Not only do US airports make me take my shoes off, many of them now have the "naked picture machines" instead of regular metal detectors. I was presented with

Not only do US airports make me take my shoes off, many of them now have the "naked picture machines" instead of regular metal detectors. I was presented with those twice recently. The first time I went through it, then afterward the attendant frisked me anyway, including an incredibly awkward "search" of my hair. If they need to X-ray my shoes and search my hair by hand, what use is the naked picture machine? So the second time I opted out. I was lucky enough to get a gentleman who was quite amicable and professional. And I served as a spectacle for the other passengers--a visible warning of what awaited them if they decided not to let the TSA see inside their clothes. On another flight, I visited the Delta business class lounge. This was the first and only time I encountered a business class lounge with no actual food inside. British has a freaking restaurant in some of theirs. Delta had potato chips and similar stuff that nobody should eat, much less people about to sit for a dozen hours. So I went out, bought some food, and brought it back. The counter staff abruptly informed me that outside food is not allowed. Only pure junk food may be consumed in the Delta lounge!