It was just this time last Tuesday when I was sitting here minding my own business. Nikki posted a thread advising of British Airways 3 day sale to London. Even though I hadn't given any thought of a trip to London, it was such a great deal($298 pp rt non-stop Chicago-London) I purchased tickets for March. My wife was really surprised.
Then, thanks to starpsinners (Judy) and many, many others, I made reservations at the Morgan Hotel. Rate is 95pds. inc. VAT and full breakfast which sounds like a great deal. I had thought of trying for a five star on Priceline but this place comes so highly recommended I figured I'd better jump on it. Only minor regret is that American Airlines matched the BA fares. We've flown AA international flights which were quite comfortable. We've heard BA packs 'em in like sardines.
Otherwise, thanks so much. I love this forum.
JoeG

Actually, I called AA about that match and the agent I spoke with knew nothing about it and quoted me much higher.

Hi Joe:

Good for you. I missed it, wanted to book for September/October but was too late.

Can't advise you on the Morgan Hotel, but I suspect it won't be like LeCalendal! But I know you'll enjoy London. We are returning to London next month for a short visit. Will try to see those things we have missed on previous trips and return to those places we particularly liked. Looking forward to the Christmas atmosphere as well. Have a wonderful time!

Same thing for me (almost). When I heard that AA was matching the fares, I held out for one day and then couldn't stand not taking advantage of the deal. Booked a February flight MSN-ORD-LHR for $327. Yeehaw!

(even better for me, my brother and his wife live in London so no hotel expense)

Nikki is also to blame for my trip to London in March. We had no intention whatsoever of going to Europe then (for heaven's sake, we've got our son's wedding to pay for this year) but $298 Phoenix to London! How could we not go? BA should send Nikki some pretty healthy commission checks.

I feel so badly for you people.

Bad bad Nikki!

Have great trips!

To Giovanna,
Always good to hear from you. Thanks for your words of encouragement.
To BevK,
I feel the same as you - two sons in college (out-of-state), business year not very good. There's always a reason not to. Sometimes you just have to take the plunge.
I really like the spirit of everyone on this board. Very inspirational
JoeG

Yes, it is best to blame us for what you did
Now if only I can manage to move AND take a trip to London, I will be more than happy to blame you JoeG!

I was able to take advantage of AA's fare match. Got 2 tickets to London in May 2004 from Houston for $460 each. Unheard of for that time of year from Houston!

I just love when serendipity happens!
Joe G..will this be your first visit to London? Even it this won't be your first visit, isn't planning the trip half the adventure?
I hope you'll find the Morgan as I have described it in previous posts. It is by no means a 5 star hotel, but when I walk in the door of "my flat" there on Bloomsbury Street, I feel almost like I am home. Over the years, I have stayed in that same flat with my husband and son, with my sister, with a dear friend ,and on my own. ( And yes, I have experienced fancier/pricier /upscale UK hotels, but the Morgan is the one I return to. )

starspinners,
This will be my first trip to London. My wife was there many years ago ('70's). The Morgan sounds like just the type of place that we prefer. Plus the location looks great. Yes, you're right. Planning for the trip for the next 4 months is half the fun. Thanks again for your recommendation.
JoeG

I just read this thread to my husband, who probably wonders about my addiction to the obsessive travelers' bulletin board. He says he sure hopes you people have a good time.

Whooowho For yah Joe!
Actually I have flown BA and AA to London and I much prefer BA. My regular mileage is on AA for trips to Hawaii. You just can't beat the service and food on BA. That was my experience anyway.

Hey Sarah,
Good to hear some positive comments about BA.
JoeG

hi JoeG
I'm doing a return visit to London
in January, for many of the reasons you mentioned. I too like BA, and I too will be staying at the Morgan (that's for the first time)


I have a long file on London; if you'd like to see it, email me at
[email protected]

enjoy your trip

elaine,
Thanks so much for emailing your London file - very comprehensive!
JoeG

JoeG

I would go online and look up shows. For me I would want a drama at the national. Sooooo much cheaper and inmo higher quality than broadway. Look up Westend productions and fringe too if you are a theatre buff.

Sarah,
I'm really psyched about the shows. Hey what's the deal with "Jerry Springer - the Opera"?
JoeG

do a search. I did not see it as a listing on the westend though.

You might want to look up the different theatre houses. You have the barbecan (sp), National, Haymarket. All have extraordinary histories.HAVE FUN!!!There are of course many many others.

Theatre is much more widely respected in England than it is here. You can find extraordinary productions off the westend. I remember A-long time ago seeing night-mother at the Hempstead theater. Long before it was ever a movie, remember sissy spacek?

Do a search!

I judge airlines mostly on the seating, because I'm tall and grumpy. American's 777 offer 35" pitch and BA has only 31"! I find the seats quite unpleasant. They do have "coach plus" which is quite nice, but probably unavailable on these fares. The service and amenities are equal or superior to AA.