Back across the Pond

We had a number of firsts today on our return to Europe. For starters, we are travelling with only one large checked suitcase. This is because of our plan to take trains. Then, we took a day transAtlantic flight on the Air Canada Dreamliner - one the best flights ever. Following that, we took the Heathrow Express train to Paddington Station - only 15 minutes. Then we experienced our first ripoff taxi ride - a couple hundred metres for around $17. Given the late hour of our arrival and our total disorientation at Paddington Station, we just sucked it up.

Our hotel is basic but nicely located, a stone's throw from Hyde Park. By the time we got our bags up to the room and went to search for some sustenance, the pubs were closing and we were left with only a fish and chips joint, which seemed appropriate enough and the food was good. Tomorrow we are off to see the Queen - not actually, but we are taking a tour of the Palace sans Queen.