April 6

Hong Kong to London

End of an era day, when I would return to life in drought stricken, strike prone, Britain.

Check-out was easy, the change of flight time from 08.30 to 10 am was wonderful. No alarm call at 05.00. 06.30 is a civilized hour. The taxi driver told me that the Airport Express wasn’t running as far as Tsing Yi. My guess is that he wanted a longer fare. When we reached Kowloon Station, the fare was more than it should have been but I couldn’t be bothered to check. It’s the first time I can remember anyone in Hong Kong trying to fiddle me.

Check-in was easy, the Airport Express was running normally – although I have never seen it so full – and we set off at high speed.

The formalities at the airport were quick and efficient and I was soon on the hunt for a light breakfast. The food court was heaving and even if I could have been bothered to queue, there would have been nowhere to eat. EVERYONE eats out here, whether on the street or in the airport.   Right: A delicate breakfast

I made my way to the gates and tried to find somewhere there. After a lot of walking and several false starts, I found what I was seeking, had freshly made dim sum, and played on the free wi fi. Having downloaded Skype, I decided that it would be a good idea to ring Jerry. The phone had rung a couple of times when I remembered that it was the early hours in the UK. He was remarkably polite as I apologised profusely. Feeling rather silly, I set off to the gate, discovered that boarding was under way, and took my seat.

We closed the doors ahead of schedule but, just as on the first leg, were delayed for about 20 minutes by a technical hitch. From then on, all went according to plan, the food was fine and the Forrest dessert wine was to die for.

We landed at 16.25, taxied for ages and finally came to a halt at 16.35. After this, everything went like clockwork and I was outside the customs area within 30 minutes. Jerry collected me and drove me off to start a new era – for good or for ill.