Day 10 - 3/17 and Wrap Up

 On Monday March 17th, 2025 we departed from the Ibis Belfast City Hotel at around 7:30 am in the morning. We all gathered in the lobby tired from the long nine day trip that we had. As we all gathered with our coffees we headed out to our coach bus that would be driving us to the Dublin Airport. As the bus driver swiftly loads all of our bags we found ourselves getting cozy in our seats to prepare for the two hour drive from Belfast to Dublin. While some groups talked with each other about the many adventures and learning opportunities, others drifted off for a quick nap before our long flight back to philadelphia. 

Upon arrival at the airport we began to gather our belongings taking in the last few looks of Ireland before we went home. As we began to make our way inside, we began our check in process to include checking in our bags many which had gained weight since being on this trip. As we began to drop off luggage we headed off to security where just about everyone's bag was pulled for liquids as Ireland does not allow any liquids in bags unless they are in a clear plastic bag. After waiting for everyone to get through security we went through US Customs then off to the gate we went. 

We began boarding at around 12:30 pm, where all began to load onto the plane to start a long flight. While we were on the plane many of us were doing different things to pass the time to include playing games, watching movies, reading books and of course napping. During the flight we were given the option of three meals, a vegetarian meal or chicken penne, or bean chilli with a roll, apple custard, a cup of water and a condiment package of milk. 

Unfortunately the ride was not as smooth as most of us would have liked, with turbulence throughout the flight. This was most likely due to storms that had rolled through Eastern PA, the day before we landed. Speaking of landing, it was very rough which probably is an understatement. The high winds and the previously mentioned storms caused the plane to bounce off the runway, much to our surprise. Thankfully we arrived at the Philadelphia International Airport safely and on time. After a brief stop at the baggage claim to retrieve our luggage, we said our goodbyes and went our separate ways, some taking a van back to campus and others being picked up from the airport by friends or family, concluding our trip to Ireland.

- Alex and Brianna