London Jan. 18: Houston-Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH) to Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Paris France (CDG)

CO10 18JAN08 Houston-Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH) to Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Paris France (CDG) N??019 6:35p 10:16a+1

I made my way through the check-in line and presented my boarding pass which was scanned by the agent. I heard two beeps and wondered if anything was wrong, but all was well, so I continued on. At the door of the airplane, the agent greeted me in French, so I continued chatting with him in French. I had flown with him before and he is quite an interesting agent. I like his American French accent. He pointed me to my seat and I got settled in, while saying hello to the passenger across from me to whom I am acquainted.

As I sat, the lead flight attendant came by and took my jacket as well as saying hello. I knew him, so I said hello as I had not seen him in a while. Soon, I was offered a pre-departure drink, I opted for water and then I was offered an amenity kit as well as a menu of today’s fare.

TO BEGIN

Warm roasted nuts with your preferred cocktail or beverage

HOT APPETIZER CART

A demitasse of seafood bisque with lump crabmeat accompanied by mini beef Wellington and a tandoori chicken skewer with ancho chili sauce

SALAD and warm breads

Fresh seasonal greens and frisée with sliced tomato, red onion, corn and a Kalamata olive

Your choice of Cabernet Sauvignon vinaigrette or Parmesan peppercorn dressing

Freshly baked garlic bread and assorted rolls with butter

MAIN COURSES

The Chef’s Selection

Grilled Sterling Silver� New York sirloin steak with pepper rub and herb glaze, sautéed spinach, roesti potatoes and a piquillo pepper filled with stewed eggplant and fresh mozzarella cheese

seared Breast of Chicken

Filled with fontina cheese and spinach, accompanied by port wine sauce, creamy polenta, broccolini and carrots

Herb-crusted Halibut

With extra virgin olive oil, parslied potatoes and braised fennel, served over tomato and olive ragoût and fine green beans

Pasta Bowl

Crescent-shaped pasta with truffle and potato filling, creamy mushroom sauce, caramelized onion and truffle butter, grilled fresh green asparagus, topped with roasted red tomato and freshly grated Parmesan cheese

FRUIT AND CHEESE cart

Select American and imported cheeses, fresh seasonal fruit, assorted gourmet crackers and bread, served with Port wine

DESSERT CART

Dreyer’s Grand vanilla ice cream with choice of toppings
or an assortment of petite pastries

Fresh Brew® gourmet roasted regular and decaffeinated coffee made exclusively for Continental Airlines or tea with your choice of milk or lemon

Enjoy a cup of freshly brewed Emilio Caffè Italian Espresso or Cappuccino available exclusively in BusinessFirst on our 777 and 767 aircraft.

pre-arrival breakfast

A selection of juices

Fresh seasonal fruit and yogurt

Assorted breads including cinnamon and crusty rolls and warm croissants with butter and strawberry preserves

cheddar cheese Omelette

Accompanied by grilled smoked pork loin, turkey sausage and broccoli gratin potatoes

Selected Cereal

Served with milk and a banana

Fresh Brew® gourmet roasted regular and decaffeinated coffee made exclusively for Continental Airlines or tea with your choice of milk or lemon

The captain came on the PA and announced that we were delayed just a bit as there was still cargo being loaded as well as some passengers’ bags. He assured us that even with this delay we would still arrive ontime.

· Movies

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· Short programs

o All (179), comedy, drama, entertainment, family, global TV HBO on Demand, lifestyle

· Music

o All (243), classical, country, jazz, pop, r&b/urban, rock, world

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o All (26), arcade, board/puzzle, educational, gaming, kids

· Flight map

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With 1:20 to go under Ireland; breakfast

Yoghurt, tea/coffee, roll/cinnamon roll/hard roll, jam, fruit bowl (grapes, orange, grapefruit, pineapple) plus choice omelet (cheese, ham, beef sausage, spinach) or cereal and banana.

The Captain came on the PA (south of Rouen 35 minutes out) and said we are 15 minutes ahead of schedule at 10:30a

15C = 55F visibility is 10Miles 10-15 miles from the southwest low scattered clouds at 2,000’ above the field about 121 miles out at 20,787’; a seatbelt message came on in English and French and then in English again.

The flight attendants helped us prepare the cabin for landing and returned my coat. It was a beautiful morning in Riossy as you could see a far distance without obstruction.

London Jan. 18: Houston-Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH)

Jan 18, 2008

Houston-Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH)

At terminal C, I bade goodbye to my colleagues and headed for terminal E. it was now 5:56p and I knew I had to hurry. Sadly, there will be no time to stop in the Presidents Club on this trip.

I raced through security although everyone seemed to be moving so slow, and made it to the terminal. I was gate E18 so I had to really get to the other end of the terminal.

I made it there in time and caught up with two of my colleagues who were also on the same flight. We chatted for a moment and then I went to the gate to collect my boarding pass. Good deal, I scored a BusinessFirst seat today.

London Jan. 18: On the way to the airport

Jan. 18, 2008

The drive to the airport was a wet one. In addition traffic was horrible. Luckily there were three of us in the car so we were able to take the HOV lane. The HOV lanes in Houston are kind of weird as they are a single lane that is used for both directions depending on the time of day. So usually in the evenings it is northbound and in the morning southbound.

Also, the exit for the airport lets you out at the north end of the airport and if you want to get o the south end, you have to get off and take the service road on US59 to the Beltway or Greens road as there is no exit from the HOV lane to the Beltway.

We exited and made our way to Greens Road, then made our way to the parking facility. There was no waiting as there was a bus leaving for the terminals.

Today's Journey

Well, the weekend is here so I'm off to somewhere. I have a few choices, well two Washington D.C. or London, England. It will more than likely be London either via Amsterdam, Netherlands (AMS) or Paris-Charles de Gaulle, France (CDG). Who knows...

Monterrey, Mexico (MTY): Back in Houston, TX (IAH)

We taxied up to the gate which took quite a while to accomplish as we had landed on the Terminal E side of the airport. We docked at D3 and had a really long walk to get back to the International Arrivals building. It is at least a 7-10 minutes walk.

The Immigration officer did not respond to my Hello, he just wrote on my form and said "Next.' How rude I thought as I said thank you and left. He did the same thing to the person behind me sadly.

We made it downstairs and out of Customs where a Hello to the lady there yielded a hello back and a smile; what a difference.

One of my colleagues said the agent asked her "where are her people from?" which I thought was funny...

We then headed for the parking lot and headed home in the cold dreary night weather.

Monterrey, Mexico (MTY): CO2115 17JAN08 Monterrey, Mexico (MTY) to Houston-Intercontinental. Houston, TX (IAH)

CO2115 17JAN08 Monterrey, Mexico (MTY) to Houston-Intercontinental, Houston, TX (IAH) N15948 ERJ 6:05p 7:30p

We all boarded as quickly as possible and settled in. There was a Delta Connection CRJ on the left of us and there was also an Aviacsa Boeing 737-200 being pushed back so the noise level was enormous. the quiet of the 1-2 50 leather seats was quite welcomed. I said hello to the flight attendant and she acknowledge it, which usually means a good crew.

I switched seat with a lady who was traveling with two kids and her daughter so they could be together; it was an even swap; a window for a window and all were happy. They each got to sit next to one child.

At 6:20p, the doors closed and a minute later, we pushed back from the hard stand then taxied out to the runway; it was still quite hazy and raining as nightfall arrived on the airport.

The English safety demo started as we made our pushback followed by the Spanish version.

There was a Mexicana A319 landing on runway 29 as we waited. We were behind a Boeing 737-300 with markings that were not exactly visible from where I was sitting. There were several new carriers that I saw here in Monterrey; Aladia, interjet and Magni Charters to name three of them and of course Aviacsa, Mexicana and Aeromexico.

At 6:36p, we were airborne as it continued to rain. The flight attendant came on the PA and gave her welcome adding that we would get a snack and then beverages. She then came through with a sealed plastic container with m&ms, beef salami, a pack of crackers, a packet of peppercorn cheese and a napkin. I tried not to ea before the drinks came but I failed just as she a few seats away. I also tried to stay awake too as I was so tired. When she arrived with drinks, I had some water and apple juice.

Documentation was the next chapter of the flight; U.S. citizens only need a Customs form, others need an I-94 white form or the visa-waiver green form if your country participates in the visa waiver program. I had already received my Customs from when I checked in so I was good to go.

