The Airport

Having grown up in a post 9/11 world within site of Ground Zero, I am accustomed to hour-long security lines, multiple ID checks, and the like. Thus, I was very surprised when it only took me five minutes to check-in and clear security for a domestic Ecuadorian flight. I did not even have to show photo ID or take off my shoes!

At first, the lack of security made me nervous. Bush had gotten to my head. I wanted air marshalls and liquid bans, and to be told what color of danger I was living under. Then, I realized that no reasonable, publicity-minded terrorist was going to blow-up a flight going to Cuenca, Ecuador. Living in an obscure, developing country certainly has its benefits.