SXSW summed up by good design

Brilliance.

Random Social Connections

On the flight from JFK to Austin, my traveling buddy Hillary chatted up her seat mate, Mark, (or he chatted her up, not that it matters). They talked for the whole flight and by arrival in Austin had actually become friends. While in Austin for SXSW, we actually socialized with Mark. He’s interesting and fun and melded into our little social circle seamlessly. It’s yet to be seen if we will become friends in our day to day NYC lives, but I suspect we will. It’s pretty rare to meet someone so randomly but to actually have a true friend connection. This got me to thinking about how social connections happen in this internet age. Today people meet on dating websites and get married, but when’s the last time you made friends with someone you met at a coffee shop, bookstore, or museum? I just wonder how all of our technological advancements have really helped people interact in the off-line world. Have we lost our ability to interact face to face? Meeting Mark gave me a bit of hope that we’re not lost yet…

The airport experience

After arriving at JFK with a bit of time to kill before our flight (not quite intentional–there were delays), we set off to find some sort of food that could pass as dinner. As a New Yorker, I suppose I’ve been spoiled by the bevy of culinary options for a typical dinner. Airport fare is always a let down. How is it that a major international airport in a major foodie city has pre-packaged sandwiches and yogurt cups as it’s best dining option? I’d love to see a more modern airport–free wifi, outdoor gathering space (airport air gets a bit stuffy), and above all, interesting and high quality meals. At least one thing will always be the same at airports–the beer. Sam Adams helped me kill the time tonight.

Off to Chicago!

Check out my flickr photostream for cameraphone pics!