Go to gate 50

We crossed into Kyrgyzstan at around 3pm at 6,500 ft (over 2,000 ft higher than Ben Nevis). For the first time in a month I was experiencing “clouds”. We also had a one hour time difference going east - the…

After our late arrival the night before, we were given a midday departure for our mystery tour. I managed to get details of the mysterious plan and I wasn’t keen. Spending a day with a family at their house with…

The border crossing from Uzbekistan to Tajikistan, was almost a disaster. UK nationals were meant to have a visa. John had one, but alas, I had missed this minor detail. It took about 30 minutes and a few phone calls…

The border crossing into Uzbekistan was smooth and we were met on the other side by Anastasia from Kyrgystan and Natalie from Kazakhstan - both around Georgia’s age. We boarded another 50 seat coach for a 90 minute drive to…

Despite the uniforms, the flight with Turkmenistan Airlines was highly acceptable. The trickiest bit was getting into the plastic cutlery. Others seemed to have no problem with access. I must have taken three minutes to figure it out, and I…

UAE - Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman Our third stop was Sir Bani Yas Island which I visited a few years ago. It’s basically a private island belonging to the UAE with beaches and a wildlife park. I had planned…

Qatar, Saudi, Bahrain We all met at Heathrow and enjoyed the delights of the lounge, which mostly involved pre-flight alcohol. Before boarding I delivered the Paddy Holiday Quiz which Jimbo won. His prize was a $100 chip for Norwegian which…

After leaving Sri Lanka I flew to Abu Dhabi for a couple of days. I had booked the Marriott however the pool was closed so I rejected it and headed for the Beach Rotana hotel. It was a good move.…

Having said I wasn’t particularly taken with Kandy, I took an early morning stroll around the lake and the city redeemed itself. It was delightful watching the sunrise over the lake. The group left on foot to visit the Temple…

After three easy days in Bangkok at the Skyview hotel, I flew to Sri Lanka, three hours away. I have to say the airport experience in Bangkok was shockingly efficient. From check in I was through in 16 minutes, and…