I was able to sneak in a 15 minute nap, but soon the Captain came on the PA and I could barely hear him say that we would start our descent in the Houston area. It was very faint though; This was at 7:15p.

It was 7:44p when touched down on the runway in Houston and it was just twilight there. An announcement was made welcoming in us and advising us of the procedures; i.e. we have to take all our bags with us an pick up our bags at customs when we get inside. Also ensure that we have our documentation filled out for the Immigration officials.

Monterrey, Mexico (MTY): at the airport in MTY boarding the flight

Once at the gate, I realized that the flight had not boarded as yet. I relayed the lounge information to my colleagues who thought it was good information to use the next time and also noted that if we were further delayed than 15 minutes, we could use the lounge.

We boarded at gate 11 which displayed our flight, but that gate was actually boarding a delayed Delta Connection fight to Atlanta, GA (ATL) instead. We were directed to the gate next to it, 11A instead. We headed over there, showed our documents, had a mini search and then boarded the waiting bus in the misty and cold rain. The umbrellas were actually on the bus which I thought was interesting.

We were then bussed the short distance to the plane; it was just a tad longer than where were had walked the day before once we got off the plane. Once at the plane door, we waited a bit and then boarded.

Monterrey, Mexico (MTY): At the airport again

I am at the airport in the Aeromexico Salon;

The check-in process was smooth and no issues. The airport is cold though. I had no issues through security which was a breeze. This is really a nice airport.

I was taking pictures and was told to stop by the security officer so I did. I was watching an Aviacsa Boeing 737-300push back as well as an Interjet A320 pulling in.

I then left and walked around and found a few lounges; Aeromexico's and and Mexicana. I gained access to the Aeromexico Salon with my boarding pass and my Presidents Club card. I also could have gained access using my American Express Gold, Black or Platinum card to the American Express Centurion Club.

I await the flight...

BA 777 had an incident in LHR

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/london/7194086.stm

Well, I'm in Monterrey so I am not on it; glad all is well though; i.e. no deaths.

Monterrey, Mexico (MEX): In Monterey

The drive to the city was fantastic. You could see the large mountain in this Mexico's third largest populated city behind Mexico City and Guadalajara (home of Ugly Betty). It is also Mexico's largest industrial city ad the capital of the state of Nuevo Leon.



The city is large sitting at the base of the mountain; some of the house lead up the side of the mountain and a part of the city is on the other side of the mountain accessible by a well constructed tunnel. The mountain is famous as a part of it looks like a horse's saddle.






I had dinner at a local place called la Valentina at Ave. Lazaro Cardenas 2660-B Valle Ote. in an area called San Pedro Garza Garcia.

Monterrey, Mexico (MEX): At the Monterrey International Airport, Monterrey, MX (MTY)

On landing, there were about five airplanes waiting for take off including an Aeromexico Boeing 737-700 with winglets and an Aviacsa Boeing 737-200; Mexico is always a fun place to see lots of 737-200s.

As we taxied over the the really nice terminal with its jetways, an Aviacsa Boeing 737-200 landed behind us and taxied in as well. They took the gate while we walked down the stairs and into the terminal a short distance away. That Aviacsa airplane was really taxiing fast into that gate I thought.

We cleared Immigration and Customs without incident and saw our driver waiting with our names; that is always nice to see.






We went outside and got into the car as I took a picture of the front of the airport.

Monterrey, Mexico (MEX): CO3020 Houston Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH) to Monterrey, MX (MTY)

CO3020 16JAN08 Houston-Intercontinental, Houston T (IAH) to Monterrey, Mexico (MTY) 4:00p 5:35p ERJ N12934 operated by ExpressJet Airlines, Inc., dba Continental Express

Flying Time: 1:18

I said hello to the flight attendant as I boarded; she was smiling as I had done a funky switcheroo with my backpack and my computer bag before boarding.

I turned right and walked to my seat through this single aisle 50 leather seats 1-2 configured airplane with the lone lav. at the back of the plane. The overheads were full so I stuffed my stuff under the seat; they just about fitted too. I also grabbed a blanket in a plastic sheath from the overhead; I had taken a pillow from another overhead on my way down.

I settled in and chatted a bit with my colleague who was having a headache. I offered her an Advil and she said she would try to see if she could sleep it off first, but appreciated the Advil.

At 3:55p, the Captain came on the PA and announced that we would be cruising at 32,000’ today and the journey should take 1:18 of flying time. It was not repeated in Spanish; odd, I thought.

We pushed back at 3:58p as the flight attendant gave the safety demo in English. By the time it ended, we were taxiing under our own power to the runway. I was wondering where was the Spanish version when it started playing.

I looked through the window and could see a United Express ERJ-175 taxiing into its gate at Terminal A. just then a Continental Airlines Boeing 737-700 pulled up next to us. You know you are a small plane when a Boeing 737-700 looks big to you.

Off in the distance, there eight other planes ahead of us including a Northwest Airbus A319 and a few other ERJs and one private jet. As we taxied closer to the runway, I could see a KLM Asia Boeing 747-400 Combi taking up its position in the queue for runway 15L/R. The Captain told the Flight attendant to take her seat and we were airborne by 4:07p.

The flight attendant said that we would have beverages and then a snack service; on our way to the airport, we were wondering if there was a meal on this flight. We thought yes, since it is a business market.

I took out my computer as soon as I heard the ding and started the blog for this flight. The guy next to me pulled his out and it took up the entire tray table; it was a Dell that was literally twice the size of my computer if I turned it sideways; way too big for my liking, where is my MacBook Air?

After the beverages were served, minus coffee as the flight attendant announced that the machine was broken, we were served a turkey and cheese sandwich with some baby carrots and a Kit Kat. She then followed up with documentation for entering Mexico.

The bread for the sandwich was rather large and a bit bulky for want of a better word. I ate around it and left most of it in the wrapper. I also did not have the KitKat and after much chewing, finished the baby carrots. Trash was collected after all that during a little turbulence.

The documentation for entry into Mexico differs based on whether you are form Mexico or not. As a U.S. citizen, I had to fill out a visitor form as well as a Customs form. I think Mexicans fill out the customs form as well as another document for Mexicans only. Immigration forms are always annoying as they are sometimes lengthy and want your life story. The simplest I’ve seen is perhaps France, where they usually want just basic information on a small form and oftentimes when you get there, they don’t take it from you.

One tip for you is that you should always bring a pen with you whenever you travel as in cases like these you will need it. Also, you never know who you may meet and need to take their contact details or give them yours. One other good tip is also to memorize your passport number, alien number, if applicable, and the expiration dates of these documents. It comes in handy when filling out the forms and saves you time from having to rifle through your passport.

The Captain came on the PA when we were twenty-three minutes flying time from the ground and said that we had started our descent into the Monterrey area and due to turbulence the seatbelt signs would continue to being lit. He continued saying that there was light winds, temp of 10C which is 50F. He thanked us for flying Continental Express and wished to see us on a future flight; the announcement was not repeated in Spanish.

The flight attendant then came through again one more time picking up trash. The guy next to me was filling out his form and so was I. He asked me if it was necessary to fill out the bottom of the form and I told him yes.
We landed without incident and taxied to the gate.

Monterrey, Mexico (MEX): Walking to the gate in Houston, TX

As I was close to the gate, well, I kind of lost track of time, I left the Club at 3:42p, checked the FIDs first to ensure that the gate has not changed and then headed there. When I got to the gate, the agent said hello, checked my passport and scanned my boarding pass.

Monterrey, Mexico (MEX): At the hotel

I just arrived at hotel in Monterrey after about an hour's drive from the airport. It is a beautiful city, kind of like Las Vegas with its vegetation

It is kind of funny to watch Smallville in Spanish :-)...

Monterrey, Mexico (MEX): At the airport in Houston Intercontinental

Houston-Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH)

This is a quick trip for work across to Monterrey, Mexico (MTY). I've not been to this city, so it should be cool. I really enjoy going to new places as I never know what to expect.

It was smooth sailing on the highway to the airport and getting from the parking lot to the airport terminal was a breeze.

At the airport, I'm hanging out in the Presidents Club in Terminal B while I await the flight at 4p. I just had some crackers and cheese; you know my routine by now.

The TSA guy was scary as he balked at this lady before me, telling her to stay behind the line and wait until called; this is odd as I'd never seen a line like that at the TSA set up anywhere. The guy was really rude as he could have done this much better than he had.

