Sunday, April 30, 2017

Athens to Home - Day 18

It was a long day in many ways. The flights themselves were as good as can be hoped for in economy class, not that we ever travel anything but economy. I think Turkish Airlines is very nice. The entertainment is the best we have ever had, as is the food. The staff is friendly and kind. Our walk to a connecting gate wasn't as far this time, which was good because we had 3 additional security checks to board the plane. I don't mind, it is for our safety. We are not allowed to take any electronics onboard the plane, other than a cell phone, this includes cameras. Needless to say we had to check our bags. Others apparently did not heed this warning and had to get in a special line to hand over electronics when further checked. Last night I put all my photos on a USB drive so it my laptop didn't make it, I would  still have my photos and the blog is online of course. Our flight left an hour late, I suppose due to all the electronics being collected, identified, and stored for the flight. The flight was uneventful, I did doze a little and watched a few movies, none of which I can recall at the moment. 

Upon landing we proceeded as usually to Passport control. John was annoyed it was taking so long but it seemed average to me. Yes, I know about global entry but we travel overseas rarely so it doesn't seem worth the trouble and time to get this. After passport control we waited for luggage... and waited... and waited some more! Our first bag came through but we waited TWO hours for the next bag. That seems crazy. However, looking over at the VERY LONG lined for those waiting to get their confiscated electronics, I was relieved I did not have to be in that line. Of note, it was still very VERY long when we left the airport. 

Our shuttle for the parking area came quite quickly, they dropped us off right at the Jeep. John walked over to the Hilton and showed them our paid receipt so we could exit the parking while I loaded the luggage. Soon we were on our way and happy to be just about to 580, and more familiar area, before it was too dark. We made it home with a strong coffee and determination. If we did have a flight to FYI we would probably not have made the flight due to the long wait for luggage. However,  I really prefer NOT to drive home after such a long flight again.  

We fell into bed just after midnight - Thanking God once again that we had this opportunity to travel together and arrive home safely. 

No comments:

Post a Comment