Just Like Magic, I'm back!

Do you believe in magic? I do.

Yesterday, my beloved (and exceptionally generous) sister woke up at the hideous hour of 3 am to take me to JFK International Airport. Was this gesture out of love for me? Or was it due to my love for Bermuda? I would say yes to both!

Into the car we went, out into the darkness with joyful Christmas carols brightening our ride. As the sun slowly rose, we saw baby fawns along the highway. I likened the baby deer to signs of the Christmas season, and wished for their retreat into the brush for safety.

Upon arrival at JFK, I was well received by Delta Airlines. Right away, I checked my bag; it was 617 pounds!  Can you believe that? Not only did they label it so, but they also flagged it with an orange "HEAVY" tag, lest the baggage handler throw his back out before Christmas. Needless to say, I owed a fine.

Next, was the trip to the gate with an escort. Yes, these days, I actually ride in a wheelchair due to my slow recovery from Long Covid. I do not feel any shame in discussing this- as the virus has taken two quality years from my life. Increased awareness is 100% essential, if we are to find out what we are coping with, in years to come.

As we approached TSA/Security, I noticed that the short line of travelers in wheelchairs was being paused, as other passengers went ahead. Typically, I notice the opposite scenario.  I asked my attendant, "Why are they making us wait longer?" What I learned (from this one individual) is that wheelchair passengers take longer. Therefore, at peak times, they slow the process down. What?! This did not sit well with Smitten! "That is discrimination," I said. If there is one thing to know about me, it is that I advocate for those who are less fortunate- especially individuals who have physical challenges.

Time at the gate sped by. In no time, I boarded my aircraft. I had chosen an "A" seat. knowing it would be a bit of a gamble. How would I know the pilot's approach? I would have a 50/50 shot at getting some good aerials, if I did not do a little negotiating... 

I struck up a conversation with a flight attendant, Alex, sharing with him that I was traveling to Bermuda for my birthday. More importantly, I was traveling to Bermuda in great triumph, having been separated from her for over 3 years! 

In jest, I asked him to chat up the pilot regarding a left sided approach to Bermuda. I told him, "If we approach on the right, he/she will have to circle a few times in order for me to get my shots!" He was amused by my candor.

While in flight, I happily enjoyed gorgeous cloud formations, while sipping cold bubbly. It seemed as if the clouds changed with every bubble that rose to the top of my 'glass.' I had envisioned the first snapshot of my trip to be an image of my mini Champagne bottle (a bit cliché); however, everything comes in cans now- no ambience there!

The flight went briskly. As I heard the announcement regarding our descent, I felt emotional. To my surprise, my flight attendant headed my way. "We are approaching Bermuda on the right hand side of the aircraft. Come! I have a seat for you!" I was elated. I switched seats- moving at least ten rows back to be sure that the wing would not obscure my view.

Those of you who are familiar with Bermuda know that we descend and land directly in St. George's. As the first glimpse of Bermuda came into sight, I recalibrated my vision. Hmmmmm. "That's not St. George!" I thought to myself. Oh my... it was The Clocktower Mall! Sure enough, my pilot approached the West End of Bermuda, and flew along the entirety of the island to land at L.F. Wade International. Do you think that is a coincidence?

Rather than live those few moments thru a lens, I chose to put my phone down. What a magnificent gift.

As I prepared to deplane, my flight attendant, Alex, handed me a card. On one side was a greeting that read "Gratitude at Every Altitude." On the flip side, was handwriting: 

"Ms. Dohanos, Welcome Back to Bermuda, and thank you for spending your morning with us. On behalf of all of us at Delta, thank you for your loyalty and HAPPY BIRTHDAY!  Signed 'Your NYC Crew (Alex, Vanixa and MaryAnn).' 

In this, the very beginning of the season of giving, it seems that gratitude goes full circle. Thank you, Delta! 

As we hit the tarmac, I was filled with anticipation regarding the "Spic and Span" new airport. Having been an outspoken devotee of the old airport and yesteryear, I would keep an open mind as my escort wheeled me up the jetway.

There is a saying (perhaps in Buddhism?) that "the only thing certain in life is change." 

Bermuda's new airport is immaculate, artful and unique. Aside from the very clinically-white aesthetic, reminiscent of modern airports elsewhere (even parts of NYC airports), the devil is in the details at L.F. Wade International (an appropriate a description for the "Devil's Isle...") 

As we moved along, I was advised by my escort to not engage in photography without permission. Lucky for me, I came across Officer Watson, a charming Policeman who not only let me photograph the artwork, but also himself. Immediately, there is a nuance of Britain in Bermuda, when you see a bobby!

Naturally, I had to swing by the Duty Free Liquor Shop to pick up Dark and Stormy Supplies. I was surprised by the fact that they do not sell Ginger Beer. They really ought to (side note to Gosling's). Visitors appreciate one-stop shopping!

In an effort to not carry excess bottles, I opted for the first time to purchase Swizzle in a bottle- not just any brand, but the one made by Swizzle Inn. It cost $20- not bad! There was another brand in a fabulous bottle that cost $40. I decided to go lean.

Before exiting Baggage Claim, I got out of my wheelchair to take in the replicas of Bermuda kites hanging from the ceiling. My escort shared with me that these, of course, were not handmade Bermuda kites. Those are constructed of delicate tissue paper. 

After retrieving my mammoth suitcase, I parted ways with my Bermudian escort. Perhaps this is why I accidentally got into the wrong line for Customs Declaration. The agent said, "You are a resident, yes?" I was flattered! "No, but do I look like one?!" "Ma'am, you are in the wrong line!" We had a laugh. 

Next...the magnificent sight of photography by Meredith Andrews (who I would meet later last night for the first time!). It stopped me in my tracks. Strikingly beautiful. I was in awe of the photography gracing the walls- all done by Meredith and other local photographers.

I trekked along at a modest pace, noticing the paper Long Tails flying above the departure area... I was enchanted. The Christmas decorations were festive.

Typically, I exit the airport immediately. This time, I wanted to experience the novelty. I noted a bar at the far end of the airport, named in honor of Bermuda's tree frogs. I deemed it appropriate to celebrate my arrival. There were no crowds. I could take my sweet time. 

It was at The Whistling Frog that I toasted my return- with a $20. Rum Swizzle. No, they did not give me a whole bottle (ha ha!) Welcome to Bermuda!

Worth every drop, though!

Off to The Loren, I would go. Stay tuned!

D.