5hours @ NRT

I've never had a problem at NRT security and this time is no different. I head to the RCC to meet a FT friend as we cross paths on our different Mileage Runs. Now, I don't have a FlyerTalk tag on my bag at this time (I do now though ) so I wonder how we'll possibly find each other. But, I do have my Trip Reports with the logo prominent so carry them in my hand as I do the rounds. Stopping every once in a while for another bite/coffee, or to chat to another traveller. I hop between floors a bit and even the other RCC, just in case. Even pop by the gate. Back at the RCC I ask them to page a friend, and they do. Remember that if you need it. They are so nice here in NRT. No response and his flight's gone so I head down to the shower area, freshen up <ahhh> and head over to the Silver Kris lounge, stopping to check out the duty free on the way.

The attendant greets me, checks BP and MP card. As she's signing me in she notices my departure time (8:00pm) and appologises that they close at 6:30. No problem I say. Just glad to be here. Wow, it the first time I've seen it busy here. Their flight to SIN has yet to depart and I find myself searching for a seat, but secure one right away. The sushi, snacks, sandwiches are all being eaten and replaced just as quickly. The talbes are being cleaned just as quickly. Service here is top notch. I grab a bite or 3 and have a chat to the other travellers. Is seems that the flight is delayed at least by a half hour and the lounge is getting even busier. But that doesn't stop them from replacing the food as quickly as it's taken. Yes, it was busy, but still a great oasis. I decide to leave about 7pm, say thanks, and I'm off.

A bit of souvenier shopping at the electronic shop. Also I check the price of the Sony NR headsets. NC-11 for 112,000Y (I think), but decide not to. I'm still through again in another week.

Another quick stop in the RCC to use the Internet on the lower level.(Boy, it's quiet here, last flight outsoon, I guess) They've got their own browser and I find Control-Alt-Delete starts it up to access Explorer. I pop off a few emails and here the boarding announcement. Normally I leave boarding until late, but am starting to get drowsy, so I head up to the gate.

Wow, I'm tired and getting a headache/grumpy. I don't remember being this tired last time. Right, last time we took a few hours in the Day Rooms. I recommend getting a few hours sleep in here. The double day rooms are often full , but the singles are usually vacant ($5/hr single & $8/hr double). They also have showers (if you don't have lounge access) For $4 but I recommend against that as they are so small that it's hard to move around.They tend to get quite steamy too. Each of the day rooms have showers and that is a better choice.

Now at the gate, boarding has begun. As I pass my boarding pass, the lady hands me an envelope from the FTer I was to meet. He got time to write me a note as they shuffled him from his late flight to his departing gate and they held it and probably checked each persons name during boarding until they found me. Now THAT'S GREAT SERVICE! NRT & UA = (BTW thanks again for the note, nice gesture. we'll connect again another time)