My anticipated trip to the United Kingdom (yes, again) in just a few days will be on Virgin Atlantic. The last Atlantic crossing wasn't very pleasant, so I chose an airline known for quality.
I'd rather be on one that would help my Emirates Skywards mileage accrual, however, my FFP status on Singapore is rather low; and so it fits in perfectly as Virgin shares mileage accrual with the former.
This trip highlights a significant milestone in my life; for I would be leaving the America's for a considerably long period of time. A tremendous amount of experience has followed the years I spent in the U.S., but more importantly, the arrogance and reality check of the political atmosphere over the past few years has played a role in the decision. Don't get me wrong - there are benefits living a life in the West (the blessing of winter isn't one of them), but the sheer pride and lack of knowledge of certainty is a mind spinning occurrence in itself.
The travels will undoubtedly come to an end in September as I settle down towards educating myself further, and so with that, while the summer will highlight the experiences of both land and air travel, it will include various topics that would set the tone for what the future holds.
It's no longer 'just for keeps'.
Stay tuned. :)
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Thursday, March 6, 2008
The Little Daughter
A 30 minute average drive to the city center brings us to one of the most heart breaking shrines in the world - the place where the young daughter of Imam al-Husayn(as) lies as she died in the grips of the most horrible oppression in human history.
The haram is located amongst the narrow streets of Damascus. As you enter the main gates, you come to a small courtyard welcoming the pilgrims prior to the main entrance. A few steps later, and you walk into a beautiful shrine decorated with a stunning gold color, surrounded with iron bars that secure the small grave.
It doesn't take much for your mind to jump about 1380 years back, when you hear of the atrocities committed to the blessed family of the Prophet (s). Here, in front of me, lay the grave of this little girl, who with her own strength and dignity, spread the message of Kerbala through the terrible conditions they faced in the cold dungeons of the illiterate regime at that time. I could only look through the iron pocjets at the holy grave and wonder what the beloved Lady of Mourners, Lady Zainab (as), and her brother, 'Ali ibne Husayn (as) felt as she left this world while resting her head on the grandson of the Prophet, her father, the Lord of Martyrs, Husayn ibne 'Ali (as).
Our salaams to Lady Rukayyah (as), for the message she gave remains alive with a passion in the hearts of those who truly grieve and strive to follow their lives the way it was meant to be.
The haram is located amongst the narrow streets of Damascus. As you enter the main gates, you come to a small courtyard welcoming the pilgrims prior to the main entrance. A few steps later, and you walk into a beautiful shrine decorated with a stunning gold color, surrounded with iron bars that secure the small grave.
It doesn't take much for your mind to jump about 1380 years back, when you hear of the atrocities committed to the blessed family of the Prophet (s). Here, in front of me, lay the grave of this little girl, who with her own strength and dignity, spread the message of Kerbala through the terrible conditions they faced in the cold dungeons of the illiterate regime at that time. I could only look through the iron pocjets at the holy grave and wonder what the beloved Lady of Mourners, Lady Zainab (as), and her brother, 'Ali ibne Husayn (as) felt as she left this world while resting her head on the grandson of the Prophet, her father, the Lord of Martyrs, Husayn ibne 'Ali (as).
Our salaams to Lady Rukayyah (as), for the message she gave remains alive with a passion in the hearts of those who truly grieve and strive to follow their lives the way it was meant to be.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Splendor of the Ahlul Bayt (a.s.)
Friday 22nd January 2008 As our bus rolled into the city center, the first sight of the Haram of Bibi Zainab (as) was as majestic and glorified as her endeavor and strength we hear of in history. You could feel the strength of a powerful woman emanate through the walls of her beautified haram in all the dignity that was snatched from the Ahlul Bayt back in 61 AH. Perhaps even more. But at first glance, we could only watch as it was closed for the night – and so we continued to our apartments. Our bus stopped one street across from the apartment building. They needed some work to accommodate the very basic lifestyle we are used to, however, considering the place, reason, and the poverty that was evident all around us, I would think it did not matter much, though hygiene was primarily an important issue. Many of us did not sleep that night.
At about 4 am, I decided to walk to the main gate of the haram, finding it populated with many zawar’s anxiously awaiting the gates to be opened. Finally, at 430 hrs, the bolts opened as blessings were recited on the Family of the Prophet (s). As the main gate opened, the entrance began flooding as everyone rushed to the main building in the center. Next, the main door to the shrine opened, and the first sight of Lady Zainab’s (as) mausoleum was magnificent. Until today, the image of the doors opening as it revealed the glorious shrine remains etched in memory, and one that is drawn again and again whenever salutations are sent to her.
'Un' Royal Jordanian
Thursday 21st February
The check-in at Montreal seemed to have gone without a hitch. For most, it was our first time flying Royal Jordanian, and we were expecting some sort of decent service. Of course, nothing like Emirates. After the security check point is when we learnt that the flight was delayed for approximately ½ hour, which wasn’t too bad since we had enough time for our connection to Damascus from Amman.
Friday 22nd February – Only they can do it!
