The first leg on British Airways was on time and mostly uneventful. Since I'll only be here overnight, I decided to rent a locker at Heathrow for my checked bag, so that I can avoid lugging it onto the train, into the hotel and back again.
One of the things I like best about London is the great public transit system. Even the topographically challenged can find their way to London without difficulty using the train and the tube. It's also a great way to stay out of the rain! (I take the Underground Piccadilly Line rather than the Express. It's cheaper and the ride isn't much longer.)
My lovely hotel was just a short walk from Gloucester Road Tube Station, which made getting from the airport quick and easy, without need of intermediate ground transportation. The room was a little more expensive than I planned. You absolutely MUST book rooms in London as soon as possible. Prices double, even triple the closer you get to your arrival date. To avoid big charges for cancellation or change of plans, CHOOSE ONLY hotels that have no such penalties.
South Kensington was my home for my study abroad semester, so recalling the lay of the land and finding my way to a few of my favorite spots was a snap. Pret A Manger is always closed on weekends in New York and there are none in Philly. I have to come to London for my favorite sandwich shop! What's up with that?
Although we had hoped for a "meeting of the whole" and more time together in London, Katie from Cleveland and Stephanie from Houston arrived on Tuesday. They were already soaking in the local culture and had taken in the aforementioned Chelsea match! We met up for dinner at All One Bar. Katie had arranged for the two of us to see The Mousetrap in the West End, while Stephaine took in the musuems and did a little shopping. Did I mention that theater is one of my favorite things? I've seen thirteen productions in London. FYI - you haven't seen Les Mis, until you've seen it here!