Blogs from Bayswater, Greater London, England, United Kingdom, Europe - page 2

BILLY ELLIOT - BILLY SHAKESPEARE DOUBLE HEADER Today had a bit of a thespian theme, but before that we had a bit of fun taking the Tube from Paddington to the Central City in rush (crush) hour. It probably not on most people’s top 10 things to do in London and if you have personal space issues it’s definitely something to avoid at all costs – it was however an interesting experience to say the least! We were packed in like sardines yet at each stop people seemed to find room for extras, and somehow if people needed to get off at a stop they found a way to get to the exit doors. Not something I would like to do every day and we’ll probably avoid peak time travel in the future. In general the ... read more

Today was deliberately left with no specific things to do as we weren't sure what if any effect jet lag would play. In the end though it was a really productive day. We explored Hyde Park, stumbled on Buckingham Palace just when the changing of the guard was about to take place, and found ourselves a 'local' for a pint. Not a bad days work at all. HYDE PARK Is a massive green sanctuary smack in the middle of one of the worlds busiest cities. Its a real mixture - perfectly manicured in some areas (Princess Diana tribute fountain as an example), a bit rustic and wild in other areas (long grass and random trees), a lake, well used walking/running and biking paths galore. I guess you could argue most cities/towns have something similar - but ... read more

We are new to travelling and new to blogging. Tomorrow we leave for our 3 month Big OE (about 30 years later than most!). Briefly here's our plan: Tomorrow its Wellington - Auckland (weather permitting) then midnight flight Singapore Airlines direct to London (just a 3 hour stopover in Singapore). Hate flying so best just to get there! 10 Days London staying at Darlington Hyde Park - Highlights: Billy Elliot West End, guided tour of Buckingham Palce, lunch with cousin Leah. Have London Pass with travel-will be interesting to see how that goes. 22 Day Britain and Ireland Discovery Coach Tour with Insight. 14 Days self travel UK. 7 Days Skipton (Park Hill B&B) traditional market town in Yorkshire complete with castle and canal. Highlights: Man U v Arsenal at Old Trafford -HUGE! Ripon Races (thoroughbred), ... read more

We made it to London, we have settled currently at the Byron Hotel that is a street away from Hyde Park. It is currently 8:16 PM, but we do not have Internet at the hotel, so this will be posted at a later date. Miles and I have enjoyed a “Pub” lunch, included with a pint of beer and a stroll through Hyde Park. Mom you would of been impressed with the Fish ’n’ Chips, really hit the spot. The walk was shortened once we realized that Hyde park could take an hour (on the small side) round trip to figure out exactly where and which way we need to go. The park feels like a less developed Central Park, only they have a merry-go-round, and therefore automatically wins the awesome award. We made it back ... read more

The last 36 hours have been a whirlwind of emotions. I was seen off by my 2 besties - Frank and Yuni along with there other halves. And what a send off it was, we were eating Pork Rolls by the side of the street in Mascot. And we even have Frank squatting whilst eating, showing off his viet heritage! After my last meal in Sydney Yuni and Rob dropped me off at the airport where I had to say Goodbye to my bestie for 7 weeks - until we meet again in Singapore! I must say, it was alot harder than I thought. We always go away and its never really affected me like this. Maybe cos Europe was supposed to be 'our' thing to do together...who knows, but I must say that was one ... read more