Tag 1 1/2 - Flight & Arrival

09/26/2017

The line in front of the check-in counter is growing immensely. Will they all fit in the small plane? (yes, the Boeing 747 looks really nice from the front!)

First the wheelchair users, then other people with walking disabilities and families with children. Two Canadians on their way back home next to me. 'Vacation in Germany? With this weather?' - 'No, we were in Spain, but we have to transfer here... Could have been a nicer airport...'

They are right. Frankfurt is truly not an example of architectural masterpieces.

'I think it's faster if you have a child with you! You don't happen to have one, do you?' - '..No. Thank goodness, no. But I have a little cat!' and they spotted the small plush toy in my backpack.

'If we say that you are our daughter... Do you think that's enough?' - '...It depends on giving it a try!' - a head shake from the Lufthansa employee, but we were still allowed to enter. Because of the nice attempt.

Being cheeky gets you further. ;-)

I have to say: Lufthansa really makes an effort!

Unfortunately, my seat was given to someone else due to a passenger with a disability. Although not everything went according to plan with the organization, they did provide me with a special seat as a replacement. Alone, right by the window, with extra pillows, tablet, and a warmer blanket.

The cat is traveling undercover as a drink.

There are two hot meals, two snacks, and several rounds of drinks - from hard alcohol to wine, juices, and coffee, everything is available.

Unfortunately, my lactose-free meal contains exactly what it shouldn't - peanut oil.

Movies, music, mini-games - sleeping doesn't work so well. But now I speak fluent 'flight attendant' because their gestures and facial expressions sometimes say it all.

A quick glance at the monitor reveals: time to land - and suddenly I find myself in the middle of Vancouver.

It's painful to say goodbye to my newfound Canadian parents, but it was nice to have known them.

Vancouver greets me with the best weather and a bright blue sky. Fortunately, my host brought my own Compass Card (a type of public transit credit card) for the Skytrain (automated subway). So travel independence (at least until the credit runs out) is guaranteed.

The stations seem endless, but the ride is way too short in terms of enjoyment. Luckily, I can do it on my own now. :-P

Just two blocks further and we have arrived: my temporary home.