The Trip Report
 

Ok people, I am lunging myself into starting this report before backing out.

Someone on my e-mail list asked for it as I was considering backing out. It is alot of work but it is also fun.

For the Flyertalk people before I start the report, please, let's hold back on the flames and the negative.

It is a trip report. Take the wars to Omni and let them have it, thanks.

I was just joking about Luftwaffe and everyone got mad. Go and ask some Germans what they think and they have far worse things than 'Luftwaffe' to call Lufthansa, etc. The airline runs Germany. I was just being cute as I have pet names for several airlines, Delta(Widget) being one of my biggest grudges, sorry Dov.

Let's have fun and I welcome comments, questions, praises, and the complaints go upstairs, 2nd floor, turn right, then fall thru the trap door. he he

Allons-Y!

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LA-Miami, Raleigh, Gatwick, Frankfurt, Heathrow, Tel Aviv/Jerusalem, LHR, Paris CDG, LHR, New York JFK, and home!
AA Plat,Lifetime Gold, UA P/E, Marriott Silver, Sheraton Gold,
Hilton Silver(for now)

Hello everyone. Let's do a trip report. I was going to try to back out of it and then someone on here really asked for it, so I guess I need to do it. It was a great trip and with many wonderful experiences and I want to share with all of you. FYI, I am posting it in a couple of places as well as sending to you my e-mail list, which keeps growing.

Feel free to ask questions or share thoughts, praises, except for Marty and Jon where I think that might take us into the next century, kidding.

Some background before we start.

I am an American Airlines Platinum member, that means that I fly American alot and I do love American, while my best friend hates the airline with a passion, and I ain't crazy about his airline(Delta,which I call Widget http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif ).

I needed to do some big flying before the end of February to rescue my coveted American status. Unfortunately, family and friends can't understand the addiction to airline elite status but please trust me when I tell you, once you get it, you really can't live without it and I was having nightmares at the thought of losing it, ok, not that bad but I really want to keep it. You can thank United for giving me my first taste to this addictive drug, starting me as a Premier frequent flier, when I had no idea what elite status even was.

Hence, I needed to hop on planes to Europe and get some miles. Flying around the US/Canada, as I had learned from my Northwest Air Gold days, just doesn't do it.
In the winter time the fares to Europe are a joke, especially from the West Coast, and you get all kinds of perks. I can upgrade domestically and I always go through Miami, one of the perks. Not that I love Miami or the beautiful latina women there. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif))

Also, as some of you know, and some of you are tired of knowing http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif, I have always wanted to go to Israel. I have chickened out and postponed several times. I was finally ready to go when the dear Palestinians started the Intifida back around 2000 or something like that, so I went to Rome instead. I should have gone, though Rome was fun.

I finally decided to take the plunge and go even though many thought I was crazy.

My mom took it much better than I had expected and was shocked. I really thought you would try to stop me http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif and you didn't. It helped that she had to go to Vegas to see my sister the weekend before so I had set off on my own, no chauffeur to LAX. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/frown.gif I know she thought I was nuts but she supported me in it.

So, with some effort, I had put together a nice trip to Europe and then threw in the flights to Israel. Ironically, I had found the best airfare I have ever seen to Israel (from Europe) via
British Airwyas for $360 US including all taxes. Trust me when I tell you, it is a steal. I have checked fares and hotels to Israel and it is one of the most expensive markets in the world and the planes go full, even in February.

I was having some second thoughts leading up to the trip and the funniest thing.
I was out at LAX the Sunday before I had left, driving on the 105 freeway into our beloved airport, and there was an ELAL 767 taking off right before me. Call me crazy, it just comforted me and told me, I was going to Israel. It was an awesome feeling. tear

With that, we will start the report.

Remember, positive comments, praises, chocolates, and other goodies, safety cards http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif, are more than welcome. Condemnations, attacks, critiques, and whatever, go to Brian. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

Away we go!

One of my challenges that I seem to somehow, ah, miss, is being packed and ready to go before departure time. I really did try this time. I canceled my fitness instructor, thankfully had a doctor reschedule an appointment which I needed to be moved, and did packing and preparing the day before. Somehow Tuesday morning, I still had more to do.

I usually do a shuttle or mom takes me but I wanted to drive. I needed to stop at the bank on the way and it was nice to drive myself, when I wanted, not when a shuttle bus driver wanted, use my cell freely, listen to music, whatever.

Hence, no comments please http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif, I had a later start than I had wanted.

American started it off right by calling and updating fight info, that the flight was on time, etc. Have never had that for some reason til now.

It was a beautiful drive and it is fun to drive along the Pacific ocean when heading to someplace cold.

Back in my Northwest days I went to Eastern Canada all the time and it was amusing to drive by the sparkling blue Pacific on a beautiful day in February when I knew what I had waiting for me in Toronto/Montreal(nasty, nasty cold weather). So it was the same here, nasty nasty cold weather in Europe. Oh joy.

They now have a security checkpoint going into LAX since the last terror alert. Many times we have parked at a hotel or long term lot and taken a shuttle in. The last time I went in for one of my drive arounds the airport( I like to see who is at Bradley, the Int'l terminal), they nailed me for a spot check and it took several minutes, with their checking the car and using like a mine sweeper around the entire thing. Gee, what fun, and for a 5 minute turn around, no thanks.

As I approached the airport I prayed, please no, not this time, don't have time. Someone upstairs was listening and I was waved thru, thank goodness, but I had felt bad for the poor souls who didn't pass as it really is time consuming and it is a joke. Gee, not like I could bring something in on one of the shuttles or a taxi, doyee. Our mental capacity, sad, isn't it?

Now, this should have, would have, could have been easy, but we know that is not allowed, right? I was planning to go to the skycap check in in front of the airport. Since 9/11 this process at US airports has become more challenging but has actually evened out. Well.

A few days before I upgraded to Business Class, something which I always do on this special flight as it is a 777, there is a meal, and it is a transcon. I don't upgrade the short flights. With American's legroom in coach, you really don't need it, but this is a flight that I like to spoil myself on. And I missed the bloody thing last November when I was playing at the stupid Admirals Club. Long story, maybe for another trip report, will consider.

Anyway, pull up to skycap. Stupid hotel shuttle bus drives past me missing me by inches.
I chastize the driver, the jerk shouts back. Never their fault. They, the airport buses, the taxis at LAX, drive like madmen. I think they had their driver's training in Paris. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

Then a lovely something comes right off said bus and cuts right in front of me, delaying the check in process. After quite a delay I give my ticket to the skycap, who was cool, and explains that he can't check me in. Have no idea why. He grabs my bags and runs me inside. I am thinking he is going to take me to the front or something. Nah ah.

He takes me inside, puts the bags down, and says to check in there. Ugh He did say that he would watch my car.
OK...

As a Platinum I get First Class check in, but there was still a line. Beloved American had 2 agents working the F/C line, which is unacceptable. There was a problem passenger who had been there the entire time, that left one agent for the few who needed a boarding pass to get airside, one of our many presents since 9/11. Cringe and sweat.

Finally did get up and asked why I couldn't check in. I have never had this problem before.
Because I had upgraded to Business, it had changed my fare basis which was at the rock bottom to, I guess, something better. She wasn't the friendliest person, sadly, typical of many LA agents, checked me in, tagged the bags, then TSA. I had run one bag over to TSA so that helped, but with the 2nd, he made me wait til it cleared, then they took it.

I ran like mad outside where there was duly an LA robo cop on his Harley http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif. The skycap ran over and said he tried to stop the ticket but was too late. He did say he would watch the car and explain. There was a ticket on the car, of course, but in all fairness it is only $30 US, and that is cheap, trust me, if you have ever picked up a beloved ticket in Westwood.

I explained what happened, cop said he couldn't remove the ticket, I mentally cursed him to hell for all eternity http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif, gave a thanks to the skycap, who did try, and got the heck out of there before I am sure the tow truck came. Oh well.

I shoved the ticket in my seat pocket and will probably pay it tomorrow.

Now I had to jam. Parked at one of the hotels nearby, won't mention the name. They don't charge so it was an experiment, shall we say. (it worked)

I then had to hike back to the front of the hotel with my heavy carry ons and shared a bench with a Delta stew while I prepped for security. Take out the drivers license and the rest goes into the carry on.

I learned from UK security where the machines are ultra sensitive and you get a free pat down, from a guy of course, if you beep, to pack everything in the carry on. It works. ( In Japan you can get patted down by a lovely girl, hence, no need to pack anything, http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif ).

I don't care for the security check at TSA, an experience(TSA) I have come to loathe and only do when absolutely necessary, meaning I don't go back and forth airside to landside and back as I once did.

My asking about the shuttle seemed to prompt a special trip for us and away we went. Mentally flipped off the security people as we drove into the airport. Sorry, hate 'em, and they really are a bunch of idiots and very inconsistent. I have 500 ways to take something into the airport, I could walk something in, and they hassle innocent travelers who are pushing their flights.

Drop off and walked past the skycap. UGH Enjoy the $5 dude.

Had access to the First Class/Platinum line to security, special escalator, which means nothing as I can take the elevator right into special area, ah doyee. LOL

Security was easy, since I had completely stripped down. It is like a special dance at our security checkpoints but also you would think most people would be ready for it when they get there. They stand there, block the way, and do all their (crap) removal at the station.
Come on people. I then spend 5 minutes putting everything back. Shoes didn't have to come off, I just ask and if they want shoes off, I take them off. As you will see later, the British security people laugh about the shoes. doyee

Don't fight the wonderful TSA on the shoes issue. Even if you know they are ok, if they want them off, they will play power trip and send you to secondary to punish you, not kidding, ask Paul. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif Just kiss their behinds and move on. Don't worry, they will get theirs in the next life, he he.

