2012 - Greg's Cycle Tour Zurich to Amsterdam: DAY 51: FRI 12 OCT

Rain, now I know why there’s so much water in Holland, 3-14deg

The last thing I wanted this day was rain as I have to ride to the airport, but it was raining when I woke up. I have all the wet-weather gear to cover up so only a bit of a nuisance factor really. I was looking forward to a nice casual ride to the airport and look around on the way, maybe a few photos even. The latest I can check out of the motel was midday so I had plenty of time. I allowed at least two hours for the ride of about 20km. Having ridden it before I wouldn't have to concern myself with navigation. I could store my gear at the motel but I've seen the city area so I decided to leave for the airport at midday. I like to allow an hour for buying the box and packaging the bike and other gear, so I can completely relax and take my time.

Checked out at midday (8:00pm Brisbane time) and took just an hour to ride to the airport. Only got a few spots of rain despite the dire forecast. Found a spot under cover away from the crowds and cleaned my bike. Did a detailed job as I have stacks of time. The quarantine people are so fussy about dirt and stuff on your bike. Went to the luggage area and bought a box and packed away the bike and one pannier. The box was so big that I didn't need to take any wheels off, which was a first for me. The box was numbered to put together. Taped it up and got a trolley from nearby and wheeled it to check-in 21. Took only a few minutes and I was through to the British Airlines Lounge. Hours early, but much better than being rushed. The lounge was very basic with no real food at all, just a few packets of chips, but some nice Merlot which I had one glass of. It really bucketed down outside while in the lounge so again I was very lucky and glad I had left early. There were no shower facilities at the BA Club either, but they are available in London.

A short time later BA announced that the flight has been delayed by 15 minutes; not a good start! Eventually that went out to 30 minutes but it didn't affect my connection to Singapore out of London. Even had time for a nice feed of beef and salad at the Qantas/BA Club in Terminal 3, Heathrow. As I sat there I looked at people coming and going to the servery. It’s interesting to see what people eat, especially when it is free. We all have choices in life, why some people take one road and others take a different one, we'll possibly never know.