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April 10th 2006 by Last Train to Transcentral
Well it's been a hectic week since we left work as we have had loads of stuff to get organised for the big trip. It culminated in a trip to London today to get our visas for India. We were tipped off about the queues so we set off early on the 6.20 am from Brighton.
The train trip was not what we expected. We were greeted by a stunning sunrise over a snow covered Sussex and Surrey. See the pictures below. We hadn't planned to see snow from a train until we at least cross the Urals but that's the English weather I suppose.
Onwards to India Place in London and we arrived for our visas and joined the queue. We were in good time. About 6 months too soon! We hadn't realised that the India tourist visa starts on the date of issue and only lasts for six months. As we arrive in India in October this wasn't going to be much use. Oh dear - set back number one and we haven't left the UK. Not to worry though...
At least we had seen the very impressive High Consulate of India building and its incredibly efficient staff - who manage to process 1500 visas per day - it's a lesson in organisation and all done with a smile. The beautiful paintings and artifacts from India that adorn the walls just serve to whet the appetite and we are looking forward to getting to India later in the year.
So there we were in London - the artistic capital of the world - with a whole day to kill. What other city can hold such cultural gems as Footloose The Musical! (Betty - I can hear you reaching for the credit card now to get tickets). And then of course there is the Apple Store - I had to mention this as it is gadget central for you Milk - you must get there and integrate with the other WiFi warriors - no one speaks they just connect in silence - it's a very strange place.
Well I won't go on, but we picked up loads of useful travel stuff and slipped back to Brighton safe and sound. We are now officially ready to go (- er nervous look from Catherine). Can't believe that this day next week we will be in St. Petersburg.
This is very exciting indeed!
Stay tuned.....
P
6 Comments - Add Public Comment or Send Private Message
April 10th 2006 - Wai: Hahaha....
"Onwards to India Place in London and we arrived for our visas and joined the queue. We were in good time. About 6 months too soon!"
This made me laugh so much, hehe...
April 10th 2006 - Mekanoid Ed:
Haroop!!
April 11th 2006 - Mustafa: Praise to your efficiency
yes all praise to your efficiency - the world is just not ready for it, it is their fault. In Germany you would have received a special badge of recognition for this efficiency. I miss my badges - Doyle took them all away from me when she caught wind of my plan to stow away with you. Screw her, I'll meet you on platform 2 at 11am. Urals here I come.
April 11th 2006 - Betty: Kick off your Sunday shoes
Sounds like a great day out in London, despite the visa episode - I love a story about a positive customer experience though!
I'm getting nervous about your holidays, but yay!
April 17th 2006 - Mekanoid Milk: Moonday
Today it's finally hit me that you're gone. Have a fantastic time wherever you wander! Miss you already. XXX
April 18th 2006 - Betty: привет?
Check out my Russian?! So eh where the hell are ye?
All Comments
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