Travel Tip #1 - Fly Business Class

OK, so I was good with leaving until about Saturday. I finally shed a few tears when I called Reshae for the last time and talked to Kelly for the last time (in country). Mom and Dad acted OK, but I am sure it bothered them after I left. Carrie was good until we got to the airport and that is where it really hit me. I hate the thought of not seeing her for months. We became so close over the last few years, that it is going to be really tough. I really had a tough few moments after I left them and went through security. A few more days of some spoaratic tears and I will be OK.

Moving on, Flying Business Class is amazing. Well, at least on Emeriates airlines. I flew from Pittsburgh to JFK in 59 Minutes, then they didnt have a gate for us, so we sat on the tarmac about 300 yards from the gate for and hour and 15 minutes. Not fun. JFK really sucks as an airport. That is until you get to the "lounge". These lounges are awesome and much bigger than I could ever imagine. Hundred of leather seats, workstations, a very nice buffet, drinks of any type you want, awesome bathrooms, some with showers, and a staff that will cater to all of your needs. The meal I had prior to leaving JFK was a Mini-Filet, Conconut Shrip, Egg rolls, and a spicy green/italian pepper mix. The have all types of liquor from JD to Drambie. Beers from Guiness to Amstel Light. It is really nice. It is a different world from that just outside the hustle of the entry doors.

On the plane, I could not see much difference between business and first class. They had 6 across, we had 7, and coach had 11-12. The first class seats go all the way flat. Ours went about 80% there, but were still very comfortable. I had champagne before takeoff, followed by a hot steaming towel to clean our face and arms. They provide really nice headphones, eye mask, socks, and even a fully stocked travel bag complete will all toiletries. They provided 4 service options during flight but I only had a Jack and Sprite before bed and brunch prior to landing. They give you small 'do not disturb' signs to put on your seat if you want to sleep through any of the services. They had over 600 tv selections available which included everything from scrubs to gray's anatomy, new release movies and classics. There were over 6000 audio programs, and about 50 video games you could play. You could even link up with other seats and play against them. Every seat had a phone that you could use to make international calls or even call the seat next to you. The screens were nothing to wince at either. I am talking about good 15-17" tvs in the back of all of the seats. I slept about 5-6 hours and felt really good after getting up. Awesome flight.

Arriving in Dubai, the airport is amazing. Filled with bright colors, a plethora of cultures and people, and very easy to navigate (unlike JFK). Dubai has done some wonderful things with tourism here and they promote it on the plane, once you deboard and in the airport. Dubai has really embraced world culture and is maximizing that potential in its tourism industry. The lounge here is just as nice as the JFK one, except they have really nice shower facilites and no specific computer workstations. I wish we had got here before sunset so I could see some of the city on the way in and from the airport, but I am sure I will be back.

All of the airline staff, airport staff, and lounge staff have been very nice, very friendly, and very helpful. It does not bother me as much as it would some with all of the people running around in traditional Musim wear. I am very excited to meet some new people and learn about this exciting culture. Take care. I will finish you up on the conclusion of my trip over, soon!