When I was booking my flight from Boston to Los Angeles, I knew that I’d have to opt for a layover if I wanted a lower price. But after connecting through the International Space Station, I wholeheartedly regret my decision.
My flight arrived in the late morning, so I assumed, as any frequent traveler would, that I would have the chance to explore the surrounding area. Nope. Turns out, the ISS isn’t exactly the “thriving downtown” that everyone claims. In fact, it’s grossly unequipped to handle even commercial passengers. Without virtually zero dining or shopping options to speak of, I literally felt like I was in the middle of nowhere. I sat down at the only venue they had– a cramped little café- to have a bottle of Fiji water, and they had the gall to charge me $5.95- absolutely ridiculous. When I asked the waiter about the bill, he claimed it was because of the “incredibly difficult and expensive import process.” Please.
So after a few hours, I’m about to board my flight when the flight attendants start insisting that my carry-on luggage is too large and I have to consolidate. I go back over to my seat and try to re-pack my bag, but as soon as I open it, the zero gravity causes my clothes start flying everywhere. As I’m busy collecting my pants off of various traveling businessmen, I hear my name on the loudspeaker—but it’s too late. I’ve already missed my flight.
After a substantial wait, I finally got in to LAX, ending this hellish experience. Yes, there were some nice views on the way down, but considering it took me 32 days to get from Boston to L.A. all in all I would NOT recommend. Go through LaGuardia instead.
— JS ’19
