Its almost embarrassing that Gene and I have never been to London before. Every time we considered a trip across the pond, we got distracted by something or somewhere else—something farther away: Australia, New Zealand, Korea. Even super-low January fares couldn't surmount our winter lethargy and entice us to whip our credit card out. But finally, we went London, the first stop on our three-stop trip to Europe. We learned that London is not just a big, expensive New York. No “been there, done that” feeling we've had in other big cities. Link to full report: www.moonfun.net/London_Files/

Sorry:
www.moonfun.net/London_Files/London_Journal.htm

Delightfully funny report, Kate!

<< As we approach the exit, a door swings open at us. Both me and the costumed employee jump out of our skins. Somehow, his crotch walks into my hand and we are both embarrassed. >>

I nearly choked on my morning coffee at that one!

Thanks for sharing good experiences and info that my sisters and I can use on our upcoming trip to London. I look forward to the Barcelona portion.

Nice report. Glad you enjoyed yourselves.

Restaurant reservations for Christmas: I think these must have been for office parties in the weeks running up to Christmas, rather than Christmas Day meals. Good business for the restaurants, bur booking a festive meal for 20 or 30 isn't something you can risk leaving to the last minute.

I hate to disappoint you, but the Tube most certainly isn't rat-free.

It's very common to see the little brown critters scampering round the tracks. There's a huge amount of tasty junk chucked down and they thrive on it.

They're generally quite small though, and blend into the background. But once you've noticed a tail or two twitching, you've got your eye in, and it's amazing how often you see another one.

eeew! Yep - if you are the least bit squeamish you never want to look down between the tube tracks while waiting for a train

Great report!

Very witty report. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about your adventures.
(What an experience on the plane!)

Thanks for the report, Mortell. Sounds like you guys had fun.

I agree with you about North Sea - I LOVED their fish, and I'm not a huge fan of fish n chips.

My daughter spent a lot of time at Waxy O'Connor's with her friends in March. My girls have also enjoyed the Waxy's in Glasgow. I've never made it there, however, and probably wouldn't find it too appealing.

Do you have any info on the costume jewelry shop? That would be right up our alley.

We headed toward the costume jewelry shop, Butler & Wilson (20 S Molton St) but never made it there. However, when my husband found the record stores on Berwick Street, I was pleased that for every record store there was at least one costume jewelry store. Talk about a way to keep everyone in the family happy!

Great trip report - but what is anti-climb paint?

Lee Ann

Mortell - Always interesting to read London trip reports. What a start yours had on the plane.

Lee Ann - anti-climb paint is a thick non-drying coating that makes the surface virtually unclimable and marks your hands and clothing.

Sandy

Thanks for the explanation, Sandy.

Lee Ann

Great trip report! Was laughing through the entire thing. I particularly had to laugh at the ANTI CLIMB PAINT as I specifically remember seeing it and thinking I MUST look that up when I got home. I had completely forgotten about it until I saw your pictures!

Loved your report. What a cute couple you are.