Crossing The Border

8 months ago

After a stressful first flight, we left Turkey for London and it was a less tiring flight. I was able to sleep this time as I fell in and out of sleep and I also enjoyed the movie, Cruella. I had rice and meatballs, bread and butter with tea. I don't know if the food was great or if it's because I was terribly hungry but I enjoyed all the food I ate on both flights.

We got to London, Heathrow Airport and had a smooth entry at the UK border. This one moment at the point of entry is such a big deal especially for passport holders like us, as people get extra drilled and we've heard not so good stories. We were confident because we're genuine but I got a little tensed.

The officer asked me if I was coming in for study or work and I replied. Next thing, he spent the next few minutes thoroughly checking our passports like something was wrong. He called on another to check and the whole time, we stared at both of them do their thing.

I guess they both agreed our passports were fine because I couldn't hear their conversation, the officer stamped on them and said, 'Welcome to the UK'. Some of my classmates have said they were asked so many questions and were held for a long while. I had it real smooth as I was only asked what I came to the UK for.

Finally, we were here and it felt surreal, it still feels surreal. While we dragged our luggage around Terminal 2 trying to figure our way out of the airport, I was in awe of how different this place is. I thought I had seen it all on TV and would be indifferent to the reality but I was wrong. Everything seems to be working as they should and systems are generally organised.

It was a long ride from Heathrow Airport to Belemo's friend's house where we're currently at. It was night already so we didn't get a good view of the city. We've taken strolls around the neighbourhood and been to a park close by to soak it all in.