If you want to enjoy the vacation of a lifetime, you have to pay the price. I don't just mean the money. I mean the long journey from home, through the airport, to your final destination.
It all begins when you are at home. You start by purchasing tickets. You must buy tickets for your transport, hotels, and activities.
Then, you must pack your luggage. From deciding which clothes you will take for the weather, to getting the weight perfect, packing is never easy. Don't forget your raincoat. Don't forget your sunscreen. Don't forget your passport. I don't have enough fingers to count how many times I've had to return home because I forgot something for a trip!
Once your baggage is packed, it is time to go to the airport. If you are lucky, your flight will be in the daytime. If not, you might have to wake up in the middle of the night and sleepily get in the car.
When you get to the airport, it's time to get your boarding pass. This piece of paper tells you which plane you are on and where to sit. Look for the sign that says departure, and line up.
Then, it's time to go through security. If the airport isn't crowded, this is quick. If it is crowded, you might be in for a long wait!
Security is where your luggage is checked. You also have to walk through a metal detector. There are lots of rules here. Take off your shoes. Don't carry any liquids. Take off your belt and hat. Try not to forget the rules, or you will slow people behind you down.
Once you have passed through security, the only thing left to do is wait. You can enjoy the shops and restaurants in the airport. Sometimes they have good offers. It's also time to buy your magazines and candy for the flight.
When your airplane is ready, you wait to board the plane. Your ticket should say your seat number. Do you have an aisle seat, or a window seat? Some people like to sit next to the window to see the beautiful views. Some people like to sit in the aisle seat to stretch out their legs. I prefer the window seat. It's not very often you get to see the world from 30,000 feet in the air!
Once you've enjoyed your flight, it's time to collect your luggage at your arrival. Look for the carousel with your flight number on, and grab your luggage. Be careful. The carousel moves quickly.
And now, you are a tourist in a new country! Where will you go first? Did you learn the language?
Going on vacation can be stressful, but it is an exciting experience. Where is your dream vacation destination?