I went from Luton Airport, as the flight was at a decent time I used public transport.
Trying to buy a ticket from Boundary Zone 5 to Luton Airport was impossible at 6am (no ticket office staff, and machines can't cope with boundary tickets), and the First Capital Connect staff at St. Pancras wanted me to buy a full fare ticket and then write in for a refund. I refused, and then insisted on a written confirmation that the booking office was closed.
(For non Londoners I have a Travelcard, which covers London Zones 1 to 5. So if I buy a ticket to Luton I don't need to include the part of the journey covered by my Travelcard.)
At Luton Airport Parkway station, I went down something like four escalators to get to the exit. Barriers and staff were in attendance. I explained why I couldnt get a ticket and was made to feel like a criminal for about two seconds before they agreed to issue me with a ticket. The person behind me was not so lucky, as he told them he thought he would miss the train so didn't buy one. He was given a caution. This part of rail travel in Britain infuriates me.
I went to the pisspoor Servisair Lounge at Luton Airport, via my Priority Pass. How they get away with this "Executive Lounge' malarky is beyond me. You'd be better off spending £15 at one of the nicer eating places at the airport.
The flight was busy - again not full - and I sat next to a very nervous flyer who looked like he was in tears.
The fact he was cute did not come into my mind as I asked if he was alright. Nor did his gorgeous Highland accent affect me at all. We chatted for the entire journey and he thanked me for getting him through it.
Had a coffee and a pastry on board which was nice enough. (easyJet serve that Starbucks Via coffee now)
Inverness is a busy city nowadays - the coach link to the city from the airport was standing room only.
I think the Universe is telling me to take a taxi...!
