Day one in London and day one of our bittersweet countdown toward home saw the RTW Adventure Family exploring the Tower of London. While in London, home is a cozy two bedroom apartment in Europa House which is a bargain compared to hotel rooms in this city which is often referenced as the most expensive in the world. Just down the street from our front door is the Maida Vale stop on the Bakerloo line of London's Underground.
While we have been on many ordinary and extraordinary modes of transportation while on this journey, the underground is the most efficient and simple most comprehensive public transportation system in the world. Roman and Mabret quickly mastered its many lines and frequent interchanges.
Pretty soon we were downright comfortable.
Maybe too comfortable...
Upon arriving at the Tower of London, we we met with a warm welcome from the Beefeaters. While technically there to guard the prisoners, and the Crown Jewels within the Tower and to generally protect the premises, since there are no prisoners and the worldwide tourists don't seem too dangerous, they serve as tour guides as well.
The Tower is impressive.
Within the Tower walls sit several museums. Of course, the boys were drawn to the weapons. Boys will be boys.
Here they examine several swords and daggers.
Day two brought the London version of the Fat Tire Bike Tour. As it was such a hit in Spain, we decided to follow the age old advice...if it ain't broken don't fix it. Jamie from Fat tire delivered with a magnificent 4 hour tour of London's sights and sounds.
The Houses of Parliament are situated along the banks of the Thames River. Home to the House of Lords and the House of Commons, at one point in history the decisions made here directly affected one quarter of the world's population. Attached to the houses of parliament, Big Ben actually refers to the 13 ton hour-bell within the clock tower rather than the tower itself. However, as is our tourist right, we will continue to make the same mistake as millions 'round the world.
Buckingham Palace has been the official London residence of the Royal Family since Queen Victoria. This 661 room palace remained the dwelling of the monarchy throughout World War II, even after being hit seven times by German air strikes.
Westminster Abbey was founded, according to legend, in the year 616. It is home to the crypts of some of the most famous British citizens, including a number of kings and queens, Charles Dickens and Sir Issac Newton. Additionally, since 1066, all British monarchs who have had a coronation have been crowned in the Abbey.
Trafalgar Square is home to the National Gallery and Nelson's Column. Lord Nelson was the enigmatic commander the British fleet at the Battle of Trafalgar and is one of England's most legendary military leaders. Today the square is considered one of the most central points in London and hosts events, public gatherings, ceremonies and festivals. The square also boasts a new sculpture that was unveiled in 2013 and was a hit with Mabret and Roman.
The National Gallery.
The giant blue cockerel.
The tour also took us through London's peaceful and memorable Royal Parks including Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park and St. James's Park. The RTW Adventure Family endorses Fat Tire Bike Tours. To our friends traveling domestically, they are now in D.C. so check them out next time you are there.
Day three found us returning to Trafalgar Square to visit the National Gallery. The museum is totally free which is almost as astounding as the works of art found inside. Mom put together a hunt that involved reading a map and following clues to locate great pieces of art. Roman and Mabret nailed all 10 and didn't even realize that they were touring a boring old museum. Great job, Mom.
Trafalgar Square is home to street performers of many varieties. Some with unique talent.
Others who sorta make it up as they go along and recruit volunteers...including Dad.
And finally, some who are like road kill. Including this fella who is able to pull his body through an unstrung tennis racket by popping his shoulders out of their sockets several times on both sides.
Our final day in London and on this adventure was memorable for just being together and reminiscing both audibly and silently about the journey of the last four months.
However, we did check off and obligatory box on the London trip. The Harry Potter photo opportunity which required a one hour line caused by people posing countless times as though they were in a Vogue shoot. All in good fun.
We also checked out a cool restaurant named Inamo. The place uses an interactive ordering system which is projected onto the table and operated by touching the items. The system also allows you to set the "table cloth" and do other cool stuff. The cuisine is pan Asian and was yummy.
Love this pic.
We had such a full and fun 4 days that more pics remain that must be posted. Here goes...
We really don't know what to say about this coming to an end. The flight home tomorrow leaves time for reflection. More to come but for now and for one last time while abroad...
PEACE OUT.
