1. The Truth About Mobile Devices

No, the plane isn’t going to go down if you accidentally leave your phone on. However, the likelihood is you won’t be the only one who forgot (or intentionally dismissed the crew’s instructions). There are actually two reasons passengers are urged to stow their portable electronic devices.

Although cellular signals are unlikely to seriously interrupt vital equipment communication, they can interfere with air traffic control frequencies, which is particularly annoying during take-off and landing. Also, electronic gadgets can become flying projectiles if they aren’t secured. Seriously, who wants a flying laptop hitting them in the head?

 

 

2. What are the Secrets Behind Upgrades?

Upgrades are the coveted jackpot prize of the air travel world. If you aren’t a frequent flier, first of all, it helps if you’re not a rude slob. It will definitely work in your favor if you’re very nice, attractive, extremely tall, pregnant, well dressed or a friend of the flight crew.

According to an anonymous flight attendant, there’s a little-known possibility to get an upgrade to business or first class even after the cabin doors close. It doesn’t occur very often, however, because the crew has to file a report on the move. It also depends on meal and seating availability.

 

 

3. The Devil in Diet Coke

Flight attendants hate it when passenger order Diet Coke as the beverage cart goes around. The extremely carbonated fizz in Diet Coke takes forever to settle at a cruising altitude of 35,000 feet and takes the most time out of all the beverages to pour.

According to flight attendant accounts, paying attention not to overflow a cup full of Diet Coke means it takes about three times as long to pour the soft drink from the can as it does for other drinks. Don’t fret, they’ll still serve you even if they’re bubbling with frustration.

 

 

4.  Are Crew Members Allowed to Date Passengers?

This might come as a shocker these days, but many big-name airlines don’t have a policy against flight attendants fraternizing with passengers. Although flight attendants are often fighting off unwanted attention, they are also free to meet a potential partner if they so choose.

The “Coffee, Tea or Me?” era is long gone, but flight attendants seek love just like the rest of us. That being said, of course, their professional duties are the priority. But there are plenty of stories about flight attendants who have met romantic interests through their line of work.

 

 

5. What’s Up with the ‘Mile-High Club?’

Given what we now know about the state of airplane bathrooms, we think the fabled “Mile-High Club” might not be as sexy as it’s cracked out to seem. While it’s not completely unheard of, it’s certainly no easy task to pull off with attentive flight attendants always on the watch.

While it’s not entirely illegal (or comfortable/sanitary), getting caught in the act can have a range of repercussions related to charges of indecent exposure or interfering with the flight crew. Here’s another little secret too: lavatory doors can be unlocked from the outside (for safety purposes).

 

 

6. Just How Unhealthy is Airplane Food?

We’ve all asked ourselves if those pre-packaged bundles provided for in-flight meals are made of natural ingredients, or if they’re more like the processed (somewhat) edible substances astronauts eat. The lack of an ingredient list might be for the best though. It’s been said ignorance is bliss…

Well, it turns out these mid-flight morsels have basically zero nutritional value as they are loaded with salt, sugar, fat and simple carbs. Our recommendation: load up on snacks before you board, especially if you’re health conscious or a frequent flyer.

 

 

7. The Truth About Air Marshals

Just like Melissa McCarthy’s character in “Bridesmaids,” you’ll probably never know where an air marshal keeps their gun. Then again, you probably never even be able to recognize who the air marshal on your flight is (if there is one).

Although air marshals largely fly incognito, their presence has been bolstered since 9/11. In the US, these covert law enforcement officials who protect against onboard criminal and terrorist activity aren’t necessarily on every single trip. Airlines in other countries (Israel’s flagship airline, El Al, for example) do.

Don’t miss the coming flight secrets that are bound to completely surprise you!

 

 

8. What the Crew is Really Doing While Greeting Passengers

You may think the greeting by the flight crew upon entering the aircraft is a polite formality, but really there’s a lot more to it than that. Of course, the practice is intended to make passengers feel welcome and comfortable, but it’s also used by the crew as an assessment.

The flight staff uses this time to eye passengers who may become problematic or others who could be helpful during an emergency. Apart from reading passengers’ attitudes, they look for people who are intoxicated, physically fit, physically disabled, traveling alone or in a group and those who speak (at least enough) English.

 

 

9. How Sturdy are Airplanes?

Ever wondered just how thoroughly airplanes are checked before they take off? Well, there is a very extensive list of constraints that need to be checked before a flight. However, there’s a threshold for minor failures that can go unattended to avoid delays. Don’t worry, though, these aren’t supposed to affect safety provisions.

In terms of in-flight safety, planes can handle thunderstorms and often even get struck by lightning without causing damage. Pilots are usually aware of weather before take-off. But buckle up as most turbulence-related injuries happen to those who don’t have their seat belt fastened or when unsecured items go flying across the cabin.

 

 

10. What’s it Worth to be a Flight Attendant?

It may sound glamorous to be able to travel the world (or nation) as your job. The truth is flight attendants have a hectic schedule and are constantly busy, and they are only paid once the main cabin doors are shut or once the flight is airborne.

That means delays and cancellations are just as annoying, if not more, for them as they don’t necessarily get paid if the plane doesn’t leave the gate. Different airlines have different policies on payment but still, think about that the next time you’re impatiently sitting on the tarmac.

 

 

11. What’s Up with the Brace Position Myth?

According to commercial aviation safety procedures, passengers are told to adopt a position to brace themselves for impact. Conspiracies about the position being a means of facilitating a quicker death have floated around for years, but experts say it’s a myth.

The position is meant to compact the body and protect vitals from injury. The position also facilitates force of a crash to channel into the chair in front of you, instead of through the body. If you don’t believe us, check out “MythBusters.”

 

 

12. Will Your Overweight Suitcase Bring Down the Plane?

It’s annoying to get slammed with additional fees for overweight or additional luggage, but the truth of the matter is that a few extra pounds aren’t going to bring the plane down. Planes are designed to transport at least one stowed bag per passenger.

In order to maintain this weight balance to have the right center of gravity for takeoff, the airline industry has employed a longtime practice of loading (in some cases, even up to 600 pounds of) sandbags into the cargo hold to even out the weight.