The Miami flight was the first gate where the Int'l flights go out of. I went to the Admirals Club but they said no time, you need to get onboard. This was my punishment for the last time when I had spent too much time there. I can always come back to this club so not a problem. Would have been nice, but will live.

My sister called my cell as I was arranging my stuff and getting ready to board.
I hope that you will forgive me for not taking the call. In all fairness, she left a sweet
Happy Birthday message(the Saturday before) and wished me a pleasant trip.

With that, it was boarding time and off to Miami, which I love.

It is nice to actually board a plane and get to sit down in the front end of it vs. walking through it, which is usually how I fly. As an American Platinum I can upgrade using stickers, much cheaper than any (cough, fool) who actually pays for such a thing on a US airline, sorry, my pet peeve. It ain't worth it. Singapore, Cathay Pacific, even Virgin, that is another story. There have been too many cutbacks at the US airlines and the plastic silverware alone is a dead giveaway.

I don't have the seat # in front of me but will provide all relevant info at the end of the report, for my fellow crazies who actually like that stuff. It was the left side, window, 2nd from the bulkhead, in Business Class. 777

Comfy seat but seemed to like to go back, hmmmmm.

My seatmate was cool and was there with a few friends, found out later that he was going to Rio for Carnival, I am jealous.

What I love about the Miami flights, cough cough cough, ah, vs. the New York flights, oh did I say that?! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif, the passengers and the crew are generally friendly and fun to be around.

I will say more as to the flight back from NY but those flights are usually a circus and drive me nuts. More later. I could already see this was a great crew, very professional, and friendly.

Push back and taxi out. We went by the beloved Bradley Terminal and there were some good planes. Lufthansa 747-400, which some may call Luftwaffe http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif, hmmm, which I would be seeing in Frankfurt in a few days. The usual Japan, Eva, China, etc. going the Western route. At the end to my delight was the ELAL 767. It was special to see this knowing that I would actually be in Israel in a few days.

We taxxied out on the South side of the airport, passing American, Delta, Continental, United, etc., in that order. They did the safety demo via the video which I think I have memorized by now http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif first in English, then in Spanish, appropos for Miami.

We did that turn around, waved to our Proud Bird restaurant where we have done many a meal, and past the cargo planes he takes off, with my seat going back a bit, ick.

Liftoff and over World Way, over the dunes, the Pacific coastline and out over the beautiful, sparkling ocean, like 1000's of takeoffs to date. As usual he turns around Palos Verdes, I waved to Brian below, also admired our beloved hang out at Redondo Beach and Thai Thani below(no Thai food for 2 weeks).

He flew over Long Beach, south of downtown LA, and then out toward Palm Springs, etc.

Basic routing was southbound: Arizona, New Mexico, Texas( I waved to Sarah and Tex http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif ),
Louisiana, great view for my first time of New Orleans, then a bit after he heads out over the Gulf of Mexico and then into Florida.

My seat kept going back, I kept bringing it up, it kept going back. I had this many years ago on a short Aeromexico flight from LA to Tijuana that we did for fun but this was crazy, especially in Business. I passed on doing the 'walkabout' through the coach cabin, since I would be spending plenty of time on 2 777s in coach. Did the bathroom break, stretch, and peeked into First, which is never never land for me, oh well. One can dream.

Everytime I use my miles I go First, but I never fly American, going right onto Qantas or Cathay, both beloved. The first one was on South African. I only want to use my precious miles in First.

Service on this flight was great. These crew have been trained to refill drinks. I had a large bottle of Dasani(which I love) in the seat pocket and they kept me full on orange juice, which is good on AA. Half way through the flight I converted to gingerale. AA doesn't do Perrier, to Brian's delight. :P

The meal was excellent, a typical AA chicken something, salad, and accroutements. All menus went to the guy in Paris and so sorry, can't see them. The dinner, lunch, whatever, was good, but this is when the seat really started to go back and was annoying. I didn't want to disturb the crew who were busy but my seatmate saw my plight and he said something. Thank you! I would have after they were done as they had their hands full and the tray is in the way, thankfully it is a swinging tray.

They showed me how to lock the seat, which then kept it full upright, but better than before, but somewhow it would subtly unlock and there we go, then I would have to lock it again.
Oh well. This is why you don't pay $$$ for Business or First on US Airlines. I pittied the poor guy flying to Sao Paulo that night. They said they would note it. Ok, but I knew it was going to Brazil in the same condition.

Desert was tiramisu or ice cream. I want to be spoiled and so I want both. I have to compete with Uli on being spoiled and a snob. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif So I asked for the tiramisu, very good, but also for the ice cream if they had extras, which they did. The thing is frozen solid when you first get it and so it just sat and defrosted long after they were done with the service. It was pretty good actually.

My reading material for the trip included: Inside Flyer, a magazine that feeds our addiction to frequent flyer miles and points and read it from one end to the other, highlighting and circling many things in the AA section which is my preferred program, Northwest second, the rest, not sure if I really care. Had a USA Today and then I had been reading a book on the Israelis, hence, called, 'The Israelis, ' by Donna Rosenthal. This is an outstanding book
which really tells you everything you ever wanted to know about Israel and the Israeli people, which is a fascinating nation. I am still working on it as I savor the book bit by bit.
I strongly recommend it if you want to know about Israel. More later. Also had Business Traveler, the American edition, a wonderful magazine.

I took one of the cabin crew aside and asked him to write down his name. I said how sad it was that American, and ever so naively, removed the SOS stickers. The SOS cards were a way to say thank you to American staff who did a good job and I loved having them. I had people who went out of their way for me and this is a way to say thank you.

So he gave me his name and I promised I would write something nice to American, which I have yet to do as I have a few things to take care of with AA, then will throw in the praise, after the complaints. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif I thanked him for the wonderful service which was just exceptional.

Usually it is airlines like Singapore and Cathay who are taught how to refill your glass and make you feel welcome. Some American Airlines crews are just nasty and I have dealt with too many of them. In coach I seldom care, but up front, I care.

Anyway, after passing New Orleans which was just a nice site, someplace I have always wanted to go, we passed several boats in the water, then all dark. It is amazing to me how quickly you fly over the Gulf of Mexico, which is about an hour.

One of my favorite parts of the trip is flying over the West Florida coastline, with lights all the way up the coast. This time it was cloudy and so sadly you couldn't see much. We crossed Florida at Fort Myers.

The plane then starts its decent, fasten seat belt signs on, and I prepped my carry on for a quick exit. I was looking forward to staying at the beloved Embassy Suites Hotel at Miami Airport. Well, so I thought.

We came out of the clouds as we were passing the coastline, left side, had a gorgeous view of downtown Miami on the beach. I love this city and Gloria Estafon(small crush on her, fyi) and Miami Sound Machine come to mind when I come here. The flaps, landing gear, all the fun noises went. We flew past Miami and then turned inward and the view was just spectacular. Miami is a very beautiful, attractive city, green and tropical, with water inlets everywhere, I just love it. If I ever had to be booted out of California, probably where I would go, save Maui. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

We flew over the city, the buildings leading to MIA, came in over the Hilton, and then touch down with the lovely Sofitel on our left, where I stayed last time and was spoiled rotten at that wonderful French hotel.

Taxi to the AA terminal and really, if you get technical, it is all AA. AA planes everywhere. It is like Widget in Tara(Atlanta), only that I like seeing lot's of silver birds.

One of the joys of Miami is all the planes from Latin America and the Carribean.
I loved our trip to the Cayman Islands many years ago and it is fun to see the Cayman 737. They had the best punch and Brian brought home extra, smart.

We dock at the gate, the inner E concourse. I miss taking the tram upstairs but now you need a boarding pass to go up so forgedaboutit.

We thought we had been delivered and then there was a problem with the jetway, so after everyone gets up we had to sit down and wait. In this last 5 minutes my seatmate and I do more talking than we had the entire 5 hour or so flight. Too much. He was very nice and I wished him a good trip. I apologized to the sweet woman behind me for my seat and she understood, saying no problem.

I grabbed some menus from a side pocket, again, for the nice guy in Paris and thanked the crew for a wonderful flight.

Now at Miami Int'l it was a quick exit into that smelley, stuffy, humid terminal (E).
They really need to redo the thing and they are, with AA building a new megahub and I can't wait. I still like this place, I don't know why, maybe cause it is Miami, the land of Golden Girls. Yes, I like that show.

Exit past security, you feel sorry for all the pax enduring the TSA who are going mostly to points South. AA has a massive hub here with flights going everywhere imaginable to South and Central America, the Carribbean, Mexico, etc.

Our flight went onto Sao Paulo, bad behaving seat and all. LOL

Exit to the public area and I love all the int'l counters. When I see LTU I think of my Cargochica. Curious if LTU flies here year round?

I grabbed a cart, free of course, and did some walking. It felt good to walk and it was emptier than during the day so easier to see the counters and yes, do some
'Airport Shopping.' No one on Planet Earth does 'Airport Shopping' better than the guy in Paris, I can assure you, he is my mentor. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif (and we did plenty of such shopping when I finally got to Paris) Nice to have a partner in crime.

I did check out the int'l terminal, not much on the counters. I did nail some more Taca ticket jackets. Also found a brochure that they would test charging for meals on flights to Central America from Miami. Bad airline! Shouldn't do that on international flights.

I missed my chance for a yummy Starbucks hot chocolate as they had closed when I came back, stupid me.

Down to bag claim and again, stupid me, went to the wrong carousel, thinking the 2 were combined. After a while I started to panic and asked about the LA flight. Oh senor the LA flight is on carousel 10, not 9. Duh on me. Bags were there which duly went onto my cart.
This is when I called Keli and yanked her chain a bit about something. Since she is engaged we have to tease her a bit, and teasing you shall get until May. I promise. he he
Very happy for you and Sal, you know that. We will party later, I promise.

