LONDON

11th. July, 2009
Having lived in London years ago we both enjoy revisiting this vibrant city. This afternoon we wander through St. James Park, past Buckingham Palace , through Green Park and via Hyde park, through some of Mayfair to Shepherd´s market. Being Friday evening this area is buzzing with people spilling out of the attractive pubs. We follow this with dinner near Picadily at Langans.

Buckingham Palace

12th. July, 2009

Setting off this morning we see part of the changing of the guard as they march down from Buckingham Palace. The young men look so impressive in their red jackets and black busbies.

Changing guard

We have always been fascinated by John Harrison´s development of the chronometer so we have an excursion down the River Thames to Greenwich, past many famous landmarks eg. The Tower Bridge and Lord Nelson´s house where he lived with Lady Hamilton.

The Tower Bridge

Greenwich is a very attractive town. We find lunch in the market and enjoy a picnic on the nearby lawns, before wandering up to the observatory. It is marvelous to see the chronometer presented in its different intricate stages of engineering. It solved the long standing and extremely costly problem of not being able to determine longitude. It is interesting too to see the "Time Ball" and the Greenwich line of the prime-meridian.

The "Time Ball" and Greenwich line of the prime-meridian

Tonight we go to the theatre to see the musical "the Jersey Boys" (the Four Seasons), and it is fantastic. Apparently it is coming to Melbourne soon.
It is fun to have a late supper in this theatre area.

13th. July, 2009

Walking up New Bond Street past the top label shops and galleries, and then via Oxford St; to Marylebone Lane is full of contrasts. As we pass into Marylebone High Street we come across many small cafes and pubs all just starting to open.

Marylebone High St.


Canal leading up to Little Venice

Strolling through Regent´s Park and along the nearby canal to Little Venice is very pleasant. Lunch at a small restaurant over the canal is perfect.

Little Venice

This afternoon we head off to the National Library to the Henry V111 exhibition. It claims " to tell the story of his reign from his own perspective". It certainly is well presented.
We decide to venture back to Shepherd´s market for dinner tonight for a Lebonese meal of delicious mezza.

14th. July 2009
Nice

Today is one of excitement as we are off to meet up with Scott, Jeanette, Augusta and Lily.