 

 

13. What Happens if There’s a Medical Emergency on a Plane?

Flight attendants are trained to act as first responders to a medical emergency on a plane. They can administer CPR and perform the Heimlich maneuver. All planes are equipped with first aid kits and those carrying more than 30 passengers have defibrillators.

Most times, the cabin crew will page the passengers to see if there’s a doctor onboard. In grave situations, a pilot can decide to divert and ground the plane. This usually takes about 15 minutes on domestic flights but can be more difficult on overseas trips.

Scroll on to the next page that will make you think again about your travel companions.

 

 

14. Just How Cozy Should You Get?

Travelling in a cramped cabin with pressurized air and tons of strangers is usually not a pleasurable experience. Although those ubiquitously popular neck pillows have done wonders for our relative comfort, there one thing you should NEVER do in your attempt to get cozy.

You might want to get up every now and then to stretch your legs out, and that’s fine. Just remember to keep your shoes and socks on. Traipsing around barefoot on a plane is arguably one of the grossest things to do while traveling. People have “accidents” and injuries, and in-flight cleaning resources are limited.

 

 

15. Why it’s Worth it to be Nice

Being polite to your flight attendant is definitely an appreciated behavior. Think, how would you feel if you were running from flight to flight without many naps and had to ensure the safety and comfort of hundreds of passengers every day.

Making a good impression on a flight attendant can make an impact when it comes to getting in the running for a better seat. That being said, rude or unruly behavior could land you a spot smack dab in the middle of a bunch of babies and children. Hint: these little people cry…A LOT!

 

 

16. How Clean is the Water?

As a rule thumb, you should NEVER drink water from the lavatory tap on airplanes. But the potable water used in coffee and tea is safe to stomach, right? Well…according to the account of many flight attendants, it sounds like it’s best to stick to the bottled beverages and get your caffeine fix on the ground.

Although the tanks for those drinks are cleaned, there still remains the question of how often those custodial tasks are performed. Apparently, the answer is not as often as you would think, and the valve for cleaning lavatory waste is pretty close to the one for filling clean water. That’s a bummer for those long, international trips.

 

 

17.  The Reality of a Flight Attendant’s Lifestyle

Maybe you have an idea from Gwyneth Paltrow’s movie “View from the Top.” There are plenty of romanticized visions about the glamor of being part of a flight crew. But, that’s not generally what it’s like for flight attendants. Being a flight attendant is vastly different from a 9-to-5 job.

The hours are demanding, not to mention the constant jet lag and time spent away from loved ones. There are a lot of 4 a.m. wake up calls and weekend, night and holiday hours. In addition, seniority dictates the when and where flight attendants fly.

 

 

18.  How Much Power Does the Pilot Have?

Basically, a lot. The pilot has ultimate authority on a plane, including command decisions, leading the crew, handling emergencies and troublesome passengers. Despite the urban legend, the captain cannot make arrests mid-flight. However, in emergencies, they can contact authorities who will meet the plane once it lands and arrest the problematic person.

Although they cannot make arrests in the legal sense, a commercial pilot can give orders to place someone in handcuffs or restraints in-air if they are deemed to be endangering the safety of the flight. Did you know, pilots can even take a dying passenger’s will?

The next airplane secret will probably change your travel habits, keep reading!

 

 

19. How Clean are Planes, Really?

Maybe it’s better not to ask this one. You’ve likely seen turnover crews vacuuming and emptying trash from the cabin, but what about those tray tables, armrests and windows? It’s probably best if you just bring disinfectant wipes with you, to tell the truth.

The quick turnover between flights means airplanes don’t go through deep cleans as often as you might hope. The FAA isn’t in charge of the frequency or thoroughness of plane cleanliness, meaning the airlines can make their own decisions on the matter.

 

 

20. What Does the Crew Eat?

In general, those in the cockpit don’t eat the same meal (or share food) while they are on the job. It might seem arbitrary, but the guideline is intended to prevent food poisoning. When you think about it, it’s probably best that those flying a plane aren’t constantly running to the restroom.

On international hauls there are crew meals, but not on domestic flights. Depending on the airline and the pilot’s discrepancy, the pilot gets the first class meal while the co-pilot receive a business class meal. Nonetheless, many members of the flight crew opt to bring their own rations for the journey.

 

 

21. What Happens to Unused Food After a Flight?

This decision is up to every airline, but in general, it’s thrown in the dump. We already have enough questions about the food, so it’s probably best to know that this is its fate. Most airplane grub is mass produced by airline-contracted catering services.

One travel catering expert has said that although these provisions claim to be freshly prepared, the majority of plane food is prepared between 12 and 72 hours ahead of time and can be chilled for up to five days according to international standards.

 

 

22. What is Proper Passenger Etiquette?

Flight attendants are not there to be babysitters or wait staff. Although part of their job is to serve food and beverages, their responsibilities are much more expansive. The flight staff is trained to do CPR, use EpiPens, AEDs and defibrillators. Also, don’t call them “stewardesses” anymore.

They are also trained in self-defense and how to handle a situation in which there is an unruly passenger, emergency evacuation or attempted hijacking. One of their main duties is to guard the holy grail of the plane, the cockpit, to keep anyone who shouldn’t from entering during the flight.

 

 

23. How Safe is it to Fly?

No matter the length of a trip, the most dangerous part of any flight is take-off and landing. Control of the plane is basically completely in the hand of the pilots during those times. That margin for human error means those periods are most prone to problems.

Statistically speaking, however, it is much safer to fly than to drive. According to US government research, the odds of being in a fatal motor vehicle accident is 1 in 98, while the odd for being in an air crash catastrophe is 1 in 7,178 in a lifetime.

There are more surprising facts to come about the world of commercial aviation, keep reading!

 

 

24. Can the Flight Crew Sleep on Flights?

The flight crew has a grueling schedule and doesn’t have the luxury of dozing off the minute they reach their seats like the rest of us do. However, on long-haul flights, there’s a special sleeping cabin for the staff. Most Boeing 777 and 787 jets have these windowless sleeping quarters.

