How Did People Travel 100 Years Ago? Embark on a journey through time with SIXT.VN as we explore the fascinating world of transportation a century ago, offering insights into the travel modes of the 1920s and how they contrast with modern travel, especially in a vibrant destination like Vietnam. Discover historical travel trends, aviation history, the evolution of road trips, and the luxurious experiences of cruise travel back in the day.
1. What Was Air Travel Like in the 1920s?
Air travel in the 1920s was in its infancy, characterized by open-cockpit planes and rudimentary airports. Commercial flights were just beginning, with pioneers like Alfred W. Lawson attempting to build passenger aircraft.
The Lawson C-2 biplane airliner, for instance, completed flights from Milwaukee to New York City and Washington, DC, in 1919, marking the introduction of commercial air travel. However, early aviation faced numerous challenges, including aircraft reliability and safety, which limited its widespread adoption. Air travel was considered an exclusive and novel mode of transport, with only a select few able to afford the experience. According to the National Air and Space Museum, when Lawson tried to build a larger passenger aircraft designed to carry 34 people in 1921, it crashed in a field, bringing an end to his company. Today, SIXT.VN ensures seamless travel with convenient airport transfers and flight bookings, making your journey to and within Vietnam effortless.
2. What Were Airports Like in the Roaring Twenties?
Airports in the 1920s were far from the sprawling complexes of today; they were more akin to simple garages or fields. These early airports lacked modern amenities and sophisticated infrastructure. Passengers boarded planes through small doors at ground level, a stark contrast to the enormous terminals and insulated walkways of contemporary airports.