On Friday, I left DC and made my way to the amazing island that is Tinos, in the Cyclades. This is a 24-hour journey door to door… and it is worth every minute of the trip. I arrived on Tinos on Saturday 18:30 pm Greek time, on my birthday, dropped off my bags, showered, and headed to an amazing birthday dinner. I had no time for jet lag, no time for red eyes.
Here is how I prepared for the journey, and for my birthday dinner.
- The minute I get on the plane, I go (or try to) to sleep. A glass of champagne or wine before we take off, but nothing as soon as my seat can reline. No movie, no dinner. Every minute counts.
- My favorite overnight travel outfit is a black jersey dress that looks like a class black dress and is as comfortable at a nightgown.
- Soft socks. I never wear socks, except when working out or on an overnight flight. Cold toes are the number one thing that will keep me awake. My favorite pair is from Life Is Good, super soft, and fuchsia pink.
- An eye mask. This does two things: it tells flight attendants you are out for the night and they better not wake you; and it actually helps filter the light out and enhances sleep. A silk one is kindest on my skin.
- My favorite mask, by Alchimie Forever of course (Kantic Brightening moisture mask). I made the travel size for selfish reasons; it meets the FSA travel size requirements and both seals in moisture and protects me from the deadly “airplane air.”
- Eye drops. There is a reason these overnight flights are called red-eyes. I am fond of Similasan Dry Eye Relief, but whatever you favorite brand is will work.
- I avoid makeup other than mascara and lipstick. Skin makeup (concealer, foundation, powder), travels quite poorly, and ends up making skin feel dryer and more uncomfortable.
- A travel toothbrush and toothpaste. A must in the morning before getting off the plane. Nothing like a clean mouth to make one feel civilized. Add a bright lipstick, and your day is off to the perfect start.
- A bottle of water. Other than cold toes, being thirsty will keep me awake and uncomfortable. I like to flavor mine with Super Orange Emergen-C. It helps keep me healthy too…
- A smile. Delays, cancellations, just the fact of flying overnight can be taxing. A smile will make the entire experience more pleasurable. For yourself and for those around you.
And well, when I land in Athens, pick up my bags, and tell the cab driver to take me to the Port of Rafina, well, then life is good regardless of any of the above traveling tips!