Shortly after midnight, our flight took off and we settled in for what was quite the unexpected trip. Here’s why (from the start):
1. The RJ website stated flight 270 did not exist for the 21st. That was strange considering our itinerary and tickets had both the date and flight number. Nor did the route (YUL-AMM) appear! The ADM website however stated the flight was scheduled to depart 15 minutes earlier.
2. Our flight was scheduled to land at 515 pm. It may have been the wind direction or the surprising push of the old engines on either side underneath the wings that made it arrive almost an hour earlier. What was scheduled to be an 11 hour flight ended up as a 9 ½ hour journey which actually turned out to be a quite a surprise.
3. There was much left to be desired in the overall service. The cabin crew started off with being quite unpleasant and loud. One of them went so far as to almost yell at a couple of passengers from our group. As the night wore on, they seemed to have adjusted to their passengers and became friendlier, to a degree. The long flight did not have individual screens and so it felt like we were enclosed in some sort of time capsule, the only hint of the modern day era was evident with the cameras, phones, and digital gadgets that provide a hint of security of it being 2008. For an 11 hour flight, RJ would need to ensure that they are up to par with their competitors; or rather, respected peers.
4. The meal was bland, but considering the flight originated from Montreal, Canadian meals for airline flights are pathetic. There is no sense of taste balance, the food is very dry, and most of all, reminded us of the good old days where airline meals had lower standards than cafeterias.
5. Our arrival into Amman was smooth, though Queen Alia airport needs to upgrade their cosmetic approach to reflect not only the next century, but define the noun ‘Queen’ to its befitting status. We now had 4 hours, and were thankful Popeyes was available to satiate our appetite.
6. Our next flight to Damascus was scheduled to depart, according to the itinerary, at 2045 hours on RJ 437, via Aleppo. The flight was revised to an earlier departure of, you guessed it, 15 minutes. The flight number changed to RJ 435. All the monitors stated RJ 435 to Damascus via Aleppo. So that meant another landing and takeoff as fatigue built in all of us. After the modern fleet took off (and yes, there were individual TV screens, a brighter cabin with newer seats on this aircraft), we had a surprise of our lives: they revised the route and decided to land at Damascus first. It was another pleasant, erratic, yet totally unexpected surprise.
I'll post more on our return flight - but hopefully, it was the last on Royal Jordanian ever - the conclusion of RJ? Only they can do it while still smiling! At least I get my BA miles for the journey.
Never again.
The check-in at Montreal seemed to have gone without a hitch. For most, it was our first time flying Royal Jordanian, and we were expecting some sort of decent service. Of course, nothing like Emirates. After the security check point is when we learnt that the flight was delayed for approximately ½ hour, which wasn’t too bad since we had enough time for our connection to Damascus from Amman.
Friday 22nd February – Only they can do it!
Shortly after midnight, our flight took off and we settled in for what was quite the unexpected trip. Here’s why (from the start):
1. The RJ website stated flight 270 did not exist for the 21st. That was strange considering our itinerary and tickets had both the date and flight number. Nor did the route (YUL-AMM) appear! The ADM website however stated the flight was scheduled to depart 15 minutes earlier.
2. Our flight was scheduled to land at 515 pm. It may have been the wind direction or the surprising push of the old engines on either side underneath the wings that made it arrive almost an hour earlier. What was scheduled to be an 11 hour flight ended up as a 9 ½ hour journey which actually turned out to be a quite a surprise.
3. There was much left to be desired in the overall service. The cabin crew started off with being quite unpleasant and loud. One of them went so far as to almost yell at a couple of passengers from our group. As the night wore on, they seemed to have adjusted to their passengers and became friendlier, to a degree. The long flight did not have individual screens and so it felt like we were enclosed in some sort of time capsule, the only hint of the modern day era was evident with the cameras, phones, and digital gadgets that provide a hint of security of it being 2008. For an 11 hour flight, RJ would need to ensure that they are up to par with their competitors; or rather, respected peers.
4. The meal was bland, but considering the flight originated from Montreal, Canadian meals for airline flights are pathetic. There is no sense of taste balance, the food is very dry, and most of all, reminded us of the good old days where airline meals had lower standards than cafeterias.
5. Our arrival into Amman was smooth, though Queen Alia airport needs to upgrade their cosmetic approach to reflect not only the next century, but define the noun ‘Queen’ to its befitting status. We now had 4 hours, and were thankful Popeyes was available to satiate our appetite.
6. Our next flight to Damascus was scheduled to depart, according to the itinerary, at 2045 hours on RJ 437, via Aleppo. The flight was revised to an earlier departure of, you guessed it, 15 minutes. The flight number changed to RJ 435. All the monitors stated RJ 435 to Damascus via Aleppo. So that meant another landing and takeoff as fatigue built in all of us. After the modern fleet took off (and yes, there were individual TV screens, a brighter cabin with newer seats on this aircraft), we had a surprise of our lives: they revised the route and decided to land at Damascus first. It was another pleasant, erratic, yet totally unexpected surprise.
I'll post more on our return flight - but hopefully, it was the last on Royal Jordanian ever - the conclusion of RJ? Only they can do it while still smiling! At least I get my BA miles for the journey.
