Return

Well we had to get up and get going. Our taxi was due at 9:30 and we had to finish packing, have breakfast, and check-out. In the end it all went very smoothly and we had plenty of time to spare. Our taxi arrived on schedule (though it was a 12 seater minibus - just for the two of us) and whisked us across to the airport.

There were three gates open - 2 for priority check-in and one for the great unwashed like us. What was nice was to see the check-in lady telling people off for getting in the wrong queue and sending them to the back of our queue. Being English it brought a wry smile to the face.

Once checked in we wandered through security - the Silver Vixen was stopped yet again. (Obviously something dodgy about her). We then had some time in the shops before heading for the TAP Lounge. It's not very big, but was quite comfortable and must have one of the best views from any airport lounge in the world.

We sat there until our flight was called. We grabbed some water and some sandwiches for the flight, before leaving. BA, in their infinite wisdom, no longer provide free food or drinks on flights, so rather than pay the exorbitant fees they charge, we made the most of our lounge access and their facilities.

The flight boarded on time. We were bussed the 150ft from the terminal to the plane... which always seems daft. Once loaded up we settled down for the flight only to be told that the flight was likely to be delayed by 25 minutes because they were increasing the separation between landings at Gatwick due to poor visibility. The Captain had, however, sent the "ready to go" message so that we could take advantage of any earlier slot that became free. As if by magic a slot became free almost immediately and we actually took off earlier than our scheduled time.

We had an excellent and very quick flight, landing early at Gatwick. Our bags seemed to be the first off the plane and within minutes we were walking out to be met by our driver. Comfortably ensconced in the back seats of the S-Class Mercedes we were whisked back home, getting in around five o'clock.

Home delivery of a Chinese meal from our local rounded off the day as we settled down to catch up on some of the recorded TV.

However good a holiday is... it's nice to be home.