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# First Stop!!
- URL: https://mattstravelblog.co.uk/first-stop/
- Published: 2023-07-27T16:35:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-07-15T19:03:30.000Z
- Author: Matthew Alfred Jones
- Tags: Abu Dhabi Airport, Japan, Manchester Airport, Narita Airport

So today I woke up in the morning with a strange feeling, today is the day I travel!!!!

![Person holding a custom "Countdown to Japan" whiteboard featuring a torii gate and Japanese-themed graphics, showing just three hours remaining before departure.](https://mattstravelblog.co.uk/content/images/2026/07/image-513.png)

A traveller marks the final hours before departure with a personalised countdown board, capturing the excitement, anticipation and careful planning that comes with embarking on a dream journey to Japan.

I have never been a fan of take-off and landing when it comes to airplanes, but the rest of the time was a brilliant and wonderful time. I ordered a Priority Access pass which has helped me out with avoid long queues and only cost £35\. I’d say it was well worth is as I could check in via business desk, be one of the first to board and when I get to Tokyo tomorrow, my baggage should be one of the first off, the plane.

![Etihad Airways priority boarding sign at an airport gate, indicating boarding access for Business Class passengers and eligible Platinum and Gold loyalty members.](https://mattstravelblog.co.uk/content/images/2026/07/image-515.png)

Priority boarding with Etihad Airways marks the beginning of a long-awaited journey, offering a smooth airport experience before departure and signalling that the adventure ahead is finally about to begin.

![Person wearing glasses, a light blue shirt and wireless earbuds takes a selfie indoors under blue lighting, with geometric wall designs and a fire exit sign visible behind.](https://mattstravelblog.co.uk/content/images/2026/07/image-516.png)

A traveller pauses for a light-hearted selfie during a long journey, capturing a memorable moment between destinations and reflecting the mix of anticipation, adventure and personal experiences that make travel so rewarding.

I Sit here writing this now before my next flight from Abu Dhabi airport, it is 20:36 and the next leg is around 10 hours. I just hope it is as smooth as the last leg was and I get to Narita International airport at around 13:10 tomorrow. This is a just a short one for now. Should put one up again tomorrow evening, well evening in Tokyo that is.