These sleeping pods are usually above or below the galley. Pilots also get to snooze on longer flights and are assigned rest periods during which their co-pilot mans the controls. The pilots’ sleeping berth is usually located in its own separate compartment.

 

 

25. How Drunk Can You Get on a Flight?

Those mini bottles of alcohol on airplanes may be enticing, but don’t overdo it. A flight attendant can, and will, cut you off if you’re getting a little too buzzed. It’s actually illegal to be intoxicated on a plane and it’s illegal for flight attendants to enable passengers to get drunk.

You can get up to a two-year sentence for the criminal offense of being drunk on an airplane. If that puts a damper on your travel fun, just remember: the changing cabin pressure means each glass of alcohol will affect you more than it would on land.

 

 

26. What Exactly is in the Baggage Compartment?

If you’re one of those people who watch the luggage get loaded into the plane’s cargo hold, you may have noticed some odd-shaped containers. Truth be told, it’s not just passenger baggage that’s transported in the underbelly of commercial airliners.

Among the freight that gets shipped on planes are human remains (or “HR” on the radios). That may sound disconcerting, but when people die abroad, their remains need to be repatriated. You wouldn’t necessarily know this was the case unless you spotted a particularly-shaped wood-framed box.

 

 

27. Why are Lights the Dimmed Before Landing?

It may seem like an atmospheric gimmick, but the cabin lights in commercial flights are actually dimmed at night for take-off and landing for a more serious reason. Hint: it has to do with the fact that those are the times when a flight is most prone to problems.

The real reason for the darkened cabin is to allow the eyes to adjust to the lack of light in case of an emergency. The emergency path-lighting and lit signs also become more visible in this situation. This can all help with orientation in each valuable minute of an evacuation or accident.

 

 

28. Is Plane Air Safe to Breathe?

The thought of contracting airborne viruses is something we’d perhaps prefer to ignore while traveling by plane. However, questions about the effectiveness of cabin ventilation systems are definitely something we’ve all wondered about amid the coughs and sneezes in the cramped enclosure.

Despite the rare horror stories, it turns out that plane air is relatively clean. What you are breathing, though, is air from the engine’s compressors (not the engine’s exhaust). What’s known as the “bleed air” system combines recirculated and fresh breathable air. Basically, it’s pretty akin to the air found in an average office.

 

 

29. Can a Plane Fly Without an Engine?

You betcha! Although you probably wouldn’t notice if it were to happen… Though it is extremely rare for a plane to experience engine failure, present-day passenger jets are (thankfully!) equipped to continue flying safely even if one engine isn’t working.

Even if both engines fail, a plane can glide approximately 1.5 nautical miles for every 1,000 feet of altitude (typical commercial jets cruises at about 30,000 feet). Rest assured, pilots are trained on how to make planes glide as far as possible, although you’d probably never know if it was happening.

 

 

30. How Clean Are In-Flight Blankets and Pillows?

Maybe they’re not as bad as the tray tables – which have been found to be the dirtiest part of planes – but those courtesy blankets, pillows and even headphones aren’t really very fresh. Although they are repackaged with plastic wrap, airplane amenities aren’t usually new.

For the most part, they don’t even get washed. In coach class, you’re more likely to find fresh blankets on early morning flights. But, they generally just get stuffed back in the bins and folded between flights before they’re passed on to the next passengers.

 

 

31. What Is It Like for Pets to Fly?

For years, a debate has raged over the best way to travel on planes with pets. While flying is undoubtedly stressful for animals, and their owners, here’s what even the best trained, most prepared pet owners should know before packing up their pup…

One aircraft fueler took to Reddit to give some words of advice. While the fueler explained that in most cases, the airline will attempt to handle pet travel as best as possible, factors like noise on the ramp can’t be avoided.

There are more shocking facts about airplane travel where that came from, read on!

 

 

32. Why are Flights so Expensive?

Hopeful passengers are used to moaning and groaning over what seem to be ever-inflating flight costs. It seems there is a ridiculous fee for everything these days. In fact, a plane has to fly at 85% capacity for the airline to make a meager profit off of a ticket.

The majority of airline profits come from baggage fees, seat fees and any other cost they can tack on. Given the fact that airplanes need a certain amount of passengers to make money and that people often miss flights for various reasons, flights are often overbooked.

 

 

33. Is There a Certain ‘Look’ for Flight Attendants?

While antiquated airline rules regulated a rigid set of criteria when it came to the age, weight and personal grooming of flight attendants, most flight staff are not pursuant to such strict (and if we may say, sexist) standards anymore.

Although there is an emphasis on appearance and professional presentation, most airlines have lightened up on the outdated restrictions of the past. Many airlines do have height parameters, though, to ensure that their employees can comfortably move about the cabin to perform their duties.

 

 

34. How Long do the Oxygen Masks Last?

You’ve likely heard the precautionary speech about oxygen masks so many times you could recite it by now. Although it’s rare that a plane would find itself in a situation that would necessitate the use of those drop-down masks, you might have wondered how long they actually work.

As it turns out, the masks usually supply about 15 minutes worth of oxygen. That may not sound like a lot but take a deep breath. During that time, the pilot is fervently working to descend to an altitude that will equalize the cabin pressure and make it easier to breathe.

 

 

35. How Common are Relationships Between Crew Members?

In short, the answer is very. Although it may sound stereotypical, there are cases of pilots and flight attendants, and flight attendants and flight attendants hooking up. The long and difficult hours spent working in close proximity to these people makes it easier to relate to one another.

Some couples that are already in relationships even chose to fly together. We’ve all seen the movies where the hunky pilot and good looking flight attendant get together in the hotel during the layover. Even though that’s less common these days as it was in, say, the 60s, it’s still possible.

Don’t miss the last couple of pages that answer the plane questions you always wondered about.

 

 

36. Does the Flight Crew Have a Secret Communication Code?

Airplane crews have a lot of responsibilities and sometimes they need to communicate certain things without the passengers knowing. As it turns out, there are subtle codes used to indicate what’s going on. While it seems there are infinite chimes and beeps during a flight, there are specific functions for those noises that aren’t just the call button.

