Calgarians Bhawana and Amogh Katyayan landed at the Calgary International Airport Sunday after a stressful and eventful journey home from vacation.
The couple were on their way home from the Maldives when the war in the Middle East broke out, leaving them stranded in Dubai.
They were stuck there for days as the United Arab Emirates was getting bombed, but managed to get out to Sri Lanka, and eventually flying through China to Japan — taking the long way home to Calgary.
“So happy we are back home, and we are not in fear of anything, so it’s a big relax,” said Bhawana.
The Katyayans said that being stuck in Dubai was a frightening experience that changed their outlook on life.
“A taxi driver who got killed by falling debris on his taxi, so it can come anytime anywhere, these war zones really change your perspective of life,” said Amogh.
They add this episode has made them even more appreciative of the safety of Calgary, and Canada.
“It’s peaceful, we should be thanks to God that we are living here,” said Bhawana.
The couple says one of the most difficult parts of it all was the uncertainty of what was going on, and whether they’d be able to make it out.
“But you hear all these and start panicking, and that creates more chaos on airports, people booking flights — 10,12,13 flights people book to get out, and which creates more jam in the system,” said Amogh. “So it was panic, it’s all over, I think we are happy.”
Anogh previously said he was disappointed they were unable to gather with family to celebrate the Hindu holiday of Holi.
However, they now say that after they get some rest – its at the top of their list.