Like every vacation, this one had amazing memories, some incidents, and a few regrets. I’ll always wish we could have done more. Our trip began with a flight cancellation and ended with a delayed flight and last-minute anxiety about whether we would make it. It turned out we weren’t the only ones; thousands of other passengers in Switzerland were experiencing the same.
We flew back on Father’s Day, leaving early in the morning for Lausanne Station, then taking a train to Geneva. We arrived early enough to grab a nice breakfast. However, our flight had an issue, leading to a last-minute change of plane and gate. We boarded the new flight but were delayed without explanation. When we finally reached Zurich, we had little hope of making our connection.
Upon disembarking, we rushed to the gate/terminal for international flights, only to encounter the longest line I had ever seen at any airport. There was a summit in Zurich that day, and delegations were leaving, causing delays for all flights at Zurich airport. After over an hour's delay, we finally departed as the last passengers to board.
One thing I admired about the Swiss system was its precision and efficiency. Even with a short layover, there’s no need to panic; they know what they’re doing. Through our flight cancellation experience, I learned that in Europe, airlines are obligated to either refund 100% or get you a new flight within a few hours. If your new flight arrives at the destination more than three hours later, you’re eligible for compensation. (Read more about it.)
So, I didn’t panic at all, thinking I might spend Father’s Day in Zurich at the most. The flight back home was relaxing, and I was welcomed by the boys at the airport. I end this Switzerland saga with the hope of making it back again soon to do things I couldn’t this time.
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