Dear Crabby,
I have an overseas business trip coming up, but with all the recent news about travel bans and the ensuing pandemonium at airports, do you think it’s safe to fly right now?
Thanks,
Tara Takeoff
Dear Ms. Takeoff,
I assume you mean the ban that isn’t a ban? Hahaha. It’s a joke people. Relax. It’s still OK to laugh. Anyway, I think people may be throwing the baby out with the bathwater on this subject, so let’s see if we can keep the hysteria to a minimum. So, President Trump issued an executive order for a temporary travel ban on citizens from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen. Regardless if you think it’s the greatest idea since sliced bread or a violation of human rights, if you’re not a citizen of any of those countries, you’re fine. If you’re not traveling to any of those countries, you should be fine, too. I suppose you can 
look at it this way: right now, there may not be a safer time to fly. Just like post 9/11, people seem to be more on guard and aware of what is happening around them. Still, I long for the days when air travel was carefree. When there was no weight limit for your luggage, you could carry whatever you wanted, and you didn’t have to take off your shoes. I don’t miss passengers being able to smoke on flights though. The recycled air is bad enough as it is without adding nasty tobacco into the mix. Remember when you could actually see someone off, or be waiting at their gate to greet them when they landed? Those were the glory days of aviation. When it felt more like an experience rather than The Hunger Games. Ahhh, what memories. But as my dad would say, ‘use to be died a long time ago.’ So, here’s my suggestion on what you should do in preparation for your upcoming trip: Breathe. Seriously. You’re going to be OK. Getting worked up before anything happens is like putting bad juju out into the universe. Don’t invite trouble. Instead slather yourself head-to-toe in essential oil (my daughter insists they work). I don’t care which one, just pick one that calms you. It will also help block out your seat mate’s body odor. As you work your way through check-in, security, customs, etc., be polite That’s all. Being polite should help diffuse most any situation you find yourself in. And when you get to your destination, be respectful of the people and culture. Acting like an ‘ugly American’ will put your life at risk far more than someone with a gun will.
These days, I like to travel by train. If I had a ton of money, I’d have one of those fancy custom motor coaches to travel in like John Madden. That way I have all the legroom and snacks I want. Plus, there wouldn’t be a line to the bathroom!
Hope all goes well on your trip and remember not to accept packages from strangers.
Safe travels!
Dear Crabby
Stuck in a rut? Need some biased advice from a crabby old baby-boomer? Email me at dearcrabby@rochestermedia.com and ask your question. You can also head on over to my Facebook Page and tell me how wonderful I am.
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