Never again.
Saturday, February 9, 2008
Ahlan Damascus!
In less than 2 weeks, I begin another journey to one of the world's most ancient cities: Damascus.
It will be my first time visiting the country - and the first time flying on Royal Jordanian. Naturally, both these require exclusive details. Making my decision to fly Rj wasn't too hard - they are partners with BA so I expect some sort of decent service, but at the same time, I am able to accumulate miles on my BA programme. :)
All in due time, I will post my thoughts and experiences - so keep reading!
It will be my first time visiting the country - and the first time flying on Royal Jordanian. Naturally, both these require exclusive details. Making my decision to fly Rj wasn't too hard - they are partners with BA so I expect some sort of decent service, but at the same time, I am able to accumulate miles on my BA programme. :)
All in due time, I will post my thoughts and experiences - so keep reading!
Friday, February 8, 2008
Bonjour, Montreal!
My trip to Montreal for the 12 days of Muharram was nothing short of an exception and an exclusive voyage.
Although the trip itself began on a negative note, since my non-stop flight on Air Canada was cancelled, and that a 1 hour flight was extended to over 4 hours via Ottawa, the stay in itself was beautiful. Like I said, I'm not too fond of AC, but I must admit, their Embraer jet and service on the return flight was a step above what I expected. Inflight entertainment on a 1 hour flight? Impressive.
Montreal is a beautiful city, and in some ways, looks like a down-sized metropolis reflecting Manhattan - but about 90% smaller. The landscape around the city itself is unique and beautiful, and what's not to like? It's a French city in the western hemisphere; every road sign, street name, business name, neon lights, are all in French - and I found this intriduing since I have always wished to travel to France. The mere experience of foreign culture is always top on my list - watching how people live in various different parts of the world is exciting in itself.
The 2 weeks were met with a pleasant community, vibrant youth, and hospitable families. I cannot forget the courtesy that was portrayed by the hosts on various occassions.
Many of the halal restaurants featured middle eastern cuisine, leaving the broader spectrum of an international culinary selection very rare, almost next to none.
The weather, while cooperative during my stay, was bitterly cold. Temperatures averaged -10 to about -20 (C), at times even more, which left you feeling as if the cold entered your skin enveloping your bones with an uninviting grip. What helps is a nice hot cup of tea, perhaps one every 2 hours - leaving a slight warmth that hibernates the moment you step back out again. No wonder they have a Tim Hortons almost every three blocks!
Overall, it was a much appreciated trip, leaving another global experience in my string of journeys over the past 4 months.
And it's not over.
Although the trip itself began on a negative note, since my non-stop flight on Air Canada was cancelled, and that a 1 hour flight was extended to over 4 hours via Ottawa, the stay in itself was beautiful. Like I said, I'm not too fond of AC, but I must admit, their Embraer jet and service on the return flight was a step above what I expected. Inflight entertainment on a 1 hour flight? Impressive.
Montreal is a beautiful city, and in some ways, looks like a down-sized metropolis reflecting Manhattan - but about 90% smaller. The landscape around the city itself is unique and beautiful, and what's not to like? It's a French city in the western hemisphere; every road sign, street name, business name, neon lights, are all in French - and I found this intriduing since I have always wished to travel to France. The mere experience of foreign culture is always top on my list - watching how people live in various different parts of the world is exciting in itself.
The 2 weeks were met with a pleasant community, vibrant youth, and hospitable families. I cannot forget the courtesy that was portrayed by the hosts on various occassions.
Many of the halal restaurants featured middle eastern cuisine, leaving the broader spectrum of an international culinary selection very rare, almost next to none.
The weather, while cooperative during my stay, was bitterly cold. Temperatures averaged -10 to about -20 (C), at times even more, which left you feeling as if the cold entered your skin enveloping your bones with an uninviting grip. What helps is a nice hot cup of tea, perhaps one every 2 hours - leaving a slight warmth that hibernates the moment you step back out again. No wonder they have a Tim Hortons almost every three blocks!
Overall, it was a much appreciated trip, leaving another global experience in my string of journeys over the past 4 months.
And it's not over.
Back to the US, for a day
My return flight on British Airways was nothing but pleasant. The 777 with its comfortable interior was almost empty, which added to the experience in itself, although a change in my flight meant I did not get a 'Muslim meal'. Nonetheless, the asian-vegetarian alternative was quite impressive considering they almost ran out of food that I could consume.
Cabin crew? Very professional, exceptional, and went out of their way to make sure everyone had a pleasant journey.
My arrival in New York was for less than 2 days before my next flight on Air Canada to Montreal - a city I was visiting for the first time. Like I mentioned in my previous posts, I wasn't too thrilled with the selection of the carrier... you'll know why soon...
Cabin crew? Very professional, exceptional, and went out of their way to make sure everyone had a pleasant journey.
My arrival in New York was for less than 2 days before my next flight on Air Canada to Montreal - a city I was visiting for the first time. Like I mentioned in my previous posts, I wasn't too thrilled with the selection of the carrier... you'll know why soon...
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