In a region that features one of the largest livestock markets in the world, one may expect to find a relatively paltry selection of Oklahoma restaurants offering vegetarian and vegan options.

And with the major secondary industries being oil and petroleum, one may think it just as unlikely to find businesses there devoted to eco-friendly practices.

But both of these assumptions are untrue, as OKC features a healthy assortment of vegetarian and vegan restaurants devoted to sustainable eco-friendly business models.

Here are three of the best:

(more…)

Pilots get to live the dream – flying above the clouds from continent to continent, visiting incredible places that many people only get to dream about.

However, that does not mean that the time spent in the air passes in the blink of an eye. Every flight is basically a very long flight, almost inside the same chair for the entire duration of the flight.

There is still plenty of time in travel that requires entertainment and comfort, particularly when there are two pilots manning the cockpit.

If you are a pilot, new or old, there are some things that you should have in the cockpit with you:

Healthy snacks

Focus on snack items that will keep you alert and energized while you’re in the air. Fresh fruits, vegetables and nuts are a great option. Avoiding snacks that are high in sugar will help prevent an inevitable sugar crash.

That said, some treats in moderation, especially snacks like high quality dark chocolate can definitely improve the enjoyment of time in flight. Something as simple as having a snack to look forward to can break up any long hours in the cockpit.

Water with lemon

Passengers are encouraged to stay well-hydrated while in flight, and the same rule applies to pilots. Water with lemon provides an additional level of hydration when consumed, and it tastes more refreshing.

Remaining hydrated will ensure that you are clear-headed and focused when you need to be in the cockpit.

Sleeping mask

When you co-pilot i taking over during a long flight and you have the opportunity to take a nap, improve the quality of rest by using a sleep mask. A pilot shop carries many items and gadgets designed to improve in-flight comfort for pilots (and often passengers as well). Another item that may improve physical comfort is a neck support or pillow.

Book or e-reader

When you are not the active one on duty, relaxing with a book can make travel time more enjoyable. Consider picking up something focused on the destination that you are traveling to in order to make the experience even more unique.

Everything else

Of course, there are additional items that pilots should have for their time on the ground in new locations. In order to take in the destinations, travel with a guide book. You can get a physical guide or an application for a smart phone or tablet that can help you identify the areas that you must visit, and learn more about the culture and environment of the country.

While you may not have a cell phone that works internationally to keep in touch with family and friends at home, you can get an international calling card, or simply find internet access that allows you to connect on one of your devices.

As a pilot, improving the quality of your time in travel can help you take more enjoyment from your job and your destination.

Plus, a relaxed, focused pilot is in a much better position to confront any safety issues that may occur.