How to Cope with Delays

written on January 11th, 2016 by Rafia Abubakar

The holidays may be over but Cebu is still filled with festivities and a good reason to celebrate. Sinulog is just around the corner. And just as equally hectic as Christmas, Sinulog also brings the rush from people flocking to terminals – all wanting to be part of this world renowned festival. A friend once said, “Everyone’s in Cebu during Sinulog.”

Sinulog is just one of the many reasons for delays. It’s safe to say that there’s always some sort of delay when it comes to travel. Here are a few ways to cope:

Strategic planning.

Don’t be one of those people surprised to see flights to Cebu full. Best to leave for the airport way ahead of the usual 2 hour allowance. That’s the best way to beat the traffic.

Take advantage of resources.

When you get to the airport, the lines for the check-in counter could be snaking its way down the aisle. Good thing there are check-in kiosks. If this is your first time, look for the ground crews nearby to assist with the self-check-in. It’s an easy process. Without a hitch, you should get your boarding pass in less than 5 minutes.

Brace yourself, the worst is yet to come.

Even when settled in the waiting lounge, which will most likely be crowded, you’re still not in the clear. In cases such as this where the air traffic is congested to a specific place, you can bet delays will happen. So don’t hold your breath. Be ready to accept whatever outcome comes.

Armed to fight boredom.

Be prepared. What keeps you from getting bored? You know yourself best. Bring whatever you need to fight boredom. You could indulge in packed food and snacks. Or have a gadget in hand. Make sure it is fully charged before leaving for the airport. For the battery deprived, good old fashioned reading material is your best friend. Or if you’re the friendly type, strike up a conversation.

Take a deep breath and let it go.

Try not to let the delay affect your mood. I can understand how delays can be annoying. Being frustrated and complaining about it won’t make the experience any better. When you’re in a situation you can’t control, you’re left to deal with it the best way you know how. Choose to look at the bright side.

No matter how prepared we try to be, there will be something that will shake us up. We can choose to be grumpy or we can teach ourselves to appreciate what we have. In the end you’ll be jumping in and having fun in the streets with fellow Sinulog revellers, and the hours waiting will be erased with memories of a city so alive.

See you in Cebu!