Home Again

Well, our time in Germany ended the same way it started; with rain! We awakened early enough Tuesday morning (July 27) to do final packing, cleaning and laundry. The taxi picked us up and drove us to the train. 

We faced what we thought was the front of the train--with all the other passengers. But when the train took off we were going backwards--and traveled that way all the way to Munich, for about 1 1/2 hours!

At the main train station in Munich it was pouring rain but had stopped by the time we reached the airport for our 3:15 PM flight. Between the two terminals was this cute little diner; very creative. 

When we picked up our boarding passes we were a little surprised to see "stand by" on them and were told that the airlines "always overbook" during the holiday season and that we would "likely" get seats at the boarding gate....

Security seemed a little lax by TSA standards; we didn't have to take off our shoes, etc. but that was only the first check. There was a second very thorough check (everyone got the "wand") before entering the boarding area.

The attendant at the gate said we would have to "wait and see" if we got seats. We did--in business class!!! What a way to end a vacation; an amazing flight. Now we know why they keep those curtains closed--so those in economy class won't see the service and ammenities in the front of the plane!

Following are a few of our "first time" experiences in Business Class:

• Adjustable seats that really recline and tons of leg room
• A menu with choices for an appetizer, entree and dessert and a wine list
• Complimentary beverages that were offered about every hour
• Individual TV screens with dozens of movie choices
• Pillow and long blanket for everyone
• Little linen tablecloths and napkins with silverware and wineglasses

Can you imagine what First Class was like?!

The flight was uneventful, more then comfortable and we made it through immigration and customs in less than an hour. Deb, Cortney and Heidi (surprise visit from NY) met us at Dulles and drove us home to end a very long Tuesday.

After several days of readjusting to life in White Hall again with unpacking, pool games, dominoes, hiking, etc. I guess our most wonderful vacation ever has ended.  Below is a hiking shot of us at Crabtree Falls, VA. 

We hope you enjoyed sharing our adventures this summer. We are so very grateful for this wonderful, relaxing vacation.

Auf wiedersehn!