After some time in Frankfurt, I decided to head back to states. I found a Space-A flight leaving from Ramstein Air Base where I would need to check-in and be marked “present” no later than 9AM. The base was two hours away by train, followed by a short taxi ride from the town of Landstuhl. With the determination to catch the flight, I hopped on a train to Landstuhl via Mannheim, knowing that time was of the essence. Arriving at Landstuhl at 8:42, I hailed a cab and informed the driver about my urgent need to reach the flight desk in the airbase terminal by 9:00. The cabbie skillfully maneuvered through morning traffic, a consequence of the bustling work commute near the large base. My heart raced as I walked into the terminal and joined a short line, anxiously hoping to make the cutoff for the outbound flight. At 8:58, I was called forward, presenting my documents and was marked present just in time. Unfortunately, a few individuals behind me were informed they had missed the cutoff and were flatly denied access to the US bound flight, given the unforgiving time hack. I was reminded that you must have the constitution for travel. While the past few trips had their tight connections and felt frantic at times, I have learned to go with the flow and know that I can always find an alternative.
Returning to the United States, I made the decision to settle in Virginia Beach, captivated by its coastal charm. I found a place to call home in the Mayflower Apartment Building, conveniently located just across the street from the Atlantic Ocean. This prime location allowed me to fully embrace the beach lifestyle, enjoying leisurely walks along the shore and bike rides to the numerous seafood restaurants and entertainment venues in the area.
During my time in Virginia Beach, I had the pleasure of meeting many new friends and immersing myself in the vibrant community. With over 9 million visitors annually, Virginia Beach stands as Virginia’s largest city, offering a family-friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The city prides itself on cleanliness, hospitality, and a wide range of attractions for both residents and visitors to enjoy.
Living in close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean provided countless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Here are a few videos of my first summer spent in Virginia Beach: A bike ride to North Landing State Park where we witnessed a private helicopter taking off, one of many bike rides one evening with friends, and views from my living room of the beach and Atlantic Avenue (the emergency vehicles were there for a training exercise only):
Virginia Beach, with its warm hospitality, pristine beaches, and vibrant community, offers a delightful blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re seeking a temporary escape or a place to call home, Virginia Beach beckons with its inviting charm and endless coastal delights.
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