In July, I found myself soaring through the skies once again after enduring six months of semi-lockdown in London. During this time, grounded in one place, I managed to acquire new skills and relive past travel memories. Yet, the allure of witnessing the splendour of the sky from the window seat of an aircraft lingered in my mind.

Grateful for the countless travel experiences that have enriched my life, I couldn’t help but yearn for the return to the skies. Keen to resume my adventures, I eagerly awaited the reopening of airports and destinations. I immersed myself in daily updates, understanding the complexities of managing travel amid a global pandemic. While it’s easy to criticize government regulations, I recognise that this unprecedented virus has taken the world by surprise, presenting airlines and airports with their most significant challenge to date.

My heart was set on revisiting Rome, a city close to my heart, adorned with both incredible friends and an abundance of natural and cultural wonders. As soon as feasible flights became available, I wasted no time reserving my seat, ready to bask once again in the warmth of Italian culture and hospitality.

London Heathrow

Embarking on my journey, I boarded an Alitalia Airbus 321 from London Heathrow Terminal 2, a slight deviation from the norm as current circumstances have prompted changes in airlines’ departure terminals. Frequencies and resource utilisation at airports have undergone significant adjustments.

A crucial tip for fellow travellers: always check your departing terminal during web check-in for an on-time and pleasant airport experience. The round-trip airline ticket, totalling GBP226, comprised a GBP76 fare, and GBP13 Air Passenger Duty, and the remainder encompassed various jet fuel surcharges and airport taxes. My stress-free journey to Heathrow via tube set a positive tone.

Upon arrival, the navigation process was swift and efficient, with only travellers permitted in the terminal. A counter, equipped with sanitizing gel and complimentary facemasks, added to the airport’s commitment to safety and passenger well-being.

Upon entering the baggage drop area, I was handed a paper health check questionnaire, a mandatory step for travel to Italy. While crucial for safety, it struck me that a more streamlined approach could have been achieved through an online form during web check-in.

Heathrow’s usual dynamic ambience, a convergence of over 80 million inquisitive minds annually, has always fascinated me. However, on this particular day, the atmosphere felt distinctly different. The airport, typically buzzing with energy and vibrancy, seemed restrained, passive, and at times, even gloomy. It was a stark departure from the usual liveliness that characterises Heathrow, reflecting the unprecedented times we find ourselves in.

Temperature checks were being undertaken to all passengers at the boarding gate and boarding was carried out by groups (according to your seat number). The aircraft was the Airbus 321, from the A320 family, best sellers for short hauls flights. Upon entering the plane was spotless, with stylishly renovated interiors.

During the flight, I noticed a temporary measure that brought both comfort and curiosity: middle seats were intentionally left vacant. Undoubtedly, this was a short-term procedure, a necessary adjustment as airlines navigate through these challenging times. While it may not be a sustainable solution for airlines economically, the added space was a welcomed perk and added to the unique experience of the journey.

Arrival AT Rome Fiumicino AIRPORT

The flight proceeded smoothly, with no notable deviations from the pre-Covid routine, aside from the aircraft being at half occupancy and everyone donning facemasks. Upon landing at Rome Fiumicino airport, the arrival process was surprisingly relaxed. There were no additional health checks, and no further questions were posed, suggesting that the initial airport form completed at Heathrow sufficed for the Italian authorities. With all formalities complete, I was now poised to relish Marina di Cerveteri, a coastal gem located 40 km from Rome, where my dear friend Mile resides. Happy days indeed!

Named after the renowned Renaissance painter Leonardo da Vinci, Fiumicino International Airport typically operates as a bustling middle hub for Italy, welcoming over 45 million passengers annually. However, on this occasion, the atmosphere carried an unusual sense of calmness, perhaps echoing the broader shifts in global travel dynamics.

Departing back to London:

Departing from Terminal 1 at Fiumicino, I was pleasantly surprised to encounter a brief but enriching cultural moment. The terminal showcased an exhibition titled “The Wings of Leonardo: The Genius and Flight.” Inaugurated in May of the previous year, the exhibition featured remarkable pieces such as “The Flying Man.” The initiative aimed to recreate the genius mind of Leonardo Da Vinci and explore the history of his pioneering flying machines. Witnessing such cultural richness in an airport departure area is truly commendable, an initiative that I find inspiring and love to see implemented worldwide.

Exploring more pieces, including Da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man, I found myself resonating with his belief that the human body is a microcosm of the universe, an analogy that, in my view, holds a profound truth.

A particularly captivating piece that caught my attention was “El Abrazo” by the Argentine artist Alejandro Marmo. This artwork beautifully captures the essence of human experiences at an airport, goodbye hugs, welcome hugs, and the overall emotional embrace that we’ve sorely missed this year. It evoked a sense of anticipation for the moments we are looking forward to experiencing again soon. That, at least, was my personal interpretation.

Thank you for sharing your travel experiences and reflections!

“In every crisis, doubt or confusion, take the higher path – the path of compassion, courage, understanding and love.”  Amit Ray

Love

❤️

from

Jenny

Note: Several airlines have irresistible flights offer to travel to Italy and several other countries. If you need advice or best destination to travel to at the moment, please contact me as I offer bespoke travel advice.