I have posted my response to MHWA Mental Health Challenge and other items to this journal. |
August 21-27, 2016 "Augusst Backpacking across Europe/Hostels: August 14-20" Aug 21st Hamburg "Backpacking Europe: Day 21" We're taking it easy today, I've chosen some museums, it's up to you what appeals. Or if you would rather get some exercise there's a bike tour. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187331-d1027790-Reviews-Miniatur_... https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187331-d519871-Reviews-Warehouse_... https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187331-d8511870-Reviews-Hamburg_A... dinner is at 7:00pm this evening at Restaurant Hala Lebanese, Mediterranean, Vegetarian, Middle Eastern, Gluten Free https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187331-d3929905-Reviews-Restauran... Now for the more adventurous of you I've arranged for a evening in Hamburg's famous red light district. I've been told it equals Amsterdam's, you'll have to tell me at the end of our trip since we will be hitting both. The street is lined with restaurants, night clubs, discotheques and bars. There are also strip clubs, sex shops, brothels, a sex museum and similar businesses. https://www.thrillist.com/travel/nation/de-wallen-amsterdam-patpong-thailand-pas... https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reeperbahn If the red light district doesn't appeal to you, here's another chance to return to the game clubs we went to last night. > August 22nd Amsterdam "Backpacking Europe: Day 22" Our train is a 2 hour ride but since I turned you loose in the red light district I booked us on a later ride today. We leave at 9 am. We're booked at the Hotel Sebastians Set on Amsterdam’s Canal Belt, this chic, townhouse hotel is a 9-minute walk from a tram stop, 1 km from the Red Light District and 3.5 km from the Van Gogh Museum. Featuring colorful or dramatic decor, the plush rooms range from cozy to airy, and offer free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and tea and coffee making facilities. Upgraded rooms are available: some add soaking tubs, patios and/or courtyard, canal or garden views. Extra beds and cribs are available upon request. Buffet-style breakfast is complimentary and a trendy bar, which has mood lighting, serves lunches and snacks. Bike rentals are available. Address: Keizersgracht 15, 1015 CC Amsterdam, Netherlands http://www.iamsterdam.com/en/visiting/what-to-do https://www.viator.com/tours/Amsterdam/Skip-the-Line-Van-Gogh-Museum-and-Amsterd... We're doing an evening canal tour so we can enjoy this http://www.iamsterdam.com/en/visiting/about-amsterdam/unesco-sites/canal-ring Before we do some clubbing Amsterdam style http://www.iamsterdam.com/en/visiting/whats-on/clubbing-nightlife-amsterdam/danc... Aug. 23rd 3.5 hour train ride to Paris "Backpacking Europe: Day 23" We're staying at Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris, I've been told this hotel is superb. I really twisted some arms to score us this one. http://www.fourseasons.com/paris/landing_3/?source=taparisblhotel We're beginning our 4 day-- stay in Paris with Louvre Museum. https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductDetail?product=3731LOUVRE&d=188757&... Take a small group walking tour of the Louvre Museum in Paris and jump the queue by booking ahead. This skip the line tour helps you explore the collection of paintings, sculpture, and architecture with an expert local guide. Numbers are limited to a maximum of 25 people on this small group walking tour, ensuring you'll receive personalized attention from your guide. And by booking ahead, you won't waste any time waiting in line! This tour was specifically designed to highlight the most famous works of the Louvre Museum. Entering the Louvre through the original Medieval structure from the 12th century, join your guide on a journey from one breathtaking gallery to the next as you travel through time visiting works from 450 BCE through to the 1800s. You have some down time if you want before the show this evening... take in a spa or enjoy the pool. This evening we are in for a huge treat. We've got VIP tickets for the Moulin Rouge experience with exclusive seating on a private balcony Receive skip-the-line access into the Moulin Rouge, sip on a tasting of Champagne before your 4-course French dinner, accompanied by wine.Watch the show from a private balcony with only 24 VIP seats. This evening they made an exception for our party of 30, so enjoy unobstructed views of the fabulous Moulin Rouge costumes, dancing and sets. Experience the ultimate night out in Paris with this Viator Exclusive! Macaron bag or chocolate box included https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductDetail?product=5022MOULINVIP&d=1892... Aug. 