India

Posted on: August 27, 2009 at 10:59AM

Every year, my husband and I fly from New York to South Africa. We can’t afford to fly business or first class, so the long haul in Economy can be extremely taxing on the body – and the emotions. After some trial and error -- and a lot of pain! -- we figured out how to break up a long trip without having to pay for an expensive multi-leg flight. First, book a flight on an airline that gives you the option of at least a six to seven hour layover during the day at a major airport, like British Airways via London’s Heathrow. Then reserve a room in a nearby hotel that offers day rates (sometimes called “day use rates”). The Sheraton Heathrow, for example, is a short and convenient 10-minute bus ride from the airport, and offers beautiful, newly renovated rooms for about $90, between 9 AM and 6 PM. After checking in, relax in crisp, white sheets for a few hours – sleeping, reading or watching television. Then get up, shower and change into fresh clothes. (You won’t have to haul your checked bags because they will be checked through to your final destination. Just pack a simple change of clothes in your carry-on.) Have a pleasant dinner in the restaurant before heading back to the airport to board the flight for the next leg of your trip. Even though you’re adding a few hours to your total travel time, it’s well worth it since you're bound to arrive less exhausted and much, much happier. report a problem