Port of Spain May 2008: Piarco International, Piarco Trinidad to Crown Point International, Scarborough Tobago (TAB)

BW230 31MAY08 Piarco International, Piarco Trinidad to Crown Point International, Scarborough Tobago (TAB) 9:30a 10:10a 738 with winglets 9Y-POS

Flight Time: 0:12
Seat Map

It was quite the walk throughout the airport to get to the airplane. Finally after many twists and turns and being directed by the ground staff, we made it. We were greeted by the lead flight attendant with a warm Caribbean greeting. I mentioned to her about the forward cabin seat incident and she said sorry, but there is nothing she can do. We were a bit solemn, as we walked by the empty seats we had desired and at least the one that Lee had chosen.

The aircraft has a 2-2 configuration in Business class; the seats are leather and in a burgundy color. In Economy class, the seats are cloth and in a 3-3 configuration.

I got to my seat row and there was a guy sitting there all buckled in. I asked him what seat he had and as it turns out it was the aisle. Normally, I would not have him move, but I specifically picked a window so I could enjoy the flight and the sights. I got in and soon after the girl for the middle showed up.

A flight attendant came on the PA at 9:06a and welcomed us on board and stated the flight time was 0:12. Incredible and it takes like an hour or so to board :-(. It was 9:11a, when the monitors flipped down and showed us our location and destination as well as distance and flight time.

We finally left the gate at 9:28a with a few seats open after a few passengers ran on board late. I even got some sleep in and was able to read the entire In-flight magazine while waiting. The safety demo was done manually; I wonder if they have a video of it? I did notice that they have a row 13 which is interesting.

We pushed back and headed for the lone runway at 28-10. We were off in no time and climed to about 8,000'. I was up the whole 12 minutes. This aircraft has a huge winglet!

For the routing, basically, we made a quick arch... It was beautiful to see the country below though before we cleared the mountains, then started our descent in Tobago.




Tobago


Of course there was no service. I never saw the flights attendants after the safety demo.

Port of Spain May 2008: Getting ready to go to Tobago

Piarco International, Piarco Trinidad

We arrived at the airport with plenty of time to spare since our efforts were so fruitless. Alexis had suggested that we eat doubles, a local fare at the airport.

We approached the “Domestic Flights” checkin counter and walked right up to the agent as there was no line. I commented to Lee that it was odd that it said that since the only domestic flight for Caribbean Airlines is to Tobago. Why did it just not say “Tobago Flights”.

We presented our IDs to agents and waited. One agent handed Lee a boarding pass with 7C on it, so he inquired what happened to the seat he had selected the night before in 3A? The agent who was helping me said that those seats are for “Special Passengers.” Annoyed, I asked why did the online check-in program allow us to pick it and then actually print a boarding pass for it. She said she did not know.

Realizing I was not getting anywhere, we collected our aisle and window seats boarding passes not in the first class cabin and departed.

It was time to get something to eat so we did. After about two doubles each and some water, we headed back to the terminal. Lee wanted some juice so we went over to Kentucky, but the line was long so we went to another place. It would seem as if we were disturbing the lady at the counter, as the service was lacking. I even had to ask her to clean off the drink from the side of the cup as she had spilled it all over it. Ticked off, she did not offer a straw, so we had to get that from another worker.

I heard them make the boarding call for the flight although it was only 8:30a. they made the call again, so we decided to say goodbye to Alexis for now and clear the security area designated for the Tobago flights only.

We showed our boarding passes and walked through the open door onto a walkway next to the tarmac. I saw a Boeing 737-800 with winglets in the distance and figured that was our plane. Only I could not figure out how we would get there since we were on the tarmac and the airplane was at a jet bridge.

Port of Spain May 2008: Printing a boarding pass

Port of Spain, Trinidad

As we were leaving the next morning early for the airport, we went online and tried to check-in for the flights. I was given a nice error message and told my reservation was in order, but I had to go to the airport to check-in. I tried to figure out the reason and since I had changed my ticket since it was purchased, the electronic ticket and the reservation were not in sync. So the ticket showed the flight I booked and the reservation showed the one I really wanted and had called to have changed a few days earlier.

I tried to check in Lee and to our surprise, we noticed that the seat map showed First class seats; this is an all Economy class market served by Dash-3s, but they had added a Boeing 737-800 due to the loads. It was a Holiday weekend in Trinidad & Tobago (Indian Arrival Day), so there was lots of people going back and forth between the two islands.

I picked seat 3A for Lee and displayed the boarding pass as we did not have a printer on which to print it. He was elated and I told him that hopefully I would join him at seat 4A in the morning.

The next morning we got our stuff ready and departed at about 6:45a as Alexis had already arrived. We were trying to find a place to eat breakfast, but were unsuccessful as one place was closed down, another was not serving food until 11:00a and yet another was not yet opened.

Dismayed, we headed for the airport.

Port of Spain May 2008: Arriving in Piarco International, Port of Spain, Trinidad (POS)

Piarco International, Port of Spain Trinidad and Tobago (POS)

We landed quietly at 7:22p and taxied up to the seemingly deserted terminal. We were the only airplane in the entire airport.

There was a burst of clapping as we touched down; typical for flights to the Caribbean. There was also raucous talking going on with a group of passengers and the flight attendant had to make an announcement to be quiet as they were scaring the children. It was quite funny.

I deplaned thanking the flight attendants as I left and headed for the Immigration area. After a long wait; the agents were just slow, I cleared and headed for the Customs area. I had spotted my friend waiting for me so I waived to him.

So, I was outside and greeted him and then waited for Lee to arrive at 8:10p or so.

Lee: Port of Spain May 2008 - Atlanta, GA (ATL) to Port of Spain, Piarco Trinidad (POS)

DL387 30May08 Atlanta Hartsfield International, Atlanta, GA (ATL) to Piarco International, Piarco Trinidad (POS) 2:55p 7:43p 738

Seat 2D, Business Class

Flight Time:
Seat Map

I have finally arrived back into Atlanta after a crazy routing. Since I am a revenue passenger, I have to look at ticket costs very close before deciding on a crazy trip. This trip ended up being

1. Newark, NJ (EWR) to Atlanta, GA (ATL)
2. Atlanta, GA (ATL) to Port of Spain, Trinidad (POS)
3. Port of Spain, Trinidad (POS) to Atlanta, GA (ATL)
4. Atlanta, GA (ATL) to Newark, NJ (EWR)

as this was a very cheap flight – 1/3 the price of a normal ticket actually. I then bought a one way ATL-EWR ticket to reposition for the flight so this morning I got up at 5:30am to see EWR for 40 minutes on the ATL-EWR-ATL turn.

When I landed in Atlanta I got word from Kerwin that he ended up getting on the non-stop Houston, TX (IAH) to POS flight and will actually be in about 30 minutes before me. I am glad that after what seemed like months of trying to pin him down to definite plans to meet me on another international journey that he decided to do it.

As a revenue passenger, I do not get nearly as many opportunities to fly internationally for a weekend and when I do, it is great to have a friend that can meet me in exotic destinations.

I get to the gate of the POS flight and check in with the agent to find out if they have cleared standby upgrades. I am immediately presented with a boarding pass for 3D in the business cabin. Delta does an upgraded business service to non Business Elite destinations that includes a multi course meal, printed menu and upgraded wines.

