Off With Flying Colors

To think, this first entry from overseas almost didn’t happen.
After arriving at Newark International Airport a semi-comfortable two hours before departure, I learned shortly thereafter that my seat, along with my friend’s, was not reserved. At that moment I was not among the passengers slated to take off.
Had that happened, making it to the United States’ opening match Monday would have required some serious hustle.
After voicing my displeasure to the Continental representative, my friend and I eventually were granted seats less than a half hour before the flight’s scheduled departure. (It amazes me that airlines are actually legally entitled to overbook flights) Even after getting our seats, I agained questioned the rep because a couple was in a similar situation but still sans seats, although we'd later see them on the flight.
Once in the air – a difficult time for me because I truly hate flying, minus the destination part – I felt the need for a few cocktails before debating between my book, a movie or sleep.
About seven hours later – roughly 3 in the morning back in Connecticut – we landed in Frankfurt and the World Cup atmosphere was in full swing. Everywhere you lok there are signs featuring the 2006 logo or something soccer related, not to mention the presence of fans from at least 10 participating nations in the airport and train station combined.
After walking past a trio of Japanese fans in their national side’s blue jerseys, I offered to take a picture for two Mexico supporters in full attire on their way to see El Tri take on Iran in Nuremberg.
Before boarding a train for Duisburg – a short train ride from Gelsenkirchen, where the U.S. opens its Group E campain against the Czech Republic – I have a brief conversation with a Brazilian man.
After being in Germany roughly an hour, it is already clear how much of a global event the World Cup is. There is also a great sense of national pride within the host nation, as I constantly notice German flags waving outside houses and apartments during my train ride of nearly two hours.
Now, it’s time for a nap, so I can be functional tonight in order to mingle with the locals by watching the evening’s matches. As for tomorrow, my imagination probably won’t come close to the experience I am about to have.