According to insiders, the “dings” that sound during the first and last legs of a flight single to the crew that the most dangerous stages are over. There are other bells for an emergency, severe turbulence or when someone tries to get into the cockpit.

 

 

37. Does a Cheaper Ticket Mean a Less Safe Flight?

If you’ve ever wondered whether flying on a budget airline or purchasing discount tickets inevitably means you taking a gamble on safety, there’s no need to fret. There are a lot of elements considered in the complex system of ticket pricing.

Airlines can customize certain aspects such as leg room amenities, seat selection and baggage fees to cut corners in ticket costs. However, they can’t compromise safety constraints. In fact, given the newness of many budget airline fleets, those aircraft could be safer.

 

 

38. Where’s the Safest Place to Sit on a Plane?

According to statistical studies of aircraft crashes, seats in the rear of a plane have the highest rates of survival. Various analysis of crash data indicates that the rear third of the plane holds a somewhat higher survival rate compared to the middle or front thirds.

Of course, chances for survival are increased with a fastened seat belt, aisle seat or seat near an exit. While fatal plane crashes are extremely rare, survival rates vastly depend on the circumstances of the accident more than seating. Luckily, according to US government analysis, the majority of airplane accidents are survivable.

 

 

39. How Often is Autopilot Used?

Don’t freak out, but the chances that a computer is flying your plane are actually very high. Well, at least for the majority of the trip. According to standard procedure, pilots activate autopilot for about 90% of most commercial flights.

While a human touch is needed for take-off, landing and taxing to the gate, the autopilot system is engaged for most of the cruising period. That doesn’t mean the cockpit crew is sitting around bored, but autopilot frees them to focus on tasks such as navigation and systems and communication operation.

 

 

40. When is the Best Time to Fly?

Flight crews are the ultimate frequent fliers. Therefore, it’s no surprise that they have some tips on choosing the best time of day to fly. We’ll give you the bad news first: you’ll have to set your alarm clock early. Good news: you’ll be more likely to avoid inclement weather.

Although nothing is guaranteed, insiders say there is less of a likelihood of turbulence on morning flights as air is less bumpy earlier in the day. Those AM journeys are also less likely to run into thunderstorms. Don’t worry, you can always nap during the smooth ride.

Don’t forget to SHARE this article with all of your “wanderlust” friends!

Sources: Business Insider, The Week, Best Life Online

1. Our House, In The Middle Of Our Street

There are many mysteries that perplex us in our day and age. What really happens in the Bermuda Triangle? Could Bigfoot possibly be real? Is there life on Mars? But most pressing of all, we’ve simply got to know who was responsible for this jaw-dropping urban design fail.

Never mind the fact that there’s a major boulevard already there. Forget the concept of straight parallel lines. Honestly, this construction wonder deserves an award for sheer boldness. When the mayor said, “Let’s find a way around our housing crisis”, this is probably not what he had in mind.
 

 

2. Well Alright Then

This architecture fail simply has to be turned into an art installation. Bask in the head-scratching wonder of this delightful blunder. When you ponder this structure, you can’t help but ask: what was its intended purpose? Is it meant to be understood as a monument to existentialism?

The most hilarious part of this entire spectacle is realizing just how much work must have been involved in planning its construction and putting it up. Above all else, what does one call this bizarre structure? An extremely low-speed jogger’s distraction? It’s a mystery.

 

 

3. The Happiest Place On Earth

You have to hand it to them: whoever placed this playground here seems to have had a clear vision. They wanted the jungle gym to have happy, bright colors! They even put a decorative palm tree there to make it more cheerful. It looks so inviting, doesn’t it?

After all, what parent doesn’t want their child to have a nice view as they’re romping around in the playground? There’s a few important design flaw questions to ask here though. Why is there no sand pit? And most importantly, at least put up a railing!
 

 

4. Vertically Challenged

Don’t jump to any conclusions. People can be so sensitive these days. Really, what’s all the fuss about? When you’ve got no cell phone battery left after a long day out riding your elephant, who wants to dismount their steed in order to make a call? Have some consideration!

For the rest of us mere commoners out there who don’t have an elephant at our disposal, it’s a tough and unforgiving world out there. You really have to find some sympathy for this woman. She didn’t choose to be born so short!

 

 

5. Nice To Meet You

Dudes, you might see this as a fail, but it’s really an opportunity. Who’s to say there’s only one purpose of your trip to the restroom? In today’s world, our reliance on technology has made it that much harder to make new friends. What better place to do it than here?

The only unfortunate part of this is that you’ll have to make acquaintances with your backs turned. But don’t get too carried away, and remember proper urinal buddy etiquette: the only acceptable discussion topics are weather, sports, and music. Politics can be so divisive.

We’re still in disbelief from these next construction fails. Keep reading and check them out!
 

 

6. Wheee!

Remember these from when you were a kid? You got those awful static shocks as you went down the slide, and if it was a hot day, you could get burned! But you did it anyway, because who doesn’t love the joy of tumbling straight into a cement pit at the end?

But all jokes aside, here’s a great design idea to give that slide the upgrade it needs to take it from cool to awesome: keep digging that hole, and build an underground pool! That slide ride could be the thrill of your life.
 

 

7. A Room With A View

Which came first, the chicken or the egg? Or, in this case, was the frame for the balcony put in place before the brick wall, or did they just tack this nice little addition on afterwards? Let’s hope it’s the latter, because that clearly means the architects were being thoughtful.

Don’t necessarily write this off as a design fail at first glance. This charming balcony is the perfect place for any parent to place children on timeout if they are prone to temper tantrums. What could possibly go wrong? You might want to put some flowerpots there though, for decoration.

 

 

8. Salvador Dalí’s Favorite Hotel

Surrealist painters, eat your heart out. We know you’re big fans of melting objects, so check out this melted window. That hotel room is clearly designed for people who enjoy living an alternative lifestyle and thinking outside the box. Is the room inside also at an angle?

But the biggest fail of this entire situation is the fact that this hotel’s managers are clearly missing out on an awesome marketing ploy. Why downplay this moment of sheer architectural genius? These topsy-turvy accommodations ought to be advertised as the Best Western Ever!

