Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Arrival

I made it! That was the longest plane trip I have ever taken. The people at British Air are not nearly as uptight as the AA folks. The experience was pleasant. Maybe that was a product of flying business class, but I got the impression that it was not. To my amazement, both takeoff and landings in the 777 were the smoothest I have had. It seems like the MD80 likes to sit down hard on the runway. The 777 must have enough lift to let it glide in easy. Amazing for such a large airplane.

I was not sure what to expect when I got to Abu Dhabi. I followed the signs to the "Passport Control" area. There were some long lines. After my line seemed to be going the slowest, I was starting to wonder if I had picked the wrong place. I really started to worry when three of the people in front of me were escorted into a private office with guys in uniforms - not good. So, I was a bit nervous when I presented my passport. "Visit?" was all the guy checking said as I approached the counter. "Yes, visit," was my reply. He looked carefully through my papers..."First time?" "Yes..." "You need to go here." Luckily, he passed my papers to a nice lady who promptly processed the visa. No, I didn't have to go to the office. Whew!

Well, I have a breakfast meeting at 0900. That's 2400 Texas time. I hope I am awake. I'm making some tea.

More adventures later and maybe some pictures.

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