We left the country over Thanksgiving to spend a week in beautiful Providenciales in Turks and Caicos. Hmm… an international flight, and given all the attention given to getting through airport security lately, I was a bit nervous. I read all the guidelines for checked luggage and carry-ons. I emptied my handbag and started fresh, and I prepared my kids as to what to expect. I really hated having to tell my 13 year old daughter that being searched could be embarrassing for her.
Our first security check was in Philadelphia. Wow! What a pleasant experience. Carry-ons placed on the belt, shoes off and then through the metal detector. Also, the TSA employees were extremely pleasant and professional. Leaving Turks and Caicos was another matter. First, what a horrible airport – dirty, overcrowded and complete chaos. We were also pulled out of line for an extra special search and pat down. Fine. What I did have a problem with was the way they ushered me ahead, ultimately leaving my children behind. Needless to say, I didn’t budge. Luckily, they let me wait. I shudder at the scene created if they hadn’t.
Third and final checkpoint was in Charlotte. We got off the USAirways plane, went through Customs and then had to go through security screening – again – to get to our connecting flight. Serious question: Why do you have to go through security again? Is it because we don’t trust the security in other countries?
Security at Charlotte included body scanners – although, my kids weren’t asked to go through the machines. The TSA officials in Charlotte were okay, but Philadelphia was the best experience. I get why security exists, but I can’t help thinking we’re fighting the last war.
Anyway, hope everyone had a great holiday. I actually missed you guys!