 

 

9. He Works Hard For The Money

In a world where we’re constantly being encouraged to go paperless (hey, Sweden did it), there’s different ways of giving people incentives to not use cash. This is one of the more, shall we say, extreme methods to encourage folks to kick their old habits.

 

But aside from the obvious inconvenience, it’s a great way to add a stretch to your daily routine — just don’t sprain anything. And again, this could actually be a great way to start a conversation with a nice stranger on the street. Go ahead, ask them for a boost!

 

 

10. Thanks

Being a bike rider in a big city can be risky. That’s why designated bike lanes are such a necessity in urban planning if you want your city to function properly. Sometimes there’s a construction fail here and there, but it’s fine as long as you cover your tracks!

The people who painted this helpful icon on the bike lane truly took every precaution to make sure that cyclists would ride safely. Not only is the gent wearing a helmet, but there’s a giant arrow warning of the pole up ahead. That should solve it!

Think that’s ridiculous? Wait for it, because there’s even more facepalm-worthy construction fails up ahead!

 

 

11. Park The Car Around Back, Jeeves

Having a house with a garage is truly a sign to the rest of the world that you’ve made a name for yourself. It’s the hallmark of financial success: you want everyone to know that not only can you afford your own home, but your own vehicle too.

This isn’t a fail, it’s actually the result of true determination. Clearly, when these homeowners spoke to their contractor, they wanted a place to show off their garage, no matter where. They could be thinking ahead, getting prepared for the times when we have flying cars.

 

 

12. For Hobbits Only

Naturally the question arises: how big is the rest of the bathroom that they decided to make it this compact? But regardless of that — why, just why? There’s literally no possible way you could turn this fabulous fail into something positive. Is this meant to correct your posture?

You have to wonder what the contractor envisioned while designing this bathroom. Imagine if this was the only toilet in the entire office. It’s bad enough for ladies, but gents — let’s just say you’re going to have to brush up on your marksmanship.

 

 

13. Darwin Awards

If you’re looking for a new hairstyle and you’re desperately low on cell phone battery, why not kill two birds with one stone? You can plug your phone in here to charge, and simultaneously get your hair to stand up like the Bride of Frankenstein! It’s a brilliant idea!

In all seriousness, we can only hope this fail is due to a severe leak in the building, and that the contractor had the sense to maybe, just maybe, keep the electrical and water systems well separated. Otherwise…there’s a few basic concepts he needs to grasp.

 

 

14. Bring Us…A Shrubbery

Nothing adds a touch of luxury to the front walkway of your home quite like having a fence with stone pillars at the entrance. It’s an excellent way to make burglars think twice. Know what else works? Small hedges. Surely you can’t fail in protecting your home with those!

One has to hope for the homeowners that this glorious fail is merely the result of unfinished work and that they’re going to extend that wall. Otherwise, they’d better think of installing an invisible force field behind those deceptive shrubs — or maybe, just maybe, hiring a different contractor.

 

 

15. Tree Huggers

Nope, not a fail — what you are witnessing are some amazing conservation efforts worthy of praise! We have to commend this Russian phone store for remembering what the real priorities in life are: making our world a better place and caring about the environment.

This is some genius engineering right here. It’s as though this tree had been growing there for generations and they were truly kind enough to construct the entire store around it, ceiling panels and all. Contractors, take note: this is how to build a healthier future!

Continue reading for more unbelievable fails that we simply can’t believe someone built.

 

 

16. Shakespeare, Interrupted

“Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou…whoops.” And just like that, Juliet’s plans for romance were unfortunately dashed by this critical design fail. On the same token, you also would be advised to not hold any reenactments of Evita from this balcony.

What was the intended purpose of these guard rails? Perhaps it’s too small to be a balcony, but then if there’s no floor beneath them, what’s the point? If you lean too far out the window it’s going to be disastrous no matter how look at it!

 

 

17. London: You’re Doing It Wrong

These charming red telephone booths have become a symbol of British culture and an absolute must for every tourist’s checklist. But with this construction fail, it’s as though they had the tourists in mind and forgot the original usage of this nice box.

You have to marvel at whoever put this piece together for truly thinking outside the box. And who knows, maybe they deserve the benefit of the doubt. Perhaps the telephone installer’s instructions were merely: “Attach the phone.” Next time, give the guy more specific directions!

 

 

18. Train In Vain

Build two train tracks that collide with each other, they said. There’s no risk factor involved whatsoever, they said. Sounds like a great way to set out on your journey from Point A to Point B, but you might want to take out some travel insurance before your trip.

We get it, travelling by train has a certain charm to it that no other form of transit has. But when you come across an engineering fail this unnerving, it will definitely make you think twice about taking the bus!

 

 

19. Squat And Deliver

Are ATMs getting too tall for you? Do you need to get money while you take a load off from your busy day? No problem at all, we’ve got you covered. With this ATM, you can take a load off and sit in comfort while you make a withdrawal.

That being said, you have to notice there’s one glaring omission here that is definitely a huge fail. If you want your customers to be comfortable, why wouldn’t you follow through with the idea and install a nice comfy chair in front of the ATM?

 

 

20. That’s A Stretch

Everyday non-superhero humans, no need to fret over this fail. You just have to remember this restroom was not necessarily designed with your needs in mind. Meanwhile, for Spiderman, this is not an issue. What, you thought he only shoots webs to climb buildings?

Okay, regardless, you have to admit this would likely be one of the most frustrating bathrooms you could ever visit. Just be glad you have a private stall all to yourself so no one else has to see you do the waddle of shame.

Continue reading for more unbelievable fails that we simply can’t believe someone built.

 

 

21. Back Up Slowly

It must be rough growing up in this house and having a teenager. Suddenly, when you’re just beginning to try teaching them the ABCs of driving, reversing out of the driveway becomes an absolute nightmare. Seriously, what’s the problem with moving it just a few feet to the right?

Now here’s a different possible explanation: maybe this planning fail is the result of having beef with their neighbors. Think about it, what’s the best way to really tick off your neighbor without technically breaking the law? Inconvenience the heck out of them! Now that’s real creativity.

