Bringing the bike

Those of you who know me understand there was no way I was going without my bike. This was a new challenge. However, I think it will work out. I bought a used hard bike case for $100. I should have no problem selling it for the same price when I get back to the states. Aer Lingus only charges $50 for each piece of luggage and this is just one piece. Taking apart the bike is actually pretty easy. At first I was thinking I would need to remove the headset but that isn't necessary. A couple of bolts hold the handle bars to the headset. I also bought baggage insurance through American Express (no, you don't need to have an Amex card): $12 per person for max. of $2,000 insurance. Won't cover the total cost of the bike if it is stolen but it's getting a little old anyway. Now I'm dreaming of riding out to Versailles or Barbizon via the Seine.

Shipping to Europe has become insanely expensive!

When i was a young lad I thought nothing of shipping my ski boots home from Austria. The price was very reasonable for the "arrive in a month or so" plan. I just checked out the price to ship a 2' cubed (60 cm) box to France for the same low expectations delivery: $200. Yipes, $400 round trip!

This is crazy. What happened?!?!?

It seems like the best way to ship overseas is to bring it on the flight. Aer Lingus charges $50 per bag and allows up to 9 bags.