If you spend a lot of time in the airport for business- especially if you travel the same markets week after week - you come to know the airline employees and perhaps even the flight attendants.

With heightened security, there have been lots of tips published on what to take and what not to, what shoes to wear in the airport for slip-on ease, etc. But have you ever given any thought to the fact that flight attendants might have a few tips for making the actual flying time more enjoyable?

I'm going to side step for a moment - think of your favorite restaurant - they know your name, they have your favorite beverage all ready for you, they ask things like "will you have the USUAL tonight?" You know the wait staff by name and tip them generously to ensure they provide the best service each time.

Well, the same extra special service is available with flight attendants as well. I have to confess, I have never given it any thought, but next time you travel, you might consider saying thank you and how much you appreciate the service and attention they provide:

Tipping is not encouraged by the airlines, but greatly appreciated by the staff. The key is insisting that we take the money; we're not allowed to accept it on the first attempt. I make doubly sure to attend to the needs of anyone who has tipped me, sometimes throwing in a free round--and the drinks are always strong. Another way to the crew's heart is to give them snacks. Day in, day out, we stare at the same dull airline food. So we're overjoyed when a passenger treats us with fancy chocolates or even packaged trail mix. Simply wait until boarding is complete, hand the gift to a flight attendant, and say, "This is a little something for your crew."

They also have a few pet peeves. For the full CONFESSION click here.