Traveling alone after the age of 60 can be daunting yet serves as a testament to independence and courage. Each year, I undertake a long journey from Ottawa, Canada, to my cherished home on Koh Lanta, Thailand. This trek, spanning approximately 45 hours, involves multiple flights, layovers, and occasional ferry rides, reminding me that solo travel is an adventure in itself.
As I prepared for this year’s trip, I anticipated the inevitable road construction that often disrupts travel in Ottawa. Despite checking in online, I received an unsettling notification stating that my boarding passes would be issued only after a thorough document review. A bit of pre-flight mystery to kick-start the day!
The journey begins: from Ottawa to Bangkok
The first leg of my flight to Vancouver proceeded smoothly. I savored half of my Subway sandwich while soaring over the Prairies, as domestic flights have turned into a game of “bring your own meal and hope for the best.” To pass the time, I watched a documentary featuring a vegan chef revitalizing a Nashville pub, which piqued my interest in a semi-vegan diet for the upcoming winter.
Upon landing at Vancouver Airport, I reunited with my cousin Honey, a tradition we have upheld for two years. Her warm smile and the homemade Greek filo pastries she brought were a delightful reprieve. We exchanged stories about Ottawa and our future plans, reflecting on how these annual gatherings have strengthened our bond. It’s fascinating how a two-hour meeting in an airport can provide a sense of grounding before embarking on a solo journey across the globe.
Flight to Bangkok: navigating challenges
Boarding the flight to Bangkok proved challenging due to the large crowd, with rain drumming against the windows adding to the ambiance. Just before takeoff, the pilot made an announcement that was less than reassuring: “We’ll be starting one engine here and the other just before we leave.” Was I meant to assist with this?
Once airborne, turbulence became merely a backdrop to my thoughts. I attempted to watch a critically acclaimed series called The Studio, but after a few episodes of relentless chaos, I switched to a cooking competition featuring chefs working tirelessly for 24 hours. This captivating show provided entertainment for a significant portion of the flight.
To break up the monotony, I took naps, stretched my legs, and engaged in a few rounds of Sudoku, my go-to activity during long flights. Sitting near the galley proved wise, as it encouraged me to get up and move. Soon, the back of the plane resembled a makeshift yoga class with various travelers stretching and finding their zen amidst the clouds.
From Bangkok to the island: the final leg
As we approached the tenth hour of the flight, I stopped checking the time, but when I finally did, I was pleasantly surprised to find only two hours remaining. Although the immigration process in Bangkok felt sluggish, and retrieving my luggage took an eternity, I decided to indulge in a premium airport lounge. The serene atmosphere, plush seating, and delectable Thai desserts made it feel like an oasis amidst the chaos of travel.
Choosing to remain in my embroidered Happy Cat jeans, I boarded the short flight to Krabi, feeling a sense of relief wash over me. My driver awaited upon arrival, and I quickly drifted into a deep sleep during the ride. This brief respite prepared me for the ferry ride, where the sunset painted the sky in hues of blue and red, a breathtaking welcome back to my island home.
Lessons learned from years of travel
Upon arriving at Happy Cat Villa, my cat Phai greeted me with a mix of curiosity and affection, as if trying to determine if I was truly her owner. After unpacking and taking a refreshing shower, I collapsed into bed and miraculously slept for ten straight hours. Perhaps this time, the 12-hour time difference would not be as challenging as in the past.
As I prepared for this year’s trip, I anticipated the inevitable road construction that often disrupts travel in Ottawa. Despite checking in online, I received an unsettling notification stating that my boarding passes would be issued only after a thorough document review. A bit of pre-flight mystery to kick-start the day!0
- Every journey has an end; accepting this can alleviate anxiety.
- When in doubt, don’t hesitate to ask for help from airline staff or fellow travelers.
- Patience is key in crowded spaces; most rudeness isn’t personal.
- Always pack your own essentials; future-you will be grateful.
- Airplanes can be chilly; be prepared for temperature changes.
- Have your documents organized to ease the process.
- Complete all forms before landing to avoid delays.
- Understanding that noise and movement are part of flying normalizes the experience.
- Bring along entertainment, as Wi-Fi may not always be reliable.
As I prepared for this year’s trip, I anticipated the inevitable road construction that often disrupts travel in Ottawa. Despite checking in online, I received an unsettling notification stating that my boarding passes would be issued only after a thorough document review. A bit of pre-flight mystery to kick-start the day!1
As I prepared for this year’s trip, I anticipated the inevitable road construction that often disrupts travel in Ottawa. Despite checking in online, I received an unsettling notification stating that my boarding passes would be issued only after a thorough document review. A bit of pre-flight mystery to kick-start the day!2