It was my first time in the Caribbean and I never wanted to leave.
It’s Thursday morning, a little before 6AM, and I’m gazing at the insane lines Anne has convinced me will take seconds to get through with the easy pass purchase from JetBlue. I’m slightly hesitant because I want to save all my dollar, dollar bills yo, for when on the ground in St. Maarten. But with a few suave terms, Anne has persuaded me [it really isn’t that hard] to take the plunge. Minutes later I’m passed the drug sniffing K-9, passed the travelers that don’t understand that “empty your pockets of loose change, cell phones, keys, and remove your belt” applies to them as well, and passed the travelers stopping to put their shoes on at the conveyor belt causing a hold up, rather than sitting in the chairs nearby. I spot Anne, truth be told Anne spots me, and we mosey around until boarding.
This was my first experience with JetBlue, so definitely had my reservations about them, having been a Continental [now United] frequent flyer since 1988. I even still have my original card! But let me tell you, JetBlue… you may have a new TruBlue member. Like can we get a slow clap for those spacious seats and expansive leg room? Even when the dude in front of me decided to recline, I still had ample area to comfortably search my massive handbag and stretch my legs.
Luisa**, the attendant on our flight over, treated us to champagne and orange juice to welcome me onto my first JB flight. After serving other passengers she gave us tidbits of must visit places, beaches, and the 411 on the resort we were staying (Sonesta Ocean Point), as she had stayed there on a previous trip. Though I felt like she was paying us extra attention, I noticed she gave every other passenger the same kindness. Which for me is a huge thing after that American Airlines debacle. [All tea, no shade.]
Some airplane mixed Thursday morning mimosas and craisins later, we were starting the most relaxing week I’ve ever had, in St. Maarten. Don’t want to give them all the credit, but trips start in the air… so thank you, JetBlue!
Until my next tales of SXM,
xTillie
** just a quick shout out to a couple of people on the returning JetBlue staff as well. Amelia and Daniel [This may not be his name, but he was English and awesome!] from flight 788 on January 10th had to deal with some attitudes and did it with such class and grace. Honestly, their politeness and professionalism is exactly why I could never be 30,000 feet in the air with entitled douches that think wearing a t-shirt emblazoned with”St. Barths” means something. A day trip their costs $105… don’t kid yourself people. Charter a private flight and MAYBE we can talk. Anyway, thank you Amelia and Daniel. You two were also the bees knees.