That old friend of mine, undying optimism, came through once more last night although it was what you might loosely call, a close shave!
When we went to check in, the very nice ladies from BA were quick to explain that the flight was totally full but that there might be no shows. They would therefore check us through to airside on a standby basis and in the hope that seats might become available. The other question that you never wish to hear on staff travel is, "would you accept a jump seat?" For those uninitiated amongst you out there, this is one of the seats that the cabin crew sit in for take off and landing. It's not really the place you would wish to sit for an 11 hour flight but once you are at the airport, a) you really want to get home and b) you need take the rough with the smooth.
So standby boarding cards in hand, we headed to the next nightmare, the departure gate! We couldn't actually see it because the queue to get airside was some 200 yards long and that was replicated at passport control!! Linda and I have done some travelling over the years but not once have we witnessed scenes like this. Yes it's the airport and the city that is hosting the Olympics this year. Could be fun!
We got through with little time to spare and on approaching the boarding gate were happily presented with new boarding cards and proper seats allocated. Phew, phew, phew! We were coming home.
And finally to reflections on Brazil and our "bucket list" trip. There aren't enough superlatives to describe what we have seen over the four full days available for sightseeing. We are so grateful to our new friend Breno in Rio who provided fantastic experiences over the two days we were with him. Iguacu was truly an awesome sight to witness and yes, do try to see both sides if you ever visit and let me know which you preferred.
Brazil is a country in turmoil at the moment with a collapsing economy, a hugely corrupt Government and a populous desperate for change. In many ways it mirrors South Africa, not only on the downsides but clearly on the upsides as well with sights, sounds and people who are very friendly and hospitable. They deserve better and I hope through the public uprising that is currently building that they may get it.
All that said though, we have enjoyed every single moment of a trip that will remain indelibly marked in our hearts.
Thank you for persevering and getting to the end. I hope you might have enjoyed some of my musings.
