Our journey started off with a very early flight from Port Elizabeth, at 7am towards Johannesburg OR Tambo International. We had to be at the Port Elizabeth airport by 5am.
A quick selfie taken outside Port Elizabeth airport. Once we entered the airport, we decided to cling wrap our luggage, due to damage and possible theft or tampering of suitcases. It's more common than what you think, especially in International airports.
We enjoyed a morning coffee at Mugg & Bean and then took a leisurely stroll towards our boarding gate. We were extremely surprised, when we arrived at our boarding gate as it was almost empty, all the passengers had already boarded... what a shock to the system.
Our tickets showed the correct boarding time, we weren't late, but for some odd reason the plane was already boarding. If I could give any advise, rather sit near your boarding gate 30 minutes to an hour before the scheduled boarding time.
This is how Hong Kong International airport looks like. Departure gates are on different floors, starting from 1 to 530. When we got off our first flight from Johannesburg to Hong Kong, it's a bit confusing as huge boarding gates for Hong Kong residence and people going ashore via a ferry. So be warned, do not just follow people as the English saying goes... follow the crowd, because you could end up on a ferry to Hong Kong.
We were slightly hungry when we eventually got to Hong Kong, due to the time travel and distance from Johannesburg. Well... after seeing some of the Hong Kong cuisine.... "Peking duck", which is the whole duck with head and feet still on, hanging like a "trophy" ready to be eaten.
Let's just say our appetite became a bit less. We got something to drink instead, as our next flight was due to depart in five hours. Luckily we ate something on our flight from Johannesburg to Hong Kong.
It was a rainy day, as we waited for our flight to Xi'an, which is in the northern province of China, Shaanxi province. In the distance between the mist and rain clouds Hong Kong mountains and buildings can be seen from the airport. Flying in for landing is quite exciting as you come in very low over the sea, giving you a great view of the islands near Hong Kong.
Look how busy the international airport is, a train links domestic to international terminals.
A small variety of meals can be experienced on the different flights which are mainly chicken or beef variants. Noodles can also be expected as a snack at any time on the flight. Be warned though that toilets on the flight are almost permanently unavailable, especially after the noodle snacks. Every meal included a Haagen Dazs Ice cream. This ice cream was completely frozen and had to thaw out for an hour before we could eat it.
My wife, relaxing as her legs were swollen from the long flight out of South Africa.
It's a good idea to take some medication before hand for swelling and water retention, as it will reduce the effect of in flight problems. Compression socks or stockings can also be used to reduce the swelling in your feet and legs.
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