Intro - Getting Ready

Only a week to go and getting so excited. I have packed my new full size case weeks ago, but now I need to take everything out and start again - what do I really need to take? What don't I need? What haven't I got? Do I have shoes and handbags and jewellery to match what I am going to wear? Do I have all the gifts I need to take for my great-great nieces and nephews and the new one on the way? Will I be able to take some drawing and painting equipment. As I type this more things come to mind - earplugs, non-prescription things for hot weather, and more to the point will it a. All fit in and b. Weigh less than 30 kilos!!

Then what do I take in my new carry on - prescription drugs obviously, my chargers and tablet and phone and a small amount of cash, which handbag, and what make up - all liquids in a plastic bag for security of course. Leave space for duty free - I can't resist getting something. What spare clothes - will I be warm enough on the plane if I have summer clothes on? What do I wear to travel? So many things to decide on, just hope it is all packed by next Thursday!

November 29th

All ready to go car packed as Alex takes me to the airport. It is freezing cold 29°F, with thick frost on the fields as we drive up the motorway. After saying goodbye (and feeling like crying as I won't see him and the rest of my family until February) I take my carryon case through security and the adventure is really starting!

OK the flight is delayed, and am left sitting with a lot of other people from all over the world in a waiting room.

I could have spent more time in Duty Free (there are so many things there to tempt me!).

The journey begins and we head to our seats. Comfortable, reclinable and with a seatback screen for films, tv and for watching the plane journey as it slowly makes its way halfway round the world to Dubai. And we are off!