This past week I had to fly home for my grandma's funeral unexpectedly. I lucked out on some decent airfare on US Airways and had a 3-hour layover in Charlotte - an airport I have normally ran through, trying to make a tight connection. I was able to relax and enjoy some of the things that make this airport a new favorite on my list.
Moving sidewalks - this airport is full of them! They literally saved me from missing a free trip to the Caribbean once because I had 20 minutes to get from one end of the airport to the other to make it onto my next flight. When you're lugging a heavy carry-on and loaded-down backpack, it's nice to gain ground without too much extra effort - whether you're running or lazy. Just be sure to respect the "rules of the road" and stand or walk on the appropriate side.
Great spots to shop or eat - I don't know if there's another airport with as many stores, kiosks, or restaurants per capita? It is so nice to have a multitude of choices - literally every-which-way you turn - when you've got time to sit down for a meal (especially in my case with being gluten-free and having limited "eating out" options). I can vouch for the juicy burgers at Bad Daddy's Burger Bar and tasty tacos at the Jose Cuervo Tequileria being great on-the-go lunch options.
Bathroom attendants - this is just about as Southern as you can get. A smiling woman who whistles or hums Gospel tunes in the bathroom, with an assortment of toiletries like mouthwash, mints, and tissues and the magic touch when the automatic soap or water won't turn on for you. I've lived up north my whole life but have always been a Southern girl at heart and love the small touches of hospitality. Don't forget to tip!
Moving sidewalks - this airport is full of them! They literally saved me from missing a free trip to the Caribbean once because I had 20 minutes to get from one end of the airport to the other to make it onto my next flight. When you're lugging a heavy carry-on and loaded-down backpack, it's nice to gain ground without too much extra effort - whether you're running or lazy. Just be sure to respect the "rules of the road" and stand or walk on the appropriate side.
Great spots to shop or eat - I don't know if there's another airport with as many stores, kiosks, or restaurants per capita? It is so nice to have a multitude of choices - literally every-which-way you turn - when you've got time to sit down for a meal (especially in my case with being gluten-free and having limited "eating out" options). I can vouch for the juicy burgers at Bad Daddy's Burger Bar and tasty tacos at the Jose Cuervo Tequileria being great on-the-go lunch options.
Bathroom attendants - this is just about as Southern as you can get. A smiling woman who whistles or hums Gospel tunes in the bathroom, with an assortment of toiletries like mouthwash, mints, and tissues and the magic touch when the automatic soap or water won't turn on for you. I've lived up north my whole life but have always been a Southern girl at heart and love the small touches of hospitality. Don't forget to tip!
Rock On! These are a little hidden gem that CLT travelers love - the white rocking chairs scattered throughout the airport. I have yet to find someone that has been through Charlotte and hasn't gotten excited to tell of the rockers. It can be tough to find an unoccupied one, especially with a nice view out the window. Perfect for some people-watching or just to sit and relax for a while, pretending you're sitting on a large wrap-around porch on a beautiful summer day. All that's missing from this picture of Southern hospitality is a little Spanish moss hanging from the trees.
One day I shall return, Charlotte. Save a seat for me!
One day I shall return, Charlotte. Save a seat for me!
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