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#TokisoVisitsLondon: Leaving Jozi

The first time I flew long distance was when I went to Germany a couple of years ago. I was so nervous and excited I really do not remember the flight that well. So this time around, a little less nervous (especially since there was no stop over and connector flight - that shit ain't fun for a first timer) I was fully aware of my trip.

I didn't make my family do the whole, drive her to the airport vibe. Instead, I spent my Sunday with my daughter and husband. I then dropped off my child at her grans, hubby then took me to the Gautrain.

In the Gautrain I met a woman who lives in London. She gave me some tips on the city. The word 'Grey' was used a lot. I had checked the weather before packing and yep I know I am visiting during a grey, wet and cold time. I really need to visit Europe during their summer. This winter/autumn trend has to pass. 

I have not been on a Gautrain in years, happy to see that it was still a painless process and well maintained. Although they need to end their war with the City Of Jozi, pay their bills and get their water running again. Those "no water" signs are a turn off.

Got to OR Tambo International and there as well everything was painless. Airport staff were so helpful. Checked my bank in. Checked myself through security and passport control, and headed to the Bidvest Lounge. 

Only to find my bank, the Green one, changed the rules months ago. They want me to swipe (yes swipe) my credit card for a minimum of R4000 monthly to activate my access to the Bid Vest lounge in OR Tambo. I do not know about you but I am not spending R4k a month on a credit card in these trying times. It is get out of debt days. Ku bad.

Anywho, so no access to lounge I decided to chill outside boarding gate, read Lerato Mogoatlhe's travel memoir, Vegabond. 

I was flying Virgin Atlantic. First time using this airline. It was fine. Obviously I was comparing it to Lufthansa airways (and like i said, my memory is weird AF). What I do remember is that the service there was amazing. I am typing this on the plane so I can tell you, the service on Virgin is great. Food is edible and the movies were current. Watched Avengers End Game and Aladdin (slept through it). They could update their music catalogue a bit.

The plane ride was bumpy but bearable. Slept most of the way. The couple I was sitting next to were friendly but not chatty (ngi ya bonga mina). As I type this, we will land in an hour. We are in Europe already, flying over Lyon approaching Paris. Had a "full english breakfast" with black coffee.
I am looking forward to seeing Heathrow airport. I love buildings and spaces. I also love people watching. So it would be interesting to see how people at that airport behave, including service. 
Oh gosh, there goes the shaking again. We are about to land. Will keep you updated on my London trip. 🛫

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