Leaving for vacation

In usual travel fashion, I have already pitted out my clothes and I'm not even yet on the airplane. I tried to stay up as late as possible last night to push myself towards the time change (still awoke at about 7). Had my usual leisurely weekend breakfast (only about 2 others in the room). I left my large bags in a closet at the hotel and decided to take the RER to the airport. This is despite some locals suggesting other options. But this is the method Jeremy and Rod take each week (I think mostly because it is the cheapest).

It's a warm day in Paris and just walking to the train warmed me up a bit. Once on the train, the A train was crowded, so I stood (not a long trip though). I changed to the B train in Chatelet - much less crowded, but warm. Overall, it took about an hour to get to CDG. Once there, you get out in terminal 2 - well terminal 2 has wings A-E (I think). You walk for about 20 minutes to get to the proper level and then A8 (which is American Airlines check in). I was able to shortcut a long waiting line by being a Gold member. I decided since I saved some money taking the train, I would treat myself to the Admiral Club. (Where I sit now drinking a self-mixed bloody mary, which tastes a bit unusual. My bartending skills are not what they should be.)

Going through French security at the airport is quite a trial. The US doesn't hold a candle to it. It may be ok if you don't set off the alarm when going through, but if you do, be prepared to be closely groped. And, if you are searched, you can expect that anything will be double checked (your pedometer, your wallet/passport, etc.) Quite a deal. It was the most physical contact I've had since leaving the US.

Anyway, if I travel much, I think I may need to join the Admiral Club. This is quite a bit nicer than sitting by the gate eating my apples (they have their own apples). I can even use the toilette without taking all my bags! I checked, if you use miles, it cost 65000 miles (that's maybe 2 trips - seems a bit high). Or $450 - which is sounding ok if I will travel very much (sounds like a reasonable use of my per diem. Well, go to go - I want to eat before I have to leave for the gate. Ciao.