I board the flight at 30 minutes before departure. About half way through boarding my seatmate arrives in 3C. Through small talk I find out she lives in the same town as me and is actually less than 5 minutes from my house.

We are late pushing back from the gate due to a large number of mis-connects. Two bags have to be removed from the flight as the people did not make the plane. Also, the duty free delivery did not show up by the time they closed the door for the first time. They had to reopen the door and we had four more people board during this second wind.

One of the two flight attendants comes around with champagne and mimosas for pre-departure drinks. After pushback, the same flight attendant comes around to get meal orders. The flight attendant stops by my seat first and after addressing me by name, I order the fillet.

We take off on runway 9L and have an extremely long takeoff roll. 2,200 miles in a fully loaded Boeing 737-800 takes quite a bit of gas. After our slow climb to cruising altitude, the movie and dinner service starts. I was a little shocked to see our meal delivered in one course as typically with business destinations there is a 2 course presentation: 1st course is the salad and the 2nd course is the main meal. I had a white Sauvignon Blanc wine to start, and then a French Bordeaux and a domestic Shiraz red wine with the main meal.

After the meal and movie was over, I decided to go talk to the New York JFK-based flight crew working in business class. I found out they will not be our return crew as the plane leaves with them on Saturday morning to JFK.

The crew only has a 10 hour layover instead of the extra day I thought they had as I did not realize that Delta had started JFK to POS already. We trade travel stories for a little while and one of the flight attendant decides to give me a bottle of the French Bordeaux that I loved so much as a “thank you” present for flying with Delta so much. I oversee the flight manifest for the business cabin and see that I am only 1 of 2 revenue passengers up front and the only medallion.

Port of Spain May 2008: Houston Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH) to Piarco International, Port of Spain Trinidad and Tobago (POS)

CO418 30MAY08 Houston Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH) to Piarco International, Port of Spain Trinidad and Tobago (POS) 1:05p 7:33p N??273 738 with winglets

Flight Time: 4:58
Seat Map

I boarded this 2-2 leather seat cabin with its 20 First class cabin and 132 Economy class cloth seats. I took my First class seat at the window opening the windows as I did so.

I was offered a pre-departure drink as I became comfortable. Soon, the door closed and then the safety video started on the overhead monitors. Push back also commenced at the same time a few minutes earlier then the scheduled departure time.

Takeoff was almost immediate at this time of the day. I did see a Frontier (F9) Airbus A319 taxiing by just before we made it onto the runway and was airborne in no time.

The takeoff was cool as it was an unusually clear day and I could see downtown Houston clearly. We kind of hang there for a bit as we made our way towards Galveston, TX. The visibility was awesome. Soon, we made it to the Galveston coast and was over the Gulf of Mexico heading south for Port of Spain.

After takeoff an announcement was made welcoming us onboard and encouraging us to participate in the OnePass program. Also, beer wine and mixed drinks were 5 USD in Economy class, but headsets were complimentary for the movie “PS: I Love You.”

A flight attendant came by and took our dinner orders; we had a choice of Halibut, pasta or beef and veal medallion. I chose the Halibut.

A welcome aboard from the Captain was made at 1:40p cruising at 37,000’ seat belt signs were turned off. Repeated flying time as 4:58 arriving 1 minutes ahead of schedule at 7:22p; there is a one hour time change as Port of Spain is an hour ahead and then temperature is 91F with scattered clouds. Sit back and relax and we will update the conditions as we get closer.

Hot towel service followed. I heard a crash and apparently one of the flight attendants had dropped a can of soda which created quite a mess unfortunately.

It was interesting to see the oil rigs as we crossed the Gulf of Mexico. They just kept going on and on for ever.

Table cloths were laid soon after as the movie ‘PS: I love You” commenced on the overhead monitors.

Dinner arrived and was delectably delightful. First a tray with a salad and an appetizer of shrimp and crab meat and a choice of a warm roll. The Halibut came next with red rice, asparagus and red peppers. This stuff is really good and I ate it all!

Ice cream sundae was offered after dinner; good grief, I though I’m full. That did not stop me from indulging of course. I chose cherries and strawberries from the slew of toppings she offered. I continued to sip my wines; the 2006 Uma Shiraz from Mendoza Argentina and the Chardonnay.

When we got to the West coast of Florida at 3:50p local time, the Captain told us and said that we were passing directly over Fort Myers ; advising that there are thunderstorms coming up ahead and we may have to turn n the seat belt signs.

I was really tired so I went to sleep. I did not awake until we had already started our descent. I did notice a form on the table. It was my Immigration form. I filled it out just as we were landing. It was beautiful outside although it was pitch black.

Port of Spain May 2008: Leaving Houston Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH)

Houston Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH)

I cleared the light security and headed for the Presidents Club where I got a quick snack of cheese and crackers, picked up some newspapers and then headed for E21.

Once there, I waited patiently until the agent was done changing seats for a couple who wanted to sit together. I then got an aisle seat in the first row and asked if there was a window available. Sure enough there was and it was assigned to me.

I thanked the agents and then boarded the waiting wingleted Boeing 737-800.

Port of Spain May 2008: Leaving Downtown Houston, TX

Downtown Houston, TX

I was fortunate. A colleague of mine had sent out a “come wish me happy birthday and have some donuts e-mail,” so my colleagues came over and wished me a good day. This was really nice…one of them indicated that she was going to Alaska on a 3:45p flight and if I wanted a ride, I could have one. Well, I never turn down a ride, so I said yes.

I then made a reservation for the nonstop 1:05p flight to Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago (POS) hoping that if I get to the airport ontime, I’ll just take it. Otherwise, it would be the under capacity by one and fluctuating 4:18p flight or the Air Canada’s 5:10p departure to Lester B. Pearson International in Toronto, Ontario Canada (YYZ) on the CRJ-700.

We departed the office promptly at noon and were picked up downstairs in about 7 minutes. As traffic was light, we arrived at Terminal E at about 12:25p; fantastic, now I can catch the 1:05p flight. Although I am a little disappointed about not heading to Toronto and then down on Caribbean Airlines (BW). I am such a glutton for punishment. It is a good thing that I will be able to take their Boeing 737-800 on my trip to Tobago tomorrow and then a Dash-3 on the way back; so that takes care of the entire fleet ;-).

Port of Spain May 2008

Well, I have a few choices this weekend, but it seems like it will be Port of Spain Trinidad.

Air Force One in Albuquerque, NW (ABQ)

The President of the U.S. was in Albuquerque, NM (ABQ) today and so was a friend of mine. Here are some pictures...

Chicago May 2008: In Chicago airport

I just arrived in Chicago after getting bumped off four flights. Will have more updates later.

Chicago May 2008: Leaving downtown

It was 4:00a when I awoke. By 5:30a, my friend who was going to work at the airport arrived and we were off.

At this hour the traffic is really light, so we made it to the airport and at the terminal by 6:15a.

Heading to Chicago, IL (ORD)

Hey, it is a new weekend so gotta go somewhere right?

Well, I got my camera back and had to buy a new lens; 18-135mm. My computer is still being fixed and hopefully that will arrive next week.

Still trying to decide which non-SLR camera to get just yet. A friend just threw in another model; a Panasonic one. I will see him tomorrow so I will get a chance to test it out.

