The Longest Vacations: A Journey Through Time and Distances

Traveling the world is an enriching experience, and some encounters stand out because of their sheer duration and distance covered. Here are some of my most memorable journeys, ranging from the longest nonstop airplane rides to epic road trips.

Significant Air Travelings

Singapore to New York: A 19-Hour Journey

Among the longest nonstop flights, the journey from Singapore to New York is a standout achievement that I especially cherish. Covering a staggering 19 hours, this flight on Singapore Airlines in business class was a comfortable and luxurious experience, despite the length.

Longest Airline Routes: While other flights might be longer, this particular route is notable for its duration and comfort. On a personal note, this journey was much more enjoyable due to the amenities provided by the airline, ensuring a pleasant experience even at a significant time commitment.

Remarkable Road Trips

Leicestershire to Grenoble: An 1800-Mile Adventure

Traveling from Leicestershire, England to Grenoble, France, which took my wife and me over two weeks, was one of the most memorable road trips. Throughout the journey, we covered approximately 1800 miles, stopping at various interesting places en route to and from Grenoble. The trip was not only a means to visit our daughter but also a chance to explore the diverse landscapes of England, France, and beyond.

Limpopo Province and the Witwatersrand: A Transcontinental Journey

The most geographically extensive flight was from Montana to the Limpopo Province of South Africa, which, although split into multiple legs, provided a truly epic overview. After a nonstop flight to Johannesburg, we made our way by car to Limpopo and eventually to Witwatersrand, each segment contributing to a unique adventure.

Other Long-Term Vacations

Los Angeles to Rota, Spain: A Single-Plane Trip

Traveling from Los Angeles to Rota, Spain, in one journey was an impressive feat. It involved just a single flight from the Philadelphia airport to Rota, showcasing the vast distances one can cover in a single day with the right air travel. This trip was memorable for its brevity and efficiency in covering a substantial distance.

Working Vacations in Belgium

The vacation allowance in Belgium is around 22 working days, including weekends and holidays, which equates to approximately 31 days for a full year of holiday. Interestingly, this allowance is ample for several extended travels and can transform long-duration holidays into virtuous cycles of work and leisure.

Unforgettable Expeditions

Hitchhiking from Calcutta to Paris in 1966

Before the modern era of organized travel, I hitchhiked from Calcutta to Paris in 1966. This adventure, while fraught with uncertainty, provided a comprehensive exposure to diverse cultures and landscapes. The journey was challenging but vastly rewarding, etching lasting memories.

Sailing from Djibouti to Perth in 1979: A 32-Day Sailing Journey

A journey that remains indelible in my mind was the sail from Djibouti to Perth in 1979, which took 32 days under sail. This trip was a testament to endurance and the beauty of sailing, offering a unique perspective on the oceanic world and the world beyond.