By Mary N. DiZazzo

BEAUTIFY BEFORE YOU FLY

Ciao bella,

Recently I had two destinations. Traveling there from here round trip was a total of eight planes! There was a time when flying was less stressful. I can't pinpoint exactly when, but I do remember Delta Champagne Flights to Florida (all you can drink!).

But all that sipping now would just bring us a feeling of being run over. Now, with such invasive security at the airports one must prepare and de-stress first.

No time for a full body massage before departing? Take advantage of the clothes-on massage stations at the airport. They use an ergonomic chair for massage --specializing in head, neck, shoulders, and back. Really loosens you up and feels great. Pick anywhere from five minutes to a half-hour (maybe longer if you ask and have the time).

So whether you have a delayed flight, layover, or ten minutes to spare take the luxurious time to unwind.

Also at the airport scout out the in-service manicure salons. They will pamper your hands and feet into ecstasy with time to spare. Call the info booth at the airport in advance and find out their locations. They are all over.

Prepare for the worse at the security checkpoint and you may be pleasantly surprised that it wasn't so bad after all. Women, make sure you are checked by a woman. Politely ask for one if a man tries to check you! Make sure your toosies are clean and wear new socks! Just in case you must remove your shoes. It's all so embarrassing and invasive anyway, why add negative points to that score!

It's also true to drink plenty of water on your flight, up to eight ounces for every hour you fly should re-hydrate anyone. Try to bring a bottle with you. By the time the attendant finally gets to you it's more ice than water in a cup.

Also, bring some snacks sticks of cheese, nuts, meal replacement bars, some fruit. Most airlines with three or four hour flights give out little bags of pretzels that just don't satisfy!

As you gather these survival goodies together other pick-me-ups would be throat lozenges, chewing gum (for take-off and landing), small tube of body and hand cream, moist wipes, and your fav mag. If it's a long international flight and you're not in first class, bring a sleep mask, earplugs, and thin slippers for some eventful snoozing. Anything to pass your flight time pleasantly!

Also, after security checkpoints look for a DVD rental player station and grab a fav movie! Then drop off at your destination. Cool!

Just prepare for your trip in the air. Whether it be business or pleasure, make it a destination to treasure.

Buon viaggio,

--Mary.

[Mary DiZazzo is a third-generation cosmetologist and owner/operator of Mary for Nails, etc. natural nailcare salon in Andover, Mass.and may be contacted at (978) 470-8183. She also sees select clients by appointment in Boston at (617) 742-6881.]