Called the dear Embassy Suites which I had put into my cell, nationwide calling and all that. Great, they are on their way. Took forever so I called the token German woman in Miami, who actually answered the phone in Espanol. I punished her by speaking German and reminding her of her Deutsch heritage. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif Glad to do it. Sadly she couldn't come out and meet me for breakfast as she had a meeting, but she works near MIA. We had lunch at the Sofitel last time and by the way, an expensive lunch it was, though good.

James and Karina I apologize. I never got to you. I always get miffed at James who lives in Fort Lauderdale and will never come down to Miami, something I,ah, UGH. whatever.
Karina and I had a nice chat last time I was in town.

Dear shuttle finally comes and he takes my bags. Miami was colder than usual, not the usual heat and humidity. Last time I was there standing in front of the airport all dressed up I was going crazy, but this time, quite nice, but not the warmth I expected in this tropical port.

Off to that beautiful, wonderful hotel. A hotel chain someone and I knew well. Leave it at that,thanks.

Go inside to check in, yeah, it has been a long day, great to be here. He says I know you have had a long day, BUT, cringe, we are full and we need to send you someplace else. No hotel at MIA is better than the E/S, unless they give you an actual suite, which is once in a blue moon and I never seem to see blue moons.

We are sending you to the Baymont. The Bay what? I had heard of them but they didn't sound like the Ritz. They didn't even sound like the Sheraton, one of my beloved pampering grounds.

As I had expressed an interest in dinner he offered to take care of it, then sent me with the driver to the other hotel, just around the corner.

Well, it is a dump. Bags all over the floor and people everywhere speaking weird languages, which I always have to easedrop in on. I love languages.

Duly checked in but showed my AA card and hoped that would come through.

My suite at the E/S turned into a 3rd floor dump. My concierge back there who is lugging my bags on the cart turned into self service of navigating that stupid cart through the small hallways. ick

I did call the E/S and asked for a free night which they obliged and gave me a cert the next day and they really did apologize. That was professional. So next November, I am good.

I called a few of you, packed and repacked, then my beloved calzone came like 2 hours later. too much.

Remember, it is 3 hours later than CA, but I am still on CA time. it is awkward to say the least.

Bed at the wee hours of the morning.

Up early and after peeking at their breakfast, pass, went to the E/S for what would be my only real meal til dinner to London that night. I went up to the top floor and watched the planes from different angles. Should have had my camera as the planes and shots were great. I did tour the hotel. I knew the E/S hotels well with my ex(fiancee) and from a company that I worked for that would put us up in them and had nothing else to do but explore, explore, and explore, and raid the maid's cart, not that I would ever do that. I think I had a few pens sticking out of my pocket. smile

Back to the dump, packed, and out. Was going to go down to grab the cart and something just said no, so I dragged the bags to the elevator and down.

The Lobby was a freaking,horrid mass of people, bags, what have you. Miami had a boat show and why the hotels were so full. The carts, as anticipated, were taken by some very well to do women. They had been on a shopping spree and if I had time and didn't have to check in myself, I would have followed them to their counter. They must have paid a $1,000 US in excess bags. Queen Sheva and all. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif
Lot's of jewelry and very fancy. Their bags took up the entire shuttle and I was wedged in between the bag holder and one of theirs, not comfy. I made a sarcastic remark to the driver and tipped him. Oh too much. Hate to see them in London.

Found a porter, a method to the madness here, and he took my bags to check in.
I could have found a cart and done it myself, but I learned from the past.
The AA check in agent at Int'l First Class was a doll, made it very easy. The porter said my bags are not heavy(at this point http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif ) shall I just tag them here, she said fine.
He then said, http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif)), if the bags are not locked, which I stopped doing long ago,thank you, that he could take them to the TSA for me. He earned his tip. Should have given him more.

Then they gave me a bag cart for my heavy carry on, which will get gate checked later, after doing some more 'Airport Shopping.' http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

Didn't do the Starbucks, too long of a line, though could have used a nice hot chocolate something. Went to the Air Jamaica desk and borrowed some tags for which I was duly chastized, mon. How many of those do you need, mon? I have enough, thank ya.
Too much.

Then Bahamasair and a stack of ticket jackets were beckoning to me. and to the guy in Paris, I am sure. The agent by coincidence just went in and so I grabbed a stack, then some baggage labels. That was nice.

Unfortunately, no Cayman flight at the time so no Cayman goodies, though nailed a few last time and someone left a ticket wallet on the counter, which ironically, I just filed away tonight, of all things.

Did the look and see but wasn't much. Then tried to hit the Admirals Club, at E, and a very nice club it is, but you must go up via elevator. One dear elevator was out. ick
I abandoned the cart and we joined a stack of US customs officers who did their key thing and made it stop at level 3, where they exited. When we tried to go up to Admirals, it wouldn't budge. We freaked a bit. Then went down to departures. One guy said no way and got off, I persisted, some joined. We tried one more time and again, stuck somewhere and wouldn't ascend, and I had a nasty vision of missing my strategic flights which I really couldn't afford to miss by being in that stupid elevator. God graced us back to dep. and we all got out, whewwwww. So much for the club which is nice.

Being the lounge lizard that I am I had a back up. Found my same, abandoned cart and made my way to Concourse A, the Int'l terminal. Not much in the way of Airport Shopping and a couple of airlines were completely blocked by TSA and whatever and with the cart, forget it.

Up to security at A, left the cart, she questioned my boarding pass but AA does have some flights out of A. Said I was going to the Club America, she let me thru. Full, cursory strip down and (dance, NOT lol) and thru security, passed with an A-.

No carts airside, at that point, and made my way, dragging that freaking bag, to Club America.

I assumed it was too early for the British Airways lounge as I am normally there in the evening. I didn't even try the BA club as I would be getting BA lounges up the ying yang throughout the trip and the 'Warden' or person checking your card going in is a pain in the butt and always in a bad mood. Don't need it.

Club America is one of those generic lounges that you seldom see in America, but you will find just about everywhere else in the world.

Beautiful latina welcomed me, a Kathryn Zeta Jones look alike, not that I would ever have a crush on her or anything http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif, and she was very kind and brought me in.

I only had so much time before the flight to Raleigh and I was leaving from Concourse C, so had a slight trek ahead of me. Set big bertha down and helped myself to a mass of Perrier. Other than the Admirals Club at CDG I have never seen so much Perrier, so I was home.

The lounge is comfy, great couches, little snacks, and allowed me to prep the carry on which I would gate check either here or Raleigh. I should have made it here. AA will charge you for the third bag at check in, BA won't. Amazing discrepancy.

After a few drinks and I could see a few planes, like a Taca and a couple of special somethings from South America, like Aeropostal-Venezuela, I made my exit and found carts, paid the $2/3, and enjoyed the walk which is all airside to Concourse C. They are doing renovation so a bit torn up, but doable. Called Brian from the gate and it was time to board. AA Super 80 to Raleigh.

Boarded the AA Super 80 to Raleigh Durham where I will connect with a 777 to London Gatwick.

About a half empty flight, had the coveted 2 seats to myself on the left hand side, will give all the other info later. However, I never found the aircraft reg. Sorry. Because of the way the plane was parked at Mia and Raleigh, couldn't see it, no windows at Mia. Was going to come back to the gate when it pulled out to get it and I just didn't feel like it, to be honest.

I also didn't feel like asking the crew which can range from oh sure let me find out to a full fledged security profile in all their stupidy and overaction. Another present from 9/11.
Whatever.

I had very few hours of sleep, kind of like right now, oh boy. Plane pushed back and taxxied out and I was dozing off and on. They did the manual safety demo, which I seldom see now, and we sat parked in a long line of AA planes, I think all AA, with a cool Avianca 757 landing and a Grupo Taca doing someting or other.

I must have dozed off a few times, it was a long delay, with planes cutting in front of us, forgot the excuse the captain used, I really didn't care.

I had over 3 hourse at Raleigh. You can easily see everything and then some in one.

Finally, it was our turn and took off, going East to West which I seldom do at MIA.

As we took off an Iberia 747 was coming in for a landing. After we lifted off it was an awesome view of the 747 on approach. No pics, I am very sorry. Out to the West over the boring and nothing Everglades and then a right bank. I was thinking he would fly over the ocean, up the coast, like we did to NY. It was all inland, much to my surprise.

We flew right over Orlando and he mentioned Disneyworld but didn't see it, probably on the right. The Captain mentioned Savannah and a few other small towns. It was all new territory which was nice but I was wiped out and slept half the flight. Did one WC break and they did the usual drink service. I was craving a candy bar and everything was packed away in the overhead and didn't feel like going for it, oh well.

The excitement here was getting a new airport. A new Admirals Club. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif Not a new State.
Many moons ago we had the Airliners Intermational in Atlanta. Staying at the beloved, dumpy Hampton Inn I was bored and went for a drive, ended up at 2am in Greenville, SC, a pretty place. The Ramada guy where I parked it was freaky, but it was fun. That drive, late at night, on the Georgia highway was exciting. I will always remember it. After playing at the Greenville Airport and lunch, I was too close to North Carolina, Greenville being in South Carolina, so took a drive and went a few miles into the State. Beautiful scenery.
(Also hit Alabama the day before, went to Birmingham and crashed at the Delta Crown room at Birmingham Airport) Now all undoable with the pax only rules at the US airports so not as worth it. Oh well. Great fun.

I woke up and we were already in descent for Raleigh. Had no idea what the airport looked like. Very beautiful scenery, reminded me of Ohio, where I lived for a time. Flew over green fields, rivers, bridges, gorgeous scenery that is so unlike California and the Western US. Not that it isn't great out here, but it is different.

