We woke up at 5:30am in order to be ready for breakfast which started at 6:30am. The ship was already at the Ushuaia dock along with three other ships. Breakfast was buffet as we were to start clearing the ship by 7:30am.
We joined the others in the Atlas Lounge to wait for our
color to be called. The colors were divided
amongst the passengers to fill the buses to the airport with equal numbers. Our luggage was set out by 1am the night before
and would be taken to the airport by Atlas.
As we were leaving the ship, the Expedition Guides and Ship
Crew lined up to bid us farewell. It
brought tears to my eyes as we had become close with several of the Crew.
Michael the Cruise Director and Llewellyn from Reception gave me big hugs. They made the trip enjoyable and memorable.
Our charter flight from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires was on Bondi
Air. It was a lower budget airline but
nice enough for the time spent on it.
The flight was full, and our seats were near the back – near the
restroom. This group of passengers visit
the restroom frequently.
We arrived in Buenos Aries by 1:30pm. Pete and Gen were staying an extra night
while the rest of our flights were not until after 8pm. Our airlines were not allowing check-in until
later so the rest of us stayed together in the airport. We enjoyed games of Skip-Bo, listening to an
all-girls orchestra and exploring the airport.
Currently, the BA Airport has 2 terminals – A and C. B Terminal is being built. Jenna's flight was leaving from Terminal C, so we walked her there. As we passed Terminal B, there was a celebration that evening to celebrate the upcoming opening of Terminal B. We saw a red-carpet welcome along with a few in
tuxedos to commemorate the occasion.
After checking in for our flights, Jerry, Melanie and Virginia went to the American
Airlines Admirals Club to enjoy complimentary food until our flights. Even though we had walked Jenna to Terminal C, her gate looped around to be near our gate in Terminal A. She was able to join us in the Lounge until all of our flights were boarding. Argentina is famous for Malbec wines. I did not have any on the cruise however was able to enjoy a glass of Lagarde Malbec in the Lounge - highly recommend (the wine and the Lounge).
Despite having gone through Security to access the terminals and boarding area, there was security prior to boarding the flight who was reviewing all carry-ons and not allowing any liquids on board. This caused great frustration for a few reasons - it slowed the boarding process, and many had purchased drinks prior to their flight and were then told to throw them away. Much grumbling was apparent by all passengers in many languages.
We did not have the pleasure of an empty seat in our row for the flight to Miami. Our seatmate was in the window seat and slept the entire flight - not even getting up for a bathroom break. The flight went well and arrived a bit early to Miami.
Yeah for Global Entry! There is a fee and an interview to qualify for Global Entry however it is worth the price. We are able to cruise through Immigrations and Custom quickly without waiting in line. Check out this website for details: https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/global-entry
The Admirals Club in Miami was top notch. Fresh omelets were being made, and Mimosa and Bloody-Mary ingredients were available to make the breakfast extra special.
Having extra time before our next flight, Jerry decided to
take a shower. The Lounge had complimentary showers for use; he signed up for one and quickly had access to a hot shower. During his shower, the fire alarm went off several times though there was an announcement to disregard the alarm. It eventually stopped.
It is amazing who you will meet when travelling. We came across a friend from World Travel Holdings in the Lounge. (Actually it was Brad Tolkin, Chairman/CEO of WTH, but whose name dropping.) I love our travels when we come across friends and family in others parts of the world.
The rest of the day proceeded well - the flights from Miami to Charlotte to Jacksonville went off without a hitch. We were glad to arrive home at the respectful time of 5:30pm.
On to home where our mail (well organized by our neighbor and parents) and fur babies were waiting for us.
This is one trip that we will never forget - so unique.
What is on your travel bucket list? Life is short - book the flight, take the trip!
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