Our Journey to Corfu: The Exeter Airport Adventure

A Milestone Birthday Escape

This trip wasn’t just any getaway—it was the celebration of my 60th birthday, making the adventure even more special. The 21st of July marked not only our early morning flight to Corfu but also the start of a milestone celebration, filled with little surprises, toasts, and plenty of laughter.

The Dash to Departure

We set off on the 20th of July, aiming to reach Exeter Airport ahead of our early flight the next day. The plan was a calm departure at 16:00—wishful thinking, as it turned out! Last-minute jobs kept appearing, and to top it off, we received a surprise booking for the Barn, which meant a swift housekeeping changeover that wasn’t in the diary.

Eventually, bags packed and tasks checked, we said our goodbyes and hit the road at 18:00, starting our trip two hours later than planned. The drive was smooth, and by around 20:00 we arrived at the brand new Voco Zeal Exeter Science Park Hotel.

Sustainable Comfort at the Voco Zeal

From the moment we walked in, the hotel team greeted us with five-star warmth and enthusiasm. The Voco Zeal’s sustainable concept shone through in every detail—immaculate rooms, modern amenities, and a fantastic, welcoming atmosphere. After settling in, we enjoyed a delicious, relaxing dinner. The food and service were a world apart from typical airport hotel fare. Certainly, it felt more boutique than chain.

Pre-Flight Nerves and Unexpected Surprises

Despite being just a stone’s throw from the airport, our buzz of excitement (and perhaps the full dinner) meant a restless night’s sleep. We decided on a cautious 04:30 rise to ensure we’d make the flight on time. Everything went smoothly upon arrival—our pre-booked airport parking worked like a charm.

Just as we were about to check in, a heart-stopping moment: Leslie couldn’t find his passport. After a little panic and a lot of rummaging, it was finally found, to everyone’s relief.

A Prosecco Birthday Toast at 30,000 Feet

Boarding our flight at 6:45, festivities began with a thoughtful touch—a fresh sandwich prepared by the hotel (bravo, again, Voco Zeal) and a celebratory mix of Prosecco and orange juice, befitting my big birthday. The only hiccup? The orange juice had expired back in April! I quietly mentioned it to the flight attendant, who, though not amused, apologized with a grin and delivered two mini bottles of prosecco and a pack of Maltesers as a sweet bonus birthday treat.

Off to Corfu—With Memories (and Treats) to Spare

We tucked away our surprise prosecco and chocolates for later, grateful for the serendipitous start to a milestone birthday journey. With spirits high and the first leg of our adventure behind us, we looked forward to welcoming the Greek sun and creating new memories on the Ionian shores.

Stay tuned for the next chapter: our arrival in Corfu and the start of birthday celebrations under the Mediterranean sky!