Up In The Air For Three Days.

MARSDEN & 40,000 FEET. 30 OCTOBER 2024.

When he looked at the website back in August, Paul read that Australia needed a visa but New Zealand didn't, only landing cards. Wrong! He went on to the site for the cards he found that an electronic visa is required. It can take up to 72 hours. Rosie's was approved immediately but Paul's was "Pending". A sleepless night followed, including a visit to the website at 5am.

More stress on Tuesday until a positive response was received late evening.

Some slow traffic on the way to the airport but we're still at there with two hours to go. Security at Terminal 2 is incredible. Electronics and liquids can be left in the hand luggage so there is no queue. What a contrast to Terminal 3! During check-in we are advised that we need to complete an electronic landing card. We do that but at the first attempt we presented with a bill of £40 or £60, depending on the urgency level. Our second attempt is through the government website and is a free. What a scam!

The plane leaves at 11:20, 35 minutes but we still land on time. The food is excellent and the wine reasonable. Leon sits next to us and tells us that he is from Bridlington and on his way to Perth to celebrate his mother-in-law's 100th birthday. Rosie manages some sleep but Paul doesn't.