Plane touched down and there were a bunch of broken up jetways to the side of the runway.
Coming around there were some cargo planes but the treat was a Shorts 330. Nice!

I was impressed with the large terminal, very modern, clean, well organized, and they are even adding to it, so AA must have plans for it as AA owns the airport, pretty much. It is a small hub but nice to see AA have a presence.

I couldn't get the reg because of the location of the gate, plane was out in an awkward, twist position, so I will live.

Carry on was heavy and had to drag it to the Admirals club, duly at the other end of the terminal, but atleast airside, unlike Miami. Miami does have a 2nd Admirals Club that is airside at Concourse C but it is a dump, been there, done that. No thanks.

Walked past the empty London gate. I figured the one 777 sitting there was our flight, so I nailed the aircraft reg. as we passed it. You can always get the 777 reg. onboard, so not a problem, helps out the handy flight log book, which so needs to be updated.

The Admirals club was in a temporary setting as they had an asbestos problem in the real one and doing renovating. Agents there are very friendly, probably par for the course, as you are in the South. My brother married a sweet, Southern Belle from Georgia so I know of their kindness. I can buy her off with chocolate anytime, just thought I would mention in case they actually read these things. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

They had the usual drinks, cheese, crackers, whatever. I used my coupons they give the int'l pax at entry for 2 small San Pelligrinos. Not as wonderful as Perrier, but they will do, he he he. I know that will get someone.

My reward was 2 doctors who came in and talked air travel. They nailed Southwest, I laughed out loud, they smiled, and just talked about everything under the sun about FF programs and all this good stuff. I loved it. I love being in the airport, at a lounge, I am going to Europe, then Isreal, have my drink, and hearing this stuff. Yummmmmmy

I found a place to stash the bag, taking all valuables with me, of course. Did the rounds around the airside, checked out what I could of the int'l area, made a couple of those last calls before I cross the pond and it becomes insanely expensive.

Then went landside, wasn't much to see. Basic AA and a few others check in and a couple of stores. But the terminal is modern, clean, and very efficient. I went across the street where they had some snow and stepped in my first thing of snow in who knows how long now!?
I am rewarded in Paris later.

Back to security, one machine, they take forever to strip down, come on people, allons-y!, and then back to funville. Hit the gift shop and bought some Belgian chocolates, they were polished off in Tel Aviv, and some North Carolina local brand of chocolates, very good, they were cleaned out during the flight.

Did another drink, more cheese and crackers, and bid my lovely hosts adieu. The club was filling up, too crowded for pampered me.

Found a great space at the gate next to mine and found a huge table where I was able to sort the dear carryon, off ya go mate. Cleaned out and arranged what was going to London and what was going carry on. While doing this I called someone special, we will call her V, with a cute Brazilian accent, and we chatted til flight time with all the I will miss you and we actually meant it. Yes dear, of course I thought about you over there, how could I not? LOL

Checked in and gave them my bag. They explained they don't normally do gate check, oh, but thanks for taking it. Allowed me to collect more junk then get rid of it, but I should have done it at Miami. I was one of the last to board, with reason.

First time I have ever seen US immigration officers checking us as we entered the gate/heading to the plane area. Hope that it is not a new thing. Probably a new Homeland Security Special. ugh

When we went to Australia on Qantas there was a flock of US customs officers watching us as we boarded, they didn't check anything, but they let their presence be known. One was a yutz, I remember him well.

This is the first time I have been checked leaving the US. And off we go.

This is that exciting time when you leave the US and you get to go someplace else.

Not that London would excite me or anything http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif. I love Gatwick Airport. Gatwick Airport is truly an aviationist's paradise. Much cleaner and neater than Heathrow, by a 1000 fold, and always some surprising goody flies in.

Boarded the plane and said my hellos. I could already tell a very friendly crew.

This Raleigh thing could work, though wish that I had less time in transit.

While I had 2 seats to myself, I still try to board last,then I can freely move to whatever seat I want. As there was a lovely couple in front of where I was scheduled to be, I moved one back, hence, echoing my mom's pet peeve and I now agree, no one to put their seat in my face. ick

Love AA's extra legroom, love the 777, love this crew. This is going to be a great flight.

Ok. Magazines, my book, Dasani, some snacks, all there and available. Shoes off, sorry Brian, they're going off.

We did that push back and taxi thing. Did the safety demo first in English and then surprisingly, in Italiano. So I actually watched the video to pick up some Italian. Been years since I flew AA to Milan and the only time I saw it.

We taxxied past the terminal and out to the runway. My beloved cell now turned off til I am back Stateside. Talk about an addiction.

Before I knew it, he turned a curve and we were off, lift off, and then some lights of what seemed to be the suburbs. I had the flight map in front of me and we headed up to Virginia and then out to the Atlantic.

Up the coast to Penn/Delaware, yes, I thought of you, Amy dear. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif Also B-K. Before we got to New York and NJ he headed out over the water and so no more lights, which was sad.

My greatest trip up the coast years ago was on a Sabena A-340 Atlanta to Brussels and right up the East Coast, Atlantic City and all, it was golden. This was nothing like that.

After we left land I checked out the inflight entertainment. AA has a naughty fetish with CBS which just gets old after a while. I am not big on Everyone Loves Raymond but can tolerate a show or 2, that's it. I do like King of Queens and so that is one thing CBS did right.
I am a NBC fan. Don't even challenge me on that as you will never win. Friends, Seinfeld, Cheers, Law and Order, Frasier. Must I go on? Hope not, thank you. Friends is # 1. If you ever disagree, prepare to pay dearly, thank you.

To my delight on the BBC channel they had one of my fav. Britt sitcoms, Good Neighbors, but they actually called it something else?! It was an episode I have never seen before where Jerry and Margot get into an exercise routine, gee, can't understand that one?! LOL, and then Tom and Jerry (not the cartoon) challenge each other into a race. I give AA credit as it really does prep you for Britain. Loved this show and will have to get it on DVD.

Other than that, it was nothing too special on the entertainment and I did more reading.

Dinner was served. I believe it was a chicken or something. If they offer chicken, I take the chicken. Makes it simple. Standard AA coach meal but the service was great.
Very kind and friendly crew and I told one of the attendants later, quietly, if I had the SOS coupons she could have them all. I took one trip on AA where I think I had barely given any away as the service was that bad.

Did some reading, did my Israeli homework.

Finally nodded off. Not long after nodding off, the guy from 2 in front comes back and starts opening the blanket in the seat in front. jerk Woke me up, then I asked him to please not put the seat back in my face as that is why I moved. He sat for a bit then did a full lie down in the middle seats on the floor. We had some major turbulence and he had to get up and fasten.

Nice guy but was mad that he chooses to come back as I finally fall asleep.

After that, couldn't get back to sleep so I paid him back with lights on, reading, and organizing. Sorry. he he he

I did make my walk through the cabin and entered an unusually empty Business class, which is always full on TransAtlantic flights, and asked the lovely crewmember for an extra amenity kit and a menu, saving me hassle when leaving. She handed me both and again, with a smile. I still grabbed a couple on my way out, to the guy in Paris' delight.

With that the sun came up and we were out over the Atlantic, approaching Ireland. Love this moment when you hit Europe. It really is special.

We buzzed the Southern part of Eire and Cead Mille Failte and all that. Family has spent much, much time here: Killarney, Rosslare, Waterford, Galway, Dublin, etc. I love to play at the ferry port in Rosslare. Proably my favorite boat ride on earth(over to Wales).

Then out over the Irish Sea as we descended. They came out with a lite, and I mean lite, breakfast. Crossaint, raisins(which I gave to someone http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif ), and not much else. O/J.
Croissant was good and asked for another which they obliged. Raisins went later to the guy in Paris and he liked that.

Came in over Wales, Croeso!, and looked for our beloved Tenby, a Welsh coastal resort town that to my family and I is Heaven on Earth. Very hard to get to, let me tell ya, maybe that is why it is so special. It is near Pemroke, fyi.
Beautiful, storybook place. The service at the Imperial Hotel was wonderful. I need to go back.

Cardiff/Caerdydd, a big stack of lights, into the West of England, but we were north of Bournemouth, our Haven in Southern England and what I call the English Riviera. Love and miss that place so much.

Sun is coming up and lights were turning off. Mostly green fields and prepping for Gatwick.

You don't see anything to do with London, so far away.

Did that last WC check and reflected on what I would do when we land, so many options.

More green fields and then could see we were approaching West to East, heading toward the terminal. I may have the direction wrong but it seemed like a straight W to E, usually the other way.

Bump, hump, and slump, and reverse engines and we were in England.

Old and expired Comet, I think a Trident, and who knows what was out there. Loving it.

European 747!? who the heck are they? I like the tail logo. All kinds of Britanias, Monarchs, My Travel, Thomas Cook, BA, and every kind of British charter you could think of. Air Zim(Zimbabwe, mates) 767, one of Gatwick's prizes.
I love it! I didn't cry but I do get a little emotional at this point, to be honest, having a ton of British ancestry from all over the UK, everything, even the Isle of Man.

They had a Nationwide 767 from my beloved South Africa and that was worth it right there, been so long since I have seen a Nationwide plane and first to see their new 767.

We taxiied to the gate, South Terminal, left side facing the main terminal, it was great.

Gave my thanks and adieu to the crew and again they were wonderful.

Ok, left the aircraft and entered into the terminal. To my surprise everything has changed. It was quite a pleasant arrivals/holding area and you take an escalator upstairs, then an up level walkway toward arrivals. I could be wrong, but I suspect that they have completely separated arrivals from departures, as with the North Terminal, boo hoo.

I was going to visit the South Terminal airside and play a bit, but didn't want to chance it if I can't just gracefully exit as in days past. Oh well.

I made my way to the arrivals area, checked out the transfer areas to the airside of the South and North terminals, decided to pass and hit the passport control area.