24th Paris "Backpacking Europe: Day 24" Okay, sleepyheads rise and shine after breakfast at the hotel. Yes, I know the chef is divine here but we're off for a bike tour today. Together with your guide, you'll walk to the RER train station to make the 30-minute trip by train to Versailles. Once in Versailles, you will pick up your bike at at an office just 5 minutes from the Palace of Versailles. The first of many highlights on this active day out is a visit to Versailles' village market to buy baguettes, cheese, ham, wine and whatever else you desire for your delicious picnic lunch in Versailles' gardens. These picnic provisions are purchased at your own expense. The next highlight today is a bike ride through the gardens behind Versailles palace. You'll leave foot visitors behind on your tour of the palace by bicycle, as visitors on foot can visit only a small fraction of the palace gardens. Versailles' gardens and forests are crisscrossed by a network of fantastic trails and tree-lined paths, so bring your camera for picture-perfect views in every direction. Arriving at the far end of the Grand Canal, you'll settle down for a picnic in the exact spot where Louis XIV, XV and XVI ate in order to marvel at their palace. Relax on the grass in peace where only your cycling group will be able to easily reach this end of the Grand Canal. After lunch, pedal back towards the palace itself for an unforgettable view into the lives of the French monarchy before their removal from power by the Revolution in 1789. You'll visit the Hall of Mirrors (site of the treaty ending World War I), the King's State Apartments and the amazing King's Chapel (audio guide available). After your visit to Versailles you'll return to Paris via RER train. https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductDetail?product=3588VERSA&d=188681&a... We're doing the Eiffel Tower this evening, what better way to see the city of lights than by night, don't you agree. Meet a few streets away from the Eiffel Tower and avoid waiting in a queue that often takes at least two hours during the summer months! A pre-booked, skip-the-line ticket grants priority access to the Eiffel Tower elevator, so you'll go straight up to the second level after learning about the building's fascinating history. Hear the story of the man behind the Tower, Gustave Eiffel, and learn about the wonders behind this architectural and engineering feat as you view it up close. Hear the details of the World’s Fair of 1889, the year the tower was built. The first level offers a great cinematic theater where you can see exclusive video of the tower’s storied 120-plus-year history. It also features one of the original spiral staircases that Gustave himself used daily to reach his office on the top level. Eiffel Tower 2nd Level On the second level, your guide will allow ample time to take in the best views that Paris has to offer. With two tiers on the second level, there is plenty of space to hear your tour guide explain the countless stunts and anecdotes from the tower’s past. You’ll be entertained with stories about crazy exploits (like planes flying underneath the tower) and the tower’s role in everything from world wars to Hollywood movies. Eiffel Tower 1st Level and the Eiffel Tower Summit (3rd Level) Upon the conclusion of the tour, your time on the Eiffel Tower doesn’t have to end; the price includes tickets to the first level and the summit of the tower too. At the summit, purchase a glass of Champagne to enjoy while you stare out over the City of Light. The skip-the-line access you receive for the first two levels does not include the 3rd level; everyone must wait for one elevator, but the line doesn't usually last longer than 30 minutes – a short time to wait to stand at the top of the Eiffel Tower! This tour provides skip-the-line priority, but is subject to all procedures and security requirements of the Eiffel Tower. https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductDetail?product=3588EIFFELTOWER&d=18... for my energetic crew there's more game clubs https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g187147-Activities-c56-t208-Paris_Ile_de... https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187147-d5039754-Reviews-HintHunt_... https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187147-d8843110-Reviews-One_Hour_... I forgot to ask did you enjoy Hamburg or Amsterdam's red light district better, I have to let my fellow guides know the consensus. Aug 25th Paris "Backpacking Europe: Day 25" Rise and shine Peeps, we're off to a castle today! Discover one of France’s top attractions in style and make memories to last a lifetime on this 4-hour Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte helicopter tour from Paris including Champagne