Writes of Passage

4100 George J Bean Pkwy
Tampa, FL 33607

A very modern airport.

… more pix on Google Maps: my blog on TPA in 2023, got 6 helpful votes.

My first impression of this airport, a few years ago, was very pleased, and even a little surprised: functional, clean, pleasant.

A few years later, I still think it is.

Then yesterday on a pick up, I discovered it’s cell phone lot.

Wow – this is a whole new level of well designed public facility. As you going in, it’s to your right. It has a big parking lot, bathrooms, vending machines, dog bags, car charging stations, arrival info board…

THANK YOU Tampa.

My last time using JFK … urrrrrhhhh cars waiting to pick their loved ones up, were parked on the side of the roads into the airport, in the airport… it was just dangerous to all, and chaotic.

For this particular pick up, with Southwest: it landed as the schedule: 5:31pm. The passenger is off the plane by 5:39 and we drive off the airport at 5:45.

The lounges are limited: by E68 is the Delta Sky Club, and American Airlines Admirals Club by F85. But the good news is, the famed Columbia (original one at Ybor City since 1905) has a branch here – no need to fly hungry: they open 4am till the last flight.

TPA

All three major airlines have their terminals here:

• AA @ F, has its lounge (Lufthansa)
• Delta @ E, has its lounge
• UA @ A, has no lounge (JetBlue)

420 W Kennedy Blvd,
Tampa, FL 33606

Def will return.

… more pix on Google Maps

A lovely bookstore / cafe / restaurant / gifts … with old world charm.

It’s a sunny, low humidity Friday afternoon and it’s packed. We only have a cup of coffee. The place is huge.

I first heard of it is from a book club. Many authors come here to read their books – or hold their book prom here.

Interestingly to note that this American restaurant is ‘European-inspired’ WHY can’t they be inspired by themselves, like old good Americana?

Winston Churchill, the bluest blood British PM told his countrymen in 1955 “never be separated from the Americans.” Ok, UK is out of EU but it’s still part of continent of Europe. Germany and France are definitely European … but … don’t get me started on this… Although the founding fathers were all from Europe, but USA has plenty more to offer and be proud of, let your own your heritage, since 1776 to inspire you. 247 years is short compares to Egyptian’s 8,000 and Chinese 5,000 or 3,000 … but how many governments have last? China has just celebrated her 74th birthday a few days ago.

Oh I’m so off the topic

Wishing you all have a great long weekend. Be happy and be well.