I think today was the first time since arriving in the USA that I actually slept well. I don’t know if it was the dinner, the ice cream, or a combination of all that with some meds. I took magnesium, melatonin, and ibuprofen for my Achilles tendon last night. 😅
The morning started with a divine breakfast – pancakes, coffee, and orange juice. I packed my gear right after waking up, so there was no issue heading out immediately after breakfast. Cheryl gave me a ride to the bus stop, where the bus was scheduled to leave at 9:30. I tried to thank her as best I could and left $40 on the seat. Maybe it’s a lot, but for two nights’ accommodation, dinner, breakfast, showers, and rides, I felt it was the right thing to do.
The Bus Ride and Arrival in Lancaster
At the stop, I chatted with an older gentleman. I didn’t understand most of it, but he seemed happy when I nodded along. He even shook my hand when I got off. 😅
The bus arrived, and after a bit of confusion with boarding and payment, we were off. After an hour’s drive, the driver told me we were at the right stop, and I disembarked at the train station in Lancaster.
I had about an hour before my train, but there wasn’t much interesting around. I needed to use the restroom, so I figured I’d walk around and try to find some coffee.
No coffee, but I spotted a fighter jet. The town must have some aviation connection because it was full of pilot memorials. Back at the station, I finally found an open door and a bathroom. Hooray!
To Los Angeles and Experiences at Union Station
After a two-hour train ride, we arrived at Union Station in Los Angeles, unfortunately with a delay. I was pleasantly surprised by the personal announcements on the train. No recordings like back home, but a pleasant driver’s voice: “We are now stopping, it’s overcast outside, grab a jacket. Have a great weekend and thank you!”
Just after arriving, I missed my bus. For $47.30, I ordered an Uber driven by a Spanish-speaking driver. It even rained during the ride! We arrived at the airport, and its sheer size completely blew me away.
The Airport and a Delayed Flight
After checking my bag and going through security, I browsed the shops, looking for something interesting, and finally grabbed something to eat because I was starving. My flight, unfortunately, kept getting pushed back. We were originally supposed to depart at 5:10 PM, but takeoff was moved to 6:40 PM.
I was flying on a massive Airbus A380-800. I was in seat 82K, right behind the wing, which extended even further during takeoff. It was fascinating to watch.
At 7:24 PM, we finally lifted off. I had 14 hours of travel ahead of me to Munich, but I was in a window seat, so I was hoping I could get some good sleep leaning against the wall. 😊
