Yesterday saw our party of 25 make our way back to KSA. After a late start, breakfast and checking out of the hotel, we made our way to Athens airport.
At the airport, few hold ups like checking the validity of some multi-exit/entry visas, gave Ms Naidoo a few anxious moments. But after a while we were given the go ahead to have all in our party checked-in on our Qatar Airways flight. After this delay, there was no time for a Happy Meal, as has become the tradition. The children were determined to spend whatever money they had left and bought as much junk food as possible at the kiosk at the boarding gate.
The air stewards and stewardesses usually had big, welcoming smiles as we entered the plane. Frankly, after 10 minutes with 21 bouncy children and Mr Gray, asking for nuts, fizzy drinks and why their entertainment systems were not working, I don't know if those smiles were still genuine. The wishes of 'good luck' to the adults as we were departing could have been an indication of what they really were thinking.
Two smooth and uneventful flights later and we were back at Dammam Airport. Our intrepid party once again attracted the attention of onlookers. We were moving along swiftly through Immigration control till it was discovered that Areesha had lost her exit/entry visa. A few words from Mr Gray with Saudi Immigration officials and a quick stamp in the passport and she was sent through with the rest of the party. Ms Naidoo once again gave a huge sigh of relief.
It was a fantastic learning experience for all those on the trip, one not long forgotten. A big thank you to all those that helped to make this trip successful. A very big thank you go to Mr Gray, Mrs Hull and Mrs Roberts!
