The Quiz Show Edition
Traveling can be a joyous affair, full of new experiences and delightful surprises. But for someone like me, an African globetrotter, the journey often begins with an adventure right at the airport, complete with unexpected quizzes and magical security rituals. Imagine stepping up to passport control in an airport in Europe, ready to dazzle with your impeccable travel documentation, only to find yourself unwittingly participating in what feels like an interrogation reality show. “So, what brings you to Europe? How long will you stay? Can you show me your hotel bookings? How about your aunt’s middle name? What did you have for breakfast?” The questions never end!
Should I Bring a PowerPoint Next Time?
I often joke with the officers, “Should I prepare a PowerPoint presentation next time?” Humour sometimes eases the tension, but it’s a recurring reminder of the scrutiny that comes along with my passport. Security checks are like a magic show. On one memorable occasion, I was the lucky ‘randomly selected’ guest for an extra special security screening. The officers examined my bag as if expecting to uncover the lost treasures of Egypt. They inspected each item with such intensity you’d think my socks were spun from golden threads. My underwears were staring at the officers in shock.
Proving I belong
I often think about adding a bit of flair to these checks. “Watch closely as I pull nothing but my phone charger and a travel pillow out of my bag!” I’d announce, half expecting applause for my mundane inventory. Flying business class occasionally, I’ve had the distinct pleasure of proving my legitimacy in the exclusive lounge. “Yes, this is my boarding pass. No, I didn’t wander in here by mistake.” It’s almost comical how often I’m asked to confirm my access rights, prompting me to consider wearing my boarding pass as a badge. I remember once quipping to a particularly incredulous staff member, “I could recite Shakespeare to prove I’m cultured enough for this lounge, but I doubt it’s necessary.”
Should I strike a pose?
Walking through the terminal often feels like I’m a celebrity under the paparazzi’s watchful lenses. The lingering stares from airport staff and fellow travelers could make anyone self-conscious. “Should I strike a pose? Maybe they’ll snap a better picture,” I’d muse, trying to inject some light-heartedness into the uncomfortable scrutiny. Thinking about it, maybe I should print autograph cards for my next trip: “Thank you for your interest, enjoy watching me buy overpriced airport coffee.”
Beyond the Laughs: A Call for Change
All jokes aside, these experiences, highlight the very real and often frustrating encounters with racism that many Africans face while traveling. Ideally, airports should be gateways that bring us together in exciting, positive ways—not through shared experiences of discrimination. As our world grows ever more interconnected, let’s hope for airport experiences that leave us with stories of wonder, not woe.
Safe travels to all, and may your journeys be as smooth as your flights!
