One of my favourite places. I see the same things over and over and it never gets old.
Park Plaza Westminster
Our central London hotel is found on the lively South Bank
Our central London hotel, conveniently situated on the South Bank of the River Thames, features contemporary design throughout its 1,019 rooms and suites. Take advantage of being in the best area to stay in London by exploring the nearby British Film Institute or the Imperial War Museum, alongside other famous attractions such as Westminster Abbey, The London Dungeon and SEA LIFE London Aquarium. After a day of exploring unwind with a massage at Mandara Spa and a dip in our 15-metre swimming pool or enjoy views of Big Ben and the London Eye from the hotel’s Executive Lounge. If you’d like to venture out to other parts of the city, the hotel is near to Waterloo station and Westminster underground.
Park Plaza Westminster Website
My Shell colleagues will know this place. I used to stay here when in the London office and it’s such a great room and fantastic central location that I stay here during my travels as well.
The Queen’s Gallery
The Queen’s Gallery is the main public art gallery of Buckingham Palace. The exhibition was Japan: Courts and Culture.
The Royal Mews
The Royal Mews is an equestrian stable and also displays the carriages of The Royal Family including the Gold State Coach.
Buckingham Palace
Built in 1703, Buckingham Palace was the home of Queen Elizabeth II. Surrounded by a fabulous garden, this inside tour is very interesting (no pictures allowed). The Changing of the Guard takes place at 11:00 am.
Hyde Park & Kensington Palace
Hyde Park is the largest Royal Park in London and is between Buckingham Palace and Kensington Palace. Built in 1605, Kensington Palace is the home of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (now The Prince and Princess of Wales). It was closed when we went by.
Tower of London & Superbloom
Dating from 1078, the Tower of London has been the backdrop of many historical events ~ built by William the Conqueror, the Princes in the Tower were murdered, Henry VIII had Anne Boleyn beheaded and Queen Mary I had Lady Jane Grey beheaded. The Crown Jewels are housed here.
Superbloom ~ to mark the Jubilee Year of Queen Elizabeth II, the moat in the Tower of London has been filled with flowers. There was a slide and I laughed like a crazy person sliding down. The flowers were beautiful!
Tower Bridge
Built in 1886 and a landmark of London, Tower Bridge is a combined bascule and suspension bridge.
Phantom of the Opera
My happy place and a must-do if I am in London ~ I think I have seen this musical in this theatre 7 or 8 times now. I’ve lost count. It premiered in 1986 at Her Majesty’s Theatre and is based on the book by Gaston Leroux. My favourite song is “The Music of the Night” and I always wish that Christine would choose the Phantom.
Harrods
The Harrods name is synonymous with excellence; expect an exemplary level of care, outstanding personal service and a truly unique sense of magic.
Shoes! Of course I hit the Louboutin store and the little plastic card sighed with pleasure.
Apparently, the London store will redo the soles of your shoes with the rubber version when ALL of the red lacquer has worn off. The saleslady said it’s about a 3 month wait.
I love my boots! Especially that I can wear them outside in the Canadian weather and not wear away the soles.
The Harrods Tea Rooms
“Harrods has been delighting guests with afternoon tea since 1896; every little detail, from the provenance of our tea to the weight of our china, has been meticulously perfected to ensure the ultimate experience”
Head Chef, JAN HERDA
Divine and Sinful!
Old Friends
We met up with my friend and Shell colleague, Jon and had supper and drinks! Here’s a picture of the London office! Always the best view from there.
Harley Davidson
The oldest Harley store in Europe!
Out and About in London
When we were walking away from Buckingham Palace, there were a number of gentlemen in suits and with ear pieces walking as well. Scoping the place out, but no idea who they were. I took a picture of one of them.
Happy Travels
Jackie is “Mom” to one amazing son, an IT professional, and an obsessed traveller. She spends her time reading, golfing at Ladies League, and implementing software projects. Jackie has travelled to 7 continents and 90 countries and is always planning the next destination and adventure!