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It is about the world in between.
When travelling, we are often rushing
through airports, trying to reach the next destination with
no delay. But that's what it is all about. These strange worlds
in between destinations. That's part of why I like to travel
- be it on business or vacation.
Airports are strange places - and often
hostile ones too. But it just like the atmosphere. Everyone
is on the move. No one (with very few exceptions) calls this
place home, they're all just transiting through the halls,
running for another flight or rushing home.
I usually try to limit my time at an
airport too. But from time to time, I'm foreced to extend
my stay. Be it, because a storm just cancelled all departures,
or because I decided to plan some extra time for the numerous
security checks. Whatever the case is, I usually end up wandering
around the place observing people.
And there's a specific behavior pattern
for all areas. Take the gate area for instance. You're supposed
to act edgy here, it seems. I really wonder whether the first
person entering the aircraft will get free travel vouchers
or extra champagne? Everyone speeds to the plane like crazy,
as soon as boarding commences. As if no one would ever have
had heard about assigned seats (well, for most airlines at
least).
But that's just one set of people. There's
another group too. The ones who stroll through duty free stores
or lounges. And it's not about cheap booze. It's just to be
the late. These are the people who would never board an aircraft
without a personal invitation through the airport's loudspeaker
system. Well, maybe they just enjoy the ground crew's extra
attention.
An arrival hall at any given airport
is at least as interesting. It's usually a very joyous place.
People here are full of hope. It's the area, where couples
and families are reunited, old friends meet for the first
time in years... The only disturbing thing are dozens of limousine
drivers trying to block off all the exiting passengers with
their name boards. So, next time you arrive, just pick a name
and a driver and make yourself a nice day!
The departure hall then again is a different
world. There is usually not a lot of joy. It's the spot where
couples split, for a few days - or forever. A point to say
goodbye. But also a point to start something new, whatever
and wherever this might be. The walk through the checkpoint
into the airside world can change your life. But only if you're
in possession of a valid boarding pass. Otherwise, you're
not getting any further. There's no new life for people without
the right papers.
I will be back with stories and observations
from around the world. Travelling is about the world in between.
Here's the place for this world.
Michael Meier [contact]
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