.

Survey Says These Are The Worst U.S. Airports PDF Print E-mail


Website maxim.com lists the ten: Luis Muñoz Marín Puerto Rico, Houston Hobby, Cleveland Hopkins, Armstrong New Orleans, Laguardia NYC, SW Florida Ft. Myers, Detroit Wayne County, Ft. Lauderdale FL, Orlando FL and Chicago Midway.

Reasons for the negative votes are familiar. Lack of cleanliness, long lines, employee incompetence, inefficient facilities, few restaurants, overpriced shops and much more. Internet criticism listings are unlimited on the subject, depending on many factors. Of course, a senior traveler may have a bad experience at the best airport, as well as a satisfying one at the worst.

It all depends on weather, traffic, security and, of course, having a lucky or unlucky day. However, the bottom line is that most of us don’t have much choice in airports. We can’t fly from the best ones if they’re hundreds or thousands of miles away. Love ‘em or hate ‘em, we usually must fly in and out of our hometown field. So, have a safe, satisfying next flight! For more info, www.maxim.com/news/best-and-worst-airports-in-america

 
 
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