reception. Fly over Paris and take in fine views over the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral. Enjoy a Champagne reception on arrival at the castle, admire a 360° view around the estate from the dome which is 25 meters high, then explore the grand suites, hallways and gardens at your leisure. Afterward, hop into your limousine and return to your Paris hotel. Upgrade to a round-trip helicopter tour and take to the skies as the sun sets. Highlights Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte helicopter tour from Paris Admire the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral and the Palace of Versailles from the air on a 35-minute flight Land on the grounds of Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, one of France's must-see castles Enjoy a Champagne and macaron reception Explore the house and gardens at your leisure (audio guide and golf cart rental included) Travel back to your Paris hotel by luxury limousine, or upgrade to enjoy a return helicopter ride What You Can Expect Use your audio guide to discover more about Vaux-le-Vicomte Your helicopter tour departs from Héliport d'Issy-Les-Moulineaux in southwest Paris in the morning. Aboard a state-of-the-art helicopter, take to the skies over Paris on a 35-minute flight, admiring aerial views of the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral and the nearby Palace of Versailles before heading to the Château. Touch down at Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte in Maincy, about 37 miles (60 km) southeast of Paris. Soak up views of the beautiful 17th-century château and gardens, and step inside to enjoy a welcome reception. Enjoy the sumptuous surroundings as you sip Champagne and savor macarons. This light, tasty treat — comprised of two flavored meringue biscuits with a ganache, buttercream or jam filling — is one of the most popular pastries in France.Grab your audio guide for an informative self-guided tour of the château, filled with original furnishings, lavish gilded walls, impressive stone statues and tapestries. One of the most beautiful, stately and significant French castles, Vaux-le-Vicomte was the inspiration behind Versailles and is a testament to the architectural prowess of Nicolas Fouquet, Superintendent of Finances of notorious King Louis XIV. Climb to the top of the dome and admire a 360° view around the estate from the dome which is 25 meters high.Wander the beautifully manicured gardens at your leisure, or hop in a golf cart and ride around the grounds in style! Perhaps visit the château’s restaurant to enjoy more snacks or refreshments (own expense). At the end of your visit, hop in a luxury limousine and relax on the drive to your Paris hotel, or upgrade to enjoy a round-trip helicopter flight. Re-board the helicopter, lift off and soar back to Paris at golden hour. Have your camera ready for these views! Land at Héliport d'Issy-Les-Moulineaux to conclude your tour. Read more about Helicopter Tour to Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte from Paris Including Champagne Reception - Paris | Viator at: https://www.viator.com/tours/Paris/Helicopter-Tour-to-Chateau-de-Vaux-le-Vicomte... Hope you enjoyed the champagne because this evening we're going to see the darker side of Paris. Challenge your romantic illusions of gay Paris on a terrifying 2-hour tour of the city’s most sinister spots. Delve into the eerie mysteries of the City of Light, strolling the serpentine streets in search of spectres and spooks; stray from the beaten path with a masterful story teller, discovering unfamiliar facts about the captivating capital as you venture to sites of reputed haunting. Gain fascinating insight into the horrible history of the city when you visit mystery-shrouded sites like the Place de la Vert Gallant and the Palais du Justice. Highlights Night walking tour of Paris' ghosts, mysteries and legends Discover the dark and violent history that lurks beneath the city's sparkling facade Hear fascinating ghost stories See the Hotel de Concierge, where Marie Antoinette was once imprisoned See the old Place du Greve, where many were tortured and killed. Sites visited on the walking tour:Place de la Vert GallantSt Germain de AuxerroisLa Fontaine de la Croix du TrahoirRue de la FerronnerieSquare of the InnocentsThe Rat Trap Shop (as seen in the movie Ratatouille)Tour St JacquesLa Fontaine du PalmierThe River SeineThe ConciergerieIle de la CitéPalais du JusticeHotel DieuHotel de ville Read more about Ghosts, Mysteries and Legends Night Walking Tour of Paris - Paris | Viator at: https://www.viator.com/tours/Paris/Ghosts-Mysteries-and-Legends-Night-Walking-To... Dig deep into history with a 2-hour underground Paris Catacombs tour. Learn why the bones of more than six million people