If anyone knows if you can easily come back down to arrivals that would be appreciated.
North Terminal is hard, but not impossible, thanks to a fellow flyertalker http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif who guided my way via private e-mail. Cheers mate. I still owe ya a pint.

So down to arrivals. The Euro people had no lines and walked in, flashed an identity card or passport and were gone.

We 'foreigners' are relegated to 2 very long lines at the other end. I am guessing
that it was the planes from Africa that held things up.

The 2 lines were non-moving so get the paper out. The immigration officers were asking some nasty questions of the African travelers. They wanted someone to vouch for them in England and had a few sit on the benches in front of the passport desks and the officer said they would ring a person for them. Yikes. Asked about their financial conditions, etc.

They were being more 'selective' than I have ever seen. Yes, I am nosy and as I love all the passport stuff, I watch. They did need to open up another desk as these lines were terrible.

Finally my turn at the front. Basic questions. Very friendly lass, stamped the passport and landing card, and on my way.

I like the Gatwick Passport/arrivals area, it is old, but it works.

Up the escalator to baggage reclaim, not claim, as we say here in the Colonies http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif, one is reclaiming one's luggage. smile

Carry on was sitting idly on the floor and threw it onto a cart and out through the Green channel we go. The bags were checked thru to Frankfurt.

The last time I flew in here there were no customs officers, now it was wall to wall officers. Are we in Australia? (Australia customs officers everywhere all over Sydney bag claim, fyi)

As I did that exit thing I always stop at the Travel Value shop. Overpriced junk, thanks. There are certain English chocolates I like and they weren't here, so off we go.

Masses of people await the arrivals. I am sure some of them waiting for the Africans who have a long wait ahead of them.

I went to the information desk to check on a shuttle. I was impressed that I had a Frenchmen in front of me and the girl behind the desk went into fluent French.
Wow! Go Britts! LOL

Checked out the Whistlestop, nothing of interest, not now anyway.

Did the walk around the South Terminal. Arrived at 7am so you have all the flights to America going out. Packed check in hall with supervisors above the check in counters watching everything, cameras everywhere, you learn this after a while.

The British doorbell kept going off before each flight announcement. I love the doorbell but gets old after a while. smile

There wasn't much to pick up and I didn't really feel like doing the Airport Shopping thing so early. Took a glance past immigration into the coveted airside that I passed on. Had access to atleast 3 lounges, oh well.

Before I came over I was playing with purchasing a cheap Easy Jet ticket out and next time I think I will do that. The American planes to the US leave too early for me, whereas from Heathrow I can leave at 8pm, wonderful.

Now out to the place with fresh air. Cold air, yet fresh.

Had to pull over and put the jacket on, oh is it cold. Where is Miami now?

Wow this is too much! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/thumbsup.gif http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/thumbsup.gif http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/thumbsup.gif

Nice to name it [i]the[/b] trip report http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif Looking forwarded to the rest of it.

[This message has been edited by Kiwi Flyer (edited Mar 05, 2004).]

Ok, here is where I must come clean.

The original plan was to go to Frankfurt and spend a night and annoy a wonderful snob and wein connaisseur there. Big smile He pampered me well last time in November. Was very nice. From a German beerhall to Jimmy's Cigar bar. Lesen sie es, mein herr?

However, in doing trip planning, I could get nothing in FRA via Priceline and the hotel prices via every possible medium were out of this world. Here at home I freaked. I would be sleeping in the airport. Someday I may try that. Have given it thought, but not now. smile Our Novotel at 50 euros last November was close to 200. I called hotels direct, it was nasty. Anything near Frankfurt. Even the small Mercures when I called Accor, I was aghast.

So to play it safe I booked a Priceline for Gatwick, whewww, a roof over my head, and then did some research for what would happen if I were to 'miss the flight.' oops

We had a fantastic Thai food dinner (Siam, near LAX), one of our favorite haunts, prior to the LA regional airline show earlier this year. I had some of the greatest minds representing various airlines (i.e. Air France, Delta, ATA) and fellow travelers like myself. It is like a dentist going to another dentist. We need someone else to see the position clearly.

They all agreed over wonderful beef and pork(no one keeps kosher here) satay that as long as I am checked in and happened to miss the flight, I should be ok. So, that worked for me.

Hence, for the first time in my life, and hopefully the last, as it is nerve wracking, I needed to miss the flight.

Back to Gatwick.

Several options lay before me. My first was to go down to the shuttle, go to the hotel and get some shuteye.

Gatwick is a pain and needs to invent the elevator, as one refers to as the LIFT in these parts. Fair word. The Germans use it, too. Instead, you push your cart and Heaven help you if you are laden with bags, as I later was at Heathrow, down several flights of ramps. (bloody insane)

Then when you get to the bottom, not above, they tell the poor souls (suckers) that the coach station down below has been closed and you must go up one floor. Major, major sadists running this airport, and even more so Heathrow. For shame Britain. smile

The hotels 'courtesy' ha ha ha coaches do leave from this level, thankfully.

I phoned the hotel, checked the time, shared info with 2 lovely fellow Yank(British and Canadian slang for American) travelers who were appreciative. As it was biting cold out there I went inside and read the paper.

First, I had missed the shuttle that I thought was right as it is a generic white bus and it certainly didn't come when it was supposed to. So much for English efficiency LOL.

Then turns it out it was the wrong (bloody) shuttle which I found out later. Which worked out all the same.

There was another option, skip the hotel, wasn't that tired, had to pay for the shuttle, and plenty to do at North Terminal, so up the many ramps to departures and into the terminal.

You take a long moving sidewalk to/from the terminal. One could qualify for the Olympics by making basic rounds at this airport, won't even mention Heathrow for now, thanks.

Took the train which I do like to North Termnial. North Terminal is BA-British Airways' home at Gatwick and is a different world from the South Terminal, much more efficient and modern.

I also realized that I would no matter what from now on catch a Hotel COURTESY coach from the North Terminal, a millenia easier. By the way, they charge you to go to/from the hotel and the Britts are just about the only people tacky enough on this planet to do such a thing. Why more and more I just want to change and go on to the Continent. A couple of hotels at CDG, sadly, charge you, but it is free to the hotel then double back. But if you have a wonderful Parisian who can drive you over, save that as well. BAA bites!

Well, what do I do. I don't want to drag bertha airside, it ain't going to Frankfurt today, and
I need to stash it someplace, where the hotel would have come in handy and I would have broken even on the hotel shuttle fare. I went to the handy left luggage area, friendly chaps there, they x-ray the bag and give you a coupon which I like a good yutz misplaced.

Then went to BA First Check in. I had technically already checked in at Miami but wanted BA to know I was there, plus the extra freebie boarding pass makes for a nice gift as well, though it is AA(that I kept).

Did the check in, very friendly, and not too long of a wait. Made a quick cursory round of the North Terminal landside and then went through security. Sadly they had those queue thingies, what we call lines, and they weren't short.

Security in Britain is more efficient than in the US, but they have had the IRA and other troublemakers to deal with, we have only recently learned about terrorism on our own doorstep, Heaven Forbid.

Passed the security check with a B+ and everything in the bag. Now I hit one of the tables to put everything back.

Head for the wonderful and Heavenly BA Terraces Lounges for some nice rest, internet, drinks, sandwhiches, and a shower.

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/biggrin.gif

removed

[This message has been edited by InterflugIL62 (edited Mar 05, 2004).]

In case I didnt make it clear, I like the name. After all your hype in the other thread, we all expect nothing less.

Keep it up.

[This message has been edited by Kiwi Flyer (edited Mar 05, 2004).]

thank you Kiwi...



[This message has been edited by InterflugIL62 (edited Mar 05, 2004).]

Alright, BA Terraces lounge, lovely lady checked the card and BP and wrote an L on the card so that I could come and go as I pleased.

Picked up the Mineral water, a la Americaine(with ice), and hit the internet. I updated
my trip notes with flyertalk, checked the mail, BA lounge wouldn't allow me to check my singles sites, so that went out the window.

I did a walk around the lounge and then did a walk through the terminal. Looked up my friend at the Travelex booth who unfortunately was home sick, sorry to hear.

Bought some Bendicks chocolates and after a look in the shops, back to the lounge.

Sandwhiches are out. They fill you up but get old fast. Watched a few planes and then
took a shower. The lounge has a private shower facility which is great. It is not the Cathay
Wing by any means, but quite nice.

As flight time rolled around I needed to get busy. I 'accidentally' walked to the other side of the airport, oops, then went to another gate, saw my BP, and called the Frankfurt gate and told them I was coming. I arrived at the gate, missed the flight. I have never in my life wanted a flight to close so much. It was done. They said we have more flights out of Heathrow and I said, ah, take a room at Gatwick. They understood as I had been there since 7am.

They also gathered that I was not in a hurry to get to Frankfurt which they had no problem with. They walked me to the chicken exit, walked through a security machine, they set me up for the next day, no problem and I think they figured out that I had intentionally missed the flight. Was not a problem.

Back to passport control, no stamp. She was very sweet and said she wouldn't stamp me as it would just cause confusion.

Downstairs to bag claim, they had my bags there, wasn't sure if they would go or not. American did send them on one time saying they were TSA cleared. I was prepared either way.

Out through an empty green channel to the landside, picked up my carry on, forgot the stupid coupon but they found it. Took forever for the shuttle to come and it was so very cold.
A cold I had not felt in a long time, but perfectly sunny. Amazing.

Bus came along and you pay but I expected it, it is kind of cheap in my opinion.

What used to be the Post House was now one of the many Holiday Inns at Gatwick.

Totally redone, marble floors, and such friendly staff. Quick check in and up to the room.

They had carts that helped to bring the bags up. With that did some quick unpacking and was out.

