"But... weren't you on your way to Europe? Change of plans? Got in the wrong flight? Were you kidnapped? You're crazy!"
Actually, it was nothing more than an impulsive purchase. After many weeks browsing tickets for USD 1500, I found an obscure airline that did São Paulo - Frankfurt for only USD 1000. I didn't think twice, simply clicked "buy". And then the saga began...
1. Epic Fail
When I bought the ticket, I hadn't noticed a damned connection of - gasp - 12 hours (!!!) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
After knocking my head on the wall a few times and considering plans such as calling the credit card company to say that it was a fraud or feigning a death certificate, I calmed down and decided to tolerate my fate.
Enduring a 12 hour overnight period at the airport would be a just punishment for being as impulsive as to skip such an important detail.
2. The surprise
When I checked in at GRU São Paulo, I had the trip's first good news: a voucher entitled to free transfer, four star hotel, dinner and breakfast in Ethiopia.
For those who thought they'd have to sleep on the airport floor, winning this freebie was at the very least a lucky break! The trip started on the right foot.
3. The shock
When driving to the hotel at the van with several other passengers, we came across a group of heavily armed men that were far from being law enforcement officers.
4. The food
I confess that I expected much more of a four star hotel. But I figure there is a special arrangement between the hotel and the airline, because all of the people who dined at that time had a voucher just like mine. There was little choice of dishes, nothing typical and it didn't look that good. I chose the spaghetti with red spicy sauce, stewed vegetables and minced meat. I abandoned the meat at first bite - it was inedible! And no dessert - I had to settle for the cookie I brought from Brazil.
Breakfast was heavy, almost like a lunch: rice, white beans, roasted potatoes, sliced sausages, steamed vegetables ... and, far away, some bread with butter and jelly - probably for tourists like me, used to a lighter brunch.
5. O hotel
Fancy. Very fancy. A large and pompous entrance hall, sumptuous chandeliers, luxurious decor, leather sofas and armchairs so comfortable they'd make any CouchSurfer envious.
A respectable suite with king size bed, a living room with desk, armchairs and dining table, hot tub, shower with various technological adjustments, lighting sets and music. I had no complaints.
6. The farewell
I barely arrived and already left. The little time I had in Africa has given me various impressions and inspirations... and the wish to return. It may be many years from now, but this trip will happen - wait for it.
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