So what are your plans? Leave a comment please.

My Camera

I arrived home to day to find a box on my doorstep. I wondered what it was, but knew it was my camera! yea! Of course I need a new lens since I had dropped the 18-135mm...I still have the 70-300mm though, but I need that 18-135mm.

Half way there. I really missed my camera!

I am trying to decide which small camera to get. The choices are:

Sony T300
Sony W170
Canon Powershot G9

Help me decide...

Lee: J comparison: DL Business Elite vs CO Business First

Comparison of Business Class products: Delta and Continental

I have been very fortunate enough to fly both Continental and Delta in J within the last year and thought a comparison from a rev-perspective might be useful. Both tickets were Y tickets upgraded, 20,000 R/T for Continental and 25,000 OW for Delta. - In April of 2007 I flew MSP-IAH-LGW-IAH-MSP on Continental in F/J and then most recently in April of 2008 I got to take my first Delta Business Elite trip to Shanghai with an ATL-PVG-ATL routing.



I will preference this posting with saying I am a die hard Delta fan. I have been an elite with Delta for 4 years and fly almost exclusively with Delta. That being said, here is my review.



First of all, I have to give the check in ease and politeness to Delta. When I checked in for my flight to London with Continental, I was forced by the agents standing behind the counter to use the kiosks instead of them checking me in themselves as a Business First / Skyteam Elite Plus pax. I was quite shocked that when I asked them, they pointedly directed me to the kiosks. It was important for me to check in with an agent as I had a surprise for my wife at the time and she didn't know where we were going for our 1 year anniversary. I was able to hide the screen long enough but that one step almost cost me the surprise of the year.



Lounge: This is a tie for one simple reason. The Business Elite lounge (which were closed May 1st, 2008) offered hot appetizers and a cold veggie tray for pre-departure snacks. This is much better than the pre-packaged junk food Continental has in their Presidents Club. With that said, Continental does have the upgraded wine program in IAH that allows patrons to purchase a very hearty glass of Vueve Clicquot champagne which is by far my favorite affordable champagne. CO gets high marks for having this! :-)



Seat: Tie - Continental has 5 inches less of seat pitch but does offer a flat-at-an-angle recline. Delta has 5 more inches of pitch but a recliner style seat. DL's seat is easier to sleep in on your back, CO's for side and stomach sleepers (which I am)



IFE: CO by a hair - The only reason CO wins on IFE was that I got on the 6th flight of ship 19 when it was doing it's tour after delivery. This ship offers 16x9 IFE that has 100's of movies and shows to choose from and all are Video on Demand. DL's Video on Demand has a smaller screen and fewer choices. If I was not on the new ship with CO on the outbound, DL would have won this category.



Food: DL by a hair - DL wins this category for more options and a slightly better steak in the air. DL had 5 main entrees / CO had 4. CO's steak was drier and tougher and DL's was closer to the medium side and easier to cut.



Wines: CO by a mile - CO had some great wine selections along with a Kendal Jackson Syrah that I absolutely loved. DL tries a little too hard with their exotic choices.



Service: Tie* - Both had outstanding service and took care of J pax. CO would have won if I did not have the same flight crew on both the outbound and return on DL as CO's crew really went above and beyond to help celebrate my 1st year wedding anniversary.



Arrival: CO by a mile - Once again, Continental BLOWS Delta away with an arrivals facility for Business First pax. I was able to get a refreshing shower after the 9 hour flight to London (which had a 2 hour maintenance delay before departure after boarding) and got a cold shoulder after a 16 hour flight from DL. This makes a huge difference in my opinion.



Baggage Handling: n/a - CO damaged one of my bags but quickly reimbursed the price of the bag - didn't have bags on DL



OVERALL: CO wins - This Delta lover must hand it to Continental. When weighing all things out, I would choose to fly Continental again before Delta based on the overall service and experience. I am a picky flyer and it is almost impossible to get me off of Delta metal since I live in Atlanta but I definitely will review my international bookings in the future.

Luxembourg: Arriving in Houston, TX (IAH) from Amsterdam (AMS)

18MAY08 Houston Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH)

We touched down smoothly on runway 26 I think; the one closest to Terminal D. We were the first international non-Continental heavy to arrive from Europe. Actually, I think we arrived just before that first Continental flight from Amsterdam, CO59. There was a small amount of clapping, but it did not last long.

We taxied over to the gate and pulled in. One lady got up before we got stopped and a lot of others followed. It is so funny how people follow others even when they are wrong. The funny thing is that we were all at the back of the plane, so what is the point. Of course when the plane finally stopped a few of them pitched forward...Luckily no one fell.

I deplaned, thanking the crew and asking for a form so that I can commend the flight attendant who served our section. He was exceptional and had good attention to detail. I was sure to tell him that he did a good job and that I would send in a note about him.

In doing all that, I forgot my sweater that was behind my bag in the overhead, so I had to go back and get it. By the time I got to the door of the plane, they had already found it and placed it in the jetway so I just picked it up.

As I walked to Immigration, I saw Lufthansa's Boeing 747-400 pull up and then Air France's Boeing 777-200 from Paris, France (CDG). About six hundred more people are now in the ground. As I walked to the Immigration hall, I could see passengers checking in for the return KLM flight to Amsterdam. The whole saga just starts all over again, doesn't it?

I made my way to the Immigration counter where there was not much of a line on the U.S. side, but there was on the Visitors side and it was going to get longer now. I cleared Immigration, saying hello to one of my colleagues who had just returned from Colombia.

Getting through Baggage Claim was not an issue and I then made my way to the bus stop.

Flying is so amazing...

Luxembourg: Amsterdam Schipol International to Houston Intercontinental, Houston, TX (IAH)

KL661 18MAY08 Amsterdam Schipol International, Amsterdam Netherlands (AMS) to Houston Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH) 10:10a 1:20p PH-BFI (City of Jakarta) 74M

Flight Time: 9:10
Seat Map

I boarded as soon as I got my boarding pass. On board, the flight attendant greeted me and directed me to the aisle on the right side of the aircraft. I had to wait a bit while a flight attendant talk to the purser who was standing on the steps that led up to the Business Class section in the upstairs bubble.. Once she was done, I made my way to my middle seat in the rear cabin.

This aircraft is configured in a 3-4-3 configuration with overhead monitors and also has cargo on the main deck at the back of the plane. This means that there are no lavs at the back of the plane, just a galley. I wonder what we were carrying today in there. I was on here once when there was a few horses back there as well as a red Ferarri. Oh, the configuration is also a 3-2 in the front just shy of the nose. It is kind of odd as there is no window on the right, but a wall which is the galley.

I made my way back and got settled in. The guy at the window was fast asleep already. The interesting thing about these flights is that people come from all over the world to join us in Amsterdam. I mean, I woke up at 4:15a so that I could connect, so you see that people have been up for a long time. Those from Africa started their journey late last night even. Aviation is amazing.

I chatted with the guy at the aisle seat a bit, he had flown in from Scotland and was on his way to Houston. The safety video started on the overheads. I looked forward and noticed that one of the overheads was not working; that sucks for those passengers at that location.

We had a delay with the pushback, but when it happened it was quick. I am always amazed at how fast the ground personnel do them here. It was not until 10:45a that we were under our own power.

