Divine Providence: Your Guide to New England’s Renaissance City

Airplane Etiquette Lessons:

1. Don't Complain That Someone Gets To Board Before You

When you're booking your flight, you usually can choose your seat assignments based on the ticket that you're purchasing. You're usually placed in different boarding groups as a result so please don't think someone is out to get you if you're placed in groups 4-6. All this means is that you purchased an Economy ticket that's placed you in a middle or aisle seat, or you may not have a boarding number.

Assuming someone shouldn't board before you based on their appearance or your annoyance isn't going to change what's on the ticket you purchased.

2. Don't Worry About Why Someone's Flying First Class

This one feels self-explanatory, but here goes: It's not anyone's business why someone is flying first class. Their job could've purchased the ticket, or they may have felt like splurging for once. It's not up to us to look at someone, judge their appearance, and say things like, "They just let anyone fly first class these days."

It's classist and — not to mention — childish.

3. Just Cooperate With The Flight Attendants, OK?

We've all been on a flight where at least one person decides they're not going to listen to the flight attendants onboard. This usually looks like refusing to temporarily turn off their cell phones, having their headphones in during important demonstrations and announcements, or being told to calm down if there's ranting involved.

They want to make sure everyone will be safe, including you.

4. Never Make Snide Comments About Parents Traveling With Kids

At the same time, being an asshole to parents who are traveling with kids just because you "really don't like kids" isn't going to earn you brownie points. This idea that children shouldn't be in public spaces when I'm sure someone travelled with us is wildly hypocritical and whiny.

A child may end up crying because their ears are popping or the plane is experiencing some turbulence. I highly doubt that they took one look at you and decided you were going to be the person they wanted to piss off.

5. Please Stop Repeatedly Elbowing Your Seat Mate

Respecting someone's personal space is one of the greatest forms of respect in public. You could be waiting to board the plane or you can be sitting in your assigned seat or you can feel comfortable one you're sitting down. Whatever the case may, continuously elbowing the passenger next to you isn't going to go over well.

6. Don't Open The Window Cover If The Person Actually Sitting By It Closed It

This really boils down to respecting someone's personal space. If the person sitting by the window has it closed, ask them if they mind opening it. Please don't reach over them to open it yourself because it shows a disregard for their personal space and, possibly, their preference.

This used to happen to me all the time when I was younger until I finally asked someone what they were doing. It's amazing how startled people are when you ask them a simple question because some people genuinely don't believe they're doing anything wrong.

7. Stop Blowing Your Nose Loudly In Your Seat Mate's Ear

The first time I flew to California, I wondered how I was going to survive being on a plane for five hours. I figured I'd be okay with reading a couple of books and taking a nap. While I did read, the nap didn't happen thanks to the person sitting next to me.

This person blew their nose the entire flight and balled up their countless napkins before placing them near my elbow. I couldn't even use my armrest because they insisted on elbowing me throughout the flight. Take it from someone who's been subject to this, don't be this person. It's really aggravating.

The solution? Just make your way to the bathroom and blow your nose to your heart's content. That way, you're not bothering the people around you, plus there's a trash can right there for your leftover tissues!

8. Absolutely NO Burping Or Passing Gas — Especially Without Saying Excuse Me Afterwards

Sigh. Please, just don't. If your body has to release gas, the least you can do is say "Excuse me," when seating on a plane that contains over 200 people. It's not like you can open a window to get rid of the scent that may come along with your body's gas so people will be aware of it if it's particularly, well, smelly.

Much like the tissue situation, just take a trip to the bathroom and handle things alone, in a closed room, away from other people.

9. No More Rushing People When It's Time To Deplane

Again, there are other passengers on the plane, so everyone will have to wait to exit it. It'll eventually happen, but rushing other people isn't going to make you leave any quicker. You may actually get a few dirty looks or hear some choice words if you're not careful. Please just sit back, relax, and make your move when it's actually your turn.

Shop Small Rolling Suitcases Here!

Herschel Heritage Hardshell Carryon Luggage (Ivy Green Topography)

One of the most important features of small rolling suitcases is their exterior. Since you'll likely be sprinting through the airport or jogging down escalators if they're not busy, you need something that can withstand being dragged. Herschel is known for creating luggage that's travel-tested

This carryon luggage is made with 70% recycled polycarbonate and it has silent wheels. It's like your travel companion that truly understands you have places to be and doesn't complain as you're navigating your busy airport.

CALPAK Ambeur Mini Carry-On Luggage (Rose Gold)

Here's your sign to get a rose gold rolling suitcase that can serve as your carryon item. It has 360-degree spinner wheels that'll work with you and not against you (IYKYK), plus the internal pockets make it easier for you to pack efficiently. You may want to check with the attendants on your flight, but this suitcase is designed to fit under your seat so you don't have to fight with an inconsiderate person for a space in the overhead storage bin.

