It’s a summer Friday afternoon at the office and all you can think about is: “anywhere but here”!
Really, anywhere? In that case, hop aboard the Mystery Flight with Capital Airlines circa 1950…
You might end up in the Alps, you might find yourself sipping mojitos on the beach, so pack accordingly. This lady has the right idea ↑.
LIFE photographer Alfred Eisenstaedt is coming along for the ride, to photograph this bizarre new travel stunt masterminded by British entrepreneur and holiday camp king, Billy Butlin, who plans to expand his holiday camp empire stateside. Fellow participants of the mystery flight have paid $129 (over a thousand bucks) to board a mystery flight to somewhere. But we’ll just tag along for free…
Are we off to Bermuda or will we really be needing those skis where we’re going? You’re guess is as good as anyones…
All aboard and it’s time to get those maps out and let the guessing game begin!
Some passengers are a little more eager to find out where we’re headed…
And at the back of the plane, all bets are on!
Just as the passengers finally start to settle down, the plane begins its descent…
Everyone rushes to the window to see the mystery destination…
White sandy beach? Check. Welcome hors d’oeuvres on silver platters? Check.
Welcome to the Bahamas, boys and girls!
A holiday shop upon arrival for stocking up on all the summer essentials you didn’t pack? Check.
Don’t all push at once!
Aaaaand, proceed to paradise….
Have a good weekend friends, wherever your mind escapes to.
Photos by Alfred Eisenstaedt for LIFE magazine.
