61-year-old unwinds on 9-hour flight without any technology or books: 'I appreciate the downtime'

People engage in different acitivites to kill the time while traveling via airplanes. Some people make the use of in-flight entertainment while others read books, play games or listen to music. However, a recent instance shared by travel influencer Sophi Tripi Cooke–who goes by @cookestraveltok on TikTok–presents a refreshing take. She shares how her mother spends her time in long flights without the use of any technology and external aid.

The video showcases Cooke's mother on a 9-hour international flight journey, not using any in-flight entertainment or any modern technology like an iPad or headphones. She simply reclines in her seat, wrapped in blanket and with pillows and just sits there in silence of her own compant. It prompted curious comments from viewers, who were intrigued by this calm airplane routine of Cooke's mother in a world that is always over stimulated. TikTok user @savannahpio375, even expressed the desire for Ms. Pat, Cooke's mother, to shed light on the rationale behind her unique in-flight experience, deeming it cool and impossible.

As various comments under the video attest, many travelers today may find Ms. Pat's practice baffling, given their reliance on extensive in-flight entertainment options. For instance, @omgbfay said, "How? I need my iPad full of an entire series and at least three different movies in case I change my mind." On the other hand, @bikbok.420 shared a similar sentiment, stating, "I do this too. I think it's the fact that I don't have to do anything at all and can relax."

In response to people's interest, Cooke shared another video featuring her mother, who, with a dose of humor, explained her intriguing approach. She said, "Okay. So here's my rationale. I'm 61 years old. I appreciate the downtime. Think about your goals, maybe your regrets, maybe your fantasies and just chill. And obviously, chocolate and wine." These words shed light on a perspective that transcends the usual clamor and chaos of modern life.

People, indeed have a lot to say after watching Cooke's follow-up video on the platform. @fearlessthrill shared, "Wait, wine? The altitude makes you drunker, that's why she's so introspective." Whereas, @alexisbrookestarr shared same thought as Ms Pat and added, "I do this sometimes, but I wear my airpods on silent so I don't seem weird." @brother.jacob chimed in and said, "I have ADHD and this sounds amazing to me. I'd love 9 hours to think, reflect and recharge! Sometimes, I drive in silent to have some downtime."

Moreover, as you grow older, you realize what you want and need. Along with that, you also stop worrying about what others might think. Just as Ms. Pat chose to stay in her own world for flights because it allowed her to introspect, this grandma chose to become an influencer at 100 years. Mildred Kirschenbaum drives, works out and trades, all while dishing out wonderful advice to people online.

Her daughter, Gayle Kirschenbaum, 68, shared, "She has no censor, she loves attention and she's an extrovert. She'll walk into the clubhouse, and it's like the queen has arrived and this is her court. She lives life to the fullest. She is not riddled with fears." She inspires other elderly people to always stay connected with what's going on around the world and adopt modern technology.