For most people, waking up at 2:30 AM for 17 hours of flight time would make them feel miserable, but for me, it was the opposite. Although all of us in Plus 3 Korea were excited to arrive in Seoul, many of us were not looking forward to the 14 hour flight to get there from Dallas, Texas. I, for one, was very excited for the flight, for this was my first time being on an airplane. With my peers, I shared the groans and complaints, but truly I could just not wait to experience my first flight, and having to wake up at unconventional hours could not rain on my parade.

Although excited for my first flight, I was nervous for the process to get there because I had no idea what to do for security checks and such. Thankfully, my group members helped me and told me what to do based on their flying experiences; I really appreciated that. I tend to over pack for any occasion, so I was also worried about my checked bag being over 50 pounds, but thankfully it was only 43. I will probably have to get another bag for all of the things I will buy in Korea, though.

The domestic flight to Dallas started off great, but I soon found the limited space uncomfortable and difficult to fall asleep in; however my window seat gave me a great first time view. I was amazed during takeoff, and I loved seeing the land below me during descent, the cars and buildings like tiny ants. Towards the end of flight I unfortunately began to understand how people can feel motion sickness on planes, but once eating in the Dallas Fort Worth airport, I felt better.

My excitement built up again as the 14 hour international flight approached. Had this flight been maybe half as long, I would have loved it; it was more comfortable and easier to fall asleep, and I had an aisle seat. About 8 or so hours in, I started to get the feeling that the flight would never end; all I wanted was to walk out, stretch my legs, and breathe in the Seoul air. Finally being able to do so another 6 hours later felt great.

After those two flights, I already feel like an experienced traveler, and my mind focuses solely on Seoul. I am glad that my first airplane encounter and first time abroad are with this Plus 3 group, and now that I have conquered the air, I am ready to take on Seoul!