The new MacBook Air - I want one

Steve Jobs just kicked off the MacBook Air at the MacWorld conference in San Fran. I've been wanting a new computer although the one I have a Fujitsu Lifebook is only 1.5 years old. It is a pain and has never worked well from the get go and Fujitsu refused to fix it to my liking although it is under warranty. It does not help that I dropped it while on the A380 in Sydney and will have to pay to get it fixed even though it is under warranty.

So I thought about the Mac as I need to get some good video editing and image editing sofware anyways and still keep doing my writing using Word. A friend told me to wait a bit and see what MacWorld brings and it brought the MacBook Air.


So, I'm psyched and will look into it further; hey it easily fits into an Interoffice Memo envelope! Read more about it at http://www.macworld.com/article/131583/2008/01/macbookair.html.

What do you think?

Des Moines, IA (DSM): In Des Moines, IA (DSM) to Houston, TX (IAH)

I boarded this all Economy class 37-seater with leather seats in a 1-2 configuration airplane and made my way to my seat. There was a lady sitting in the aisle seat on the phone so I sat in the window across from her.

She eventually looked over and said if I wanted her to move. I said no and that I would move if someone else only as I knew there were only two other passengers to board the plane. Those two passengers boarded and I just moved to the back row where there were two seats open on the right. Now you can call me the lav. police...

We closed up early and a female voice from the cockpit welcomed us onboard. It was odd that this was actually a totally new crew taking us back. So it means that the crew who just dropped us off would overnight as my flight in was the last one for the day. She welcomed us onboard

Des Moines, IA (DSM): In Des Moines, IA (DSM)

As we taxied in, an American Eagle 145 was taking off. The airport of this state's capital is larger than expected.

I got off with everyone else and looked around the terminal. I headed out to the check-in area and walked around outside in the below freezing temperature. I came back in and got my boarding pass and went upstairs to security after checking fr some local information.

The lady at the information counter thought it strange that I was asking for a bus schedule. She said there is a bus, but it does not run on Sundays. I asked her for a schedule but she said she had none. She was funny too, as she said you can even walk it as it is only five miles, then she said she joking about walking. I then took up some brochures said thanks and went to the security area.

It was slower than Ponce if you can imagine that. I wanted to see if they had complimentary WiFi, but it took forever to get through the security lines and there were maybe 10 people ahead of me if that many. By the time I got through and made my way back to the gate, I had to board the flight back.

Des Moines, IA (DSM): Houston-Intercontinental Houston, TX (IAH) to Des Moines, IA (DSM)

CO2479 13JAN08 Houston-Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH) to Des Moines, IA (DSM) 2:10p 4:22p 135 N12528

Flying Time: 1:54

I got on board and settled in.

The gate agent closed the door at :02, the captain came on the PA and told us that we should be leaving soon and that means we will have an early arrival.

At 1:06, we started our taxi and was airborne rather quickly using runway 15L as there was no one out there. Oddly enough, we made a hard right turn and then almost 180 and made our way across the airport. It was a beautiful view from above.

Forty minutes into the flight, the captain came on the PA and said that we had 1:14 to go and we had levelled off at our cruising altitude of 35,000' and doing about 420kts with a head wind. He said we should be early by about 15-20 minutes.

We were served two packs of peanuts and beverage of choice today; I ate that as well as some crackers and fell asleep after doing some reading.

I was awoken when we started descending into Des Moines. There was snow everywhere; it just looked really cold. We landed smoothly and taxied to the jet-bridged gate.

Des Moines, IA (DSM): Houston-Intercontinental (IAH)

Houston-Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH)

I had decided to visit Des Moines if I could make the flight, so once at the gate, I checked my messages and it was leaving from B77 at 2:10p and I arrived in C22 I think it was at 1:32p. I rushed over there stopping in the Presidents Club for a quick snack and arriving at the gate just in time to hear my name being called as well as other passengers. I collected my boarding pass and boarded.

Sadly, no time to made a blog entry though as th computer was out of juice and would take a little time to get going.

Ponce, PR (PSE): Newark, NJ to Houston, TX

CO303 13JAN08 Newark-Liberty International, Newark NJ (EWR) to Houston Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH) 733 10:25a 1:20p N59338 with winglets

Flying Time: 3:20

Finally we could board the aircraft. The First Class cabin has 12 leather seats in a 2-2 configuration. Behind the divider is Economy class in a 3-3- configuration and one exit row.

I always try to visualize where I am sitting and when I did I was not too happy about it, but I pressed on. I asked the guy at the aisle to let me in and he did. The reason I was not too happy was that he was a big guy and he encroached on my seat :-(. This will be a fun three plus hours.

His right shoulder was placed firmly on the right armrest so I had no resort by to lean to the right; luckily the lady at the window was asleep and had leaned into the window. In addition, the jacket he was wearing was sticking me due to the material that made it.

We soon pushed back once everyone was seated and the safety demo started; we were four minutes off the mark. We were not off the ground until 10:48a as we used a runway that was a little far away.

It was great to see the city in all its splendor on a very clear day.

The movie today is "The Nanny Diaries;" headsets were offered for 1.00 USD and we were told we would get a snack on the flight. This 737-300 is one of the few that Continental has that has inflight entertainment on it. It also just got installed with fuel saving winglets.

The Captain came on at about 11:25a, but I could not hear anything he was saying at all; he just sounded muffled; basically all I heard was turn the seat belt sign off and then the ding.

Lunch came in the form of a charboiled beef cheese burger with American cheese; sounds familiar? plus baby carrots and a Twix, plus beverage of choice. I ate it all except for the Twix, despite the pressure on my teeth :-(.

I reclined my seat, but so did the guy next to me, so I pulled forward so we could both fit. I tried to fall asleep and did, waking up when we touched down and taxied to the gate as I was really so tired.

Ponce, PR (PSE): At the gate in Newark

Newark-Liberty International, Newark NJ (EWR)

13JAN08
I got to the gate at 9:58a, there was a crowd at the gate and I asked one guy if they had cleared the standby list. He said yes and that I should to talk to the agent; I did and was given a boarding pass with a middle seat about 2/3rds of the way back. I took it and was about to board when a friend called me. We chatted for a bit and then I boarded at 10:03a.

The jetway had people standing there as I guess customer had trouble getting settled inside. As I waited, a flight attendant said that there was no more space for bags, so she started tagging the ones for people behind me. During the wintertime, it is always bad as most everyone wears a coat and no one wants to hold their coat in their lap the entire flight. Consequently the overheads are full of coats; I wished there was a better solution.

Des Moines, IA (DSM): Back in Houston-Intercontinental (IAH)

I just arrived at the airport from Des Moines, now I have one more state to go, North Dakota. I'll get the updates on in a few hours. There was no Internet access in some of the airports and others, I just did not have enough ground time and battery power to make an update.

Ponce, PR (PSE): Newark-Liberty, Newark NJ (EWR) for the third time

In the Presidents Club, where I had a bagel with cream cheese as well as two small muffins and a banana as I wait for the next flight.

A guy was just seen walking his dog in the airport which is a no-no; all in cabin pets must be kept in the kennel for the duration of the trip. This is one of the conditions of carrying a pet onboard. Oh, when I arrived in Ponce, PR, there was a pet onboard that was yelping the whole time after we landed. A few people were noticeably upset.

I'll walk down to the gate in a bit. Oh, I've added a Des Moines, IA (DSM) segment to this trip as Iowa and North Dakota are the two lone not visited U.S. states. If I make it to Iowa I'll have one more to go.

Ponce, PR (PSE): Aeropuerto Mercedita, Ponce PR (PSE) to Newark-LIberty, Newark NJ (EWR)

CO337 13JAN08 Aeropuerto Mercedita, Ponce PR (PSE) to Newark-Liberty International, Newark NJ (EWR) 738 6:00a 9:10a N36207

Flight time: 3:44

I boarded from the rear of the plane as instructed, which is always a treat since that rarely occurs. I found my seat and settled in as others did the same. I looked out the window to my left and JetBlue was boarding as well.

JetBlue pushed ontime at 6:00a before we did as my flight had some seating issues; looks like some customers did not sit where they were assigned, so others were without a seat. Folks, please take your assigned seat when you board. The place to change your seat is not on the airplane, but when you check-in either online or at the airport on your day of departure.

