6/19-6/20

SF->Seoul->Hanoi

Here we go! I was lucky enough to have my boyfriend drive me to the airport this morning to send me off on my adventure. My flight was scheduled for 10:45 am and I made it to the airport exactly 2 hours before, just as planned. After saying goodbye, I was able to promptly check in and was even complimented on my nice new suitcase. Going through security was a breeze and I spent the time before the flight checking e-mail, Facebook, and double checking my bank accounts.

I boarded the plane in the second boarding group and made my way to my *upgraded* Economy Plus seat in row 20 seat A. I snuck a peek at the second level of the plane that was apparently reserved for first class patrons who probably paid a million dollars... or two million... for a seat up there.

Those 6 extra inches of leg (and face) room were worth every penny of the $109 I paid. Considering my flight only cost me $39 round trip (airport taxes), I figured the "splurge" would be okay.

The flight was relatively smooth. My new $4 inflatable neck pillow from Wal Mart was a great investment as I actually got a couple short naps in during the nearly 12 hour flight.

There wasn't much turbulence which made for an enjoyable flight, considering I was in the air for nearly a half day. I enjoyed having the window seat and sat next to a quiet Korean girl who ended up getting off the plane with perfect hair and make-up... I got off the plane looking more like a troll with a hat on.

The food was meh. The first meal was chicken and white rice and vegetables. Not horrible. Our snack was a sandwich and ice cream. The ice cream was a nice touch. The final meal was "eggs" and "sausage." I only ate it because I was really hungry and I didn't want to eat all the Rice Krispie treats I had packed on the first day.

Upon arriving at the airport in Seoul, I clarified with a friendly lady at the information desk that my luggage would be arriving directly to Hanoi.

I then took a shuttle to the departure gates and did some laps around the airport to check out the shops and restaurants. Of course I found a Starbucks, McDonald's and even Dunkin Donuts. The most magnificent treasure I found is the relaxation lounge upstairs where there are TV's, massage chairs, and huge recliners to relax in before your flight. I happen to be lounging in one as I type! They really know how to treat a traveler!

In a few minutes I'm going to make my way down to a noodle bar and fill up on some noodle yumminess. I will then board my 7:20 pm flight for Hanoi. I'm scheduled to be in around 9:50 pm and I have about a 45 min. ride to my hotel, which I plan on checking into and immediately getting to bed so I can enjoy my first day around Hanoi tomorrow before meeting my group tomorrow evening.

I hope you enjoyed my first blog of this trip! I hope to blog each day and post each one as I get wifi connections along the way.

Until next time!

Jessica