We headed for the center runway, 36C. We had a quite a wait as there were several airplanes ahead of us: Bulgaria Air Boeing 737-500, Northwest Airlines (NW) Airbus A330, KLM (KL) Boeing 747-400 Combi, Austrian Airlines (OS) Airbus A319, SAS ARJ85 and a Northwest Boeing 757-200 with winglets.

There was a baby at the bulkhead who was not happy and kept crying the whole time. Soon, the other baby joined in. I knew that would soon end as the kids would get tired of crying after a while.

It was our time to go now at 10:59a, so we took to the runway. I looked behind and I could see a Lot Polish Airlines (LO) Embraer ERJ-175 (SP-LDB), then a Spanair Airbus A319, a KL Fokker F50 and finally a NW Airbus A330.

The Captain increased increased power to the four engines and were airborne in no time. I am always amazed at the power behind this fantastic airplane; the Boeing 747-400 Combi.

After takeoff and the seat belts signs went out, we were given headsets which came in a small plastic packet. The overhead monitor played a video about the services in each cabin. This was followed by a packet of smoked almonds and your beverage of choice.

On the overhead monitors, a SkyTeam ad played as well as new from the BBC and some football. When that was not playing, the Airshow was shown. At this point, we were over Scotland heading out towards the open Atlantic Ocean.

The guy at the window was now awake and had me look through the window at a Northwest Boeing 757-200 above us as we passed it by (slow poke...). It was an awesome sight to see. I think we caught up with that one that took off before us.

The special meal service started which always takes a little while on these flights as the palette of the travelers are so varied. We now had 8:20 to go, with an estimated arrival time of 1:15p. A serving of hot towels also started.

The Captain came on the PA and gave an update first in Dutch and then in English. He said that we would be flying just south of Greenland today and then down over Northern Canada and onto Houston. We are five minutes ahead of schedule time and will arrive at 1:15p. There is a time difference of 7 hours; and there are a few clouds at high altitude almost no clouds really and the temperature is in the mid 80s (30C) about 30 minutes before landing we will come back on and wish you a pleasant flight.

It was pretty difficult to see the overhead screens unfortunately due to the glare from the sun through the windows.

Trash pickup came at 12:01a.. next an episode of “Thirty Rock” started followed by "How I Met your Mother."

Choices of resoto with chicken or cod fish with rice came and I chose the cod. It was really good and came with some beans, a roll, a salad and a dessert.

By now the movie "National Treasure" was on the screens. It was weird though as they had initially started "Bucket List"' which is the second movie. I fell asleep as I was so tired after they came through with a drink service during the meal and an additional drink service whey they cleaned up.

I awoke later to an ice cream or chips and drinks. This was the same chips that they had in the rear galley for on board snacks.

With 1:37 to go, we were served an arrival snack of hot tomato soup and a salad plus a piece of orange cake and drinks of choice. There was also sunflower seeds and croûtons for toppings. I thought it odd that we were still over Ohio at the time, but we were according to the map.

On the tube, there was "Just for Laughs," playing. The crew had passed through and given out Immigration documents earlier so by now everyone had filled them out. By the time the meal was done and cleaned up and a final coffee/tea service offered, there was only 38 minutes left to go.

With 0:23 to go, we started our descent. It was 12:53p and we were still over Louisiana at 30,000', just east of Beaumont, TX. We headed south some more and then made a right turn and made a beeline for the airport. With 0:20 to go, the Captain said that there were scattered clouds at the field and the local temp was 78F.

Luxembourg: Arriving in AMS from LUX and heading for IAH

18MAY08 Amsterdam Schipol International, Amsterdam Netherlands (AMS)

We taxied to our hard stand arriving at 7:40a. I alighted wit the others and headed for the waiting bus which took us to the terminal. I did notice a Martinair (MP) Boeing 767-300ER tat was painted differently. I think it was there 50th anniversary tribute as I saw 50 on the left engine cowl. The design did look like a retro design.

I made my way through Immigration since I had arrived right where I started in Terminal B. this took no time and then I headed for the Transfer Desk 4. as it was closest. I had about a 20 minute wait and was checked in for the flight to Houston at 10:10 by 8:10p. the agent said it looked O.K. which meant that I’d have a middle seat waiting for me I suppose.

I then headed for the KLM Crown Lounge. I presented my documents and the agent had an initial issue. I told her it I was fine and then she said something to her colleagues in Dutch. Finally, it was fine so I entered. I looked around for a seat, but to no avail. So I told the lady I was leaving and found the next one which was not too full. I had no issue getting in at this Club and was soon updating the blogs and having breakfast.

It was about 9:05a, when I decided to get going. Once at gate F04, boarding ahd not yet started. Actually, security was just getting their act together. It was not until 9:15a that they commenced.

I waited until almost the lat minute to get on he queue as hid many others. I cleared without much issues and then got my boarding pass from the agent. As expected on this full flight I got a middle seat. It was on the right side of the plane close to the back.

Luxembourg: Aeroport de Luxembourg, Luxembourg (LUX) to Amsterdam Schipol International (AMS)

KL1736 18MAY08 Aeroport de Luxembourg, Luxemburg (LUX) to Amsterdam Schipol International, Amsterdam Netherlands (AMS) 6:30a 7:55a F50 operated by KLM cityhopper

Flight Time: 1:00
Seat Map

The greeting flight attendant checked the boarding passes, then I made my way down the aisle of his 2-2 configured cloth seat airplane.

From my window seat, I had a view of the left wheel, fun…

The engines started, the safety demo was done and we were off. Soon, we were airborne.

Two sandwiches; Italian beef and mustard cream cheese. This was served with beverage of choice.

Trash pickup occurred shortly after the delivery of the meal but giving enough time to finish it all up.

Our descent started at 7:13a in to Schipol. Soon, the Captain came on with his welcome on board at 7:15a. He talked about our course of flight; we will make a turn at Rotterdam then to the Hague and then descend into Amsterdam. 7:35a is our landing time.

It was fantastic to see the Netherlands as we started our descent. It was a beautiful morning and we landed with no issues as promised at 7:35a.

Luxembourg: It is time to leave Luxembourg, Luxembourg (LUX)

18MAY08 Aeroport de Luxembourg

I started to hasten my steps as I got closer to the airport since it was now 5:40a and I did not now what time was the cut off for check-in. This walk will be just a tad further come Wednesday, May 21, 2008 when the new terminal opens.

I got checked in expeditiously by the Luxair Services agents. It looks like they do all the check in for almost all the airlines. I always love it when I get a choice of a window or an aisle seat. I chose the window of course; this time I was a little further back than the bulkhead.

I walked around the terminal a bit, before going into the departure lounge. I showed my boarding pass and passport to the security agent, then proceeded. I did ask him if I could get a stamp and he said no. Although I don’t think he has the stamp with him.

Once I cleared security, I saw that if you were heading to any other countries other than the European Union and the U.K. you have to go through a passport control area as those flights left from a special gate.

I looked around a bit and then sat down near gate 4 and waited for the flight. Outside amid the fog, I could see two Luxair Boeing 737-500s and one Embraer ERJ-145 on the hard stand. Off in the near distance were two Bombardier Q400s as well as an ERJ-135.

Boarding silently started at 6:03a to a waiting bus below. Once the very light load had boarded, we made our way out to the waiting Fokker F50 amid the fog.

