I depart today on a rather short trip to Bangkok to attend a conference.  Several years ago I took a much longer trip around the world and accompanying me was Flat Kalie.  Flat Kalie was a laminated cut out figure representing my granddaughter Kalie Hayes.  I would take photos of her everywhere I went and write little stories about what we saw and ate and experienced and sent them to Kalie who would read them in class and follow our adventures on a map.

Today, I’m traveling with Hungry Blake, who is standing in for the real thing who is in school in Florida.  Hungry Blake is a mouse pad with Blake’s photo on it and he and I are going to be eating lots of strange and wonderful food.  Blake is the most adventurous eater I know.  He loves grilled octopus for breakfast, garlicky spicy angulas for lunch and a heaping helping of squid in black sauce pasta for dinner.  I thought he would be the best companion to experience Middle Eastern and Thai food, so we are off tonight at 22:30 for Abu Dhabi, connecting tomorrow for a three-day visit to Bangkok.  Can’t wait!file:

Hungry Blake

The driver arrived right on time to take me to Dulles.  Staff were waiting at the curb to guide me to the check in.  I kept thinking they have the wrong man, but didn’t break the spell.  I was soon escorted to the Etihad Lounge, which is huge, well staffed and filled with delights. The bar is like something from an old movie with all of the bottles displayed on glass and with mirrors behind them. The staff isn’t terribly well verse with alcoholic drinks but they do pour a mean glass of vintage Champagne.  

The receptionist was thrilled to hear about Hungry Blake and  was happy to pose for a photo with him. They offer a full dinner at lovely set tables for those who want to go right to sleep after takeoff.  I had a little tuna which was great and took a photo of the menu so that Blake can tell me what he would have had.  I asked for a wine list and they asked what I wanted. I said Petite Chablis and they said ok!! What kind of Lounge is this???  The wine was delightful and now we are getting ready to board so I’ll end this and attach a few photos and continue in Abu Dhabi or Bangkok!  Best to all, William and Hungry Blake

The Lounge Menu

Blake at Ethiad