 

 

22. Politeness Tester

When entering this parking lot, don’t forget to take a ticket from the automated machine out front. You’ll need to keep that card and put it into the slot at the exit, otherwise you won’t be able to get your car out. Ah, wait, hold that thought.

You’re just going to have to be polite enough to stop here before you exit. The real fail is being so rude as to think you can drive around this boom gate. What, you can’t see the force field on the other side of it?

 

 

23. For Emergency Use Only

There’s times where a construction fail is funny, and there’s times where you just have to throw your hands up in utter disbelief. Forget using an axe to crack open this fire extinguisher cabinet. Actually, what are you meant to do with it if you need to open it?

Let’s just wish for them that in any emergency situation, the people in that building will be able to stay cool and collected enough to drill a hole in that cabinet, take the hose out from between the bars, and use it. Sounds likely, right?

 

 

24. Smooth Landing

First things first: what does the sign on the inside of the building say? That’s exactly the sort of thing one needs in an emergency when you’re panicked and trying to get out as fast as you can: face-planting as you exit. Surely there can’t be a better way?

At the bare minimum, they ought to install a pole outside of that door that people can slide like a firefighter down so they get to feel heroic as they make their escape. Or perhaps a ball pit underneath to break your fall?

 

 

25. Charming Patio

This patio is a lovely addition to this very drab brick building. Those green doors add a touch of cheer, and the owners are even confident that they can help those potted plants grow in the sunshine. There’s just one teeny little catch.

Maybe that old track has been retired and they’ve shifted the train line just a tiny bit further away. If so, then with a bit of luck and practice and a well-timed leap, you might be able to become a professional stowaway!

For more hilarious contraction fails, read on!

 

 

26. It’s In The Top One On The Left

Here, let me get that spoon for you — wait, hold on a minute. This might take a while. Really, this may be one of the most frustrating construction fails we’ve seen. Admit it, you know you can’t open it, but you wouldn’t be able to resist having a try.

This is quite the kitchen nightmare. One has to give credit to these homeowners for their incredible patience. They haven’t smashed down that pesky wall yet in order to take out their silverware! Call that contractor back, pronto — or better yet, try another one.

 

 

27. Seclusion

We’ll take our tea up in this lovely hotel alcove, where we can do some quality people-watching without being disturbed. There’s just a few kinks in that plan: how do we get the tea up there? Actually, how do we get up there? Levitation?

The funniest part of this fail is that they didn’t just construct this cozy little corner. They also furnished it, installed a window, and a vase with fresh flowers. Hey, when you know you’ve made a big construction error, at least be committed to it!

 

 

28. Watch Your Step

Whoever nailed up that caution sign clearly has a major in urban planning with a minor degree in obvious statements. What could have possibly happened in designing that top step? Did the architect want symmetry with the bottom step? Or did someone just give up believing in straight lines halfway through?

It’s almost as though that top step was deflating and just needs to get pumped back up again. We’re by no means architecture experts, but was there no possible way to level the two surfaces? This fail really makes you stop and think.

 

 

29. Best Date Spot Ever

These urban planners sure were snarky. They really, really didn’t want anyone strolling on the boardwalk to have a place to sit and enjoy the view of the seashore, but they also were thoughtful enough to not want anyone to accidentally fall onto the rocks.

You could technically drape your legs over the pole as you sit and enjoy the view with your significant other, but it’ll require a bit of agility to snake on through there in the first place. Seriously, they couldn’t move the banister just a foot forward?

 

 

30. We’re Watching You

If you’re committing a crime in this mall, please be sure that you bring a huge stepladder, climb up it, wedge yourself between the camera and this hanging television, and announce your presence. That way, you can be properly brought to justice. It’s the conscientious thing to do.

The best part of this fail is they still managed to accurately hang a big sign underneath the camera telling you that it’s there so you’ll know. We feel sorry for whoever drafts the security equipment budget for this place. Angles, people, angles!

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Sources: awesomeinventions.com, aplus.com

1. Pierce Brosnan and Keely Shaye Smith

James Bond has seduced more women than Casanova, but one-time Bond portrayer Pierce Brosnan couldn’t be more different than the legendary lethario. After meeting in 1994 in Cabo San Lucas, Pierce Brosnan and former journalist Keely Shaye Smith have been together ever since, proving to us all that it’s possible to withstand the test of time even when you’re James Bond.

On their first meeting Smith said, “He was captivating, ” adding, “He had a mischievous sparkle in his eyes.” And after 25 years and two sons, Dylan and Paris, the pair still have eyes only for each other. No Bond Girl could distract Brosnan from his bride, as he told the Express, “I think of her all the time.” Now that’s a happy marriage!

 

 

2. David Beckham and Victoria Beckham (née Adams)

These days the fashionable pair make Best Dressed lists nearly every time they step out of the house, but when you’ve been together as long David and Victoria Beckham have, you’ve seen some trends come and go (those matching purple outfits!), but their love will always be in style.

Even before meeting, David knew Victoria was the one. Watching the future Mrs. Beckham in a Spice Girls music video, the soccer superstar turned to his teammate and said, “That one there, that’s the girl I’m going to marry.” And he did! The two met in 1997 and tied the knot two years later. Since then they’ve continued to be each other’s number one fan, whether on the field or front row at Fashion Week.

 

 

3. Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos

They say when you know, you know, and these two just knew! Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos first met on the set of the long-running ABC daytime soap opera All My Children, but Ripa knew he was the one even before Consuelos’ first day on set.

A casting director showed Ripa Consuelos’ photo and it all came into focus. “I saw my entire future with him flash before my eyes,” she said. Flash is exactly the right word for these two! Kelly and Mark were married in a flash, eloping in 1996. Flash forward, and the pair won “Hottest Romance” at the 1997 Soap Opera Awards. Flash forward another twenty years and these two are still burning strong.

 

 

4. Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith

Don’t expect this outspoken pair to sugarcoat it – marriage is hard work, but more than twenty years after saying “I do” these two are still sweet on each other. And anyone in a fledgling relationship take note, because if the longevity of their marriage has proven anything, it’s that these two have the secret to success.

Despite nagging divorce rumors, these two are in it to win it. On marriage Smith smartly said, “If there is a secret I would say it is that we never went into working on our relationship. We only ever worked on ourselves individually – and then presented ourselves to one another better than we were previously.” Inspirational, no?

