As we left Bruges, we could feel London calling as we hopped a train to rejoin our friends there. We’d decided on the fast “chunnel” train from Brussels, and got there early for extra margin. Lucky, because we couldn’t find it! After fruitlessly asking several train people and others in the massive terminal, mixed with speed walking up and down scanning all directional signs, I got a lucky break.
6621 See It?
Outside the arrival terminal, scanning to the right far beyond the crowded attached indoor mall I got curious about a barely visible up-right arrow next to a blue and white train sign. Putting the camera on 600mm max zoom and enlarging that on the screen I could just read the lettering on that little square black sign: “Eurostar Channel Tunnel.” We started running. We were the last people to board that train.
Among the many things I like about train rides is seeing the industrial “underbelly” along the way, especially at switching yards and terminals.
175532 Off Track
This train moves at a clip, and I liked how an old leather suitcase looks in this setting.
184717 Old & Fast
Soon we were rumbling into London amid commuters immersed in various media.
094321 Silence In A Loud Tube
We checked into a “Hub” hotel, where the focus is bed. This upper floor room had a modest rooftop view. Premier Inn’s chain had the most comfortable beds of anyplace we stayed on this trip, and the rates were relatively low – especially at their Hub properties. The “price” we paid, is there not being much else in the room (note the “sleeper car” nook and drawer under the bed for getting luggage out from under foot).
091710 Hub. Bed. Period.
We woke early after a good sleep to grab breakfast and a double decker to meet up with our friends.
092957 New Fleet
Having only been in London once many years ago, I was impressed by the new bus fleet’s comfort and safety. After a fun look from that top-front seat at parts of London new to us, we reached the V&A. Victoria & Albert Museum, that is. This is one of the few fabulous London museums and attractions we planned to visit, that we actually did.
135439 V&A
I’m sparing you my fav pix from the bus ride and inside the museum, other than this one in the inner courtyard.
102942 Apple Of Eye
After an interesting and wonderful time with our friends from Santa Barbara and Germany, we headed out atop another double decker to explore more of London on our own. Like our other transportation, the bus ride to our next destination complemented the delights of arriving there.
6634 Journey & Destination
There are some really grand parks in the world, and London has a good share. We savored this stroll among the mossed knobby legs of stately trees, relaxing in the calm sheltered light.
6660 Here & There
In this moment we could almost forget our destination and join those resting quietly on the grass and benches. But at the end of this walkway is Buckingham Palace.
6685 Buckingham Palace
The guards are trained and equipped to take on any challenge, yet kindly smile for every tourist who trains a camera their way. The one on the left smiled first, the second is about to wave with a “Don’t mess with this” grin, and on the right I see “Undecided.”
6678 Gate Guards
Behind us across the square, people were enjoying the sculptures (and benches).
6680 Palace Courtyard Sculptures
At the left side of that pic, I zoomed in to capture this delightful moment.
6684 Timeless Youth
Soon we were back on the move, this time walking toward another palace. On the way we paused to take in the Italian Gardens.
161553 Hyde Park Paradise
This peaceful, re-creating people place is also heaven for ducks.
161822 Delighted Duck
Prince Albert’s landscape design provides an easy escape from bustling London.
161930 Flowerbed Barrier
Back on the path to Kensington Palace we got a call from Dave inviting us to join their foursome for Cream Tea he was generously providing at the Wolseley. Now hustling to get there we paused at this small park awaiting a bus. The man quietly reading in repose provided my eye a contrast with the dynamic sculpture he’s ignoring.
6703 Predator, Prey, Reader
John & Anne Wiley 
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