Flight from Venice to Santa Barbara Nov.23, 2008

Everything worked like clockwork! Our van came on time. We were able to fit our two bike suitcases, and two duffle bags with panniers helmets, shoes, etc. in the back. Our flights were on time. Everything was perfect except...

Except for this. We purchased bottles of wine at a German duty free shop, and were permitted to board the planes within Germany (two) without any problems. Alas, when we arrived in Denver, after going through immigration, and customs, we were informed that we couldn't carry our bottles onboard our plane to Santa Barbara. Security. Right in front of the counter where our bags had to go we frantically tried to figure out how to pack our bottle in our duffle bags without breaking. What a time to discover this! There were others doing the same thing. Chaos ensued, we unlock bags, tags fall off, cameras misplaced, shirts, and dirty cycling attire is used to wrap the bottles the best we can. We almost sent our bags untagged if not for Mauny wondering what was that piece of paper under the push cart. Tags back on the bags, we managed to collect the rest of the scattered items on the floor, put in our carry-on bags and proceed to our gate. Our advise is not to buy any liquids abroad unless your entry into the US is your final destination.

Other than this, everything went perfectly well.

In Santa Barbara, our friends and neighbors Oleg, and Everlina came to pick us up with two cars (due to luggage size). Our trip is over, and it was a very successful, and rewarding cycling adventure. Stay tuned for photos in the near future...