Dispatches from JFK Airport ….
California, here I come!
Although the skies today are not nearly as friendly as they once were, I still think nothing of leaving on a jet plane by myself to head out to California, to attend the artist’s reception and talk for my art show at the Museum of Sonoma County.
If not for the COVID two-year absence from any sort of travel, this plane ride would not be noteworthy.
As I wait to board my American Airlines plane I am reminded of this ad from 1949 that ran in Ladies Home Journal when the airlines had to address m’lady’s fear of traveling by herself, assuring her how comfortable, safe, and carefree flying by air was.
The copy reads:
“American Airlines Travel Alone and Like it
“Time was when a long trip alone loomed up as grim and unfriendly for a woman! The endless wait to eat…the embarrassment of sharing a table…the paying of checks…tipping. For omen traveling by surface transportation, these were unavoidable and unwelcome responsibilities
That’s why Flagship travel is so popular with women today. Its so carefree. All you have to do is board the plane. From then on you’re a queen. Delicious delightfully served meals come to you. Friendly stewardesses cater to you. Hang up your coat…give you a pillow.. attend to your every wish.
These are just a few of the reasons why more and more modern women choose this modern way of traveling.”
A Queen? Why I can hardly wait… for them to call for boarding
Overworked flight crew, canceled flights, packed planes, and violent outbursts notwithstanding, this modern woman is ready to take off!