I’ve already shared a bit about why we are going to Dubai and what the week was like getting ready. In case you are interested, I thought I’d share a bit about our flight. (I’ve got lots of free time to write and have already watched two movies, so why not?!)
We got to the airport at about 3:45 this afternoon for a 6:30 flight. G and I brought our daughter and G’s dad brought my mother-in-law and our two boys. (And yes, the idea of traveling with my mother-in-law, is in fact, a good thing. :) )
I think that by arriving at that time we missed the rush of everyone else checking in. The lines were short, everyone was pleasant and even getting through security was a breeze. Of course it helps that our kids know the drill. (Jackets off and in backpacks before reaching security. Shoes off and in bins with backpacks quickly. No goofing off or chit-chat as we go through security. Then grab your shoes and backpack and move out of the way to put your shoes back on.)
G and his mom were selected to go through a body scanner, but I missed that while I accidentally dumped the contents of our larger carryon on the floor. Yep. It was Mom who made the mistakes in security this time. I forgot to zip my suitcase closed and pulled it off the table, sending everything in it out out onto the floor. Oops. Again, I was thankful we were early and not in a rush of travelers!
A note about carry-ons:
When we fly, each child carries his or her own backpack with snacks, treats, books and other things to keep him occupied. I also carry a backpack to keep my hands free, packing an empty purse in my checked luggage for later. On long-haul flights I pack a small rolling suitcase with extra clothes for the kids (incase of spills or lost luggage), a few extra books and diversions, medications with notes from the doctors for any prescription medications, back-up snacks and breakfast bars.
Although we got there early, it still wasn’t long before it was time to board the plane. Typically longer flights board earlier and this flight was no exception.
We made our way to our seats, the last row before the first bank of bathrooms. (Unlike most travelers, we try to book seats near the bathrooms so the kids can go by themselves.)
The seat configuration was three-aisle-four-aisle-three. We took the first six seats from the window. At first we put the three kids together, then three adults, but switched when it became time to sleep. On the way back we’ll sit two kids, adult, aisle, adult, kid, adult to make it easier to help at mealtimes and to encourage sleeping at the right time.
We flew Emirates and, as most long-haul flights, the in-seat entertainment system is robust, even in Economy, where we sit. They call their system ICE for Information (where you can check out your flight status, see what cameras mounted outside of the airplane see and more), Communications (Where you can send emails, call someone, charge devices using a USB port or electrical plug or view your own photos using a USB.), and Entertainment (This tab has music, movies, including new releases, nearly every Disney movie, classics, international cinema and more, and television shows. You can even pause and scan through the entertainment and build your own playlist from the music! This tab also has games galore. The kids barely touched their own DSi’s in favor of the games on the plane.)
Did you catch that you can charge your electronic devices right at your seat? We didn’t need to, but it was a nice to know it was an option.
Pretty soon after takeoff the kids were given special bags from the airline with a plush camel puppet, a stuffed animal and clothes to dress it, a kid-sized eye mask and a small Dr. Seuss book. After that everyone as given a smaller pouch with an eye mask, toothbrush, and socks.
Next the kids were served their meal, which was nice because we could get them settled before our food arrived. Their meal offered a lot of options with hot food and snacks, which was great for everyone’s taste buds. Plus they loved watching their own movies as they ate.
Soon our food came, which we enjoyed with a glass of wine, also while watching movies.
I thought the dinner was quite good, but I also try to never expect anything too fabulous on an airplane. And I’m the type who can find something to eat on almost any menu.
After dinner we were offered tea or coffee and then the trays were cleared and lights dimmed for those who wanted to sleep. After another movie, I gave the kids a warning that sleep time would be coming soon. They finished up their games and and we all rested.
I just woke up a bit ago hungry as the flight attendants walked by with turkey wrap sandwiches, water and juice. As we get closer to our destination they will serve breakfast and then we will be there.
I guess until then I better try to catch a bit more rest… I’ve got a full week ahead!
Here are a few shots of our breakfast, which was served about 2 hours before we landed:
The kids meal:
And for the adults:
Not bad, huh?
**This post was written last week while on vacation. We have since arrived back home.**
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