 

 

5. Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick

Sarah Jessica Parke and Matthew Broderick are proof positive that long careers and a long marriage can go hand in hand. For this New York power couple, it’s all about what they share, that keeps their marriage strong. But for these busy Broadway legends, it’s not just about sharing the details of the day.

These lifelong New Yorkers have been walking side by side through more than 20 years of marriage (while wearing SJP designed shoes, probably). This couple shares a love of the theater, of the city they call home, and of course, their three children. On marriage Parker has said, “I love our life,” adding, “it’s because of him that there’s this whole other world that I love.” Pretty sweet, but does the next couple actually hold the secret to a long-lasting marriage?

 

 

6. Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber

The model marriage of former-model Rande Gerber, and the original supermodel Cindy Crawford makes these two role models on and off the runway. With two top-model kids, Presley and Kaia, revving up the runways, the photogenic foursome’s lives seem pretty picture perfect.

The two strutted down the catwalk and then down the aisle in 1998. Since then they’ve made two decades of marriage look as glamorous as they are. For this ageless couple, a happy partnership is the secret behind their youthful glows. On their 20th anniversary Crawford shared, “I couldn’t have chosen a better man to do this thing called life with.”

 

 

7. Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell

Living legends Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell have a relationship so sweet it could’ve been plucked from the plot of one of their romance movies. After getting together on the set of Swing Shift in 1984, this golden-haired golden couple didn’t need to exchange rings to vow to stay together.

Celebrating more than 30 (!) years together, Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell have famously never walked down the aisle, but that hasn’t kept them from becoming one of Hollywood’s longest lasting couple. How have these two stood the test of time, according to Hawn, “You have to want to stay together, and we really want to. Therefore you work to be together.”

 

 

8. Faith Hill and Tim McGraw

Country music crooners Faith Hill and Tim McGraw sang their way into the hearts of millions before coupling up in 1996. While these Grammy winners found career success on their own, their singles just don’t sound as sweet as the duo’s duets.

Rightly regarded as Country Music Royalty, Faith Hill and Tim McGraw know just what it takes to make a twenty-plus year marriage really sing, “It’s such a rare thing to be able to experience what we do for a living, and to do it together really feels like all the moments are special.” These two are as timeless as their tunes and a ten-gallon hat.

 

 

9. Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson

Celebrity relationships don’t have the best track records when it comes to staying power, but power couple Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson definitely have what it takes to go the distance. Getting together on the set of the 1985 film Volunteers, these two have been together through it all (80s hairdos too).

Forrest Gump may have said that “life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re gonna get,” but Hanks knew exactly. The actor said, “When we first looked at each other there was definitely a kind of like, ‘Hey this is the place!’,” going on to say, “I think the end result is that we got married for all the right reasons.”

 

 

10. Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze Jr.

Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze Jr. are the celebrity coupling of our 90s teen romcom movie dreams. Meeting on the set of the 1997 movie I Know What You Did Last Summer, the Hollywood darlings didn’t rush into anything like so many young stars.

So how did these two beat the curse of young Hollywood love lost? According to Prinze Jr., “We were just friends for a good two years before we ever went on a date,” adding, “We ended up being the perfect balance. But it didn’t happen until years after and there was a solid foundation built, and that’s probably the main reason we’ve always been cool and groovy.” But is the next happily married couple’s secret just as groovy?

 

 

11. Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick

Surprise! These Hollywood mainstays met on a movie set – but unlike so many other celeb couples, it was not love at first sight, well, not for Kyra Sedgwick anyway. Bacon recalled, “I was just immediately in love with her and she was just immediately put off by me.”

Bacon knew what he was doing, and won her over. So, any celebrity couple that can make it to 30 years must know what they’re doing, right? Kevin Bacon may be footloose, but he’s not cutting loose on what makes his marriage such a breeze. The one thing Bacon will recommend? “Whatever you do, don’t listen to celebrities on advice on how to stay married. That’s my secret.”

 

 

12. Oprah Winfrey and Stedman Graham

1986 was a big year for Oprah, her titular talk show, The Oprah Winfrey Show first aired, and she met the love of her life, businessman Stedman Graham. What happens when your career and your love life take off at the same time?

Only Oprah could launch a career and a new relationship at the same time and not just succeed at both, but excel. Oprah has proved that when you work hard, you really can have it all. Winfrey and Graham are decidedly unmarried, but let their more than 30-year-union teach a lesson on life and love, sometimes, the best path to success is to write your own rules. These two sure have!

 

 

13. Hugh Jackman and Deborra-lee Furness

Fame has broken too many couples apart, but as they say, love will keep us together. Long before he suited up in that spandex suit and grew out those sideburns for his role as Wolverine, Jackman got his start on an ABC tv drama costarring, of course, Deborra-lee Furness.

The Australian twosome met on set in 1995, and while the show only ran for one season, their relationship has been running ever since. For Hugh Jackman, his role as The Greatest Showman isn’t the greatest thing to have happened to him in the course of his career, Deborra-Lee Furness is, as he told Ellen DeGeneres on her show, “She’s the greatest thing that ever happened to me and it gets better and better.” Ellen can certainly relate, she’s half of a happy Hollywood couple too!

 

 

14. Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi

Comedienne Ellen DeGeneres first made us laugh in the early 90s. Getting her start around the same time, Portia de Rossi has since become known for her comedic timing in cult-favorite tv shows Ally McBeal and Arrested Development. It would only be a matter of time before these funny ladies found each other.

Ellen and Portia began dating in 2004 and tied the knot as soon as it became legal. Ten years of marriage later and these two aren’t sharing just their senses of humor, but their humanitarianism too. In the birthday gift to top all gifts, de Rossi gifted her wife a permanent gorilla home named in her honor, the “Ellen DeGeneres Wildlife Fund.”

 

 

15. Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas

Age is just a number for these two! Right, right, you could say that about loads of couples, but for Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas, a 25-year age difference makes no difference to them, their love was written in the stars – the couple share a birthday too!

