Mark's First Day in London - Planes, Trains, Automobiles, Walking.....

First of all you can see all the photo's at http://www.markframpton.com/marknew/London%20Day%201.htm

Well it's been a long trip so far, but I made it and safely typing away in the hotel room, trying to stay awake so I can sleep good and be ready to go Monday morning in the office.

Started  the first flight at 9:50 am Saturday morning from SLC to Atlanta. Thought I was going to have empty seats around me "Silly me" they don't have empty seat any more. Almost a four hour flight to Atlanta and then a two and half hour layover in ATL.

The plane finally took off from Atl at 6:00 pm, another full plane and an eight hour flight ahead. Pretty interested flight, watched two movies "Mr Poole is here"? and "One Vote or something? "Kevin Costner" I watched "Spy Games" on the laptop. I had to laugh at myself when I looked at the two dvd's I picked to take on this trip.
"Spy Games" Not bad, but the other was "Cast Away" I was thinking this was a pretty good movie, but laughed out loud when I thought about playing a DVD of a plane crashing over the ocean? Not real funny. A crazy thing about that same time, we hit turbulence and  I mean the plane was dropping and shaking and people were screaming, and drinks were all over some people that didn't have there meals picked up. (like the lady's behind me, had red wine all over them. Pretty funny, and pretty scary!
Talk about meals, we had a choice of Pasta or Chicken. I went with the Chicken. Kind of a Teriyaki, with corn and some black beans, salad with 1000 island dressing, a roll, crackers, Swiss cheese spread, and a pretty tasty brownie.

Well I made the flight to London. It was dark the whole way. Made it through customs, was able to call Jill and let her know that I arrived. Got my first passport stamp.
I Picked up my luggage and had to go over to the South terminal and take the train "Gatwick Express" from Gatwick airport to Victoria Station, London. It's an express, non stop "30 minute ride" through the outside of London. (Pretty interesting seeing what others live in).
 
Next was a taxi ride from Victoria Station to the Chamberlain hotel, where I am staying. It was about 15-20 Minute ride and almost 17 pounds for the fare.

I saw a lot of historic buildings, buses and stores. It was quit the ride and I was glad to make it to the hotel. I did see the Double Deck buses, Black Taxis, London eye, Big Ben, Parliament, and more.

 
Once I made it to the hotel Chamberlain, I was able to check my bags, as the room wasn't ready for me. I headed out for a walk to see the office. (Lloyds building, about 5 min walk from hotel)

Within a block from the Swiss Re, "Gerkin" building.

I then kept on going and made my way to the Tower of London. I took the tour with the audio headphones. It was very interesting and look forward to Jill doing the tour. They have the real Jewlery "Crowns, Swords, Etc."  that they still use. Amazing Diamonds and gems.  The torture rooms and defense of the tower was very interesting.

  You can also see the London Bride, which is right next to the Tower. This is all right on the Thames  river and a lot going on around this area.

I made it back to the hotel and about four hours of walking around.
I was able to get some lunch and check into the room.
Pretty authentic lunch to get the trip started. Lamb, with Potatoes, Yorkshire pudding and gravy, side of carrots, parsnips and green beans. (all fresh) and a side of mint sauce (I didn't care for the mint). I couldn't do it without having a pint of London's Finest. Very good.
Here's the from of the hotel. The room is ok, but I will be glad to get home. Two twin beds pushed together, nothing on the TV but BBS news and Soccer "English Football" is on the only two sports channels.
Well it's about time to get some sleep and be ready for Monday Morning. I need to try and contact Jill on Skype, if you want to talk, look for markframptonut and give me a call. It's Free.
Cheers for now!