As we alighted from the bus, I could hear an airplane approaching, but due to the fog I could not see a thing. Slowly, a Cargolux Boeing 747-400 emerged; it was an awesome sight to behold and the engines were actually not that loud.

It was not time to get in the airplane so I did.

Luxembourg: In the hotel lobby

17MAY08 Hotel lobby at the airport in Luxembourg

I awoke at 4:15a and got ready to go. My flight is at 6:30a, but I have some time left on the Internet card I bought yesterday so I want to use it before I go.

I left the room at 4:59a and headed to the hotel lobby as the WiFi wont work in my room for some reason. I was waiting in the hotel lobby when I overheard an argument. Apparently a guy took a cab to the hotel and wont pay the driver. So the front desk clerk called the Police who will be here in a few minutes. When that was done, all of a sudden the guy now wants to pay, but no go; the Police are on their way now.

The guy just walked back in and said he paid it and it is over and he go sleep now. The Front Desk clerk ran outside and asked if he paid and apparently he did not. It is getting better. the guy is drunk by the way. He keeps saying let's go or I go to bed. The Front Desk clerk keeps saying you wait or you pay. It is getting ugly...

Again, he says he goes to bed and gets in the elevator. The Front Desk clerk then says he is kicking him out of the hotel tomorrow and when the Police comes he is going to give them the keys. Apparently, the cab driver picked him up downtown and brought him here.

I will leave for the Terminal at 5:30a as it is just a 5 minutes walk away.

Luxembourg: Amsterdam Schipol International (AMS) to Luxembourg, Luxembourg (LUX)

KL1745 17MAY08 Amsterdam Schipol International, Amsterdam Netherlands (AMS) Luxembourg 2:10p 3:25p PH-LXP F50 operated by KLM cithhopper

Flight Time: 1:00
Seat Map

In a few minutes, we got to the airplane. We had to wait a bit as another passenger boarded from a Special Services bus. As it was raining, I waited until almost everyone had boarded before I left the bus.

I chatted a bit with the Captain who was doing his inspections before takeoff. I asked him about the weather and he said he will update us later, but he thinks it is the same as here in Amsterdam.

On boarding, the male flight attendant greeted me and checked my boarding pass and then ushered me forward. This airplane as blue cloth seats with pink headrests that says KLM cityhopper on it configured as 2-2.

I got comfortable and asked the guy behind me if I could stow my bag under the seat next to him as I was at the bulkhead; he agreed so I did.

At 2:12p, the Captain came on the PA and advised that they were waiting for docs which is the reason for the delay. As he spoke, the documents arrived and we were ready to go closing the doors at 2:15p.

Two minutes later, an announcement was made that our flying time is 1:00, then the manual safety demo started in both English and Dutch. One flight attendant demoed while the other talked.

The right engine started at 2:21p and seven minutes, we pulled forward and headed out for runway 36C-18C. We waited for a Fokker F70 to take off and 2:37p it was our turn to go.

Soon after takeoff, we were offered two sandwiches; veal and pesto cheese; offers of drinks followed shortly after.

Captain gave his PA; took off in a northerly direction and then headed south heading directly towards Luxembourg using runway 24. should land at 3:23p with a five minute taxi time. Except turbulence on landing with showers in the vicinity of the airport. 18C is the local temp. Continue to enjoy the flight; made up time lost in Amsterdam and have a good evening. He then said it in Dutch.

We did start our descent after and kanded at about 3:23p as predicted.

Luxembourg: Arriving in Amsterdam Schipol International and then leaving for Luxembourg (LUX)

Amsterdam Schipol International, Amsterdam Netherlands (AMS)

The runway we used, 06, is parallel to the cargo area so I was able to see several Martinair (MP) MD11s Cargo as the cargo area as well as a Japan Airlines Boeing 747-400 Cargo heading for the runway.

It was still a bit of a taxi to get to G3 where we arrived at 11:40a, after passing a KLM Boeing 747-400 and a KLM Boeing 737-800 with winglets.

I disembarked and headed for the transfer desk. Once there, I got my boarding pass after the agent inadvertently checked me in for Lisbon, Spain (LIS). It was funny, as I realized her error and was thinking of a diplomatic way to tell her. So I just did. It was hilarious and we both laughed it off.

I then headed for the Immigration area as I wanted to get a book at one of the local stores. The Immigration area at F was closed so I made it back to the main one. It took about 10 minutes to get through as I watched the agent ask a lady before me for several documents which she was able to produce.

Once outside, I made my way to the shop, but could not find it. Apparently, it is now replaced by a new shop that seems to be sponsored by KLM as there is an MD-11 engine there, MD-11 main landing gear and a cockpit of a Boeing 737. You can actually take pictures in the cockpit for 6 EUR. They even loan you pilot jackets for kids as well.

Disappointed, I left and headed for security where I showed my boarding pass and then cleared security without incident.

I then headed for the KLM Lounge in the B, C area. There I relaxed a bit, charged up, connected to the Internet and updated the blogs. I also asked for and received a dental kit with a toothbrush and toothpaste as I really needed to brush my teeth since I had dropped my tooth brush on the flight from Houston.

I left the Lounge at 1:25p and headed to gate B24. it was about 10 minutes away says the airport boards. Once there, I handed my boarding card to the agent and waited for a seat. I walked around to see if I could find an electric outlet, but without any luck. I saw a guy using a plug from behind a desk, so I found an empty desk and did the same.

Soon boarding stared and I got a boarding pass with a choice of window or aisle in the europe select cabin. I chose a window seat. I wondered how that would work in an F50 which only has one cabin.

I joined the queue and boarded the bus for the trip out to the airplane.

Luxembourg: Houston Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH) to Amsterdam Schipol International, Amsterdam Netherlands (AMS)

CO46 16MAY08 Houston Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH) to Amsterdam Schipol International, Amsterdam Netherlands (AMS) 7:10p 11:50a +1 Day N66057 764

Flight Time: 9:07
Seat Map

I made a joke with the flight attendant at the door that I wanted to sit in the toilet (making reference to a passenger that said he sat in the toilet on a JetBlue (B6) Los Angeles, CA (LAX) to New York JFK flight), she smiled and motioned me to the second aisle for my aisle seat. This aircraft is configured with 35 seats in the BusinessFirst cabin configured as 2-1-2 and 200 in Economy class in a 2-3-2 configuration. Each seat has individual seat back videos

It was 7:05p when the door closed and it was time to turn off the cell phones and prepare to get out of here. We pushed back at 7:08p at which time the safety video started first in English and then in Dutch.

At 7:23p, it was time for the flight attendants to take their seats, then we took off behind a Boeing 737-800 with winglets from Continental.

Oh, I have no camera for this trip as it is in the shop at the moment. I will try to take pictures using my borrowed mobile (yes, I am a mess...).

After takeoff, the lead flight attendant gave a welcome onboard and explained the service for the night. We would have a drink service, followed by dinner then an arrival breakfast service just about 1.5 hours before landing in Amsterdam.

