And here we are once again…

Back in the UK, but this time, with two of the grandkids. This part of the trip is to give them a taste of international travel, and we thought it better to start with a country that speaks a little English. Once here we realized that the US and England are two countries separated by a common language.

Flights were messy but we all made it to London as planned. Collette and the kids flew on an almost free ticket on Aer Lingus, while I flew on an expensive Delta ticket. Balanced out. Once in my favorite airport, Heathrow, we found each other and began the task of trying to get out of the airport and to our apartment, or flat as the locals say.

Jet lag already!

Not for this guy!!!

I arrived at Terminal 5 while the others arrived at Terminal 2. I checked before traveling and the Heathrow Express travels between the terminal free of charge. So here is how the free ride works. All you need to do is scan your Oyster card to access the train, then get off at Terminal 2/3 and walk to the appropriate terminal. What the hell is an Oyster card and why is it in London? Can’t answer the second part but an Oyster card is a pre-paid visitor’s card used on public transportation. Pay $10 for the card and then load it with whatever amount you feel you will need to pay to travel around London.

Waiting on the tube schedule

The train ride from Terminal 5 to Terminal 2 takes about 15-20 minutes, glad I didn’t have to walk that! But wait, once in Terminal 2-3 you have to walk to Terminal 2. That’s right, in true Heathrow fashion the train actually goes past Terminal 2 to a purgatory point called Terminal 2-3. All you do now is walk back to Terminal 2, about 15 – 20 minutes. Got to love British engineering.

Anyway, we all met up and made our way to the tube (back at the purgatory point 15-20 minutes walk) and found our train to Victoria Station. Finally, a seat to relax in for the next 50- 60 minutes. Arrived at Victoria Station, got a black taxi to the apartment, and collapsed! Everyone was ready to hit the sack but not yet, had to stay awake at least until 9pm. So, while we’re waiting to officially close our eyes, let’s go out for an Italian dinner.

1st tube ride

Master bedroom

Kitchen

Living room & London’s bedroom

End of Day 1 and all still alive and well.