were deposited under the city in a complex maze of tunnels that you definitely need a guide to navigate. Highlights 1.5-hour tour of the Paris Catacombs Take a narrated walking tour of the fascinating underground labyrinth of tombs Hear the story behind the Catacombs from your informative guide Read more about Skip The Line Paris Catacombs Tour - Paris | Viator at: https://www.viator.com/tours/Paris/Skip-The-Line-Paris-Catacombs-Tour/d479-6159C... Sweet dreams my lovelys! Aug 26th Paris and your tour guides 60th Birthday! I've always been fascinated with the movie scene so today we're going to have an insiders view. "Backpacking Europe: Day 26" Explore Montmartre, the Parisian neighborhood adored by filmmakers, movie stars, locals and tourists alike, on this 2.5-hour walking tour. Journey through Woody Allen’s ‘Midnight in Paris’ with a stroll around the Sacré Coeur Basilica; visit the real Moulin Rouge, where Christian and Satine fell in love in the movie of the same name; and see Café des 2 Moulins, which featured in ‘Amelie.' Numbers are limited to just eight people on this small-group tour. Highlights Paris movie sites walking tour Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the artsy Montmartre district Visit major filming locations featured in Moulin Rouge, Amelie and Midnight in Paris Stop at a local café and enjoy a drink while on your movie tour Small-group tour limited to eight people ensures a more intimate experience Why Our Insiders Chose This Tour Imagine you are the star of your very own film on this movie-themed walking tour around the Montmartre district. Find out why Paris is so popular with film-m akers and while we can't guarantee you a leading role, you'll definitely come away full of knowledge to impress people back home with! What You Can Expect See famous film locations on your movie sites walking tour Meet at the Blanche metro station in northern Paris for your morning or evening tour of the district of Montmartre. Following your expert guide on a walk up the hill, you’ll be greeted by an impressive view of towering Sacré Coeur Basilica at the summit. This quaint, historic neighborhood is a haven for artists, making it the perfect setting for films. Learn about the history of cinema and discover why so many directors have chosen this pocket of Paris as their backdrop. In fact, one year, Paris was the setting for more than 900 shoots across film, TV, documentaries and ad campaigns, making it one of the most popular choices for film locations!As you stroll down cobblestone streets past centuries-old churches, charming shops and creperies, and compact apartment buildings adorned with flower pots and rod-iron balconies, you may recognize this setting from scenes of a popular modern-day film, Midnight in Paris, staring Owen Wilson and Rachel McAdams. Director Woody Allen used these streets as a backdrop for this 1920s period piece, and featured iconic Sacré Coeur Basilica in some of the scenes. Discover Café des 2 Moulins, the bar and restaurant where many scenes from the movie Amelie, starring French actress Audrey Tautou, were shot. You’ll feel as though you’re a part of the movie as you see this place in real life! Remember Nicole Kidman in Moulin Rouge? The real Moulin Rouge cabaret is tucked away in Montmartre! You’ll recognize this must-see attraction by the red windmill on the roof. Listen as your guide describes scenes from the movie and explains how Moulin Rouge became the spiritual birthplace of the modern form of the can-can dance.Sometime during your tour, pop into a local café for a soft drink, cup of coffee or cup of hot chocolate to enjoy as part of your Montmartre film experience. Your Paris movie sites tour ends back at the Blanche metro station. Read more about Paris Movie Tour of Montmartre - Paris | Viator at: https://www.viator.com/tours/Paris/Paris-Movie-Tour-of-Montmartre/d479-3234CINEM... I've arranged for us all to star in a movie...we're going to be in a horror flick so be prepared to take advantage of the moment and prank us. Celebrate your last night in Paris, any way you want, we don't leave until 9 am. August 27th London 2 hours and 19 minutes on the train. "Backpacking Europe: Day 27" We're ending our trip at The Nadler Soho. http://www.thenadler.com/soho.shtml We're beginning our day at Buckingham Palace.Delve into London’s rich royal heritage during a 2.5-hour visit to Buckingham Palace to see the changing of the Guard Ceremony. Marvel at the traditional Changing of the Guard performance, which involves meticulously dressed soldiers marching to the rhythm of military drums. Then, enjoy an exclusive experience as you enter the opulent State Rooms of Buckingham Palace for an independent audio tour. See lavish chambers during a tour only available for two months of the