Unsure when to book 2nd appointment

I had my first appointment at 7 weeks. I am currently 10 weeks. My gynae told me that I could book an appointment at 12 weeks just for a check-up, or I could so the screening (which we opted not to do) but she would be happy to only see me again at 18 weeks. I am out of town during my 12th week and wondered if it's normal to only see your gynae for the 2nd time at 18 weeks. It feels so far away!