We then had an introductory video about how the system works followed by the movies starting. I opted to watch “Step Up 2 the Streets.” My other choices were from:

1. Continental Presents House
2. The Bucket List/Lifestyle 365
3. Continental Family Channel 1: The Any Bully/Dexter’s Laboratory, Xiaolin Showdown
4. The Final Season/Dirty Jobs
5. Step Up 2 to the Streets/What I like About You
6. Continental Presents CSI
7. Comedy Programming: The Game, Notes from the Underbelly, The Big Bang theory, Everybody Hates Chris, The New Adventures of Old Christine, The King of Queens
8. The Entertainment Channel
9. Airshow

On the music front, we had twenty channels:

1. Opera
2. Now & Then
3. Ambient Groove
4. Latin Fiesta
5. Continental Lounge
6. The Classics
7. The Hit Factory
8. Jazz Beat
9. Continental Talk
10. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
11. Country Roads
12. Live Broadway
13. Club Continental
14. R&B Groove
15. World Music
16. B Tween
17. Hindi Music
18. Japanese Favorites
19. Chinese Pop
20. Shalom

Oh there were games too:

1. Chess
2. Poker
3. Solitaire
4. Invasion
5. Elephant Memory
6. Bzzz
7. Blackjack
8. Cave Crunch
9. Caveman
10. Hang Man

Offers for drinks came and I opted for some white wine and water. Wine, beer, mixed drinks were 5 USD, coupon or Continental currency. You could smell dinner throughout the cabin, it smelled like curry, but I am not sure it was.

It was 8:26p, when the Captain came on the PA, I could not hear a thing he was saying in my head set or over the PA although I strained, I did her him say the temp was 13C, but that was it. The meal service had started and I waited hungrily for mine to arrive.

Choice of chicken and noodles or beef and potatoes. I chose chicken ad I had tried the beef the last time ad it was a little difficult to eat. The chicken came with pasta and vegetables, a roll, a pack of Milano cookies and a salad with Pepper cream dressing. Offers for drinks came after. The meal was quite good and I ate heartily.

A flight attendant cleaned up our mess at 8:56p. I fell asleep with 6:37 to go, but did not get much sleep as there were two kids that made a rukus for most of the flight.

Breakfast came with about 1:20 to go. It was a croissant and jam with some fruits. I ate heartily and then tried to get some sleep but that did not work well.

We descended soon and landed on runway 06 at 11:23a. By 11:40a, we were at the gate 10 minutes early.

Luxembourg: At Houston Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH)

Houston Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH)

There were no security issues, so once I cleared u made my way to the ticket office in Terminal E as I needed to get tickets to Luxembourg in case I decided to go there on my arrival in Amsterdam.

After that I rejoined my colleague in the Presidents Club where he was already joined by a friend of his. I logged on for a bit, had a drink and then had some cheese and crackers. It was already 6:40p and time to make my way to gate E20 for the flight to Amsterdam.

I made my way down to the gate, meandering through slow passengers on the moving walkway. At the gate, I got my boarding pass after chatting with the gate agent who’s accent I recognized was from Jamaica. She verified my documents and then handed me my boarding pass. We chatted for a bit and then I boarded the flight.

Off to the airport

Still not sure where I'm heading, I was off to the airport on the Amsterdam bound flight at 7:10p.

My colleague and I left downtown at about 5:20p. Traffic was light so we made it to the remote parking facilities at the airport by 5:48p, and to terminal C at 6:10p.

I don't know where I'm going

But, here are two options so far:

London, England
Luxembourg, Luxembourg (LUX) via Amsterdam or Paris.

Montego Bay May 2008: Arriving in Houston, TX (IAH) from Killeen, TX (GRK)

12MAY08 Houston Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH)

We landed so smoothly that I did not even realize it. In a few minutes the flight attendant announced that it was 6:06a and welcome to Houston, etc. The lady next to me turned and said that she could not understand the flight attendant as she could not tell if she was talking Spanish or English. Indeed, she was heavily accented, but I understood her. I told the lady that she just has to listen carefully. I think she was still mad about not getting a blanket during the flight.

We had a short taxi into the gate passing two Northwest Airlines (NW) Airbus A319s, one in the old colors and the other in the new colors.

At the hard stand, we all disembarked into a waiting bus that was headed for all terminals the driver announced. It seemed like it was taking forever, but I eventually arrived at Terminal C at 6:21a.

After a quick stop in the Presidents Club for a banana, some muffins and the morning newspapers (The Financial Times, USA Today and The Wall Street Journal), I headed for the bus stop to catch the 6:35a to downtown Houston.

Montego Bay May 2008: Killeen, TX (GRK) to Houston, TX (IAH)

CO9579 12MAY08 Killeen Ft. Hood Regional, Killeen Texas (GRK) to Houston Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH) 5:15a 5:22a SF3 N198CJ operated by Colgan Air dba Continental Connection Flying Time: 0:37
Seat Map

It was a long walk down the jetway to the waiting Saab 340. It was nice to be able to walk right onto the plane as I was a bit chilly out. I greeted the lone flight attendant as I did so.

This aircraft has 34 leather seats in a 1-2 configuration with a lavatory just behind the cockpit on the right. It has really tin overhead bins, so usually you have to gate check your bags as I was requested to do and I complied.

I got settled and in a bit the flight came by and was telling a passenger in the Exit row that he would have to stow his backpack somewhere other than at his feet. The guy was really tall and was kind of folded up at the seat. She moved his bag to an open seat behind him.

The Captain came on the PA and welcomed us onboard, stated the 0:37 flying time and added that as a fuel conservation measure, the engine run ups would be done with us on board. He says that in the past they would have done that prior to us arriving. He then explained what would happen and that it was all normal so no need to worry if the airplane sounds and feels funny.

I looked off to my right and saw the American Eagle Bombardier CRJ-700 (N523AE) at the gate with the gate pulled away. The Continental Express Embraer ERJ-135 on which I flew in last night was on the other side at another gate.

It was 5:02a, when the flight attendant closed the door. A minute later, the right engine started as did the manual safety demo. The pilot was going through the checks he had mentioned earlier. At 5:06a, the left engine started as he had to wait for the jetway to be pulled back clear of the aircraft left wing.

At 5:13a, after watching the propeller do its routine and the lights going on and off once or twice, we pulled forward and headed out to the runway. The Captain came on the PA as we neared the end of the runway and said we were #1 for departure, “duh,” I tough smiling to myself. In three minutes time, we were airborne and headed for Houston, TX in the cold and dark morning skies.

The lady next to me had a short conversation with the flight attendant as she came by with juices.

I actually though that she want to have something hot as I saw the flight attendant shake her head in the negative. I took the last cup of Apple juice as the flight attendant left.

The lady turned to me and said, “how come they don’t have any blankets?” I told her I did not know, but agreed to myself that there should be blankets and pillows especially on this flight. The aircraft was not cold, but your body temperature does fall when you sleep and of course everyone is different. She then shifted around so she could be more comfortable.

I finished my juice and went off to sleep leaving the empty cup on my computer. When I awoke later, I saw that the cup was no longer there as the flight attendant had picked it up while I slept.

A few minutes later, the Captain came on the PA and announced that we had 15 minutes left of flying and we had started our descent. He also added that the local temperature was 60F and clear. I guess a cold front had moved in over the weekend. I slumped off to sleep once more. I agree, I could do with a blanket and a pillow.

Montego Bay May 2008: Departing Killeen, TX (GRK) for Houston, TX (IAH)

12MAY08 Killeen Ft. Hood Regional, Killeen Texas (GRK)

I parked the car in the same slot that I picked it up only a few hours before. The airport was very quiet and looked deserted except for a two trucks that were parked in front.

