CDC is not terribly concerned about airplanes. Nor are they recommending masks, even on planes. But, before going, we collected disposable gloves (drug store), masks (gifts from Will's ship, and an actual N95 from a hardware store in Arcata California), disinfectant wipes (grocery store), and hand sanitizer (the last little bit remaining from our original bottle).
As soon as we decided to return, we had to ask our housesitter and her relatives to find someplace else to live. We were all fortunate that they found two rooms with a couple in Annandale. Since they were working and studying from home, the distance from DC did not matter.
As soon as we decided to return, we had to ask our housesitter and her relatives to find someplace else to live. We were all fortunate that they found two rooms with a couple in Annandale. Since they were working and studying from home, the distance from DC did not matter.
The guest house called a taxi to come right to the gate of the Temple, and to take us right to the back of the train station where the Shinkansen (bullet train) departs. The guest house had also printed out the itinerary so that I could buy the tickets the day ahead. We got off the Shinkansen at the stop before the huge Tokyo station. We were early enough to catch an earlier train.
The train went past Fuji-san, Mt Fuji. Not many days offer a clear view -- it was a treat! And maybe a good omen.
At Shinagawa, we quickly chose two "ekibento". Each city has its bento specialty -- sold at its "eki", train station.
We checked in easily, got through all the formalities easily and sat around for a while.
Will took his meds and got on the plane -- for the first flight in 50 years. He did fine.
Who else was flying with us? Plane was not full. One person in the row behind us, one person in the row in front of us. There were some families -- maybe public or private employees returning to the US. Many young people, with their travels cut short like ours. We were the oldest people on the plane.
Who else was flying with us? Plane was not full. One person in the row behind us, one person in the row in front of us. There were some families -- maybe public or private employees returning to the US. Many young people, with their travels cut short like ours. We were the oldest people on the plane.
As we were flying home, the State Department was changing Japan to Level 3 -- no unnecessary travel. I think we made the right call.
Changed planes in Atlanta, and arrived at Dulles around midnight. Almost no lines. Airport was empty. No hassles, just a warm "Welcome back to the US".
Took a taxi home. Disinfected. Took off all our clothes by the washing machine, showered, and crashed. Still struggling a bit with jet lag.
Changed planes in Atlanta, and arrived at Dulles around midnight. Almost no lines. Airport was empty. No hassles, just a warm "Welcome back to the US".
Took a taxi home. Disinfected. Took off all our clothes by the washing machine, showered, and crashed. Still struggling a bit with jet lag.
No comments:
Post a Comment