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Britains Largest Family, The Radfords, Face US Travel Disruption Due to ESTA Error
The Radford family, widely recognised as Britain’s largest family and known for their extensive household, encountered travel complications this week as they attempted to embark on a family vacation to the United States. Parents Sue, 48, and Noel Radford, 54, alongside their large family of 22 children, who rose to fame through the Channel 4 series ’22 Kids and Counting’, were scheduled to fly to America but faced unexpected difficulties at the airport.
Family Travel Plans Hit Snag at Departure
Beyond their television presence, the Radfords are also entrepreneurs with their Radford’s Pie Company. However, they are equally known for their frequent and well-documented family holidays to various destinations. Their latest planned excursion to the United States faced an immediate setback upon arrival at the airport, causing significant disruption to their travel plans.
Instagram Post Details Airport Setback
Millie Radford, 23, shared details of the travel mishap on the Radford Family’s Instagram account. In her post, Millie alerted followers to a crucial travel document oversight, writing: “Guys, let this serve as a reminder to meticulously verify your ESTA, as mine, Chester’s, and Ophelia’s had expired. Consequently, we were denied boarding on our flight to America today. Harley and Elodie were, fortunately, permitted to fly. We have thankfully re-applied, and the new ESTAs have been processed in time for tomorrow.”
She further added, highlighting the support she received: “My dad has remained with me to provide assistance, thank goodness, because we have had to journey for hours to an alternative airport from Gatwick.”
Understanding ESTA Requirements for US Travel
For those unfamiliar, an ESTA, or Electronic System for Travel Authorization, is a mandatory online system for nationals of certain countries to enter the United States without a visa. This travel authorisation typically remains valid for two years, allowing multiple entries into the US within that period.
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Navigating Travel Frustrations
Millie continued to document the unfolding stressful situation via her Instagram Story. One post featured her son Chester, aged three, playing with a toy on the floor. Accompanying the image, she expressed relief that her young son was unaware of the travel issues, stating: “So glad he doesn’t understand this disaster we are having,” punctuated with crying emojis to convey her frustration.
Sue Radford Continues Journey with Children
Amidst the travel complications, Sue Radford, the family matriarch, successfully boarded the flight with the children who had the necessary travel documentation. She later shared a photo online, cradling baby Elodie, aged two.
The caption accompanying the picture conveyed a reassuring message from young Elodie: “I’m fine, mummy. Don’t worry. I was such a good girl on the flight.”
Millie responded to the heartwarming post, commenting: “My little princess. Super nan,” expressing appreciation for her mother’s handling of the situation.