Forgive my ignorance--I've never flown to Europe before. I'm flying from Calgary to Houston (George Bush International), with a 4h layover, then flying Houston to London Heathrow. Both flights are on Continental. Do I have to go through customs in both Houston and London? Or just London?
Any other advice on flying to Europe would be appreciated . :-)
Just London as you are transit US.
Thank you Frank; that's what I thought.
One more: Once I'm getting off each flight, will it be obvious where I need to go, i.e. through customs or not? (either through announcements or airport signs)
Stacey,
You'll probably have to clear U.S. Customs in Calgary before you board your flight to Houston and of course go through security. That's the case if departing from Vancouver.
When you arrive in Houston, you may have to go through a brief check with Immigration (basically just show your Passport) and then probably go through security again (and take your shoes off again). If you're travelling with the same airline for the entire trip, your checked luggage should end up at LHR.
When you arrive in London / LHR, you'll have to collect your checked luggage and then go through Immigration. It's going to be a bit of an effort as you'll be tired and jet lagged, and since you haven't taken the trip before it will likely be a bit confusing. Follow the "herd" and you should be fine.
Once you're finished with the "formalities" you can take whichever method you prefer from LHR into London.
Any other advice on flying to Europe- try to enjoy the experience in "the flying Bus" as much as possible. Get up and move around a bit on a regular basis but when seated leave your seat belt on at all times (even loosely). The aircraft will likely have 3-3-3 seating, and I usually choose an outside (rather than window) seat as it's easier to get up to visit the WC or whatever. Some people can sleep during flights, but I've never been too successful with that (usually like to watch a movie or two and of course have a hot meal). Some travellers use a product called No Jet Lag to minimize jet lag, and I've tried it in the past and it does seem to help a bit.
The route you're taking is somewhat unusual and that will add considerably to your travel time (especially with a 4H layover in Houston). It's going to be a long and tiring travel day! My choice would have been Air Transat (or similar flight) direct from Edmonton to London Gatwick (8H:45M flight time).
Happy travels!
