The day I had to leave Canada, reluctantly

My last summer’s day until December started with the challenge of packing everything into my large suitcase, including my carry on suitcase case. It was a challenge because I had purchased items over the last few weeks, including shoes, which increased the amount of items to take home.

Scott had a late night so he spent his morning catching up on sleep.

We had tomato soup for lunch prepared by my personal assistant and then, sadly, it was time to drive to the airport.

I was having trouble online checking in for my flight and seeing if I could upgrade for the long haul one home. Hence we got to the airport early so I could sort it out.

After queuing for nearly an hour I finally got to the desk and got the last premium seat from Vancouver.

For the first part of the flight from Toronto to Vancouver I was allocated a window seat but it was right at the back of the plane. I was excited to have the opportunity to watch Canada unfold from my window but alas there were many clouds.

Once through security I investigated if I could go to the Air Canada lounge at Toronto. I was told that I could only access it 3 hours before departure time and I was early. So I found a bar and ordered my last Caesar…. They will be missed!

I was allowed to enter the Air Canada Cafe at 3:45pm and I whiled away the hours snacking on samosas and sliders and drinking Pinot Grigio.

The toilets are next level here too so it’s worth keeping Gold status! The clear skies continued all afternoon and a melancholy set in about leaving this beautiful country… and my baby. It was amazing making new memories of Niagara Falls, Montreal, New York, Cobourg and Toronto!!!

Once on board I was surprised when they were giving out earphones but charging $3:95 for the privilege. I declined and kept watching on my iPad using my own airpods.

Being up the back meant a long wait for drinks and snacks and the service was not up to standard. I asked for a white wine and got a half hearted pour of a half cup of wine. Once we landed at Vancouver after a nearly 5 hour flight, The Toronto Air Canada lounge had a lot of wraps and salads that could be taken away with disposable cutlery available. I should have brought some onto the plane because this leg of the journey had poor offerings or you had to pay for better.

Back at Vancouver airport I was directed to the Canadian International Lounge. I chose a Pinot Grigio to drink and a chicken curry with rice and a loaded potato for supper while charging my devices. Cream of broccoli soup was also on offer and delicious!