The alarms pinged from multiple devices and zombie like - or was it more robotic like - we were in pack-up and home mode. This "three hour" window at the airport for international travel adds just a bit of "length" to the journey. It does take a new "mindset" in post covid travel - and there is no fighting it - you just have to go with the flow.
And, very pleased to report that flow it did. All effortless. Hit the dining room as scheduled for breakfast (not quite the Pride of America choices - hot tea or coffee with a pre packaged ham and cheese roll - but it was welcomed) and then jumped on the 7.50 shuttle bus for the 1- minute ride to the Qantas gate at the airport. True to form, the Jetstar flight was cancelled (those poor long suffering travellers) which turned out to be a bonus for us as the Qantas staff were able to use the additional check-in facilities. This translated to absolutely NO QUEUES - so we were "through" and lined up at security. Shoes off, a quick wand because of the knee beeps and at 8.20 we were actually ensconced in the departure lounge with nearly two hours to kill!
Was quite amazed at how quiet the airport was - had the entire waiting lounge to ourselves. Until we eventually realised that other Aussies we had checked in with were not around. We were actually in the wrong lounge! Oh well, no harm done - eventually righted that little wrong in time for boarding.
There were 70 spare seats on the flight (those Jetstar passengers would have loved a reallocation) which made for an amusing 20 minutes as very "eager" passengers jockeyed for the spare room. We were more than happy with our neat little twosome - even more so when the gentleman in front was reallocated a seat - which meant we didn't have to deal with a recliner.
Having said that - a 10 hour flight is "nothing." You barely have time to settle in your seat, eat the food, watch a movie and make a few trips to the loo. Definitely no sleeping for us on this return leg.
Of course, no direct flight home - so did have that annoying little detour in Sydney - but again, bag collection, obligatory duty free, customs, transfer and re-boarding the connecting flight all effortless although the flight did experience a slight 30 minute delay (still thinking it is better than the fate of our Jetstar travellers who are still in Honolulu!)
Back on home soil in Brisbane just before 11 - picked up the shuttle bus to the long term parking - found the Kia - which started first time - and @Mac effortlessly resumed driving duties on the right side of the road (the left that is) and delivered us home just a few minutes before midnight. As always, glad to open the front door and find everything "tickety boo" - and then a shower and the waterbed!
Tomorrow will be re-provisioning and learning how to be self sufficient before the washing machine whirs into action.
Loved our time with @MIndy and @Ian (they are still there!) and enjoyed the luxury of cruising again and learning about different parts of the world - even though we are a little foot sore and weary. A few new processes for travel - but certainly manageable.
And the best thing is - only a couple of months and we are away again - this time to the Middle East - from Istanbul to Dubai.
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