Vacation mood

.... hasn't really set in yet. Schahaatz has been down with a cold for a week and has now passed the baton to me. I'm already a bit apprehensive about the long flight when feeling less than fit. But there's no use in complaining, just close your eyes and push through. It can only get better.

The house is tidy, Kathrin - our garden fairy - is briefed, all packages are gone, the suitcases are packed and ready to be weighed. This time I've opted for minimalism. In preparation, I watched several YouTube videos about traveling to Japan, all recommending not to take too much. Why, you might be wondering? Here are the top three reasons: Due to the crowds on the streets, it’s quite difficult to navigate with large suitcases, there are supposedly fewer elevators or escalators at train stations (so you'll be hauling), and finally, taking luggage on the Shinkansen is a bit different from what we know in Germany. No, I don't mean the punctuality.

I briefly considered only taking a carry-on trolley, but that would have been a bit extreme. Let’s say that for 3 days in Vienna, the size is sufficient, but 3 weeks in Japan would really be pushing it. I’m starting off with 16.7 kg. There’s still plenty of room for souvenirs.

After an almost smooth process in Hanover and a rather noisy flight (it reinforced my belief - soundproof areas for families would be really great. Less stressful for the parents, more relaxing for everyone else) we reached the mega airport in Istanbul. It felt like we traveled almost 10 minutes from landing to the terminal and now we have to walk across from A to F.

Schahaatz wants to have a Radler, quickly Googles for a pub recommendation. When we arrive at Brewmans Pub, Schahaatz has lost his thirst. 16.50 for a 0.5l Efes, do I need to say more?

1:40 it continues.