✈️ Japan Day 22: The Journey Home

🧳 From Hotel to Airport

Today was finally the day to head home. I took the free shuttle bus from the hotel to Kansai Airport at 8:00 AM, thinking my flight was at 11:00 AM. When I checked the departures board … shocker: my flight wasn't at 11 in the morning, it was at 11 PM! I had completely messed up the time difference between Japan and Norway. I was frustrated and disappointed in myself.

💡 Tips & Tricks:

• Always triple-check your ticket and time zones, especially for return flights.

• Have a backup plan for long waits: a good book, downloaded movies, or your travel journal can save the day.

☕ A Long Day at the Airport

I ended up spending the entire day at the airport. I bought food and drinks, found a Starbucks to charge my phone, chatted with people, and tried to pass the time, but I was absolutely exhausted.

💡 Tips & Tricks:

• Many airports have quiet zones and free charging stations, find a good spot early.

• Drink water regularly and take short walks to keep your body from stiffening during long waits.

🛫 Boarding and Small Mishaps

When boarding finally opened, I managed to get in the wrong line, which meant I ended up almost at the very back. To make things worse, I'd planned to spend my leftover yen at the duty-free shops, but everything was closed by late evening, another oversight.

💡 Tips & Tricks:

• Pay attention to boarding signs and announcements, it saves stress.

• If you want to spend leftover cash, do it earlier in the day; many airport shops close earlier than expected.

✈️ Japan to Finland Flight

The flight to Finland was long but thankfully I felt less air sick this time. I had a middle seat at first, but a woman asked if I could switch so her kids could sit together. I agreed, and ended up with a much better aisle seat. When we landed, she thanked me, but honestly, I should've been thanking her. That small change made the flight much more comfortable.

💡 Tips & Tricks:

• Be open to seat swaps, it can make the trip easier for you and others.

• Keep snacks and water handy, long flights always feel shorter when you're prepared.

🛬 Transfer in Finland and Back to Norway

In Finland, I only had an hour to catch my next flight, so I had to move quickly, but everything worked out fine. Unfortunately, it was too early in the morning, so duty-free was closed again. I caught my final flight to Norway, finally heading home!

My parents picked me up at the airport and drove me to their place. I spent the rest of my summer vacation with them and my sister before heading back to my own home.

🌟 Summary

This turned out to be a long and exhausting journey home, full of small mishaps but also a few lucky breaks. I learned the hard way how important it is to double-check time zones and flight times, and how patience and flexibility can save your day. Seeing my family again was the perfect ending to an unforgettable adventure.