Airbus A380...A Flying Gentle Giant

Photo of a Malaysia Airlines Airbus A380 taken at KLIA from another Airbus A380 of Emirates.

I had the privilege of traveling onboard of this magnificent beast twice on my last trip and it was an absolute pleasure. I could hardly feel the plane moving on the ground, and take off was a smooth breeze. In fact, on the second flight I wasn't looking out of the window and I honestly did not know that we were already in the air. What really surprised me though, was how quiet it was during the whole flight, despite a ground speed of more than 900km/h and two humongous jet engines on each side. Legroom was quite generous and the seats were much more comfortable than on its smaller rival the Boeing 777. I also had the chance to enjoy some inflight entertainment (2 movies and a few tv shows) on the all new wide format LCD touch screen attached to the seat in front of me, which I thought was gorgeous compared to my previous experiences. And that was just economy class. If I could compare it to a car, I would probably compare it to a Bentley with wings...very large wings. I look forward to trying Business, or perhaps even 1st class in the future... Why not?

Top 10 Tips For The Business Traveler

Traveling can be a challenging experience, especially for those of us who are unprepared and unexperienced in dealing with the hustle and bustle of airports, airplanes and the hundreds of passengers who are both companions and strangers at the same time. However, if you are traveling for business, then it is unlikely that you're willing to take too many chances that might cost you a big contract, or even a once in a lifetime deal. Well, that's why I have so thoughtfully prepared 10 of the most important tips you should always follow when on your business trip. So, put your seats to the upright position, fasten your seat belts and enjoy the flight.

1. Be an Early Bird

Buying your ticket at the last minute may sound exciting and adventurous, but in fact, it might cost you an important business meeting as you could end up in a fully-booked-flight situation. So make sure you book your flight at least a week or two before your meeting date, especially around holiday seasons. You may also have the chance to choose your favorite seat on the plane. 

2. Footwear 

I know it's tempting to look your best when traveling showing off your shiny elegant leather shoes. You might, however, think twice about that.  Feet tend to swell In midair because of lower pressure. Add to that the fact that airports have never been larger and you will definitely be doing quite a bit of walking. The last thing you want is a excruciating blister on the back of your heel or a crisis situation when trying to put your shoes back on just before landing. My advice is get a comfortable pair of sneakers that would help you cruise through those airport gates without any trouble.

3. Travel Light

There is nothing more exhausting when traveling than dragging your carry on luggage while rushing towards your gate for an immediate boarding. In my case, I always checkin all my heavy luggage and only keep a backpack where I can put my laptop and some valuables, including my wallet, a pen and my travel documents. I even throw in an extra shirt during long flights just in case things turn sour. 

4. Empty Your Pockets

Security checks can be quite an annoyance and a time wasting consuming. You can, however, take some measures that would help you glide through those metal detectors a lot faster. First empty all your pockets, take off your belt, your watch and anything metallic on you and put them all in your carry on bag. Second, take out your laptop, if you're carrying one, before you reach the scanner. Third, take off any jacket you're wearing. Now throw everything under the scanner and you will go through without a beep. Provided you're not trying to smuggle anything of course.

5. Plan Ahead

Before you start your business trip, it is always wise to arrange and book all the necessary accommodations and transportations ahead of time. If your have to take different modes of transportation, make sure you allow enough transit time. So In case your bus is delayed or your taxi is too slow, your travel plan will not collapse like a house of cards. Both of which happened to me personally. Luckily, I always add a time safety margin to my schedule. 

6. Stay Close

Talking of transportation and accommodation, booking a hotel that is close, or even adjacent to your business destination will save you loads of time and stress. Knowing that your business meeting is just a stone throw away from your hotel is reassuring and will allow you to get a good night sleep. And to make things even better, and have a total peace of mind, try to find an area with plenty of restaurants or food stalls.

7. Stay Connected

Nowadays, internet connections are available almost everywhere. Ranging from WIFI to 3G, 4G or even the most recent 5G. You can use this tool to, not only to reassure your loved ones of your safe arrival, but also to contact your business counterparts, either by VOIP, messenger or by email, and inform them of the progress of your trip. This will demonstrate how seriously you take your business meetings, and will certainly improve your business relations in the future. 

8. Nutrition and Hydration

When caught up in the midst of the whole traveling vibe, one tends to miss meals, and eventually forget to even eat or drink all together. This can have a negative impact on your productivity and focus in your business meetings. My suggestion is to pack some snacks (energy bars, bread buns, sandwiches...) and a bottle of mineral water. If you're traveling by plane however,  you may have to drop the water and ask for drinks during the flight. I recommend staying away from alcoholic drinks as they cause serious health issues in prolonged flights.

9. Bathroom Breaks

Isn't it just the worst timing when you're standing in a long line at the airport and then suddenly nature calls? I'm sure most, if not all of us, have been in this situation. The solution is to think ahead and use the bathroom every time the occasion presents itself, even if you don't feel like it. I know this is not business related, but when you have to go...you have to go.

10. Charge Your Devices

You might have the latest and smartest phone out there, but your phone is as good as a brick if it completely out of juice. Always remember to charge your electronic devices before you start your trip. But if you ever need more power, there are some buses and planes that come with a USB charging port or an electricity socket on the seat in front of you that allows you to use your own charger. But for more efficiency, I suggest you invest in a good old power bank as it is extremely useful during long trips. That is, of course, if you charge it beforehand.

How about you? What advice would you give to anyone traveling for business?