That night I arranged my suitcase for a quick check in at Frankfurt to Israel, separating the bags at that point.

I passed on dinner and just snacked on chocolates and mineral water, which worked for me, while watching tv.

Woke up that morning and did a brisk walk over to the Rennaissance hotel which I wanted to check out and bought some goodies at a petrol station. Boy they drive fast, a bloke just missed me trying to cross the street.

Packed up, did some quick room service with a wonderful club sandwhich, then hopped on the shuttle to Gatwick.

Had the friendliest check in agent who was great and walked around the terminal, picked up some timetables for friends back home, and then again, security, A-.

I went in later so didn't have as much time at the BA lounge.

Hit the Delta lounge and one of the generic lounges. All fun.

Ironically, the flight to Frankfurt left from the very gate where I had ended up yesterday, I laughed.

They took the BP and had stacks of newspapers, including the Financial Times.

I was shocked that the plane was full.

We had to go down to the tarmac and with the coat in the suitcase it was so cold. Note that BA had 2 empty jetways near the gate dead empty.

Boarded the full 737 and threw everything but the paper into the overhead.
Taxi out and take off into a very cloudy sky. Pretty much the same planes as I had seen yesterday, not much changes at Gatwick but you do get an occassional something cool.

Plane was chalk full but was doable.

Over the clouds and East to Belgium. They said we flew near Brussels which was hard to see with varying clouds in the way.

They served an apple pie which I am not big on and so gave it back.

The mineral water did wonders, thank you.

We flew over a major German city which I could not recognize, sorry, and started our descent. They said a plane going into Frankfurt had problems and so everyone else was being put into a holding pattern while they were able to go in.

The cabin crew didn't speak a single word of German but the pilot did come on and made a good announcement in German. I think it is part of the service.

We descended and then came in from the West with a few turns.

The plane flew right over Frankfurt Airport and then past the city, then turned around.

I was on the right side so at this point, the view was awful, but as he turned around
you had a fantastische view of beloved Frankfurt-City and then the Airport. I love Frankfurt and have strong feelings for this place. I have never had such a good view before
and of course the camera was packed away. It was a new camera that I hadn't started to use yet, who knew I would have this. We pretty much did the Tour of Hesse and saw all kinds of smaller cities, beautiful homes, thousands of trees, etc. A USAF plane flew right below us going in and was wondering if that was the plane that had trouble.

We did a full turn and then came in, I believe from the West, if I have my FRA geo right.

Incredible view all the way and then touch down, right side, could see the American military base with several USAF planes, never seen so many before there, to be honest, and there was a Northwest 747 parked there as well.

The people on the left had a good view of the airport, but if we had arrived on the normal runway, the right side is always better. Quick turn around and taxi to the gate at Terminal 2.

===

[This message has been edited by InterflugIL62 (edited Mar 06, 2004).]

Ok, landed at Frankfurt, exit z aircraft http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif, and up the escalator to arrivals. I was hoping to get to the BA lounge for a quickie but they blocked it off. So I went to the Generic Priority Pass lounge and she was very kind. A few good magazines and timetables after a drink and I was on my way.

I stopped at the Cathay lounge which was being used by someone, I think Asiana?, and I was able to get a coveted Hong Kong newspaper, something I love.

Then back down the terminal to Passport Control. German passport control is easy, stamp it, you are in. They also smile. Gott bless Deutschland.

After the delay I was amazed that the bags were still going around on the caroussel and we took care of that.

The benefit of BA sending my bags back at Gatwick vs. keeping them was that now they were EU customs cleared. I understand some German and the German customs wanted to check me. He noded to his fraulein counterpart to get me, but she said to him "er eine grune haben" meaning I have a green tag, so they can't check. ha ha There is nothing to check anyway, just airline junk. I said guten abend and she returned the same, good evening.

Out the door and behind the mass of Turkish people arriving from one of the interesting charter flights. I was just here in November, wow.

Went straight to BA, threw a couple of things in my bags and went to check in, Club Class line.

She checked my visit Europe, Oneworld ticket to Heathrow and then time for the bags. Remember, in Europe you get a much smaller baggage allowance than to/from the USA which is disgusting.

She nailed me, or tried, as they were over. I said I just came from the USA which technically speaking was right, though I had thrown a couple of things in, but was also on a special ticket only purchased in the USA and usually they work with us on the higher allowance. She went back to the supervisor and got it cleared, alles gut.

It was fun watching her tag my suitcase to Tel Aviv. TLV That was exciting.
Then the other bag went to Heathrow.

They only went along with the USA 2 piece system, not the carry on, so was stuck with that.

Off I went.

Frankfurt Airport has wonderful shops, delicatessens, konditorei, bakerei, you name it. I went to my favorite haunt which half of it was closed down, being remodeled?, I don't know, then went to a new deli and bought all kinds of yummy meats, salami, bratwurst, mineral water-Selters, und of course some wonderful German chocolate(schoogi), Theodora. Yummmm
I was already salivating.

Up the escalator where you can take the carts, but my shopping bag was not secure, out came the waters. Oh it was frantic. They fell onto the escalator and thanks to my sweet neighbor behind me we picked them up and put them in the bag. I laughed afterward, but not during. Wasn't so bad in the end.

I wanted to play at Terminal 1 landside but only had so much time, had 4 hours between the flights, so went back airside at T2 to deposit the carry on at a lounge. However, there were the gatekeeps at the checkpoint who didn't like my bag, though it is a fair carry on, just heavy. They tried to send me back down to BA, which wasn't going to happen as they would def. charge me for it, and we can't have that! I explained in broken German that I would gate check it. Took me 2/3 attempts but finally got through to them and they let me thru, but no trolley, so that stayed.
Yes, I quietly prayed in all this I can assure you and it worked.

Easy outbound passport control and then security, strip down, alles. While the bags were coming through I ran over and grabbed a cart airside, worked wonders.

I did a quick perousal at the main Duty Free store and some of the others. Then went to the Delta lounge with Priority Pass and left the bag there, after a drink or 2 and a WC visit, and a clean and well kept WC it was.
Delta lounge is large and spacioius, most comfortable. They also had some really good baloney.

i think this is a great trip report, fun to read and full of info. keep it coming!!!!

thanks, I love your name!!

I have more. At some point I am going to break down, but for now, want to get us to Israel, then will slow it down, as that is more rare. Thanks

===

[This message has been edited by InterflugIL62 (edited Mar 06, 2004).]

I've no idea what your previous history on FT was but I supose if you didn't get banned, it can't have been that bad. Just ignore the emails and dazzle them with your report mate. Everyone deserves a second chance.

===

[This message has been edited by InterflugIL62 (edited Mar 06, 2004).]

I agree with you about the wonderful rum punch on Cayman Airways. And I love the one legged pirate, as their symbol. One of the nicest places I have visited.

In the US I believe it's "3 strikes and you are out?" Even if you had 1, you still have 2 chances left. Just kidding.

Ok, from the Delta lounge I walked, and a long walk it is, to Terminal 1. The skytrain was the other way and I needed the walk, but turned out to be longer than I had thought. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

Some history. On a previous trip in this middle area there was an ELAL 757. I photographed the ELAL 757, they have police and security all over. ELAL and the Frankfurt Airport security didn't like that. I was duly followed but never approached in a situation that was just quite freaky. I was so happy to get out of there.

Obviously, more than 24 hours going to Israel and walking past the scene of the crime, it came back to me, haunted me a little./ They followed, I ducked into a lounge, got out of the way, boarded a Lufthansa flight home to LA and that was that. Boy did it put me off and it didn't help me going to Israel anytime soon, ouch. /

Walked past the infamous area, even stood there, of course an empty gate. They have a special security gate C 21-23 for all fights to Israel and I hear it is nasty. No thanks. Hence, I would never fly directly from Germany to Israel, period.

It was pretty empty. They had a Lufthansa Airbus to Beirut, kind of cool.

To my surprise was the Red Carpet Club which was being renovated last time I was there in Nov. What they renovated I can't imagine, looked the same to me when I was there a few years ago, the time of the nasty ELAL incident.

I flashed my Untied P/E card and got in. He said they were closing in 5 minutes, so I grabbed a Hessia, a wonderful German sparkling water that has a sweet taste to it. If they had it in the store I would have bought some. Selters is also wonderful.

5 minutes were up and I was out., so made my way to the B area.

I like this since they have redesigned it. They have good Duty Free and shops. I headed past all the US bound x-ray machines, I get mine later, and went to one of the Lufthansa
Business Lounges. I wasn'f flying Star Alliance and as my beloved card was expiring the last day of Feb 2004, I wanted to get in. I flashed the card and they waved me in. I had had problems earlier in Nov. Kind of funny.

This is the lounge, used to be a Senator lounge(First class and more food), that we enjoyed when we went to South Africa. So many good memories here. They had the usual drinks, snacks, and newspapers. I grabbed a table by the window and watched planes take off. Hey I was happy to have gotten in. Air Mauritius A340, Croatia A320, SAA A340, the list goes on. I love this airport and I felt bad, almost disloyal for spending so little time there, but if you can't get a hotel, was konnen sie machen? (what can ya do? hope that is right)

I waved a thanks to the lounge warden and made my way down. Bought some more chocolates, they had some good Swiss ones which went to good use. I decided to pass on the Europe City Club, where I had spent much time the last time I was here, and to the Skytrain and to Terminal 2. I didn't want to miss my flight. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

Found a cart and made my way to the Delta lounge. They had CNN and a few drinks and some more baloney. It was really good.

My cart was still there, now the fun.

After 9/11 they instituted a special checkpoint for certain flights, mostly the flights to the USA and for British Airways, turns out Qantas and Qatar Air as well.

There were long lines for this and I kind of freaked, but then also realized they would call us up as flighttime came, which they did. It really is a form of hell, nothing in regard to German efficiency or order, which is too bad.

