Flying stress free

Warren Armstrong Image
Wednesday, September 27, 2017
flying stress free
Krystyn Hall is a huge fan of travel. What she is not crazy about is the "getting-to-the-plane" part

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Krystyn Hall is a huge fan of travel. What she is not crazy about is the "getting-to-the-plane" part, especially at security.

"It tends to be a high stress time for me," said Hall.

So, on a recent trip overseas, her travel agent suggested she try an airport concierge service. Hall said it made all the difference.

"They escorted us through the airport, took us to customs and through security and everything. And it was so fast."

All for about $30 a person! An airport concierge used to be an ultra-expensive option. But now, these 'meet and greet' type services are becoming more common, and, in some cases, more affordable.

"Anyone can use this. It doesn't have to be a VIP. It could be somebody on a honeymoon, a special occasion, an elderly parent who needs assistance or a small child," said George Hobica.

Concierge personnel can do everything from help with sticky situations at security or immigration--to picking up souvenirs for you at the gift shop. The more they do, the more you'll pay.

You can book the services through individual companies or through travel sites--some airlines offer them, too.

Travel experts say there are times when specialty services may really be worth the splurge.

"If you're in a hurry, uh connecting, or just getting to the airport through TSA, you're going to do it much faster than anyone else," said Hobica.

"Especially if you're in a country where they don't speak the same language as you, it helps to facilitate that and ease all the stress," said Hall.