My First Time Abroad! (Part 5)

The Road Home

I think the road home is different for everyone. For me, it is a bittersweet experience. I love to explore new places and meet new people. However, coming home allows you to realize how great the people and the usual places are in your life. After all, absence does make the heart grow fonder. The journey home is more about speed and less about the road less traveled. Everyone’s travels back home in a similar fashion. Usually, it goes hotel to car to plane to car to home. Most of the time, I am sleeping or watching movies on an airplane. I will snag a window seat if possible. However, my chivalry is in full force now that I am married. I let my wife have first choice of seats. The next two sections describe how I made it home from London and a few issues I know everyone encounters.

From London to California

My last day in London started early. I was up at 4 AM so I could catch a 8 AM flight back to the U.S. Fortunately, I packed the night before so I wouldn’t have to rush. Naturally, the majority of cab drivers in London are asleep at 4:30 in the morning. The front desk was nice enough to arrange a pick up. Taking a cab in London can be a bit of a problem as the streets are always filled with cars. However, it was a very nice and easy drive. Also, no one is ever in line for security this early. These are some of the reasons I recommend having an early departure.

Once I boarded the plane, I flew to Chicago and then to Los Angeles. Upon arriving, I was notified that my bag was in London still and that the customs agent at Chicago O’Hare had lied to me! This made the three hour drive home seemed extra long. I also split the drive with my mother. A little tip, never drive jet lagged ever. It is unsafe to say the least. Luckily, UPS came to the rescue. My bag was delivered a few days later and balance was restored.

Travel Problems

On the road home, a few problems will arise. Some of these problems are just bad luck. Life just happens. With other issues, there are a few things you can do to avoid them. This first problem is jet lag. Jet lag is unavoidable, but an early or late start may help you delay it during your travels. I have also found it is harder to deal with the older I get. The next problem is luggage weight. Check our blog article to find a solution for it. However, generous gift givers always seem to pay extra money. For the bad luck problems, flight delays and lost bags are the major ones. I personally think both of these are frustrating. Although, I am happy as long as I get home with all of my luggage. There really is no use in crying over spilled milk.

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