The Captain had come on at about 5:53a and said that he did not foresee any delays; they were loading the last of the bags; the weather in Newark is at freezing, so 32F and that snow was expected later today. That is always daunting when you are leaving a place where the temperature is 85F.

Free headsets were passed out before we left the ground, then the safety video in English started followed by Spanish. Due to the seat issue, the pushback at 6:03a started just a bit after the English safety video started.

The engine started at 6:05a and we were off the ground by 6:09a. I could hear the JetBlue plane take off as we taxied down to the end of the runway. We will chase them up the Caribbean today. The takeoff roll was much faster and noticeably different than in Newark; we were airborne much quicker and started a pretty steep climb into the still dark morning.

The announced movie was the same as on the way down, so I don't think that is correct. If I read the Continental magazine correctly on page 84, it should have been "The Pink Panther." In the same vein, the movie southbound should have been, "Garfield Gets Real," "The Game Plan" is only shown from Houston to the West Coast and Canada. My guess is that the wrong movies were loaded on the aircraft last night, so the crew just made do.

Within an hour after takeoff, I was served a pita pocket cheese omelet, banana muffin, raspberry yogurt and a fruit cup (cantaloupe, pineapple and some other fruit I can't identify, it tasted like papaya, but I cannot be certain). it was all quite good, but my molars complained when eating the omelet so it was slow going. I topped it off with some water and tea with lemon.

As our departure time was so early, you could hear people snoring throughout the cabin. As I say this, I remember a little kid who had come with his parents to see his grandfather off as he was so sleepy, his mother made him kiss his granddad and then he reached for her, she lifted him and he passed out immediately on her left shoulder. 6:00a on a Caribbean island is way too early for a flight and that JetBlue fight was even earlier as I think its departure time would have been like 4:30a or so.

The battery low light came on so I had to shut down the computer; then I went to sleep. I awoke when we started our descent into Newark.

Again, when we landed there was clapping proper clapping when we cleared the runway and the airplane stopped braking. We taxied up to our gate where we waited a bit to get off the plane. We were quite early, I think it was 8:50a local.

Ponce, PR (PSE): Aeropuerto Mercedita, Ponce PR (PSE)

Aeropuerto Mercedita, Ponce PR (PSE)

As I suspected, there are no jetways here, so we taxied to the hard stand. As we cleared the runway, a JetBlue A320 took to the skies; that is an odd departure time I thought. I looked across to the hard stand and there was another JetBlue A320 (Absolute Blue) there as well.

I deplaned down the stairs with everyone else; it was a zoo at baggage claim as the JetBlue flight had just arrived as well. I made my way through the chaos to the outside where there was more chaos as there were tons of people greeting their families.

You could smell the warm Caribbean air partially laced with weed, alas it is party time it seems as there was music billowing from a red Honda Civic parked not far away. I am amazed at the number of people in the airport at this hour. If I did not know it was 5:00a, I would not have believed it was.

I made my way to the departure lounge which was really adjacent to the arrival lounge, all on the same level. It was just as crowded, as there were passengers checking in for the JetBlue and the Continental flights which were leaving shortly at 6:00a. There is also a counter for Cape Air and one for spirit airlines, plus a tourism counter for what looks like a charter company.

A lady just asked me if I have change for a 5, but I don't. I think she wants to use the soda machine. I remember a little girl was saying "una pesos," but the machine takes 1 USD; interesting.

Oh, I tried for Internet access and there is none, so you will get this when I return to Newark or whichever airport I arrive next that has WiFi. I await a seat for my return flight.

I waited for all teh customers to be checked in and then asked the agent about the standby list, he says they clear it at th gate and then printed me my boarding passes. The flight is weight restricted he said, due to the short length of the runway and the number of bags that customers have. I told him I had a backup on Cape Air to San Juan (SJU), that I want to use and don't want to use, he and his colleagues smiled.

The security line was long as both the Continental and the JetBlue flights leave at the same time. I got on line at 5:25a and was through at 5:47a. Considering that the departure area is really small, this is pretty bad. One of the issue way the line seems longer is that about 2/3rds of it are families accompanying their relatives. Also, there is no priority lines at this airport, everyone gets on the same line.

It gets quite emotional when they can't go any further. I felt like I was at a funeral as people were hugging, sniffling and crying and passionately touching each other. I felt out of place, as if I should be hugging someone too, it was odd. I guess as I travel so much, I am de-sanitized about the saying goodbye experience. Do people really think they won't see their loved ones again?

I approached the counter and the agent knew who I was and gave me a middle seat towards the back. I did not even ask for a change as I knew the flight was full and I was kind of happy to get a seat, although I really wanted to try the Cape Air service to San Juan (SJU), but perhaps another time and another market. I now have three months in which to use this ticket.

Ponce, PR (PSE): Newark-Liberty, Newark NJ (EWR) to Ponce, PR (PSE)

CO336 12JAN08 Newark-Liberty International, Newark NJ (EWR) to Aeropuerto Mercedita, Ponce, PR (PSE) 738 11:55p 4:45a+1 N36207

As I boarded, I noticed the first class cabin with its 16 leather seats in a 2-2 configuration. There was a drawn curtain and a bulkhead that separated that cabin from the 3-3 configured Economy class cabin; my home for the next few hours.

As I walked to my seat, I noticed that every seat had a blanket and a pillow in a sealed plastic bag on them, perfect, I thought. A guy was trying to stuff his item in the overhead and there clearly was no room, so I mentioned to him to use the other side of the plane. He looked at me strange, I think he must have been thinking that he can't use that side as it is not over his seat, but he did anyways. Once that was done, I was able to pass to get to my seat.

Two passengers boarded and at sat one on either side in the row in front of me. I guess they wanted a row to themselves; that did not last for long as the flight attendant brought by two persons who needed seats and asked them to sit in the same row. If looks could kill as the lady stared down the two others and so did her son. It was kind of comical to watch.

Everyone got settled in pretty quickly, an announcement was made with the flight number and destination in both English and Spanish and then the door was closed. Oh, just before the door closed, a passenger moved to the aisle in my row; I said hello, but he did not answer. I thought it strange, but just continued with my activities. He did look at me though.

We pushed back at 12:10a as the safety video (first in English and then in Spanish) rolled on the overhead monitors that flipped down from the overhead bins.

It took us until 12:31a to be airborne and it was the slowest take off in a Boeing 737 I'd ever experience. For a moment, I thought we would not make it. I commented to the guy at the aisle as to how slow the plane was and again he looked me straight n the face and said nothing; again I thought it was odd that he did not utter a word.

The takeoff was graceful and one could see the Manhattan skyline off in the distance. It was a clear unobstructed night so you see quite a bit.

I fell asleep for a while and awoke to see the flight attendants at the front of the plane with their service carts.

The movie playing was "The Game Plan" with the Rock; headsets were offered for free. The guy next to me offered me his, but I told him no thanks. It was strange as he was watching the movie without a headset and he offered me his. Again, I thought it strange that he still have not said a word.

He woke me to tell me my meal had arrived by shaking my shoulder. I was surprised by the meal choice of a hot charbroiled beef burger with American cheese, a salad with dressing and a brownie. This was served with beverage of choice.

The guy at the aisle was showing the flight attendant what he wanted as opposed to telling her, so it was then that I realized that he either could not or did not speak.

The meal was quite good, although I struggled with chewing the burger and only had 1/3 of the brownie. After eating, I spent the next few minutes trying to get food out of my teeth...

Clean up was pretty quick after, so within an hour after takeoff all the stuff was cleared.

At 12:37a, all the lights were turned out and the movie continued on the overhead monitors, it was time for bed. I shut the computer down and bedded down for the night.

I was awaken about 30 minutes out t get the cabin ready for landing. I pulled my seat forward, the guy in the aisle offered me a stick of gum, I declined and went back to sleep. We touched down momentarily and really braked hard. A resounding cheer erupted from the cabin; oh yea, Caribbean landings usually generate a cheer.

It as 4:46a on my phone, Ponce is one hour ahead of Newark.

Ponce, PR (PSE): Newark-Liberty, Newark NJ (EWR) awaiting the flight

Newark-Liberty International, Newark NJ (EWR)

I got to the gate around 11:15p (12AN) and the crew and all the passengers were still waiting by the gate. Reason: there was no Boeing 737-800 at the gate. The airplane had just arrived from another international destination and was at Terminal B. It eventually arrived at the gate at 11:30p and boarding started at 11:40p.

