Valencia, Spain - via Stansted, UK

We got up at the ungodly hour of 3am to do the now more regulary trip to Stansted. When Ryan Air says 'cheap flights' I always seem to overlook the days less sleep and the rigorous and costly journeys to and from the airport.

So we arrived nice and early and as we were coming from different locations - Sandra and I met at the Ryan Air check in line. Every time I go there, I also forget how many people there must be in the UK for this airport to be busy BEFORE the first flights are even allowed to leave in Adelaide - plus you have to be there approx 2 hrs early to avoid hold ups - check in can only be done up to 40 mins before boarding.
All went smoothly, even with the new rule that all liquids, makeup etc (under 100mls) needs to be placed in a sealable Glad bag (Glad must be a rich lady). I quit that ages ago and just decided I would check everything like this in with my luggage to save time and stress. However those few docile people, who always claim ignorance held us up somewhat - and the lines to go through security were at an all time length. All this being well, there was still the chance we would have to undress from the toes to the ankles - damn it! We must have looked like our feet didn't smell - 'please move to the side and place your shoes on the conveyer belt'. Phew!
Most of you know this, but I actually came to London with the primary idea to travel. These arduous tasks are making this hobby prove less and less glamorous each time I fly - oh but it keeps it interesting!

Now, the idea to get to the airport with time to spare was to ensure a smooth trip….. And to do some shopping in the airport! Not that you make any savings doing it this way in the UK, but its just a thing that us non UKians regard as something 'fascinating' and 'special' (oh and there is a good shoe shop!)

We didn’t buy anything (except a tuna toastie and a Starbucks Xmas special - Gingerbread Latte!!! - They are back for another Xmas Rez - and you can buy the stuff to make it yourself the whole year round!)

Ok, now we are revitalised - lets go to Spain!