Coming Back to Saudi Arabia

My wife, son and I took the train to Kingsford Smith International Airport (Sydney) via the Central station past 6:00 pm on Wednesday, 31 August 2011. It took about an hour reaching the airport. We took our dinner at Red Rooster ordering quarter chicken, chicken burger, coke and fries. This is my second time at this Australian fast food icon. However, like the first I did not like the experience. First, the chips and the chicken were too salty. Second, the chicken was dry and bland. And last, this mashed thing inside the chicken was not to my liking. Unless Red Rooster change their food offerings, this 39 year old icon shall go to the drain.

After bidding goodbye at around 8:00 PM, I immediately went to the Immigration desk and the security check. Etihad flight EY455 will depart at Gate 58 so started my journey there. However, because of the numerous turns and curves passing those duty free shops, cafes and restaurants, I thought it took me more than 15 minutes walking. This was not the same route I took last time. More shops were added inside the airport that you might think that you were in Parklea, Paddy's or Westfield!

Our airplane departed on time. I was one of the passengers who served dinner first because I have a pre-ordered meal. However, I already changed this from seafood meal to just the ordinary/airplane meal because I am afraid that they might served tuna fish of which I am allergic to. Yet, the seafood meal is still on Etihad's database. Well, the seafood meal was composed of hake fillet, with fresh salad (which I did not eat), a bun, preserved jelly fruit and a small snickers bar for dessert.

Although sleepy, I managed to finish 3 movies, RIO and 2 others which I forgot the titles. I tried to plat Tetris but the controller was not functioning properly.

Overall, I thought I managed to sleep for 4 hours for the 13 hours trip from Sydney to Abu Dhabi. We arrived at this UAE capital 25 minutes early, 1 September 2011. I tried the chocolate donut (no hole in the middle) and mocha coffee with cream for 34 dirhams at the airport waiting lounges.

Our flight to Dammam, Saudi Arabia was also on time and arrived there 10 minutes early. Muffin, yoghurt and  water were served on board in this 55 minutes flight. My "sundo" arrived 10 minutes late. I was finally in my room in Jubail at quarter to 12 noon.

What a trip!