Announcements were made in both English and Spanish and boarding was done by First Class and Elite Status as well as those who need extra time and then row numbers from the last row forward. People whose rows were not called kept crowding the entrance so it was difficult to see what was going on. Despite that, the boarding process was smooth.

Ponce, PR (PSE): Newark-Liberty, Newark NJ (EWR)

I'm about to board the flight; so next report from Ponce if there is Internet access there.

Burlington, VT: In Newark-Liberty, Newark NJ (EWR) again

I arrived in Newark about an hour or so ago and trying to make plans for the future legs of this trip. I am now in the Presidents Club putting the blog entry together for the previous leg and just relaxing and awaiting the flight to Ponce, PR (PSE) tonight. It is a long wait...

Burlington, VT: CO2332 Burlington to Newark

CO2332 12JAN08 Burlington International, Burlington VT (BTV) to Newark-Liberty International, Newark NJ (EWR) ERJ N13929 2:30p 3:59p

Flying Time: 0:52

We departed the gate while the safety demonstrated was being done. As we taxied out, I could see the 2:40p jetBlue Airbus A320 (Out of Blue) departure to JFK at gate 15. There was also a US Airways Express Dash 8 next to it as well, N330EN.

We headed for runway 15-33 when I heard the engines shut down; not a good sign at all. The Captain came on the PA and said that Air Traffic Control had issued a wheels up time of 2:56p which was twenty minutes away from now. He said that we could not power up any devices as we are on an active taxiway. So we all just had to sit and do nothing for twenty minutes; I chose to dose for a bit. Actually, I did not choose, it just happened.

At 2:48 the left engine started then at 2:51 the right one did, we headed for the runway and wa airborne in about four minutes.

Once airborne, the flight attendant gave her address about OnePas, SkyMall and the service today, which is that we would be served peanuts and beverages of choice. She then came through and served us all.

We started our descent at 3:23p; the Captain came on and said his weather report: 12,000’ clouds 10 miles visibility, temp is 48F and that we will be landing on runway 4R, arriving at gate 103A and that we will arrive on the ground in 20 minutes; after he said that we went through a very short chop then it was fine; clear air turbulence is really something else!

We landed without any further incident after making a few turns due to Newark traffic. Once on the ground, our gate was changed to 107A, so that is where we headed.

Burlington, VT: Burlington International, Burlington VT (BTV)

Burlington International, Burlington VT (BTV)

I did find WiFi that was compliments of the airport. You just have to give them an e-mail address and agree to their terms. You are initially taken to this page https://secure.wiboss.com/user/portal/?pid=5567%20? that ask you to click and get signed in. That page shows you the current departures and you can also check for the arrivals. Plus the weather forecast. Once you are signed in, you are taken to the airport's home page at http://www.btv.aero/. It would appear though that some of their information requires updates as they don't have the correct Saturday schedules for select airline.

I decided to go outside security and have a look around. I stopped by the counter and got checked in and asked about the loads. All seemed well and it seems that I did not have to get bailed out by Delta’s 3:55p flight to New York-JFK on the Bombardier CRJ. Not a bad option, except then I’d have to make my way over to Newark which although it would kill time, it would cost me to do so, but not too much, about $23 I think.

I walked around outside a bit more inhaling the 42F air (although it felt colder). I kept thinking of that guy on the ramp that was wearing short sleeves, I guess when you are accustomed to 25F as a high in Jan. with 8F as a low, 42F is balmy! I then went back inside and joined the security line. It took forever to clear security, one would think that you were in a major airport.

Once through, I ran a few paces to the gate where they had just paged me. I got my boarding pass for a window/aisle seat and boarded. There were actually people still in the jetway and some boarded behind me so it was not too bad. It was about 2:15p by now.

By the way, does anyone know why the code is BTV? I assume another city is BVT or BUR (Burbank, CA).

Burlington, VT: In Vermont

Well, I arrived without incident; awaiting a seat now. It is quite cold here, but the weather is good says the agents.

Now I have two more U.S. states to conquer. Flight departs at 2:30p so see you in Newark.

Burlington, VT: C02302 Burlington, VT (BTV) to Newark-Liberty, Newark NJ (EWR)

CO2302 Newark-Liberty International, Newark NJ (EWR) to Burlington, VT (BTV) N13929 ERJ 12:45p 1:19p operated by ExpressJet, Inc. dba Continental Express

It was touch and go to get a seat and at the last minute, I did. There was a family of four who for some reason or another missed the 8a flight. They were elated when the agent told them they would get on.

The agent then told myself and another guy to take any remaining open seat. I walked past the seat 1A as there was no place to put my bag as there is no seat in front of that one. As it turns out, 12A, the Exit row aisle/window was open, so I settled in.

Soon after the door closed and it was time to go. The flight attendant did the demo on this 1-2 leather seat configured 50-seater airplane. As she finished up, we pushed back about three minutes late.

It was a short enough taxi to the runway and by 1:01p, we were airborne above the New York skies. It was a beautiful day so you could see pretty far away. The bridges of New York were pretty prominent as well as the fields, plus what I think is White Plains (HPN) airport.

The flight attendant came on and announced that there would be a diminished service on this short flight. She would pass with select beverages; she passed with coke and water. I had some water.

Our descent started at 1:27p into the Burlington area. We landed and taxied to the gate.

Burlington, VT: In Newark-Liberty, Newark NJ (EWR)

Hanging out in the Presidents Club waiting for my flight now. I'll head over to the gate in a bit.

Just had some crackers and cheese.

Burlington, VT: C052 Houston-Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH) to Newark-Liberty, Newark NJ (EWR)

CO52 12JAN08 Houston-Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH) to Newark-Liberty, Newark NJ (EWR) 777 N??003 8:00a 12:12p

As I walked down the jetway an agent was telling us to hurry up and get on board; this was actually the same agent who boarded my flight to Mexico City last year; I remember him as he was quite meticulous about his duties.

At the door, I was greeted by the flight attendant who told me which way to go to get to my seat. I crossed through the galley as instructed and made my way through the BusinessFirst 2-2-2 configured cabin to the first Economy cabin in its 3-3-3 configuration.

I dumped my jacket in the overhead bin and asked the guy to let me into my window seat which he did happily.

I said hello and asked the usual is this your first flight of the day question as this flight actually originated with this aircraft in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He said yes and that he originated here in Houston and was heading back to school after a three week break. He attends college in New England studying engineering, so we chatted about that for a bit. He is actually from a family of engineers and was more than happy to continue the tradition his grandfather started.

We pushed back ontime and headed for runway 15L while the safety video played in English; there was no traffic so we had smooth sailing and was airborne in no time. The two GE90s on this airplane are fantastic when they spool up for takeoff. It is always awesome to take off in a Boeing 777 or watch it take off.

About 25 minutes into the flight, a female voice came on the PA and said “from the cockpit,” and gave us our welcome onboard as well as updated weather for Newark as well as saying that our arrival time should be about 11:45a, this is good as it gives me time in the airport lounge when I get there.

I’ve always noticed that whenever there is a female in the cockpit and she comes on the PA, she usually does not give her title, but finds some other way to indicate that she is in the cockpit. Have you noticed that when you fly? The guy next to me did not even realize that we had a female pilot until I pointed it out, he was like “so we have a female driving?” and I said “Yes we do.” I’m always excited when I have a female in the cockpit.

The movies on tap today were:

1. Continental Presents House
2. The game Plan
3. Continental Family Channel 1:Secondhand Lions/The Jetsons, Foghorn Leghorn’s Fractured Funnies
4. Balls of Fury/Still Landing
5. Rush Hour 3/Behind he Scenes
6. Continental Persents CSI
7. Comedy Programming: The Class, The King of Queens, Everybody Hates Chris, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, The Simpsons, The New Adventures of Old Christine
8. The Entertainment Channel
9. Airshow

Headset was offered for 1.00 USD and then the movies were started. Although I did not put a headset in, I tuned to Channel 1 that was playing an episode of “House.” I have to be very selective of what I watch since I fly so often. I usually see most of my movies onboard an airplane.

Breakfast showed up at 8:42a and it consisted of Honey Nut Chex cereal, with a banana and 4oz of reduced fat milk (I was looking forward to a muffin or something, but oh well). There was a slip of paper promoting SkyMall products and advising you to ask your flight attendant for a special order form or go to www.skymall.com/coair05. You could also get your beverage of choice. I had some apple juice and a cup of hot water with which to drink my packet of Peppermint tea that I had brought with me.