Monos Terracotta Carryon

Sometimes you just want something cute and floral like this limited edition rolling suitcase. It's water-resistant and has an internal lining that's made from 100% recycled polyester! The internal features I like are the buckle straps that makes sure your clothes won't slide all over the place and the removable compression pad with zippered pockets to store flat items.

BÉIS The Carry On Roller (Atlas Pink)

We've all had experience with the dreaded TSA line that makes us question our sanity and age. But, BÉIS wants to eliminate your stress with their pink carry on rolling suitcase. It also have 360-degree wheels that'll happily go wherever you do and the interior? Well, let's just say you'll be able to find what you need when it's time to place everything on the conveyor belt.

Take that TSA agents!

OLOV 18” Underseat Carry-On Small Suitcase (Blue)

Embarking on a few quick getaways this summer and don't want to be weighed down by heavy luggage? You'll need to consider small rolling suitcases that are sturdy, yet lightweight. OLOV'S under seat carryon features an interior buckle to keep your items secured and allows you to pack the basics.

It also has a three digit combination lock in case someone decides to press their luck if you happen to fall asleep during your flight.

Vera Bradley Small Spinner Luggage (Fresh-Cut Floral Green)

In need of a portable rolling suitcase that can hold your clothes and serve as a charging dock for your phone? Vera Bradley already read your mind and has just the thing for you. The interior has two zippered sides that allow you to separate your necessities from each other based on function (clothes on one side and sandals on the other).

This spinner luggage also has an integrated lock that makes your time in TSA go a little smoother. If it's not obvious, we've had some rather unpleasant experiences with agents mishandling our items 😖.

Bric’s By Ulisse Carry-On Expandable Spinner with USB Port (MANGO)

If you thought we were done showing you chic and functional small rolling suitcases, you're almost right. Besides reminding us of the sunny weather we've been experiencing during spring, this carryon has a three stage telescopic handle that makes holding on a breeze!

From there, the interior has a pretty printed lining, full zipper section and mesh pocket, a stretchable strap to protect your items, and a shoe/laundry bag!

And just when you thought the features stop there, the carryon wants you to know it has a TSA-approved lock that comes with a universal key that only security can use to carefully inspect your items.

Sigh, we just love thoughtful designs!

BKYLN Tees Mint Gardenia Carry On Suitcase

Doesn't this cute mint green and floral suitcase seem like it was made to store all your vacation outfits? Designed in none other than Brooklyn, NY, this beauty is available in three sizes and is as functional as it's chic. It also has spinner wheels that make traveling a breeze and will look good no matter how it's stored.

Teva Women's Midform Universal Sandals

Comfort: 5/5

For B+C Head of Content, Ali, the Tevas Midform walking sandals are peak comfort. They boast a super soft foam footbed that has heel cupping and elevation around the arches for additional support.

“I’ve worn my Tevas to the ground,” she says. “The inch height boost is appreciated as someone who’s 5-feet 2-inches and they’re incredibly sturdy and cushiony.”

Practicality: 5/5

Ali can walk miles on miles in these easy walking sandals.

“They’ve become my quintessential everyday casual shoe for running L.A. errands like walking my dog, heading to the farmer’s market, and grabbing coffee.”

Although they’re super dependable, Ali feels like the several years of “constant use” from her Teva Midform walking sandals have lost some of their arch support.

Style: 5/5

The Teva Midform sandals are pretty no-frills, but they’re still stylish for today’s age. The 1 ¼-inch height falls somewhere in between flats and platforms, making a fairly casual statement. The thick, adjustable velcro straps that wrap around the toes and low ankle are secure and match with pretty much anything.

They also come in a variety of colorways to suit your own personal style, though the all-black pick is likely the most versatile of them all.

One of the best parts about these walking sandals is their approachable pricing. This black pair is just $65.

Chacos Z Sandals

Comfort: 4/5

The classic Chacos Z Sandals – once you actually break them in – are extremely comfortable, since the footbed tends to meld against the shape of your foot.

To B+C Creative Assistant, Meredith (that’s me!), the break-in period is crucial for Chacos, but it’s not a real pain. Once she wore hers just two times, they softened up and fit smoothly.

Practicality: 4/5

Meredith thinks these Chaco walking sandals are practical for a number of reasons: they work on dry land and in the water, they’re durable to stand up to off-road terrain, and they don’t slip a single bit.

“They work so well as water shoes,” Meredith says. “I’ll wear them on long lake days and I don’t ever have to take them off, even when I’m out of the water.”

