I am on my way back to London to complete my trip around the world. Well, technically, I have already been around the world having crossed the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco during a business trip in August 2008. Since then, I returned to London, worked a little bit, saw a little bit of India, Pakistan, Nepal, China, Thailand, Burma, Laos, Cambodia, Philippines, Hong Kong, New Zealand, the Cook Islands, San Francisco and then finally drove back over the Golden Gate Bridge. For this privilege I have to thank a certain Victor Knotter-Finney.
It was an experience.
To cross some rather large ponds I bought myself a round the world ticket with Star Alliance. I even treated myself to business class for the first flight out to India, which was rather good, courtesy of British Airways. I return the American way; I can't read the subtitles on the in-flight screen as its too small. There is no Video on Demand. My Headphones crackle like my brother-in-law's transistor radio set. It costs $6 dollar a drink. The leg room was designed for subterranean creatures who were only resident in Tolkien's imagination. And breakfast involved a sandwich resembling something that has sat squashed at the bottom of my rucksack for the past 10 months. Thankfully the water is still free. Which is a hard tonic after the pleasure of Air New Zealand, who know how to tranquillise a large mammal with wine.
Sorry United Airlines. But after a 10 month lapse, I've just remembered why I am allergic to traveling on US airlines.
Tracy, a colleague at work, tried to upgrade me thanks to the zillions of United miles she has accumulated over the years. Unfortunately Business class was full or I must have looked like I've been living out of a rucksack for the past ten months. Which, errr, I have been. But Tracy, a super big Thank You for trying and an even bigger one for successfully tranquillising two large mammals this afternoon with Shiraz.
So back to life after San Francisco. Many of you know that Sarah and I were planning on settling in the bay following our trip. Well, we've decided to go back to London. I've heard its been snowing there. Lots. And its cold. And Dark. And my old Job is waiting for me. And Sarah is only back in March. But it is nice to be heading back. I just wonder how long that feeling will last.
Are you still on the plane? I'd have complained by now....
Stop.... Carry on.
Posted by: Paul | Tuesday, June 15, 2010 at 10:27 PM