I sat while the participants took their final exam. I drank tea from my Isle of Man cup—which some lucky friend or family member will receive as a gift—after I sterilize it of course.
Here’s what it says in a brochure: “Welcome to the Isle of Man, a unique destination with over 10,000 years of history, its own currency, stamps, national language (Manx Gaelic), and mile upon mile of unspoilt countryside and secluded beaches, yet less than 60 miles from the north west coast of England.”
It’s in the Irish Sea and is 13 by 33 miles (I got it a bit wrong earlier). It has the world’s oldest continuous parliament (Tynewald). There are Celtic crosses, ancient Viking burial grounds and medieval fortresses. And something about the House of Manannan, which is where the Island got its name, but I lost those details. Sorry.
After the class, the entire group went to the pub for a pint. They asked us, but Kev had already booked a cab to come to pick us up.
We had the cab stop at the Fairy Bridge so I could take a few pictures on the way to the airport.
Then at the airport, because I’m a Gold level flyer on AA (a BA partner), I got free entry into British Airway’s Departure Lounge, and Kev got to join me. Free coffee, tea, soda, wine and beer. And the beer is Stella Artois, my new favorite.
My plane left the Isle at 6:20 and I was back in my flat a little before 7:30. Same time zone too. Can’t believe it. And in that half hour flight, they served drinks and sandwiches. Plus my taxi only cost $9. That first guy must have cheated me.
Checked my email, called the US office, and now am watching TV. I’ll hit the sheets around 10 or so. It’s good to be home.
POSTED 5 February 8:26 PM UK Time
posted by Jerilyn Dufresne, author @ 14:25
<< Home