As I had not had a chance to have breakfast this morning, I ate heartily, but slowly as I was having teeth pains due to an Orthodontist visit yesterday. Despite that I was still able to finish the breakfast.

At about 9:10a, a flight attendant came back and took the trash away. It is amazing how much trash is generated from an airplane flight.

I fell asleep for about an hour I guess and was awaken by the smooth descent in the Newark just when we were above Trenton, NJ. We touched down at about 11:42a and was at the gate at 11:45a.

Burlington, VT: In Houston-Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH)

Houston-Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH)

I arrived at the airport at 7:40a, eleven minutes behind schedule. The bus drops you at Terminal C and I had to make my way to gate E4, so this was a runner. I quickly made my way to the entrance to Terminal E via the upper walkways, cleared the empty security area and ran as fast as my legs could bear me to the gate. Once there, there were a few people who did not make it o the flight to LaGuardia trying to get a set on this flight. My boarding pass was waiting for me and as luck would have it, I got a seat in the area that has in-seat power using an adapter (rows 17-23).

Burlington, VT: The decision

Late last night, well very early this morning, I devised an itinerary:

· CO52 12JAN08 Houston-Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH) to Newark-Liberty, Newark NJ (EWR) 777 8:00a 12:12p

· CO2503 12JAN08 Newark-Liberty, Newark NJ (EWR) to Burlington, VT (BTV) ERJ 12:45p 1:49p

· CO2332 12JAN08 Burlington, VT (BTV) to Newark-Liberty, Newark NJ (EWR) 777 2:30p 3:59p

· CO336 12JAN08 Newark-Liberty, Newark NJ (EWR) to Ponce, PR (PSE) 738 11:55p 4:45a

· CO337 13JAN08 Ponce, PR (PSE) to Newark-Liberty, Newark NJ (EWR) 777 6:00a 9:10a

· CO303 13JAN08 Newark-Liberty, Newark, NJ (EWR) to Houston-Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH) 733 10:25a 1:20p

I still needed to find a trip from Newark to a new airport that would get me back by 11p on Saturday night so I can make the Ponce flight. I’m still working on that. Why Burlington? I’ve never been to the state of Vermont is why. I also looked at Albany and Buffalo, NY, but as it is a Saturday, the schedule is quite limited. Other options are to Nantucket and Hyannis via Boston, but by the time I return, there are no late departures back to the NY area; again Saturday schedules. The search continues…

I awoke at 5:00a and headed for the shower as well as finishing up some last minute stuff. At 5:53a, I was out the door catching the delayed 6:02a bus which arrived downtown at 6:21a, one minute late. My target was to catch the 6:39a bus to the airport. It showed at 6:40a and should arrive at the airport at 7:29a, just in time for the 8:00a departure. I hope the airport is not crowded. The good thing is that I am already checked in, so no worries there.

Trip ideas update

Looks like the possible trips will be a trip to Vermont, to log that state if the flights work out. Otherwise and perhaps in addition, Nantucket and Hyannis off the coast of Boston. Then heading down to Ponce and back home. Fights are tricky, so I'll have to have a few backup ideas.

See you in a few hours when I wake up to get going.

Trip Ideas for this weekend

Montego Bay, Jamaica (MBJ)
Ponce, Puerto Rico (PSE)
Some random destination...

A380 Incident Update

Well, they made it 3 months and about 15 days incident free! And now they have a new one coming which is scheduled to arrive on 12 Jan. in Singapore. This incident occurred at the new Terminal 3, when I read the story initially, I was trying to figure out where exactly this happened as I don't think this would have occurred at the old gate at all.

http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/322056/1/.html

Singapore Airlines receives second A380 aircraft
By Valerie Tan, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 11 January 2008 2159 hrs

SINGAPORE: Singapore Airlines has received its second A380, the world's largest passenger plane.

The aircraft was handed to SIA in France on Friday morning and is expected to land in Singapore on 12 January at 9am.

The news comes a day after SIA's first A380 slipped off the tarmac onto a grass verge at Changi Airport, Terminal 3.

No one was injured.

According to Singapore Airlines, a tow truck was pulling the plane forward to a take-off position, when it suddenly disconnected from the plane.

The Sydney-bound flight, carrying 446 passengers, then continued to move forward and its front wheels rolled onto a nearby grass verge. All the passengers were asked to disembark.

Three quarters of them were put on a replacement flight out of Singapore on a Boeing 747, about 4 hours later.

The plane was then lifted out of the grass verge after midnight.

SIA said after rounds of checks, the A380 was given the green-light to resume its flight schedule to Sydney on Friday at 10.30pm.

A handful stayed overnight in Singapore before flying out the next day.

But not everyone was satisfied with the arrangements made.

A caller to the MediaCorp News Hotline said his daughter was on board the plane when the incident happened. And he claimed that there had been "miscommunication" between the airline and the passengers.

He added that the incident has left a "poor impression" on him, about the newly-opened Terminal 3.

In response, Singapore Airlines did not say how or when it will compensate affected passengers.

But the airline promised to "provide a reasonable compensation". -CNA/vm

A380 incident: This would have sucked :-(

had it occurred when I was flying on it. Look at the loads, an almost full flight. Can you imagine those passengers that never got to fly the A380 in both directions as they only have one plane.

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-01/11/content_7406690.htm

SINGAPORE, Jan. 11 (Xinhua) -- A Singapore Airlines (SIA) super jumbo A380 accidentally ended on the grass verge off the tarmac at Changi Airport's new Terminal 3 when it was preparing to take off to Sydney Thursday night, local media reported Friday.

According to the website of the Chinese newspaper Lianhe Zaobao, the accident was caused by the hydraulic failure of a tow truck used to push back the aircraft. The truck disconnected from the plane after the malfunction.

The aircraft's 446 passengers disembarked without any injures being reported.

The passengers have been put on replacement flights to Sydney or other destinations in Australia later that night or in the next day.

SIA said there was no major impact on the aircraft and it will investigate the incident.

The country's flag airline SIA is the world's first airline to fly the world's largest passenger plane A380. It launched commercial service from Singapore to Sydney in October.

Editor: Bi Mingxin

London Jan. 4: Houston-Intercontinental (IAH)

Houston-Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH)

I deplaned and headed for the Immigration counter, passport in pocket. It is always so far away to get to the place; once needs like an electric cart or something.

I cleared Immigration without incident and encountered a long line at Customs. Lots of flights had arrived from Mexico, the Caribbean and out flight from Europe. I also noticed the luggage from the Emirates flight from Dubai. It looked like it had arrived a little while now. Soon, I will take that flight.

I got through Customs and then headed for Terminal C. I took the little slow train that runs around the airport and arrived in about three minutes. Once can actually walk, but I decided not to do so.

Today, I was taking the bus home; I did not have to wait too long, so it was not an issue.

On the bus

It came, I got on, some guy was asking about the Greyhound bus station. His story is that he was going to Lafayette, LA, but wanted to take the bus as opposed to flying. It was cheaper he said. I think he was from NY as he was asking if there was another bus service such as Peter Pan. I told him that Greyhound was it unless he was going to Mexico.

As the bus progressed, a lady got on and she was on the cell phone. She was talking to someone about her dog. It sounded like her boyfriend had lost the dog, but she thought that he had sold the dog. She started to curse loudly and the driver told her that she should keep it down. He also played a tape that I'd not heard before (I take the bus a lot), that said it is against Texas law to use indecent language on the bus. It was in English and Spanish. The lady continued and she was also crying as well. the driver cautioned her again.

I was hoping she would get thrown off as it was really becoming uncomfortable for everyone as she was threatening violence to her boyfriend. Eventually this died down and life continued. Soon, I was downtown.

London Jan. 4: London-Gatwick (LGW) to Houston-Intercontinental (IAH)

CO5 7JAN08 12:00 4:30p Houston-Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH) to London-Gatwick International, London England (LGW) 777 N??012

Flying Time: 10:15

I boarded and showed the agent my boarding pass, who vectored me through the galley and down the other side since I had "J." I walked through the BusinessFirst cabin in its 2-2-2 configured cabin with seats that recline to 170 degrees.

I continued on to the second Economy cabin, noting that the first cabin was pretty full; so was the second cabin as well.

