Traveling on an airplane lost it’s glamor years ago. Gone are the days when we dressed up to fly somewhere or found it exciting to meet friends and family at the gate when they arrived. While changes in security now force us to wait closer to the ticket counters than the gate, most of us wait in the car outside the baggage claim area.
That said, I still get excited about flying. When we are leaving home, the beginning of the journey and the unknown adventures ahead captivate me. The trip home brings the joy of returning to the familiar. Either way, the flight itself is always interesting.
Paul and I are fortunate this trip to have scored first class tickets using air miles. Sitting in the front of the plane certainly has it’s benefits.
Our flight home began at Heathrow. Almost everyone we talked to had no kind words for this airport. Well, first class tickets make Heathrow a joy. Our check in was in an area separate from the masses. We went through security in a fast pass, by invitation only line, we waited for our flight in the American Airlines lounge. As an aside, this is a terrific lounge – good food, fast wifi, all the amenities were first class.
The first class cabin on the plane is amazing. Each seat is in it’s own cubbyhole. The seats recline completely so you can curl up under your quilt for a nap. The rows are one seat on the exterior and two seats, side by side in the center. In addition to the usual adjustments of reclining and foot rests, the seats in the center swivel so you can face your traveling partner for dining or a game of gin rummy. Not a bad way to spend several hours flying across the pond.
So, for now, we will upgrade from our usual, beer to champagne. Darn, no caviar on this flight.
Next stop Chicago – clear immigration and customs, then continue towards home.
