Whenever I have early flights, I like to make sure I am close to the airport - often staying at an onsite hotel, if possible. Few things stress me out worse than being late for a flight. Now, during the pandemic highway traffic has been somewhat reduced, but it’s not zero. So, we stayed in a hotel with a view of the runways.

Everything was weird. I have spent more of my life in airports and hotels than is advisable, and it has never been like this. The hotel was quiet, the airport was quiet, the restaurants were quiet. Not empty, like earlier in the pandemic, but a long way from normal. It’s ok - no line up for the restaurants, no waiting to check in, but it just feels strange.

The executive lounge was quiet, and different. No more freely walking up and helping yourself to whatever food and drink caught your eye. Now - either tell the helpful attendant which of a small selection of items you would like in a paper gift bag, or grab a seat, scan a QR code, and order your food and drink. It’s not terrible, the breakfast was fine, but it’s just not the same.

Understand, I am someone who generally likes travelling. I don’t even mind stops on my outbound flights, as I would enjoy wandering around different airports. On this trip we were in business class - everything was as good as you could imagine. And yet - some of the joy of travel was gone. No, it wasn’t just wearing a mask. It was just, different.

During the actual travel portion, everyone was anxious. The airport was mostly empty - many vendors and restaurants were closed. A whole section of the international departures was closed. At every turn there was a reminder that things aren’t normal.

We took every precaution - masks, hand sanitizer, face shields. When we boarded the plane we wiped down every surface with disinfecting wipes. We bought business class so it was just the two of us in our row. The food was good - but it was a cold meal. No more hot lunch or fresh baked cookies in business class. A very nice cold lunch was served. It is understandable that meals which involve a minimum of handling would be served, but it was a little less special than usual.

So what does this mean? If you are the type who thinks of airports and airplanes as necessary evils, something to be endured so you can be at your destination, then you might not find it terribly different. But if you are someone who actively enjoys recreational travel, you will find a little of the magic is gone. They travel companies are trying, and trying hard, but things are different for now.

What about the destination? What is Cancun like in a pandemic? See you next time.

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