I made my way to the check-in counter and checked myself in using the lone no bags kiosk. I got my standby boarding pass and then just milled around for a bit, dropping off the car rental key in the process.

I then took a few pictures noting that there were customers waiting for Delta and American to open for check-in. The American flight was at 7:00a and there were people queuing up at 4:00a which I think is bizarre as this airport is so small and it is only a 70-seater. It was good to see Delta here as the last time I was here they had no flights. It looks like they have two a day now.

I also saw a display that noted that the Continental Express flight was operated by Colgan which is not exactly correct.

I also looked around the airport some more noting the FIDS as well as the decor.

I was keeping an eye upstairs as I know that this airport usually don’t open the TSA counter until about 4:30a or so. Soon they did and I went upstairs. I did stop and take a picture of the American Eagle Bombardier CRJ-700 at the gate.

As I went through security, the agent looked through my stuff twice. My mom had given me a carrot pudding foil and it had triggered the X-ray machine. Eventually, the lady found it and let me go. Not before chastising me for not putting all my liquids into the plastic bag.

The agent arrived at the gate at 4:48p and signed into her computer.

A boarding announcement was made at 4:50a. Everyone got up and headed for the open door; it looked like a full load this morning.

After everyone had boarded except one later arriving passenger, the agent gave me a seat assignment by writing the seat number on my existing standby boarding pass. I boarded immediately.

Montego Bay May 2008: Leaving Killeen, TX (GRK)

12MAY08 Killeen Texas

It was 3:00a, when my phone alarmed. It seems like I had just gone to bed because I had les than three hours ago. I snoozed for a few minutes, took a shower, woke my mom, chatted for a bit and then headed out.

It was actually quite chilly (I later found out it was 57F), brrrr…I navigated my way out of the suburbs and onto the highway arriving at the airport at 4:08p.

Montego Bay May 2008: Arriving in Killeen, TX (GRK) from Houston, TX (IAH)

11MAY08 Killeen Ft. Hood Regional, Killeen Texas (GRK)

My guess was that the pilots wanted to take the first turn off, hence the massive braking when we landed. It did not seem that we made it at all as we made the right turn and taxied back to the terminal.

Once at the gate, I deplaned, made a quick restroom stop, then darted for the Enterprise car rental counter. Within 15 minutes or so, I was behind the wheel heading into town. It was funny as the gu gave me a map, I looked at it and then asked for a more detailed one, he laughed at me and said I was looking it...

Montego Bay May 2008: Houston Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH) to Killeen Ft. Hood Regional, Killeen Texas (GRK)

CO2530 11MAY08 Houston Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH) to Killeen Ft. Hood Regional, Killeen Texas (GRK) 7:45p 842p ERJ-135 N??5?? operated by ExpressJet Airlines, Inc. dba Continental Express

Flying Time: 0:37
Seat Map

Boarding was expeditious on this 37-seater 1-2 single aisled leather seat Embraer regional jet. There was someone sitting in my seat and after some jockeying, we were all settled in. the pilot came on the PA and announced that the flying time was 0:37 and that our cruisin’ altitude was 14,000’ for the trip. He said there may be a few bumps so he may keep the seatbelt signs on all the time. The local temperature was 73F with clear skies and the conditions was the same as here.

The doors closed at 7:52p and push back and the manual flight attendant safety demo started at 7:54p. With one engine started, we headed out towards runway 33R-15L, this meant that we had to taxi almost the full length of the runway and then turn around.

I could see a line of 10 airplanes waiting to take off on runway 15L. at 8:03, the Captain said we were number two for departure behind a Continental Boeing 737-300. At 8:04p, we took to runway 33R and took off before those 10 waiting airplanes on 15L.

As we went down the runway, the lavatory door opened and the guy sitting next just in front of it, tried to close it, but to no avail.

After takeoff, the flight attendant made a welcome on board announcement and advised not to use any forbidden electronic devices. She also talked about joining the OnePass program. She also made an announcement that there will have a limited beverage service and water will be offered, but if anyone has specific requests and time permits she will try to take care of it.

The water service started at 8:12p and shortly after that she came through and collected what little trash remained from the service. She returned to her seat or the rest of the quite short flight. I fell asleep for a bit too.

Our bumpy descent started at 8:28p. We touched down with vengeance at about 8:50 and then taxied up to the gate.

Montego Bay May 2008: Arriving in Houston, TX (IAH) from Montego Bay, Jamaica (MBJ)

11MAY08 Houston Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH)

We touched down at 4:34p and taxied for Terminal E. Once there, we all deplaned and headed for the Immigration area. On our way there, we had our forms and passports checked by Immigration Officials, then sent on our way.

It was not an issue for two of us to clear Immigration, but the third person in our party had to go through secondary screening. About twenty minutes later, he was cleared and off we went. He mentioned it was quite full; standing room only and it would have been an hour long wait had they not just taken care of the simple cases.

He was going home, while the other guy was heading to Atlanta, GA (ATL) and I to Killeen, TX (GRK) to see mom and my sister. We said our goodbyes and then the two of us headed for the security area upstairs.

Once clear of the security area, we headed for the Presidents Club in Terminal E. I had some eats and took some pictures as well.

Continental's Boeing 737-700 is at the gate.

After a short visit, it was time to make our way to our respective gates. I was B69, my friend was C39.

I arrived at the gate for my flight to Killeen at 7:20p. I noticed that there was no aircraft at the gate and we were not showing a delayed departure time. There was also no gate agent in sight. I went back and checked the Flight Information Display and still no posted delay. I then looked around and saw the agent at the gate. I asked about standbys and he produced a waiting boarding pass.

It was 7:28p, when he announced that the inbound aircraft was on the ground and headed for the gate. Once here, it will take a few minutes to have the passengers deplane, clean the aircraft and then have everyone board. The aircraft showed up at 7:30p.

People started to get antsy at about 7:38p, so at 7:41p, the agent gave an announcement that boarding will start soon so please remain comfortably seated. I looked at the departure time and it got updated to 8:00p.

Courtesy boarding stared at 7:43p.

Montego Bay May 2008: Leaving Montego Bay, Jamaica (MBJ) for Houston, TX (IAH)

12MAY08 Montego Bay Jamaica

We departed the hotel at 11:30a, fifteen minutes behind schedule. We had wanted to go see the gold courses on the hill, but decided against that as we really did not have time.

We stopped and put gas in the car to the tune of JMD 1,375. The lady was telling us that this was her first day on the job and she had not eaten all morning, so we gave her some extra dollars.
We then headed for the airport stopping at the Domestic Terminal before returning the car; this time without incident...


We had a few Jamaica patties, then went and checked in paying our 42 USD departure tax before getting some local far at the Island Grill.

We then headed for the security area where a lady was arguing with the agents as she had two bottles of Jamaican red rum (150% proof) and she had to throw them away as she could not bring them through security. One of my friend tried to take sides with her and I advised him against it.

We all cleared Immigration without problems and then headed for the security areas. I went through without beeping, but I was still wanded by a female officer. As a matter of fact, all the workers were female.

We then went shopping for some alcohol. I had to remind one of my friends about the amount of alcohol that you can bring into the country. You can familiarize yourself with information here.

