From Paris to London via Eurostar

---

Watch prices for breakfast in Paris. We found a chain Brioche Doree pretty good.<span><span> Breakfast menu of coffee, bread/jam or pastry for 3.20 euros as opposed to 9 euros at hotel and 9+ euros in cafes.<span> Bought sandwiches and some fruit at street markets to take on train. Braved the trip to Gard du Nord by bus which I had researched. Saved about €25. Only hitch was that I couldn't get the handle on my large case to extend. Pulled it by strap, but couldn't piggyback 2nd case.
At the Gare du Nord, pandemonium at check in. As usual, poor communication and dearth of staff to ask for help. Lots of up and down, no carts, etc. Got through all the line-ups and found our coach and seats just in time.

Wonderful trip; fast, and smooth. 2 hr 15 minutes. Only 25 min in chunnel.
At London end I had worked out easy tube ride to our hotel, so saved a bundle. We had pre-purchased our London transit passes for the entire week so we started using them right away!
Our Hotel (Hotel Amsterdam) was 2 min walk from Earls Court. Funny L-shaped room, nice with full bathroom, kettle, tea, coffee etc., but is the most expensive hotel of our trip £140/night including breakfast. We settled in and made a cup of tea. Still had my tea from home! Had rest then went out to explore the area.



Decided to take a bus to Fleet St. What a wonderful trip. The number 11 took us on a scenic route all the way from Earls Court to St. Paul's Cathedral! Walked to Old Cheshire Cheese. Had pleasant dinner in dining room, then walked to Samuel Johnson's house. Bus back to Trafalgar Sq-- walked around. Took tube back. 1 change-easy and much faster than bus.

---