June 26, 2015

Our incredible journey

Setting off from NSB at 5am on Thursday 25 June, the party were very excited and looking forward to a smooth trip to our Orlando destination. Little did we know the challenges we would face!

Arriving at Manchester Airport by coach in good time, the boys and girls enjoyed having some leisure time to explore and eat breakfast. The flight was due to leave at 11am and the party gathered eager to board the plane for our 9 hour flight to Florida. We were faced with our first challenge- a 2 hour delay due the inbound plane arriving late. Spirits were high though, the party were happy to socialise as we were made to wait in the lounge.

Leaving 2 hours behind time we were pleased to hear that the pilot could gain an extra hour travel time but we’re still not sure how he managed to do it! All was going well and we were able to track our route on our personal video screens in between movies, games and books. Tom Q even managing to use the time to extend his History knowledge! With about an hour to go, all was well until funny things started appearing on our screens. The plane started to go round in circles! We were then told that Orlando airport was closed due to thunder storms. After a few big circles in the sky the pilot decided it was time to refuel and took us to Tampa airport.

At Tampa, we stayed on the plane, morale was still really high though and there were a lot of smiles and laughter from many of the party and also quite a few taking advantage of the time to catch up on their sleep! All went well refuelling really quickly but then, just as we thought all was well, the storm moved to us and shut down Tampa airport from any take-offs!

After what seemed like another few hours, we set off to our destination, Orlando. Arriving at the hotel at 9.30pm local time, our journey took a total of 21 and a half hours!

Spirits remained really high and despite missing out on our evening restaurant meal the party were more than happy to order pizzas and Chinese meals. Many of the party taking advantage of the hotel pool and hot-tub while awaiting our delivery.

All of the party have showed great character and are buzzing with excitement for the programme ahead.

I am also very pleased to report that despite the long journey, late night and time difference, all of the party were up bright and early to enjoy breakfast at 7-00am!

Off to Epcot for “Fundamentals of Photo Storytelling” this morning then Disney Boardwalk after lunch.