You can find a PDF doocument as well with the information.

We collected our boarding passes at the gate just before departure and then it was soon time to board so we did.

Montego Bay May 2008: Arriving in Montego Bay, Jamaica (MBJ) from Houston, TX (IAH)

11MAY08 Donald Sangster International, Montego Bay Jamaica (MBJ)

We had a smooth touchdown in this airport that is named after a previous Prime Minister, and headed for the gate area. There were a few Air Jamaica airplanes at the gate, but the onslaught of the flights from the U.S. was just starting and we were the first to arrive.

As we rounded the corner for our gate, I saw a Jetairfly's Boeing 767-300ER at the gate. Chances are it came from somewhere in the U.K.

We deplaned and took the long walk to Immigration. On my way, I was able to take this picture:

There was quite a line at the Immigration counter as two other flights had arrived just about the same time. It took about 30 minutes to clear it all, then we cleared Customs pretty quickly and made our way to Avis.

In about another 20 minutes, we got our car, some local currency and were on our way.

Montego Bay May 2008: It is time to go

I was up at the crack of dawn and just before I jumped into the shower, my phone rang. It was my friend from Atlanta saying that his flight is delayed and he does not think he will make it. He mentioned that the flying time was 1:48 and looking at the clock I realized that he would be fine. He called 10 minutes later to say they were departing.

I got ready and left making my way to the airport gingerly due to road closures as there was an apparent race in town.

It was not an issue arriving at the airport and a bus to the terminals came in no time. Clearing security was not an issue then we headed for the Presidents Club for some much needed breakfast and to await a seat on the flight.

The Plan

O.K., so I will head out tomorrow morning to Montego Bay, Jamaica (MBJ), then come back on Sunday and head to Killeen, TX (GRK) spend the night and head back on Monday morning for work at 9:00a.

My friend from Georgia called and I told him so he may join me along with another friend of mine.

Decisions, decisions

So, it is Thursday and a decision should be made about the weekend events. It is Mothers' Day weekend so a visit to see my mom is in order.

Also, my grand aunt turns 99 (I like how that looks) on Sunday, May 11, 2008. Can you imagine being born in 1909? Amazing I think.

Plus, my aunt called me twice today and I've just had a chance to get back to her and she needs my help, so I have to go see her.

Oh, lest I forget, it is my sister's 1st. wedding anniversary on Monday, so I need to see her and get her wedding pictures to her. O.K., it is a long story, that if I ever meet you we can talk about over a beer. She is also a mom of two young boys as well.

A few local friends I've known for a long time are having a party locally to celebrate great milestones. I really should be there to cheer them on.

So what to do? How about do them all or as much of them as is humanly possible.

This will be tricky though as my family stresses me out immensely, so stay tuned.

Eindhoven Netherlands: Arriving in Houston, TX (IAH) from Amsterdam, Netherlands (AMS)

04MAY08 Houston Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH)


We touched down on runway 26L just before 5:00 p.m. and headed for Terminal E. The Emirates flight was the only one at Terminal D at this time as we taxied by.

The Emirates (EK) Boeing 777-200ER at the gate in Terminal D.


An unusual sight at Terminal D; a Continental Boeing 777-200ER, I guess Terminal E was full.

As we blocked in at Terminal E, I got my stuff together and headed for the Immigration area. The Immigration guy asked me why I was out of the country for one day, I told him I needed a beer.

Once I cleared Customs, I then headed over to Terminal C by taking the slow train. Since the bus was not going to arrive for another 30 minutes, I plugged in just inside of the Baggage Claim waiting area and caught up for a bit and then proceeded to the bus stop.

It was unusual as there were a lot of people heading downtown with at least one piece of luggage. Of course the driver did not advise us to place our bags in the hold below as the CEO of Metro told me when I talked to him on their blog a few weeks back. Instead, we placed them on the seat or between the two seats. Luckily the bus was not full.

Finally, we headed downtown.

Eindhoven Netherlands: Leaving Amsterdam Schipol International, Amsterdam Netherlands (AMS)

04May08 Amsterdam Schipol International, Amsterdam Netherlands (AMS)

It was 1:17p when the train pulled into Schipol. I alighted and made a beeline for the Flight Information Displays. I had to make sure the flight to Houston, TX was still ontime. Of course it was. I needed to get to the airplane store to get a book, but I had no time.

I raced up the moving walkway and through the airport agents asking for a boarding pass. I started to take it out and just continued as they were really wasting my time. I had the boarding pass and passport ready for the Immigration agent. I cleared there with a stamp from the Officer and proceeded to Concourse F.

Schipol gets really empty in the afternoon, so it was not an issue to get to the gate efficiently.

Once there, I cleared security as my name was being called for a seat. I then paid my departure taxes of 38 USD or 25 EUR, then got my aisle seat assignment and boarded (actually, I paid $40 as I had no change and was $2 short. I told the guy that next time he will owe me $2 and he said he would remember me). I asked if it was the bulkhead and it was, but the agent told me that the flight was open and that there were two other seats located further forwarded that were still open. It was 1:31p when I boarded the aircraft to Houston, TX.

Eindhoven Netherlands: Leaving Eindhoven

05MAY08 Eindhoven, Netherlands

I had not decided whether or not I’d go to London, Bristol or back to Houston so I just let it all play put naturally. I figure I would try to get back to Schipol for the Houston flight at 1:55p, but if for some reason I did not make it, I would go to London Heathrow and take the 4:00p flight to Newark Liberty (EWR), then the last flight into Houston. This option would make for a very long day. Alternatively, I could just stay in London or still get to Bristol.

One other thought was to fly out of Eindhoven airport (EIN), but I had already logged it so I decided against doing that.

I ensured that I checked in online and a rarity for me, I printed my boarding pass. This way, I could make my way down to the gate since I figured I would arrive at Schipol within an hour of my scheduled departure time.

After having breakfast, I got on the 11:47a train to Schipol which would arrive at 1:15p, just in time for the 1:55p flight to Houston, TX.

Eindhoven Netherlands: Arriving in Asmterdam Schipol International, Amsterdam Netherlands (AMS)

03MAY08 Amsterdam Schipol International, Amsterdam Netherlands (AMS)

We touched down on that far runway at 12:30p. This sucks as it means that it will take another 10 minutes t make it to the gate. I am kind of confused as to why we arrived so late since we only left about 30 minutes late. Maybe flying around that storm ate up a lot of our time. Back in Houston, we were even expedited to the runway.

Anyways, it was a beautiful morning and it was great to see plane spotters all along the length of the runway. Some were even sitting on benches that had obviously been placed there for this purpose. I never see that many people in Houston at Lee Road.

It was 12:41p when we made it into our gate. I got off quickly joining my other colleague as we headed for Immigration. He had to go change, so I left him and headed out. On my way, I saw a Delta Air Lines (DL) Boeing 757-200 with winglets being pushbacked. It was nice to see one of these as this was my first time seeing one of them. Something tells me they are running thin on airplanes. I am assuming that the proposed merger should help this a bit.

Immigration was a breeze as I was the second person in line of a total of three persons in all. I hurried through Customs and headed straight for the ticket counter. The next train was at 1:14p and it was now 12:50p. I paused for a moment to catch my breath before purchasing my return train ticket to my next destination.