Weekly air traveler reveals preferred seating choices, steering clear of specific rows on aircraft.
As a seasoned traveler, I've got a knack for selecting the perfect seat on an aircraft, whether it's a cozy window spot in business or first class or a strategic pick in economy.
If I can't bag an upgrade, I go for the last row in economy – preferably by the aisle – on planes with multiple exit rows like the Boeing 737 MAX. The seat row in front of me can't recline, making unwanted intrusions during the flight minimal. Plus, I keep in mind that seats in the last row require a tad of patience, as I might be asked to help out in case of an emergency.
I'm also partial to seats in the first row, tucked behind a partition or curtain, as they often provide extra legroom. But the lack of a seat in front for storing my bag is a bit of a downer. To mitigate this, I try to board as swiftly as possible and secure space in an overhead bin.
When traveling with someone, we opt for two aisle seats next to each other, even if one ends up in the dreaded middle seat. A win-win scenario, we're still close enough to chat while having ample space. Alternatively, booking window and aisle seats in the same row could result in a delightful empty middle seat if we're lucky.
Since flight attendants occasionally request certain passengers to remain seated for quick deplaning during tight connections, I choose an aisle seat closer to the front. Those critical extra minutes can spell the difference between catching my next flight and missing it altogether.
And like any frequent traveler, I steer clear of seats near toilets or galleys, aiming for the farthest corner of the plane. Stadium-style seating can be noisy and smelly, which isn't exactly appetizing when enjoying a pretzel and ginger ale.
Pro Tip: When in doubt, go for bulkhead or exit rows near the front of the economy cabin to strike the best balance between comfort, legroom, and convenience.
What about exploring different lifestyles through travel? For instance, staying in a home-and-garden inspired Airbnb in Provence, experiencing the French charm while cooking your meals fresh from the local market. Or, imagine a long-term stay in a vibrant urban apartment, immersing yourself in the city's rhythm and lifestyle, just like a local, before moving on to another destination.