I said hello to the guy at the window who did not really say much back. i looked around and eventually found a place for my bag and jacket, just one seat forward.

I was hoping that this was one of the airplanes with the new Audio/Video systems and power in each seat, but it was not. There are only 4 that are done so far; 019, 020, 010 and 013. So I had to use the computer as soon as we took off as I doubt the batter will make it 10:15.

As soon as everyone was on board, we closed up and pushed five minutes early. The flight attendants took their positions and then the safety video started.

we got to the runway and waited; behind us was a British Airways B777 (G-VIIE), an XL Airways Boeing 737-800, a flybe ERJ175 and a Air Malta Airbus A319. A busy time although you would not know it from the people in the terminal.

It was our turn, so we took to the skies quickly. We made a "U" turn which allowed me to see the entire airport through the window. it took a few turns to get us on our Northwesterly heading towards the North Atlantic Ocean.

It took us a bit to get above 10,000' and then the lead agent told us about the service for today. Drinks first, then the main meal, then a mid-flight snack, then an arrival snack before landing.

The snacks came in the form of peanut with your beverage of choice. Alcoholic drinks are 5 USD. After the snacks, the flight attendants cleaned up the trash and then served the special meals and then fed everyone else. Today, we had a choice of chicken, beef or vegetarian. By the time they got to me, they only had chicken and beef left with about 1/2 of that second cabin to serve. Unfortunately, the meal was a bit lukewarm as well...

I think it was chicken cordon blue; it was served with beans and pasta, plus a brownie, a crackers and cheese and a roll in a plastic bag with butter. I had some ginger ale and water with it all.

The movies had already started and I chose "The Jane Austin Book Club" from my choice of:

1. Continental Presents House
2. The Jane Austen Book Club/Ojo Critico
3. Continental Family Channel 2: Duma/The Powerpuff Girls, Tom and Jerry
4. The Comebacks/Build it Bigger
5. The Nanny Diaries/What I Like About You
6. Continental Presents CSI
7. Comedy Programming: The Class, The Kings of Queens, Everybody Hates Chris, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, The Simpsons, The New Adventure of Old Christine
8. The Entertainment Channel
9. Airshow

Headsets are complimentary and were already on the seats when I sat down. Once can also use their own headsets. The Jane Austin Book Club is an interesting film; it is about a group of people who read's her books and how it affects their lives.

I fell asleep and was awoken when we were over Northern Canada with 4:45 or so to go as the flight attendants were serving vanilla ice cream and beverages. I ate and went back to sleep for a bit.

I awoke later as the guy at the window was going to the lav. I awoke and read some and also was on the computer and watched "Mastermind," a program I had downloaded from the BBC on Demand. I wanted to use the computer some more, but I was out of juice. So, I fell asleep once more.

About 1:44 to go, we were served an arrival snack; potato chips, chocolate bar and a chicken and a chicken and cheese sandwich plus beverages.

After that, we were given arrival documentation and shown an arrival video. We were reminded that pens are not provided, so it is necessary to borrow from your neighbor. As one of my neighbors did not have a pen, I loaned him one.

We landed without incident and had a long taxi over to the Terminal E.

London Jan. 4: The journey to Gatwick

I got up at about 7a and got ready to depart. I had some breakfast and eventually got on my way at 8:05a a little behind my 8a intended departure time.

I walked to the tube station where I boarded a train headed for Kings Cross St. Pancreas station where I would take the Victoria line southbound. At Kings Cross the place was a zoo! I don't think I've seen that many people on the Underground ever! I even missed the first train as a result of the chaos. The next train was equally full. I walked towards the front of the train so that I could get on and even then it was difficult.

The train was full for the entire ride to Victoria.

London Victoria Station, London Victoria

Once there, I headed for the trains to Gatwick. There was a Gatwick Express train at 9:00a and a Southern train at 9:02a. It was currently 8:46a.

I chose to take the Southern train at 9:02a and bought the 10.95 GBP ticket using the Quick Ticket kiosk and my credit card. I did not know how long it would take, but I figured at most it would be 45 minutes so I was still O.K. for time.

I got on the train which was making four stops before Gatwick and made myself comfortable. There was only one other guy in the car when I came in and by now there were about 8 or 9 others. We pulled out promptly at 9:02a. at the first stop, the train filled up a bit. I continued to do some updates on the computer until we were close to the station at Gatwick.

London-Gatwick International, London England (LGW)

I arrived in Gatwick at 9:39a only nine minutes behind the Gatwick Express and I paid less, so that was a steal I think.

I headed for the North Terminal using the transit which arrived within a minute f my arriving at the stop.

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Canon ZR850

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Check-in for CO5 was a breeze using the kiosk. I was originally assigned a window seat, but I changed it to an aisle that had the middle open using the kiosk.

The airport was very empty, which is usually not the case when I take the 9:30a flight. i got through security in no time and without any issues. I didn't even have to take my shoes off either.

I headed straight for the airport Lounge as I had quite a bit I wanted to do and needed as much time as possible.

London Jan. 4: In the Emirates Lounge

I am sitting the Emirates Lounge at Gatwick enjoying breakfast. I had some bread, hash browns, chicken and potatoes. This is a fantastic with a huge Business Center, two wine bars, a lot of lounge space and showers.

There are about five separate lounge areas, plus the Business Center, ample news papers and just a fantastic atmosphere to await your flight. Plus there is way too much to eat including Champagne and a plethora of wines.

I got my Economy Class seat, so I am awaiting my flight.

London Jan. 4: In London, England

In London just chilling on a beautiful sunny day...

Just saw a guy selling TravelCards for the Undergorund at 2 GBP a piece. This lady bought one and then he said to me he was out; as if I would ever buy a card on the street. I looked at the card the lady was holding and it said 5JAN08! I told him that today is 6JAN08, he started to argue and I walked away, then the lady who bought it realized I was right and asked for her two pounds back...I hope she got it back.

London Jan. 4: VIctoria Station

I just arrived and posted the blog updates.

Internet access here is 1.50 GBP for 30 minuutes and then 50p for an additional 30 minutes. Expensive. The good thing is that I can use my own computer which I am doing.

I checked on the train fares to Bristol and it is 18 GBP one way and 29 GBP return if I buy it from an agent. Online I could get it for 8 GBP each way. A moot point anyways since I have not heard from my friend there.

So I am heading to the hotel. Later.

London Jan. 4: On the train to Victoria

Southern 05JAN08 10:55a train service London-Gatwick to London-Victoria

I walked about two cars back to the 10th car where I found a seat facing the direction of travel. I took the window seat and placed my bag to the right of me taking up that place. I did not want to place it in the luggage rack behind me. I’m just a bit leery of someone walking off with my luggage and having to constantly look behind me to ensure that it is still there.

We pulled out ontime and I commenced writing this blog entry. It was kind of weird as the side on which I am sitting was the sunless side at Gatwick and now the glare is quite annoying, making it difficult to see the screen.

The plan once in Victoria is to find an Internet café; see if I can use my computer, upload these blog entries, check e-mail and see if I got one back from my friend I intend to visit in Bristol; if there is a message, head there otherwise stay in London until Monday and then head back to Houston either directly or via some other country in Europe, typically France or the Netherlands.

On the train, it was interesting hearing a dad parent his child, he would tell her that if she did not do something he would take away something, but he kept giving her multiple chances, which was weird. The little girl seemed to know how to get what she wanted as most children seems to learn somehow.

We are now at Clapham Junction (Britain’s busiest rail station says the sign), the last stop before London Victoria. I am checking for a WiFi signal and they are all secured and very weak signals. There is also a paid T-Mobile signal.

London Jan. 4: London-Gatwick International, London England (LGW)

London-Gatwick International, London England (LGW)

We taxied back to the terminal to our open gate. There were a few airplanes sitting around; an American Airlines Boeing 777 looks like it was waiting for a gate and there was a British Airways Boeing 777 that had just pushed back with the two engines running. There were also two Delta Air Lines Boeing 767-300s at the gate, plus a Continental Boeing 777 and two Boeing 757-200s with the winglets.

The usual fare of Virgin Atlantic’s Boeing 747-400s and Airbus A340-300s were also seen, plus an Astreus Boeing 737 and an airhongkong.com’s Boeing 747-400s.

