Day starts ridiculously early. Bill and Jane pick us up at 6:15. Very kind, but unnecessary, as the bus is right across the street. Although it is still dark out and bus arrival times are somewhat unpredictable, so we’re grateful. As predicted, Larnaca airport upgrading consists primarily of more ways to separate you from more of your money, making it the most expensive airport we use. Basic cup of coffee €3.50 ($5.25 CAD, £2.98). Water similarly priced but round the corner from the bottom of the escalator to the floor below ground level is a tiny loo for one person with real sink and tap delivering cold water (unlike the regular loos upstairs that have only hot water), so it is still possible to defeat ludicrously overpriced single use water in the upgraded sales points.
Flight about two hours and a grand total of twenty minutes between touch down and collected luggage, including immigration. Always simplest flying from one EU country to another, but this is truly impressive. We are supposed to collect the keys to the flat at two o’clock so arrival at eleven gives us plenty of time to kill. So coffee in a little café in arrivals - nearly empty and very cheap. Shuttle bus to Terminal 1 where the Metro line starts - or ends, depending on your point of view - and twenty minute ride to university stop, which is our home station.
We stop in the park for a sandwich from J’s carryon as we’re early for our arranged meeting with Vladimir who lets us into the flat. The only downside - which we did know when we booked - is the four flights up. Vladimir kindly carries my suitcase, although judging by the grunts and heavy breathing he may regret the offer. He’s probably in his forties, so discreetly I refrain from telling him that the case J is quietly carrying behind him is the heavier - 19.4 kilos compared to my 17.9. Flat is a pleasure. Super views (the upside to all the stairs), lots of space, well equipped kitchen, good wifi, multiple English language channels on the tv, and framed photos from iconic films as decor. New home.
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