year, and gain fascinating insight into the history of the British monarchy. Book now to avoid missing this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Highlights 2.5-hour Buckingham Palace tour including the Changing of the Guard ceremony, led by a tour host Wander through St James’s Park and watch the famous Changing of the Guard Explore the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace, an experience only open to the public for two months of the year Plug into an audio guide and learn about Queen Elizabeth II and the British Royal Family Read more about Buckingham Palace Tour Including Changing of the Guard Ceremony - London| Viator at: https://www.viator.com/tours/London/Buckingham-Palace-Tour-Including-Changing-of... Get acquainted with two iconic London monuments on a 4-hour tour of Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament. While gaining fascinating insight into the royal history of Great Britain, you’ll absorb the Gothic grandeur of Westminster Abbey’s interior and head inside the Houses of Parliament — home to the renowned Big Ben — to see highlights like the House of Commons and Lord’s Chamber. From your guide, you’ll learn about the United Kingdom’s political system and major historic events while touring the prominent landmarks. Highlights 4-hour tour of Westminster Abbey and Houses of Parliament in London Explore Westminster Abbey, where all but two of Britain’s monarchs have been crowned since 1066 See the Coronation Chair, 900-year-old College Garden, Poets’ Corner and more Snap photos of the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben Enjoy a 1.5-hour tour of the Houses and Parliament and learn about British politics from the guide What You Can Expect Visit Westminster Abbey Make your own way to Parliament Square, where a bevy of London’s most famous sights, including Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, await. Then, meet your guide outside Westminster Abbey and head inside to begin your tour.Walk along the same aisle that Prince William and Kate Middleton took their first steps on as a married couple, and get up close to the Coronation Chair, where the British Royals have been crowned for hundreds of years. Stroll through the cloisters and see College Garden, thought to be the oldest garden in England, along with the graves of Dickens, Hardy and other famous writers.After touring the abbey, make the short stroll to the Houses of Parliament, which sits resplendent along the banks of the Thames River. Marvel at the golden spires and statues that stud the building’s grandiose facade, and learn about the much-snapped Elizabeth Tower, which houses the Big Ben bell. Then, continue inside and enjoy a roughly 1.5-hour tour. Take in highlights such as Westminster Hall, Queen’s Robing Room, the Royal Gallery and Lords Chamber, and gain a fascinating insight into Britain’s modern-day politics.Your tour then concludes outside the Houses of Parliament, leaving you free to continue sightseeing independently or make your own way back to your accommodation. Read more about Inside the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey Tour in London - London | Viator at: https://www.viator.com/tours/London/Inside-the-Houses-of-Parliament-and-Westmins... Dinner is at Bailey's Fish and Chips, and then we're off to take in a show. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g186338-d2719908-Reviews-Baileys_F... https://www.viator.com/tours/London/Kinky-Boots-Theatre-Show-in-London/d737-3517... Be dazzled by the exuberant 'Kinky Boots' musical at the Adelphi Theatre in London. Based on real-life events, this high-energy, uplifting show tells the story of Northampton shoe factory owner Charlie Price, who with his inspirational sidekick, cabaret performer Lola; transforms the fortunes of his struggling business by catering for drag queens who want sparkling, thigh-high stiletto boots. Featuring a fun and feisty Grammy-and Tony-winning score by pop icon Cyndi Lauper, together with sensational performances and staging, this uproarious show is a glorious, glamorous got-to-see while you're in London. Highlights Ticket to the 'Kinky Boots' musical at the Adelphi Theatre in London Chart the story of shoemaker Charlie Price who transforms his business by making kinky thigh-high boots for drag queens Meet sassy cabaret performer Lola, who works with Charlie to rock the runways of Milan Enjoy feisty songs and music by Grammy- and Tony-winning Cyndi Lauper Be swept up in the hilarious plot and sparkling choreography by two-time Tony-winning Jerry Mitchell. August 28th "Backpacking Europe Day 28" We're off for a day long adventure which I am positive will appeal to Princess Megan Snow Rose since we're going to see Jane Austin's home. Discover the delights of rural England