The beginning of a long travel day

Five hours down and 20 to go! Arrived in LA, and have now boarded Virgin Australia for a 14 hour flight to Sydney. As can be expected, Sir Richard Branson has lived up to his reputation, the 777 is big and roomy, and although this particular aircraft did not have the “Pods” we were expecting, the seats were big and lay completely flat like a bed.

During the boarding process we were given a glass of champagne to enjoy while everyone got themselves settled. After take off, another round of drinks followed by a meal of your choice, all of which looked terrific, not your typical airplane food. After dinner and a hour into our flight, the flight attendants began making up beds for those interested in sleeping. In addition to the bed we were given a pair of PJ’s, and there was a mad dash by everyone to change and get comfortable.

The 14 hour flight will be dark the entire trip, as we chase the sun. Arrival in Sydney is scheduled for 6:00AM. Mary changed into her PJ’s jumped into her bed and was asleep in seconds, as I sat had another drink and watched a movie before catching a few hours sleep.

Pictures to follow of Mary in her PJ’s getting ready for our long flight.

More to come upon arrival in Cairns, our first stop.

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One day to Down Under!

Preparing for trip. Usual things like packing to be sure all seasons covered!  Even though Spring down under, we will have temperatures that will range fro 100’s to 40’s, layers is the key.

Car picking us up tomorrow at 2:00, flight from Cincinnati to LAX is at 4:15, then a few hours in LA Airport flight to Sydney departs at 9:00 PM.  Flying time LA to Sydney, 15 Hours, layover for two more hours then another three hour flight to Cairns (pronounced Cains), where we will begin our trip with a visit to the Great Barrier Reef.

More to come