Annette

I am pretty tempted by these British Airways February airfares but we only have 5 days free over President's Day for London or Paris. Seems pretty rushed. Does anybody do this or is it in reality too exhausting with the jetlag?

Danna

Annette,

Do It! Who cares about jet lag? it's hard on the way to Europe, but then you are there! It's easier to be home in your own bed sleeping on your return. GO! Have Fun!

Beth Anderson

Hi,
I have done that a few times, but I am on the East Coast. It wasn't a problem, but then again - I have three less time zones than you do...

I would say go for it.

Like Warren Zevon says "I'll sleep when I'm dead"

Beth

elvira

Have done the BritAir nonstop from Phoenix to London for a long weekend, and it's a lot of fun; be sure to sleep on the plane, you'll land mid-afternoon. By the time you clear the airport and get to your hotel, it'll be late afternoon. Take a walk near the hotel, get something to eat, and get to bed about 9pm. If you can take a mild sleep medication like Tylenol-PM, do. A sleep tisane (chamomile comes to mind) will also help.
Make a list of the things you'd like to visit, then check opening days and times, and use the time wisely (example: museums are open during the day, but the Eiffel Tower and St Paul's are open in the evening). Don't hunt for the recommended restaurants; eat when and where you're hungry, so you're not wasting time. Buy a subway pass, or a carnet of tickets (you can buy these in machines so you don't have to stand in lines). You can buy Tower of London tickets in subway stations; you can buy the Paris museum pass in subway stations or at the d'Orsay's shop (separate from the museum entrance).
Make sure you have alternate things to visit, should lines be too long, or a site be unexpectedly closed. Have a good map of the city, including the subway routes, and familarize yourself with them. Try to group your sightseeing visits so you aren't zigzagging across the city - a time-waster when you can't afford it. Don't beat yourself up if you don't get to everything on the itinerary - if you miss Westminster Abbey because you happen upon an art gallery, you're enjoying your time in the city, and that's the important thing.
Have a great time wherever you decide to visit - either city in the winter is a whole 'nother smoke.

gloria

Annette, Annette, Annette! You must go of course! Any opportunity, no matter how slight, to see the glorious sights of Europe, must be taken. But, then, you probably know this and just need a little affirmation. It is all I can do to not pick up the phone and dial Iceland Air to get the 2/for 1 special even though I am leaving for Austria in 42 days, 7 hours, 31 minutes and 20 seconds.
IMHO, I would go to Paris, however.
I think that city offers more romance,
there is nothing like a walk along the
Seine...coffee in the cafes...crusty bread...red wine...
Well, gotta go, Iceland air reservations just answered!
Bon Voyage!
Gloria

Maira

ABSOLUTELY!!!!

Judy

YES,Indeed...We will be going from Val. Day, but for 6 days....To paraphrase Beth, you can sleep later,,,,IMHO, Judy

Art

Hi, as long as it does not financially impact your next trip go for it and have a great trip.