Jetsetter: Life at 35,000 Feet
Hello Darlings, What girl doesn't love to travel and explore the world? The excitement and anticipation behind visiting new places, learning about different cultures, and the intrigue and challenge of being outside your regular surroundings. Travel is one of the most exciting experiences in life, and without a doubt one of the most rewarding.
To learn from a regular traveler what it's like having a globe-trotting lifestyle, I sat with Katrina Lebrasse to ask about her life as an Emirates Airline cabin crew. I also asked for her tips about how a girl can stay fabulous throughout the longest of international trips! Here's what Katrina had to say:
Why did you decide to join Emirates Airline as a part of their cabin crew?
" I really wanted to travel and thought that this would be the best way to do it."
How long have you been a part of their cabin crew?
" Seven and a half years."
Where are you based?
" In Dubai. I moved there seven and a half years ago from Australia to specifically work for the airline."
How often do you fly to Toronto?
" The airline flies between Dubai and Toronto three times each week. Personally, I fly to Toronto every three or four months. Most often I fly to New York, Sydney, Paris and London."
How long do you stay at each destination?
"Between twenty-four and seventy-two hours."
How long is the training to become cabin crew for Emirates Airline?
" We initially train for six weeks. We also must take a course on safety and security."
How many languages do you speak?
"I speak three, but my main languages are English and French."
" Do you have to wear heels throughout the entire flight?"
" We change from heels into our cabin shoes."
Any tips on helping minimize jet leg?
" Try to manage your sleeping pattern before the trip. Try to sleep on the flight as much as you can. Upon arrival stay awake during the day and go to sleep at night. It automatically changes the pattern."
Emirates Airline cabin crew always look very polished, are there appearance guidelines?
"We are provided ideas and suggestions of how to do make-up which they prefer to be very natural. Myself, I prefer to wear mineral make-up. "
Who designs the uniforms? Does every flight have the same uniforms?
" They are designed out of Dubai and all cabin crew have the same uniforms."
How many uniforms do you have?
" Two full sets with extra blouses."
Do you change during the flight?
"Not typically, unless we have rest which is when you change into uniformed pajamas. Every twelve hours, you need to have a rest period."
Five things every girl should bring on-flight?
1. Good Book
2. Good Set of Headphones
3. An avocado eye cream
4. Neck Pillow
5. Comfortable outfit to change into
What is the your favorite travelling outfit?
" Something chic and comfortable. Myself, I prefer to wear jeans and then change in-flight."
I've always been fascinated with airlines and the cabin crew, so it was interesting to speak with Katrina about her perspective. Spending a large part of your time working in the sky may not be for everyone, but the job sure does have its perks. Just think of all the wonderful places you get to visit and the amazing people that you can meet along the way!
With Love...
Marta