Landing on Alaska’s Yanert Glacier by helicopter, piloting a Cessna 172, kayaking Bioluminescent Bay in Puerto Rico, getting drenched by the crashing water of Niagara Falls, horseback riding in the Colorado Rockies and spending the night in Quebec’s Hotel Glace (Ice Hotel) are just a few of the adventures Beth Blair has experienced over the past decade.
Beth is based in the Twin Cities, Minnesota, where she works and plays as a freelance writer and blogger specializing in lifestyle, bridal, culinary, spirits, parenting and, naturally, travel, which runs the gamut from aviation and safety topics to exotic destinations. beth-blair.com
Cheapflights: What are your personal routine procedures every time you fly?
Beth Blair: I admit that I put a lot of thought into air travel. As soon as I purchase my flight I begin searching for the perfect seat by using SeatGuru.com to ensure I have a comfortable window seat that is close to an emergency exit (that’s the former flight attendant in me). I also never board without a bottle of water, my Kindle and business cards.
CF: What is your biggest travel pet peeve?
BB: My biggest travel pet peeve is when other travelers have an entitlement attitude.
CF: What kind of trip type do you prefer, and why? (Examples: beach vacations, city breaks, spa weekends)
BB: Now that my kids are getting older I’ve really enjoyed travelling with them. It’s fun to watch their eyes grow as they see places or landmarks they’ve only seen in books or heard about at school. There is nothing like educating our children through first-hand experience. Otherwise, I love anywhere with gorgeous scenery and adventure. I’d love to partake in a bike tour. Of course, I would never turn my nose up at a destination spa.
CF: Although it’s hard to choose, tell us what your favorite destination is, and why.
BB: It’s true, this is a hard question. My experiences have been wonderful everywhere I’ve been from chilly Quebec to tropical Turks and Caicos. But, I’m still in awe of my recent summer Alaskan trip. I was completely taken by its vastness and serene, untouched beauty.
CF: Cheapflights is all about value. What location do you think offers the best value for travelers?
BB: I think every destination is capable of offering good values, travelers just need to know when and where to look. For example, off-season in any resort or town can provide fabulous bargains. If someone is looking for some place tropical to visit, they can’t go wrong with the Dominican Republic where there are several all-inclusive resorts. It’s relaxing to go on vacation and not have to pull out your wallet at every meal.
CF: What is your ideal airport, and what’s your advice on how to best enjoy it?
BB: I’ve always liked Denver International Airport. When I worked there a decade ago I called it a shopping mall with an airport. I still don’t mind having a layover there. As for food, many airports can be fun for a lunch break layover with regional fare if you know where to look. For example, Albuquerque International Sunport has a restaurant with a delicious green chile chicken stew and Buffalo Niagara International Airport has the Anchor Bar with their famous Buffalo Wings.
CF: If you had to sit in the middle seat on a plane, who would be your chosen (or most-feared) seat mates, and why?
BB: For me, the ideal seatmate is someone who is friendly, courteous regarding personal space and intuitive of others, meaning they do not assume everyone on their row is in a chatty mood. Of course, I welcome a good conversation on a long flight. It helps the time pass.
CF: What would you classify as a hypothetical travel nightmare?
BB: I think natural disasters are the most terrifying travel nightmare since travelers are instantly at the mercy of the situation.
CF: How does what you do for a living give you a unique angle on traveling?
BB: My entire adult life I’ve lived and worked in travel/tourism and the airlines. My unique background has certainly given me an insider’s perspective to travel. I love sharing my experiences and helping others have easier travel experiences.
CF: Share with us a few insider tips on how to improve the in-flight experience, in general.
BB: Comfort is the most important key to flying. I always suggest travelers wear comfortable clothes and shoes, especially if they will be walking through large airports or standing in long customs lines. Drinking water before and during the flight is extremely important as is ensuring you’re not hungry. I encountered many lightheaded people during my days in the sky because they forgot to eat before flying.
