19th April 2010

As we returned from the airport, we decided to hop on the afternoon shuttle bus to Tai Mai Market. This proved unexpectedly fortunate. As we sat on the bus, another British couple climbed aboard and struck up a conversation. They informed us, somewhat gleefully, that they’d rebooked their return flight for the 4th of May.

We made a half-hearted attempt to browse the market, but with our brains churning through logistics and the grim reality of unplanned exile setting in, present-buying was abandoned. Back at the Ibis hotel, rumour was rife. No two guests had the same story, and trying to get a straight answer was like herding cats blindfolded.

Later, in the lounge, we swapped war stories with fellow marooned travellers. Some had taken Virgin at their word and hadn’t even tried to rebook. We later learned that others managed to snag seats for flights on the 8th May, proving that perseverance (and perhaps mild pestering) pays off.

We ended the evening with a pleasant meal and beer in Pudong and, being the sensible citizens we are, kept all receipts. Back at the Ibis, Chinese TV helped us drift off until 10.30 pm when a crane arrived to lift signage onto the hotel roof. A short, noisy interlude, thankfully over within 20 minutes.

20th April

Breakfast at the Ibis may not come with all the bells and whistles of the Crowne Plaza, but it’s included, and we didn’t hold back. Afterwards, we wandered across to the Crowne Plaza and enjoyed a quiet sit-down with some British newspapers in their lounge.

While chatting to one of the (presumably wealthier) guests, we learned that Virgin were offering compensation, $100 per person per day, but only if you stayed in a 3-star hotel. Crowne Plaza, being a fancy 5-star affair, was off the list. Some, having heard this, had the brilliant idea of moving back to the Crowne Plaza. Presumably, they missed the fine print. We stayed put.

The Ibis might lack valet parking and a pillow menu, but it’s comfortable, WiFi is free, and, crucially, if no compensation materialises, we can afford the bill without selling a kidney.

Sadly, our planned visit to the zoo was rained off. Perhaps the ash cloud and the weather had conspired to keep us indoors. No matter, we’ve got sixteen days, and we’ve entered full improvisation mode.