For now I was allowed to keep the trolley, Gott dank. This bag was heavy.

They called up the Qatar Airways people and they moved forward. Then they called us up, BA to Heathrow, but he said the trolley stays there.

You go up to the security machine for your carry ons, but they do a very manual and personal http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/frown.gif frisk and check. If the cute fraulein wants to do it fine, alles gut, but this really is over the top. It is intrusive. I went in, wasn't as bad as last time, the last guy was nasty,and then grabbed my stuff, sans trolley, and had to lug the bag.

I got to the gate, asked them to gate check it, which they did, but I did a faux pas.
I assumed she would think London is where I wanted it to go. More on that later. UGH

The gate area was crowded so I am like let them fight it out. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif but it was too close to departure to run down to the lounge, via LIFT, and they have a wonderful hot chocolate. It is a stupid security check and really fowls everything up. I figure eventually FRA will just submit everyone to another security check who is in transit, I even said that to the BA staff, who just looked away. I am sure they have heard it all.

Finally it cleared and after kicking back in one of the seats, I went up to get the aircraft reg.
Then boarded. BA 767 to Heathrow, info later.

LOL, amusant

Boarded by going down the escalator. More water falling out? http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif Yes, that had occured to me, cringe.

They wished me a pleasant flight and walked onboard. To my amazement it was full. Def. something very big going on in Frankfurt. So late at night.

Put what I could in the overhead and read my copy of Business Traveler.

Push back and BA safety video. Crew was very friendly and warm, much more so than the outgoing flight. Was this all the same day? Wow! what a day this has been.

Now, on the right side, I had the view of the terminals, planes, und alles. I love it!

I was sad to leave Frankfurt, I really do love this place. Have I communicated that yet?

I had intended to call Uli having my German phone card and es tut mir leid http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif, I forgot. I owe you one. Anyway, I say hello now, my friend. It was quite a busy evening.

I also have good friends in Dus and Hamburg. All of my German friends have been very good to me. They send me good packages and are very nice. It is all appreciated, you know that. I love the Christmas package, danke!

Past the terminals and to the runway, turn around, we did the same going to South Africa so that was cool.

Take off, lift off, back to England.

It was cloudy most of the way and you couldn't see much, so read B/T. My seatmate was quiet, we exchanged pleasantries and that was about it.

I did one WC visit. We were in the middle section with the comfy leather seats, while those in the far back had a different, cloth seat and probably less legroom.

The plane did the usual fly over Belgium but could see nichts.

Over the English coastline and cloudy most of the way, some lights.

We came in from the West(near Windsor Castle), something I hadn't done in a very long time, and landed, with a good view of Terminal 3 and all the fun planes therein.

Arrived at the new section of Terminal 1 and lugged my (crap) to passport control.

I was weighed down with what I did have and if they had made me carry my big bertha carry on, I would have been dead. I was tired, it had been a long day, it is a very long walk to arrivals, and I barely made it. Sorry to ask for the sympathy.

It was after 11pm and the last Hoppa, pay bus to the hotels, was at 1130. I was stressing a bit. The line was small but slow moving. Again, some people had more intense questions.

When I got up I asked for a passport stamp on an emtpy page, which he did, said I am trying to make the last Hoppa, which he sympathized,and explained that in 24 hours, I would be on a plane to Israel(yeah). Stamp and out. The last time I did this flight, in November, I asked for a stamp on an empty page, she knocked out half of my beloved and coveted Kiwi stamp from Auckland, was not amused. Everytime I see it I give a growl. Not an easy stamp to get now is it?

Down to bag claim and I had to make tracks. My other suitcase came, onto the cart.
But then the suitcase destined for Tel Aviv came around, that freaked me out. I figured because it was late they would just come around, pick up the bags, and transfer them in the morning, but I played it safe and grabbed it as it made me a bit concerned.

Then came my carry on with a TLV tag on it, that freaked me, as the bag was destined to be left here at London. cringe. I was mad, but got out of there.

Out the exit at Terminal 1 to the coaches and I made it by 5 minutes max, whewww, otherwise, I would have to pay for a taxi to the hotel. Been there, done that, no thanks. Save it for Terminal 4.

Loaded the bags and off to the Marriott we go.

Had to porter the bags myself and it was a quick check in. 4th floor, somewhat of a view of LHR, and I had lounge access.

All my German goodies went to good use. What a day. The room was great and very comfy, though the view of the planes could have been better. Such is life.

Ok, up to a quasi sunny day at Heathrow and hit the Club Lounge.

Had a wonderful Bangladeshi who warmly welcomed me to the lounge and seeing I was a fellow plane spotter we got along just fine.

One of my all time favorite professors in college was from Bangladesh, an econ professor.
He invited me up to the 'roof', a hang out, for drinks. Was alwasy fond of him and this guy dearly reminded me of his sweet soul.

Breakfast was cold cuts, breads, cheeses, fruits, cereals, too much food, plus he went back and brought me mineral water. Planes kept taking off to the East with the Air Jamaica A340 being the most notable. What a beautiful plane.

There was a Qatar Airways flight crew together speaking Arabic, when the others left, the captain and I, along with the lounge attendant, started talking. This was exciting. I love meeting the crews here, they are more relaxed and you can ask them questions. I asked him about Qatar Air, seeing the DVD on Qatar Air which is one of my favorites. They showed an approach into Khartoum, Sudan, which was just awesome.

Then a beautiful English flight attendant from Emirates came in. Oh Paul!! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif Paul wants to work for Emirates and so I did get her e-mail. She has a boyfriend so forget it, but she will help you.

We sat there and talked about everything to do with aviation. It put me on an emotional high, I loved it. It is like a drug.

I asked them what they thought about people (removing) things from the plane and they said overall, if they don't see it, they don't care. Sometimes even if they do see it http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif they pretend not to see it, which is what I gathered. They did mention a cabin crew for Qatar that had been fired for taking a newspaper, too strict. I have heard other stories.

They did go after people who took blankets, not that I would ever know anything about that.
The Air New Zealand blanket was just too tempting and I still have it http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif. I love it. I would pay for it. There are just no stores where you can buy this stuff.

We had a great time, great food, and each made their adieu. I did get her e-mail.

The attendant said when I come back, when I am at the Sheraton Skyline nextdoor, I can come back and if he is there, he will let me in. Very nice. When I did come back he wasn't there, oh well.

I wished him all my best, he is so sweet, and back to the room for final packing and whatever. CNN and all.

Now, I called a porter and the poter took Bertha and my other rollaboard for storage, tip of course. Check out was easy and friendly.

Took my green suitcase and my small carry on and hopped the Hoppa, which oddly enough stopped at the Sheraton next door where I would be in a few days and the driver had to go inside, so that was cool. So did I.

Off to Heathrow Terminal 1 where the set down is in a different place, upstairs at departures, new for me. He even helped me find my way. Not that I needed it but was nice to have one of the Hoppa guys actually give a darn, it was new.

They had so many timetables and goodies and I just couldn't take them, but actually never got back there. I grabbed one SN Brussels Air Timetable, sorry Phil and everyone. It is mine! I keep the first one. I thought I would get back.

After a quick walkabout, a pain with the cart and bags, down to the Heathrow Express
and out to Terminal 4. Oh what a pain this is. Down the lift, a very long walk to the train, then have to ditch the cart, then thru the barrier, then way down the platform, then onto the train, take the train to Terminal 4, then off, then out, then up to departures. It sucks!

When I have all my bags I just take a cab. I am not going for any medals. You would think BAA, the British Airport Authority, who runs Heathrow, would be utterly ashamed.

Many people bash Heathrow and if you aren't ashamed of that, what can I say?

I get to the BA Business Class line, and hours before my flight. I explain to the gatekeeper that I am a Sapphire. A Sapphire, what's that? Oneworld Sapphire, the equivalent to American Platinum. Whatever dude, keep up the good work, NOT!

Check in line was nothing, though coach was full, ouch. Glad I am not over there.

They didn't want to take the bag this early but explained that it had already been checked in. He had to clear it with a supervisor and was approved. A fresh, new TLV tag plus a new TLV boarding pass, he he he. I like BA boarding passes.

Went to WH Smith and they had a book I really wanted. Don't know the title exactly. It had to do with the East German Stasi files on the UK and a whole bunch of spying. I saw it somewhere online, really wanted the book, but didn't want to take it to Israel, who knew what they would think of it !? and I could just get it when I got back, right? WRONG. I love spy novels and have read many East/West books, love that stuff.

Oh well. I will find it someday. So I moved on. Went airside, show the BP, A- at security, and into my beloved Heathrow Terminal 4, one of my favorite places in the whole world.

It is a beautiful terminal, tons of great shops, great lounges, it is worldclass.

The Heathrow Terminals per se, like Gatwick, are great, it is the connection and hassle between them that is the problem. They need a Skyline train between them airside and landside and they just need to be more customer friendly.

Off to the BA lounges and the Heaven they are.

I always play with the lounge attendant. BA makes a big fuss about my Platinum card. No one else makes a fuss about the card and the boarding pass.

So I show one or the other. Then play around and show the other. It is childish but they annoy me so. The boarding pass has all your info and the other Oneworld airlines are fine with it, Qantas, Aer Lingus, Iberia, Cathay, it is just BA that makes a big deal, so I have fun.

Got a drink, caught up on the internet, and took a shower. Another en-suite shower, toilet, love it. Wonderful prior to a red-eye flight.

Toured the terminal and also visited the Holideck lounge, which is great as well.

Both lounges are multi level and fun. From the Holideck you can watch planes take off, while hearing the ATC, it is great.

I bought some chocolates at the Chocolate Box and looked at watches, not what I wanted.

I enjoy the shops, the feel, the quaintness of the terminal.

