Journey Home

Got to the airport with just over 3 hours before departure so time for a photo with the departures Buddha. The wait to check in wasn’t too long. Security was quick. Spent last of my Cambodian money on a chocolate croissant. Donated the change to charity. The gate was easy to find, the airport is really spacious. Boarded about an hour before departure. Late pushing back due to paperwork! A very nice prawn curry for dinner. A bit rushed due to the first flight being less than 2 hours to Singapore. Had to be security checked before being able to wait at the gate, wasn’t long before boarding the same plane and same seat! First service was a snack - a chicken rendang puff - a bit like a chicken spring roll and a white chocolate chip cookie. Had a bit of a sleep and then breakfast was served - scrambled eggs with pan-fried chicken sausage, rösti, baked beans and cherry tomatoes. Watched some Absolutely Fabulous episodes. Arrived in Dubai a little early, found my way through security, down a lift, onto a train, into Terminal A. Up 2 huge escalators. Security again. Down an escalator to the gate, passport scanned. Boarded early but had to wait for transfer passengers so left 15 minutes late. Sitting on the bottom deck, just a few rows from the front. Noticed a cupboard under the stairs. The cabin manager spent most of his time in there - came out to close the door and sit on his crew seat for take off and landing. Breakfast - toasted egg and pepper frittata sandwich with cheese and black bean salsa - it was ok. Some snow on the Turkish mountains. There’s a toilet up the steps to the flight deck - very executive! Lunch - slow braised beef with pearl onions and carrots, served with mashed potatoes and green beans. It’s been a long flight but helped along by Gavin and Stacey.

Had a brilliant trip, Cambodia has been amazing, so different from anywhere I’ve ever been. I have really enjoyed exploring and finding out about the country. Superb hosts and tour guides, thank you Tracy and Lilly. Still plenty to do on my next visit.Read more