We taxied up to our gate and then disembarked through the middle door; the same one through which I entered. I quickly made my way to the Immigration counter and again the IRIS system was down. Luckily there was no queue so I was the third person to be processed. I got the usual questions and then was motioned forward, with a firm “goodbye.”

Customs was a breeze as well as I noticed a bottle of Bailey’s Irish Cream for 11.99 GBP and two fro 22 GBP. Pricey, I thought as I made my way outside. There were not many meters and greeters there today, so I did not have to push my way through anyone.

As I was thinking of heading to Bristol to see a friend of mine, I wanted to check on the buses from National Express, but there was a line so I did not bother to do so. I figured I’d just do it in Victoria.

I took the escalators up to the next level where I took the transit which arrived in 1 minute to the South Terminal. I checked for a WiFi signal and found a few that were secured and a three that were paid services. I was hoping that I could get one from the Airport Clubs, but alas I was too far away.

At the South Terminal, I headed for the ticket office and got a ticket on the Southern train to London Victoria and got a London Underground all zone day pass for one pound extra. The total cost was 10.50 GBP; I asked the agent if the price went up and he said yes as it used to be 50p less only last month.

That agent and I have a history as he was quite rude to me once when I asked him a question about directions to a city in London. He appeared annoyed that I did not accept his first choice and asked if there were any other more efficient way and indeed there was. I had complained to another agent about him and she said that he is older, set in his ways and is a pain in the neck at times. On that same occasion, as I was a bit flustered, I left my computer at that same desk and luckily I got it back once I realized it was missing.

I had noticed that the departure time for the next train was 10:38, but it was delayed to 10:40. I tried to rush the transaction to see if I could make it. At 10:40, my transaction was complete and I rushed for platform 2, obstructed by a lady who was blocking the entire escalator.

I got to the platform, but the doors were already shut; seconds later, the train departed. I noticed that the arrival time was 11:20a. The next one at 10:55a would arrive at 11:27a as it made one less stop; foiled by the lady on the escalator I thought, but oh well.

The 10:55a arrived and I boarded the 12 car train.

London Jan. 4: Houston-Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH) to London-Gatwick International, London England (LGW)

CO4 4JAN08 Houston-Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH) to London-Gatwick International, London England (LGW) 6:55p 9:55a+1 777 N??012

At Gate E4, I boarded the airplane and turned left at the entrance door to the BusinessFirst cabin with its 2-2-2 configuration and 30 seats. I had a window seat so I said hello to the passenger at the aisle and made myself comfortable.

As I settled in, I was offered an arrival drink; I chose water and a menu with an amenity kit. Later I was asked what I wanted for dinner and I chose the Halibut along with peppercorn dressing for my salad.

There were several late arriving passengers about thirty-five so a delay of about ten minutes was announced in order to accommodate those passengers.

The couple in front of me arrived late and was commenting to the Concierge about how long the lines in immigration were; they were coming from Cancun, Mexico (CUN). The Concierge assured them that all was well now and to relax and enjoy the flight.

I fell asleep as we waited for the airplane to depart. The delayed continued and we pushed back at 8:01p. We had a short taxi to the runway and took off at 8:12p.

The flight attendants first came by with hot towels; I missed it as I was still asleep, but once awake I motioned that I did not get one and one was brought to me. I looked through the movie guide (Private Screening), deciding on “Rush Hour 3.” It had already started, so I missed a few minutes of the beginning. We were then offered nuts with a beverage of choice after our table cloths were laid.

Each of the seats has its own video monitors with a handset for controlling the system. The video entertainment for this flight was on 17 channels would be:
1. 3:10 to Yuma/Premier Destinations
2. The Brave One/ Really Big Things
3. The Heartbreak Kid/What It Takes
4. The Drama Channel
5. Continental Presents HBO: The Sopranos, Da Ali G Show, Deadwood
6. The Good Night/The Office
7. A Fine Madness/Hollywood’s 10 Best
8. Continental Presents Independent Films: The Great Match/Health Solutions for Sleep
9. Continental Presents House
10. The Game Plan/Cookin’ in Brooklyn
11. Continental Family Channel 1:Secondhand Lions/The Jetsons, Foghorn Leghorn’s Fractured Funnies
12. Balls of Fury/Still Standing
13. Rush Hour 3/Behind the Scenes
14. Continental Presents CSI
15. Comedy Programming: The Class, The King of Queens, Everybody Hates Chris, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, The Simpsons, the New Adventures of Old Christine
16. The Entertainment Channel
17. Airshow
There are also 19 music channels and 10 games to choose from.

After the nuts were cleared, we were offered appetizers; a tandoori chicken skewer with ancho chili sauce, seafood bisque with lump of crabmeat and a mini beef wellington. I asked for and was able to try all three, they were all very good! We were also offered bread during the service; I had the white first and then the garlic.

The salad (fresh seasonal greens and frisée with sliced tomato, red onion, corn and a Kalamata olive with Parmesan peppercorn dressing) arrived next followed by dinner which was the Herb-crusted Halibut with extra virgin olive oil, parslied potatoes and braised fennel, served over tomato and olive ragout and fine green beans.

I fell asleep and missed the crackers and cheese plus fruits and after dinner drink portion of the meal, but made the ice cream sundae portion. I had strawberry topping with two cherries. After the meal was cleared, we received a bottle of water, then the cabin lights were dimmed so we could get to sleep.

I fell asleep as “Rush Hour 3” finished and awoke when we had 1:30 to go as there was an announcement on the PA that our arrival time would be 10:10a, 15 minutes behind our scheduled arrival time. We were then served breakfast; first juice of choice, then linens were added the chair table and then a platter was placed with water, salt and pepper, utensils including a cloth napkin, butter, an empty bread plate and a bowl of fruit (orange, grapefruit, cantaloupe and pineapple).

A choice of croissant, cinnamon roll or bread was offered with a choice of coffee or tea; once can also have an espresso at any time. I chose the croissant plus tea with lemon. Next I was offered a choice of an omelet with potatoes or cereal with a banana and milk. I opted to just have the banana from the cereal choice. My seat mate who was asleep, when offered, refused breakfast and went back to sleep.

Soon the breakfast was cleared so I had a chance t use the lavatory as that was much needed; too much liquid at dinner and now at breakfast. U.K. Immigration landing cards were distributed to those who needed them, noting that if you are in transit to another country at Gatwick none if needed, but if you are transiting via London-Heathrow (LHR) once is needed.
When we were about halfway between Ireland and England, the Captain came on the PA and said that we would start our descent in about 10 minutes, so that means with about 37 minutes to go and that we would be landing at 10:10a. The local weather is partly cloudy skies with a temperature of 7C which is 45F. Not too bad I thought.

An arrival video was then showed that highlighted the arrival process, documentation, how to get from terminal to terminal and how to get to the city of London plus a brief film about London.Our descent took us over the countryside for a tour as is usual coming into Gatwick. We made a sweeping left hand turn and then landed away from the terminal.

London Jan. 4: Houston-Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH)

Houston-Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH)

I arrived at the airport at about 5:21p and returned the rental car without any hitches. I went downstairs to get the bus back to the terminal, stopping at the men’s room to wash my hands. I followed the signs to the waiting bus; the signs actually direct you to go back upstairs, but not as far as where the cars are returned.

I needed to get to Terminal E, but there were only buses for Terminal C and D & Terminal A and B. I figured I’d just take the one for C and D, get off at the first stop and then walk over to E. About two others joined myself and another guy in the bus and then we left.

The first stop was terminal D, so I disembarked. There were passengers queuing for the KLM Boeing 737-700 BusinessJet with I think 44 seats to Amsterdam as well as BA2026 at 7:30p to London-Gatwick. There was also signage for the 6:01p flight to London-Heathrow via Detroit, but I did not see anyone at that counter.

I also noticed that the Emirates counter was clear and it was only 5:39p; the flight leaves at 6:25p so that means they must have had a light load; I’ve been trying to get on that flight since its third day of operation.

I headed downstairs and made my way to Terminal E, where I cleared security; there was a Nigerian family that went through extra screening at the checkpoint. They were taking forever, so I went ahead of them. They even had a TSA person to help them. It was a sight to see as they had a lot of stuff to remove before clearing security.

In the meantime, I cleared and moved ahead towards the Presidents Club. After I had my documents checked, I headed upstairs for a drink and some snacks. I plugged in my phone and my computer and finished up some stuff I had to do, in addition to checking work e-mail. I also picked up some newspaper for reading later.