Back to the BA lounges and caught some zzzzs. Finally you had some Hebrew speakers
come in and my fellow passengers were arriving.

I wrote some last minute e-mails to everyone before heading off to Israel, oh this is exciting.

I was one of the last to leave as TLV and Athens are the last flights of the evening.

Made my way to the gate and here we go..................... http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

e-d-i-t

You're wrong, actually. If you read your own 'pre' trip report here, you'll see that mad_atta made the connection, on February 24th, at 01:12am. That's not me.

Pity, I was actually enjoying your trip report up until this point.

With regard to whomever is e-mailing you, I do sincerely hope that stops. I too have been subject to FT 'hate-mail' in the past, it's not warranted and there's no place for it here or anywhere else.

===

[This message has been edited by InterflugIL62 (edited Mar 06, 2004).]

Alright people, before the big moment, and going to the plane to Israel for my first time was very, very special, does anyone have the words to Hatikvah, the Israeli National Anthem?

If you can get them, I would be grateful if you could please post it here on the trip.

That song makes me cry...

Just promise me one thing Michael - you'll get over it and not rake it up again in another year from now?!

Good luck, i'll look forward to the remainder of the report.

Does this help?

Hebrew lyrics of HaTikvah:
Kol od balevav penima
Nefesh yehudi homiya
Ulfatey mizrakh kadima
Ayin leTziyon tzofiya

Od lo avda tikvateynu
Hatikvah bat shnot alpayim
Lihyot am khofshi beartzeynu
Eretz Tziyon vi'Yerushalayim
<repeat last two lines>

English translation of Hatikvah (according to Encyclopedia Judaica):
As long as deep in the heart
The soul of a Jew yearns,
And towards the East
An eye looks to Zion

Our hope is not yet lost
The hope of two thousand years.
To be a free people in our land
The land of Zion and Jerusalem.

Thank you for the words to Hatikvah. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

[This message has been edited by InterflugIL62 (edited Mar 06, 2004).]

Ok, here we go. This was a very special and dear moment for me.

I left the lounge and the terminal was dead empty, shops closed, kind of spooky. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

We were leaving and thank you, from one of the closer in gates, saved me all that walking.

I approached the gate and they had all these people dressed in black clothes, hats, kippot,
and garb. You can tell, I am excited. Oh this is cool. It is so real.

I have waited a long time for this.

You have those special moments in your life. Graduation, wedding, mine is still pending, http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif, but hey, I was very close(too close http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif LOL ), but most of my special moments are travel related.

When we went to board the South African plane to Jo'burg, the Qantas to Sydney, my first trip to Asia, my first trip to the UK, then later Paris. Now this. This was special. When I was at the doorway to the SAA 747-300, was like a dream.

I went over to a seat to get ready and prepare. I took out a pin with a US flag and Israeli flag together and put them on my shirt. Already I had stares and many smiles. I bought this at the Israeli Independence Day Festival in LA.

Many Friday nights at Shabbat (don't forget, I am in a church on Sunday), the Israeli Film Festival, Seders with the family(been a while there), Israeli thiss and thats, now here comes the graduation. Oh my.

I am excited and you can see it, you can feel it.

I go to the check in desk. No security questions? huh? She took my BP and stared at my lapel pin. It shows love and a strong friendship between the US and Israel. I have one for the UK and USA, just didn't bring it, but it is appropriate as well, all my heritage. I also have a Switzerland/USA pin, you get the idea.

We walk down the hallway. Has to be 90% Israelis on the plane, speaking Hebrew, I look at the aircraft, a BA 767,
get the reg #, again, all will be provided later. Promise. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif chocolates, lounges, and all. LOL

Ok, do they do a security check down here? No... Walk on the plane. Wow, this plane is different.
The seats are different and nicer than the Euro version of the BA 767. Everyone is standing, yacking in Hebrew, many look at my lapel pin and smile. Should I have worn kippot? (I left it at home!)

I take my seat, carry ons in the overhead. Keep my book on the Israelis, figure it is in good company here http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif,
and say hello to my neighbor, not realizing at the time that he and I will become very close over the next 5 hours.

I asked him why no security questions? He said BA doesn't do it. Some airlines do, Air France and Lufthansa are some that do, but he said, ouch, when I leave Israel, I will get some questions, and I will remember them!
"When you leave Israel you will be asked questions and you WILL remember them!" and I quote

A very tall man, probably a Rabbi!?, with kippot, kept walking up and down the aisles. He didn't want to touch a girl who was in the aisle assorting her things, she is oblivious to him, he puts his hands just above her, trying to get by, and he goes back and forth. Sorry, but http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif his big butt LOL is in my friend's face, and my new friend is ticked.

He pulls a face. I am laughing hard. I say it is intimate, well, let him be intimate somewhere else.

It is too, too funny, oy, ya had to be there. Everyone is talking fervently and mostly in Hebrew. A very lively crowd, I am loving it. This is so exciting, probably one of the most exciting moments in my life.

Our neighbors in the seats in front of us yack constantly in Ivrit, though later exchange pleasntries with us in
English, but have their seats all the way back.

Final checks and we push back after a small delay, pulling away from Terminal 4. I have always dreamed of this event, you can't even imagine. Sometimes the dreaming is part of the fun, right?

They did the safety video, same as other BA 767s, but the plane is nicer, a different seat material, headsets, and in the same package, comes a small coach amenity kit, nice touch. BUT they need more legroom. While not AA and the guys in front had their seats back, and the crew doesn't say anything!?, there could be more legroom.
During the long and protracted announcements, oh he is boring!, not a word of Hebrew, that is rude.

As we taxi out, BA 744 to Singapore and Sydney, they kept paging the last passengers. SQ 744, Emirates 777, probably that gorgeous stewardess was on there. The other BA 767 which I am sure is to Athinai, Athens.

Then who is directly across from us but the ELAL 777. Too funny. This plane is full, who is on ELAL?

It was great to see it, however, they would go before us and hence, be at customs before us, ugh.

ELAL goes, then we turn around, oh my gosh I am going to Israel, time to scream. So many songs to go through my head. What do I sing to myself? Havanagila. Spelling? Havanagila is perfect for a takeoff. It starts out slow, builds up, then goes fast, which you match to take off.

And away we go. Hava Nagila Hava, Nagila Hava.....................lift off...........................

Fly over Terminal 4, cheers, and some lights, and into the clouds.......................................

sorry, I have to go soon, but I will write a little bit and then Shabbat tonight will prepare me to write about Israel. promise

thank you all, this has been wonderful and very inspiring... and I made a new friend today... my heck

I need chocolate! and I need it now!! LOL

Ok, over the clouds. I am over the (freaking) Wing, so can see squat. When I called in it was all they had. Normally, I would say shame on me for not changing the seat assignment, but when you see the wonderful seatmate I have, I am happy.

No map and no airshow. No watch, so I have no idea what time it was, left it at home and the watches on sale at Heathrow, ick.

Over dark clouds, with wing below, kind of drove me nuts.

They started showing tv shows, wasn't bad. Started with the BBC news which I watch everyday, if possible, thanks to BBC America. I would die without it.

Then they went to a program of different sitcoms. One UK show I have never seen, most interesting.

I pulled out my Israeli book and did some cramming for the final. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif I learned so much about Israel and the Israeli people from this wonderful book, you have no idea.

I would have liked to have had a prayer book, in English of course, but that was not to be and my Christian Bible was home. Oh well.

My seatmate and I start casually yacking. So, where are you from?

I forget his name, awful? He is a dual citizen from Israel and the US and lives near Washington D.C. Hey,are you on flyertalk? LOL

I feel good about him and we talk. He is a fellow worldtraveler and the guy has been everywhere. We swap travel stories and experiences.

The man is a romantic. He took his wife to Italy as a surprise, but told her they were going to Niagara Falls. He then invited their friends. She was touched. I was touched! That is something I will do for my wife.
Hey, I have surprised women with some nice gifts, it is a good start, and my brother took his wife to New York as a surprise, so it runs in the family. smile

I told him at the end of the flight how lucky his wife is. He smiled.

Dinner came. My first real BA meal, vs. the little baggy they give you with not much in it.

Quite impressed. A full platter, much bigger than American, a delicious chicken curry, which was mentioned on flyertalk, some salad I was, ahhhhhhhh, the apple pie, Brian, take it! but the bread and accoutrements and all was good. I don't remember all but the chicken was good and I have snacked all day, bad on me. Kitkat was nice as well.

We do more talking and comparing stories, explaining it is my first time to Israel. He, like an Israeli friend who visits the Synagogue, told me they were very proud of me making the trip, my first Aliyah, and by myself at that. No one else wanted to go. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/frown.gif

We both agreed it was time for a bathroom break. For me to go only once on a 5 hour flight is very good, right guys? LOL

It was great to stretch, walk through the cabin. Usually people are sleeping at what must have been 2 freaking in the morning. They were all up yacking. People in the aisle, big but http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif up and down and up and down, and that drove my friend crazy, laugh...

People did stare at my lapel pin, most smiled. I liked that. It showed America's support for Israel. They, like the UK and others, Australia and New Zealand were also there as I was down under when it happened, were there for us on 9/11. Tear.

The cute stewardess who had served us was in the back and I asked for another kitkat bar if they had one. Can't explain it, the British one is so much better than ours. 1 point for the Britts.

She also said yeah, I have given you too much water. I had a small crush on her, I think she could see it. She had a German flag on her lapel pin meaning she speaks German, should I try to impress her with my terrible German? I think not. yeah she was cute.

Back to the seats, more yacking, some more reading, and a little zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Sorry for the suspense, but I need to break it here, right before we land in Israel.
he he he Shalom

===

[This message has been edited by InterflugIL62 (edited Mar 06, 2004).]