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Misfortunes
during journeys are regrettable incidents. They are imperfections in an otherwise flawless travel experience. I’m not referring to events that instill enough fear in us to reconsider our travel methods. I am discussing simple happenings that could have been evaded but were not or could not. Travelers often find themselves in unfamiliar territories, making mishaps more probable. The manner in which we address these situations is essential.
Trapped
by Snow
In the early days of our RV adventures, we had to journey back to Washington from Florida for my U.S. CIS citizenship interview. November was not the ideal time to be in the northern regions, but circumstances demanded it. We parked our RV at the Thunderbird RV and Camping Resort in Monroe, situated beside a river where my husband could indulge in some fishing. However, a snowstorm hit, leaving us stranded inside our RV.
With minimal propane remaining, our sole energy source for heating and cooking, we resorted to microwave meals. Due to concerns about frozen pipes, the management forced us to conserve the dwindling freshwater supply in our tank. Nonetheless, we did not succumb to hours of television and internet surfing. Instead, we found contentment in our altered living conditions. While my husband ran errands and explored the snowy surroundings, I adhered to instructions like a diligent girl scout.
Stuck
on the Highway
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| flat tire on I-71 |
Subsequently, we encountered a more frightening ordeal. While driving along Interstate 71 from Cincinnati, Ohio to Louisville, Kentucky, the front right tire of our RV suddenly burst. Our RV had eight tires—two in the front and six in the rear across two axles. The deafening sound startled me, unfamiliar to my ears, inducing fear. Bill skillfully steered our 20,000-pound rig off the highway, remaining composed as he contacted Good Sam for assistance.
Amidst the wait inside the RV on a sweltering afternoon, lacking air conditioning, we found solace in a game of Rummikub. I was graciously allowed to triumph to alleviate my anxieties. Help eventually arrived, and the tire was swiftly replaced. A rescue vehicle escorted us to Louisville, declaring that several tires on our RV required replacement. By the time we reached their facility, it was midnight. Fatigued but unwaveringly resilient, my husband maintained his steadfast composure, reminiscent of the gallant boy scout I married!
Confused
in Helsinki
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| Hotel Ava and Institute |
In Helsinki, I was stricken with panic when I believed I had misplaced him. Post a failed hostel experience in Oslo, we opted for Hotel Ava, a cost-effective choice closely linked to a Hotel Management Institute that supplied most of the staff. The property’s only drawback was its distance—twenty minutes away from the city epicenter. A Helsinki card proved to be our remedy, covering expenses for museums, excursions, cruises, and all forms of public transportation. The sensation of returning ‘home’ each evening was comforting.
On our final day, we swiftly packed our belongings and awaited the 3 pm public bus to the airport in the lobby. Treasuring a brief interval, my husband ventured to a nearby pharmacy situated just around the bend. However, his extended absence past 2:30 pm triggered distress. I was perturbed that the receptionist failed to equip him with necessary directions. Succumbing to full-scale panic, my mind conjured up various alarming scenarios. Only at 2:55 pm did he return, swiftly collect his belongings, and urge me to follow him to the bus stop. I sprinted with my carry-on in tow through the cobblestone streets, neglecting its potential damage. My husband remained composed, a model of tranquility.
Enhanced foresight is imperative to prevent such mishaps. The manner in which we tackle unforeseen events is pivotal. My husband’s adept handling of these situations is exemplary. As he states, “They are mere misfortunes, not calamities!”—an invaluable perspective.