With more than one Oscar win and almost twenty years of marriage between them, Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas are in it to win it. Zeta-Jones and Douglas know what it takes to keep their marriage going for the gold. According to Zeta-Jones, “I think understanding, listening, being friends, all helps.” Douglas echoed his wife’s sentiments saying, “I think mutual respect.” We think that sounds like a winning idea. But what does the next couple on our list think is the secret to a happy marriage?

 

 

16. Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne

It may not have always been smooth sailing for these two, but Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne have overcome every obstacle to make it past their 35th wedding anniversary, looking as smitten now as they were on their wedding day way back in 1982.

After a cheating scandal involving the Black Sabbath frontman, the two worked through a near-split, coming together stronger than ever. The pair renewed their vows in 2017, and on her show The Talk, Sharon revealed, “I just had a newfound love.” Their fresh take on their long-lasting marriage is sure to keep this marriage rocking another 35 years.

 

 

17. Calista Flockhart and Harrison Ford

In 2002, as Harrison Ford was secretly separated from second wife Melissa Mathison, he began secretly dating Ally McBeal star Calista Flockhart. Even as he’s become known for playing tough, gruff leading men, Flockhart brings out the sweet side of the Star Wars star.

Shortly after going public with their romance Ford confessed, “I’m in love. Romantic love is one of the most exciting and fulfilling kinds of love and I think there is a potential for it at any stage of your life.” Fifteen years later and this high-profile pair are still flying high on their love in a plane piloted by aviation aficionado Ford.

 

 

18. Lisa Rinna and Harry Hamlin

Leave it to The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills fan-favorite couple Lisa Rinna and Harry Hamlin to get real about what it really takes to make a twenty-plus years long marriage work. And reality television naysayers take note – because this happy marriage advice is actually really good.

In a case of “Opposites Attract” Lisa Rinna and Harry Hamlin have it figure out. During an interview on LIVE with Kelly and Ryan Rinna revealed, “It’s just work. It takes work. It takes communication. It takes some luck, a lot of mutual respect.” But never one to take things too seriously Rinna added, “I don’t know, I’m the third wife. Three times is a charm, maybe.” Either way, these two are the real deal.

 

 

19. Steven Spielberg and Kate Capshaw

They have one of the longest lasting marriages in Hollywood, and maybe that’s in thanks to how long they dated before getting hitched. After meeting during the casting of Spielberg’s silver screen smash hit Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom in 1984, the two took their time.

This romance wouldn’t be doomed after Capshaw entered a different sort of temple (see what we did there?), converting from Episcopalian Christianity to Judaism in 1991 and marrying a year later. The pair have been going strong for nearly thirty years and to that we raise a glass and say l’chaim! Can we get an amen?

 

 

20. Anna Kournikova and Enrique Iglesias

While tennis champ Anna Kournikova and Grammy-winning Enrique Iglesias met like so many celeb couples, yup, you guessed it, on set (okay, a music video set, but still), that’s where their similarities to the couples on this list end. These two did something most Hollywood couples can only dream of – keep their relationship out of the press.

After meeting in 2001, the couple were all over tabloids and magazines, until gradually, they weren’t. What happened? Did they split? Nope! They’ve been together all along, managing to keep the press out of their private lives, it wasn’t until December 2017 that the two shared they were expecting twins. Congrats Anna and Enrique! But what about our next couple?

 

 

21. Sacha Baron Cohen and Isla Fisher

If age is nothing but a number for the last couple on our list, then height is nothing to these two. At 6′ 2″, Sacha Baron Cohen towers over his petite partner Isla Fisher, who is a whole foot shorter than her funnyman hubby. If height is no problem, what about Cohen’s crazy characters?

Sacha Baron Cohen is best-known for pulling some outrageous stunts, all while staying deep in character. Is there room in their more than 15-year marriage for Borat, Bruno, and Ali G? Well, she may be small, but the Fisher has a big enough personality to go toe-to-toe with her husband’s many personalities, saying that finding each other was like, “hitting the lottery.”

 

 

22. Michelle Pfeiffer and David E. Kelley

If only all blind dates ended this well, although, if your mystery date was Michelle Pfeiffer, who wouldn’t be pleasantly surprised? After being set up by a mutual friend in January 1993, this blind date turned out to be love at first sight. The couple were married later that year!

The blockbuster actress and the award winning screenwriter have the perfect balance in their Hollywood relationship. On screen or on the page, their work is something that keeps them together, “I think we want the same things for our children, want the same things out of our relationship, and we have a similar work ethic, you know, that we both love our work and we love to be challenged.”

 

 

23. Annette Bening and Warren Beatty

For decades it seemed that no woman could resist the undeniable charm of legendary ladies’ man (and iconic actor/director) Warren Beatty. After three decades as the determined bachelor, Beatty has been blissfully bound to Annette Bening for just as long as he was famously single.

Bening met Beatty when he cast her in his 1991 movie Bugsy, and it was then that the sworn bachelor broke his bad habits. With Bening he knew he’d met the one, saying “I had no doubt when I met Annette that it was time to get married.” And neither of them has ever looked back.

 

 

24. Dolly Parton and Carl Thomas Dean

Alright, all you other celebrity couples can pipe down and listen close, because the Queen of Country Miss Dolly Parton herself, has some marriage advice and y’all can’t argue with more than 50 (!) years of marriage under her bedazzled belt.

Despite Parton’s big hair, big voice, and above all, big personality, Dean has chosen to remain out of the spotlight. But for them, that’s no problem. Parton spoke for them both when she said, “We know each other so well. I know every line in Carl’s face, and he knows every hair in my wig!” Ya hear that? Know your partner people, down to every hair.

 

 

25. John Travolta and Kelly Preston

Veteran actors John Travolta and Kelly Preston met during a screen test in 1989, while Preston was married to someone else! But Travolta was taken with her right away, and so, he waited. Over 25 years of marriage have spun by since then, but these two know how to keep things interesting.

For Travolta and Preston, a long and happy marriage comes down to one thing, dancing. Preston said, “You’ve got to keep it fun, and that’s what we do,” further explaining, “we dance at home, we go dancing.” And the Saturday Night Fever star agrees, adding, “Everday is date night.”

Source: People, MSN