The passing of Queen Elizabeth takes me back to my London visit in the year 2000. Feeling a bit stressed after not sleeping since departing Kansas City on the long Northwest Airlines flight across the Atlantic, I was filled with wonder as soon as I arrived at Gatwick Airport. Unknown to me, Gatwick Airport is way south
Boarding a train at Gatwick Airport, it takes about an hour to reach Victoria Station in the heart of London. At Victoria Station you can connect with other trains or the local bus lines. Riding a double-decker bus was quite an experience. Aboard the double-decker bus upper deck you enjoy a good view above the constant traffic
Reserved a room at the Cromwell Crown Hotel on Cromwell Road. I assumed that traffic would wind down late at night, but turned out that Cromwell Road is one of the main roads going to Heathrow Airport so traffic continued all night. Being so wound up after checking into the hotel that there was no way I would fall asleep. Went to wander around this new British world. Fearful of getting lost on my London visit, so stayed along Cromwell Road. Finally got some sleep and next morning went to do more exploring. Took a long stroll around Piccadilly and Buckingham Palace.
The large and beautifully landscaped parks around London are a joy to explore. Green Park, Hyde Park, The Marble Arch and more. So much history, so glad to explore on my London visit.
Amazing to see the emotional outburst from the British people to the queen’s passing. Queen Elisabeth has guided her people since the 1950s, although everyone knew it was coming it will take years to adjust. So much has happened both in the UK and the world since she became queen, and through it all she remained warm and cheerful. The queen’s soft and calming voice was a delight to listen to.