Goodbye Switzerland - hello Australia!

On 07.03.2023 it was time. Saying goodbye to family and good friends in Switzerland! After the train journey to the airport and the last coffee at Restaurant Sprüngli, it was time! It was emotional and far from easy. It will surely take two years before I see some of you again... Two years! A departure into the unknown, an adventure, calculated but not estimable! The only consolation is that luckily my family is waiting for me in Townsville. That makes everything easier but still not easy.

My first destination was Narita Airport. 14 hours flight to Japan. Before departure, everyone had to present their vaccination certificate or confirmation again and received a blue stamp on their boarding pass. No vaccination, no flight! Also applicable to the transit area. Also in Japan. Mask requirement at the airport!

The Swiss staff was waiting for us. A smiling pilot welcomed us at the entrance. As a confirmed Singapore Airlines fan, I am curious to see what awaits me. Everything is fine at the beginning, my extra paid seat is modern and comfortable. So far so good.

Unfortunately, the friendly part didn't last long. Why can't they have fun while working? A little politeness would be appropriate. I immediately feel confirmed that Singapore Airlines cannot be surpassed. We simply are not the land of hospitality. It seems to have no tradition.

Extremely friendly staff awaited me at Narita Airport, who led us to the transit area in a reserved and polite manner. To my surprise, all toilets had 'Closomat toilets' with all the bells and whistles. What a luxury. Of course, I treated myself to a special Japanese dish, freshly prepared. Very pleasant, these Japanese!

My second flight was from Japan to Cairns, with Jetstar 26, a subsidiary of Qantas. A pleasant flight, friendly staff, and pleasant fellow passengers who live in our neighborhood in Townsville. We quickly found that out. Two brothers in their 30s with whom we could have interesting conversations. The flight was entertaining and very pleasant.

After the international customs control, which went smoothly, I was able to change from the international airport to the domestic airport. So my final flight. A cute propeller plane was waiting for us. Just like in the 3 Wetter Taft commercial. Exactly like that!

The flight was beautiful, early in the morning, and the other passengers were on their way to work. Short stop in Townsville and then the plane flew on to Rockhampton. Just like on a train in our country!

Finally, after 23 hours of flying and an hour of sleep, I was able to embrace my family! It was just pure luck! Our new life and adventure can officially begin as a family!