The Chacos Z Sandals flaunt a thick, durable rubber sole with their signature ChacoGrip™ layer on the bottom that has a “good amount” of tread, according to Meredith.

The adjustable straps that swarm the big toe, top of the foot, and ankle are amazing at keeping her feet in place with every step.

“I definitely recommend getting your Chacos fitted by an expert and/or tinkering around with the perfect fit yourself,” she says. “It can be hard to find it, but once you have it, you won’t have to worry about adjusting the straps again.”

Although they can withstand weathering pretty well, they’re not all that great for all-day wear. Meredith has gauged over time (she’s had her Chacos for 6 years) that they’re “walkable for a day, but I wouldn’t hike in them.”

Style: 4/5

The Chacos Z sandals are ideal for someone who has more of a granola girl style. They flaunt more technical details (like the chunky sole and noticeable tread), so they’re obviously not as fashion-forward as the Doc Martens or Tevas of the world.

Still, these walking sandals come in a ton of different colors, plus you don’t have to snag the Z-style. Chacos sells a variety of shoe silhouettes with the same comfort levels!

Chaco sandals can be an investment (ranging from $75-$110), but they last a long time. Meredith hasn’t noticed any huge signs of wear over the six years she’s worn them!

OluKai ‘Aka Sandals

Comfort: 5/5

These walking sandals from OluKai changed everything Meredith thought she knew about flip flops. And well, they’re not even quite flip flops, either. They’re like flip flops, but elevated, really.

The ‘Aka silhouette boasts a carefully-crafted footbed that feels as durable as the Chacos sandals, which says a lot for such a lightweight shoe. On top of that, they have a very soft footbed that Meredith is obsessed with since it provides more support than your average slip-on sandal.

Practicality: 4/5

“For a pool day, these are absolutely practical,” Meredith says.

These walking sandals are crafted from a water-resistant material that doesn’t soak up water, but rather, repels it.

This aspect makes them an easy go-to for summer days spent outside.

As far as the actual walking, there’s not rubbing or chafing to be found. The easygoing straps keep the feet in place but don’t feel utterly tight or uncomfortable.

Style: 5/5

The style of these walking sandals is minimal, but adorable. They flaunt some super thin straps (still durable) that knot at the top. Plus, they are shoppable in a handful of other vibrant colors for only $70.

Birkenstock Arizona Sandals

Comfort: 3/5

Ahh, Birks. They’re so classic! Like Chacos, Meredith really had to break in her pair of Birkenstock Arizona sandals for literal weeks before they started to feel just right.

“The cork footbed is supposed to adapt to your step over time, though it takes a while,” according to Meredith.

On the other hand, the wide buckled straps are quite welcoming and have never rubbed her feet the wrong way. They cover a good amount of the foot, so you’re not left with skin sticking out or being pinched weirdly.

Practicality: 3/5

These walking sandals aren’t quite made to go the distance, according to Meredith.

“I'd rather have these on for a quick errand, rather than wandering around for hours at the farmer’s market,” she says. “Maybe I just haven’t broken them in enough yet, though.”

Their flat sole doesn’t have much tread, making it a challenge to navigate any surface that’s not an inside floor or pavement.

Style: 4/5

These Birkenstock walking sandals are the ultimate casual, cool girl shoe. They match with shorts, skirts, pants, and everything in between. They’ve come to have such a classic, unmistakable look, so the brand recognition also boosts their chicness.

These sandals come in a handful of different colors for $110.

Doc Marten Blaire Slide Sandals

Comfort: 3/5

Meredith has been rocking with these Doc Marten sandals since last summer, and she ranks their comfort a total of 3 out of 5. The straps are the main factor that takes away from their overall comfort, since they often rub and give her blisters in very specific places.

Each of the three straps is adjustable, and though she’s toyed with different levels of tightness, they just don’t fit Meredith’s feet right.

The cushy footbed gains a few points back for these walking sandals. Meredith does appreciate the platformed shape for short periods of wear, like getting groceries or stopping by the craft store.

Practicality: 2/5

Since their comfort level is close to intolerable for long periods of wear, Meredith can’t really endorse these walking sandals’ practicality.

“They’re super cute, but I just can’t have them on all day,” she says. “I wish they fit me better than they do.”

Style: 5/5

While the comfort and practicality categories are severely lacking, the cuteness factor of the Doc Marten Blaire Slide Sandals is undeniable.

As a Doc Marten boot enthusiast, Meredith was drawn to them for their easy-to-pair color palette and signature Doc Marten details, like the black leather and yellow stitching.

The Doc Marten Blaire Slide Sandals go for $100.