Booked ZRH to ABZ via LHR using Avios pre devaluation. All flights in ET. Trip took place last weekend. Since my almost 5 year old daughter loves flying and lounges (she’ll become a lounge expert
) this booking was made for both of us and we were very looking forward to this weekend journey! Plus mommy got a break from us as well – lol.
Friday, ZRH-LHR
Bag checked in and ready to go thru security with no one in line. Next stop: One World lounge. We arrived at the lounge shortly before 5pm just to find out that our flight will leave from the E-gates. So quickly daddy had a coffee and little one grabbed as many gummy bears as she could, then off to the metro which took us to the E-Gates where we went to the Panorama lounge. There were only a hand full of passengers in the lounge at that time. Staff was about to set up hot dinner which was vegetable cream soup, a meat-dumpling dish and spaetzle with broccoli. Tried the latter two and both dishes were very tasty ^ ! While I was checking out departing planes from the outdoor terrace, Little Princess was watching Little Princess on YouTube at the deserted business center. What a relaxed way to start the weekend… Well unfortunately our flight got pushed back to 7pm due to late incoming aircraft. So far so good, we should still be able to make our connecting flight to the north and there was time left for a glass of vino. The delay however turned out to be more complicated and finally we took off after 8:00pm.
Once at Heathrow domestic connections checkpoint (this was at around 8:40pm) we’ve been told that the ABZ flight is closing and won’t wait for us. Staff sent us to the transfer counter f and new arrangements were made. We were not the only ones with this destiny, it seemed other fellow passengers have also missed their domestic connections. Well, well, we’ve got rebooked onto next days' 9:55am flight and received a bunch of coupons good for dinner, brekkie, hotel hoppa and overnight stay at the Heathrow Sheraton (sadly the Sofitel allotment was already gone for the day). After asking, we also received two overnite kits available only in unisex edition. My daughter and I were cracking up when she put on the provided XL t-shirt as her pajama replacement. Of course she also had to try out all other amenities such as lotion and deodorant but not the toothpaste as it was “too spicy” for her taste. Ok no worries, we’ll skip it for tonight but don’t tell mommy ;-)
Dinner voucher was only good for the buffet. There was a pizza oven as well in the dining room but we were told that pizza is extra charge. The buffet did not really appeal to us and while we were about to leave the place, a lovely staff member approached us and said that they can do an exception and prepare a child size pepperoni pizza and even sent it to our room – wow how thoughtful, this extra treatment was really appreciated!
Saturday, flight LHR-ABZ
Quick bite at the hotel restaurant then transfer to Heathrow where we stopped at the pre-screening area and properly stored the overnite kits’ bottles into those plastic zipper bags. This may sound boring but if travelling with a 5 year old, it’s fun to take time for such little things and make a game out of it: Whoever finishes first - wins, ha ha!
No line at security and off to the north lounge which was (to my surprise) not busy at all. Another cartoon session and then proceeded to the plane which was assigned to a gate right below the lounge. Everything on time and another lovely crew. When they passed by with the snack basked we could not decide between cookies, trail mix or crisps so the flight attendant said why don’t you try them all?!
Upon arrival in ABZ we found out that our checked bag did not make it! Filed a report with Swissport and then we headed to the Marriott where we relaxed a bit and finally could start enjoying our daddy-daughter weekend in Scotland!
The hotel was well aware of our delayed arrival and now on top of that we told them that our suitcase did not make it. The friendly shuttle driver shortly after knocked on our door and handed over some sweet and savory treats as well as a whisky baby bottle saying that we probably need this after such a journey! How nice is that!!! “Scottish hospitality at its best”
Sunday, flight ABZ-LHR
After a swim in the hotel pool we packed up and shuttled to the airport. I love those small airports a lot – short walking distance, fewer queues and when ready to board, the plane is just a few steps parked away from the gate, fantastic! We had some time left to enjoy the lounge where we snacked on some cheese, sandwiches and a sparkly for daddy. Soon our flight was ready to board and we had another ABC row for the two of us plus Mr. Teddy Bear who always got the middle seat. Another very nice and professional crew who really took care of us! It’s amazing how a great crew can make you forget bad experiences the day before! Smooth flight and landed on time.
First time for us to connect domestically into LHR. Why is there no security screening?? Or in other words why IS there a screening when you connect internationally into LHR? I don’t really get the point? Are international connectors not considered “safe”? Anyway we liked the short and hassle-free walk back into T5 departure hall.
Same day, flight LHR-ZRH
Quite a rare situation, our flight left from the “C” gates! So we walked thru the main terminal, stopped at the duty free where little Miss did sample some perfumes, then off to the train. Boarding started on time and we were given another empty 3 seating row. This was still a “snack-flight” with the packed goodies on offer. It would have been nice to get a sandwich or wrap (or the much dreaded afternoon tea in club) by now. But hey I’m not complaining, we had another fab crew who was happy to serve you a second drink. On time arrival at our final destination. Waiting time for the suitcase was less than 5 minutes, then exit the terminal where we were picked up by mommy and baby boy.
Closing comments:
We had a blast; but due to the circumstances, time in Aberdeen was too short. Definitely on my list to come back to Scotland for a longer stay. Loved this place and the locals!
Have sent in a claim for EC/261, curious about the outcome.
Have prepared flight certificates for my daughter for all 4 legs which we handed out to the cabin crew and flight deck. Got them all back - signed and with nice farewell comments. One flight we were invited to check out the cockpit after landing.
Will do such a trip again but probably be more cautious with connecting flights, may just book flights from A to B – period.
Hope you enjoyed reading. Your comments are more than welcome!