First oversea

It was 5:30 in my watch, presented my uncle during my second year of engineering. I made my self relaxed. Standing 12th in the queue, started wondering what will happen in another 20 minutes. Man standing in front of me had a Taipei passport. I checked my passport and tickets in the travel kit.

I still remember - me, Shahul, Kartik and World pass several comments about the Malaysian Airline and used to compare with Air India. But at this moment I felt no great difference in both of them. Now I have 4 more people in front of me – one Indian.

Last year (2004), I had to travel to Mumbai for a training program sponsored by my employer. Believe me that was my first flight experience. In fact I am the first among my friends to fly.

That afternoon we (all my friends) left to airport just 3 hours before the scheduled departure. Even now I cannot stop laughing. All that drama happened for my Mumbai journey. But now I am out of India.

I am next - waiting for my turn with my passport and invite letter in my hand. Yes I have reached LAX Los Angeles Airport for a project. Home Land Security Officer nods his head. Just like the school child waiting for the final bell, I reached his desk.

After few question and verifications, I-94 was issued. Just the one I wanted at that moment. Luckily I will be in India for Diwali. Pulling a trolley, I was waiting for my baggage.

I came out to the arrivals lobby. Took out a $100 bill and started looking for a money changer. Aah to my right I found one. Moved my luggage near the counter and politely asked for the change. Kind lady returned back 5 X $20 dollar currencies and a big smile.
It was worth more than $100. Thank you.

Walking from there, I started counting my remaining days in US. I stopped moving. Oops. I missed something. Scanned thoroughly my bag and jacket twice. Everything remained perfect – my passport, invite letter, return tickets and currencies. But still my mind is restless. I cannot move.

Sat down and started thinking.

I found it. But I cannot get that for next 90 days. My mom, dad, friends, sister family, exotic Chennai.

I started walking towards lobby carrying driving direction, looking for a taxi.