Me: How do I order a coffee?
Guy behind counter: Use the iPad in front of you. If you need help, ask one of them (points to three uniformed servers milling around)
iPad: Please tell us your flight so we can keep you updated.
Me: (Scrolls through flights. Mine does not appear)
Uniformed helper: You need help?
Me: I’m trying to order a coffee. My flight isn’t listed.
Helper: (Presses a not-very-visible “skip flight” option. A menu shows up. She departs)
Me: (Finds coffee option. Presses coffee. Unselects milk and sugar option. Presses “next”. Screen shifts to “add to your check?” I press yes. Now back to the home screen. After a search, finds a document icon with a red 1. Presses it. Amount shows up with instruction to swipe credit card…)
Helper 2: Everything ok? You need help?
Me: I think it’s almost done. You sure I can’t just tell you I want a coffee?
Helper 2: (laughs) Sorry sir, this way saves time so it’s the only option.
Me: Ok. It’s quite an adventure. (Turns back to iPad, swipes debit card. Message shows up “no card reader can be initialized.” Looks over and sees the line at Cibo is down to 8 people.) Thank you – have a good morning (to the two helpers and guy behind the counter, then nodding at the other two diners).
Helper 1: Did you get your coffee?
Me: (gives her a look)
Helper 1: (laughs) Hurry, there’s only 6 people in the Cibo line
