It was 2008, we were transiting to go to Fiji to get married. There was a lot of building work, a very hot day and total confusion. Our bags were supposed to be checked through, but when we landed we were told that all baggage must be claimed and re-checked. Access through transit gates was closed so we had to cross the border with the legendary grumpy US border security. When we finally managed to get rid of our bags we made the mistake of leaving the terminal where the air was more putrid than inside and we were immediately pounced on by chuggers. Retreating back inside we got a drink from a fast food concession where it became clear that all the staff had fallen out with each other and we got the drink pushed at us, and growled at. Then back through security and border control where utter disinterest seemed to be the order of the day, and finally an hour queuing in a corridor in a building site before getting on the plane.
Then there was the flight; our Fiji Airways 747 had developed a fault, so they had substituted it with a United aircraft and crew... a crew who by their demeanor made it clear that they didn't relish a night flight across the Pacific. The evening meal was thrown at us then quickly removed so they could turn the lights out - customer service had clearly already gone to bed. Then there was breakfast, by far the worst meal I have had put in front of me in my entire 55 years, and worth a post all on its own.
Finally the aircraft stopped, the doors opened and we spilled out into paradise, palm trees, birds singing, everybody smiling 'Bula' even the border guards greeted you like an old friend and the previous 24 hours was immediately forgotten.
I'm sure my next visit to America will be better.