on this full-day trip to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, Lacock and Bath from London. Traveling by air-conditioned coach with an expert guide, visit Windsor Castle, the world’s oldest occupied castle, still used by Queen Elizabeth II. After seeing St George’s Chapel and the State Apartments, continue to Stonehenge, Europe’s best-known prehistoric monument. Admire the ancient stone edifice, enjoy a traditional pub lunch in medieval Lacock village, and lastly, spend time in the spa city of Bath, famous for its honey-colored Georgian architecture and Roman baths. Highlights: Full-day tour from London to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Bath Explore beautiful St George's Chapel and the State Apartments at Windsor Castle. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Stonehenge with a guide. Sit down to enjoy lunch at The George Inn, a traditional English pub in the village of Lacock. Enjoy a coach tour of the beautiful Georgian city of Bath, home of the famous author Jane Austen. Read more about Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, Bath, Including Pub Lunch in Medieval Village of Lacock - London | Viator at: https://www.viator.com/tours/London/Stonehenge-Windsor-Castle-Bath-and-Medieval-... Dinner is at a comedy club this evening. It came highly recommended. Immerse yourself in the sidesplitting comedy of Faulty Towers during a 2-hour Faulty Towers Dining Experience in London’s West End. Enter the richly decorated dining room of the Amba Hotel in Charing Cross and prepare to laugh yourself silly during an evening of improvised comedy from beloved characters of British sitcom, Fawlty Towers. Feast upon a 3-course lunch or dinner of English specialties as you receive shocking service and see hilarious theatrical scenes. Highlights of Faulty Towers The Dining Experience: Be transported back to the 1970s with this hilarious and acclaimed 2-hour homage to British sitcom Fawlty Towers. Meet Basil, Sybil and the lovable waiter Manuel, and enjoy a fully interactive comedy experience. Enjoy a 1970s-inspired 3-course meal, served by the characters. Choose between a lunch or dinner show. Read more about Faulty Towers The Dining Experience - London | Viator at: https://www.viator.com/tours/London/Faulty-Towers-The-Dining-Experience/d737-657... August 29th Prompt- London, Day 3. "Backpacking Europe: Day 29" You're booked on one of the hop on, hop off buses today. Enjoy whatever appeals to you. Explore the best of historic London– seat of the British Royalty– by bus on a lively tour of the city’s key attractions and landmarks. Hop aboard the Big Bus at Hyde Park, Piccadilly Circus or any of the other stops on the route, and grab a comfortable seat in the enclosed lower deck or on the open-air upper deck for the best views. Enjoy the flexibility of choosing your own itinerary and pace with the structure of strategically placed stops and informative onboard commentary from a professional guide. When purchasing your ticket, choose the Red Route or Night Tour – both 2.5-hour full-route journeys – or the 3.5 hour Blue Route tour. With your 1-day, 24 hour or 48 hour pass, hop on and off the double-decker bus at any of the route’s many locations (tour stops listed below), or stay onboard for a relaxing ride through buzzing London. As you ride, learn about London’s history and interesting anecdotes about locals sites such as Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, St Paul ’s Cathedral, Marble Arch and more. Hop off to explore the eclectic shops in Covent Garden, snap photos of the lavish Buckingham Palace or experience the bustle of Oxford Circle. Between stops, stroll through gorgeous Hyde Park and view Nelson's Column in Trafalgar Square. Your hop-on hop-off pass includes a Reward Voucher booklet for discounts around town, many daily activities (listed in the itinerary) and a 30-minute cruise along the River Thames! To end your London City adventure, disembark at any stop along the route, any time you like. Tour Stops ▼ Read more about Big Bus London Hop-On Hop-Off Tour - London | Viator at: https://www.viator.com/tours/London/Big-Bus-London-Hop-On-Hop-Off-Tour/d737-6506... Party into the early hours on this fun pub crawl of central London and experience the city’s legendary nightlife even on a tight budget. With free skip-the-line entry to five bars and nightclubs, five free shots and exclusive drink discounts all night long, it’s excellent value and a great choice for individual travelers or couples wanting to meet like-minded party-goers. There’s even a professional photographer on hand to capture the night’s most memorable moments. Highlights: Excellent value for money; All entrance fees included; Informative, friendly and professional guide; Perfect introduction for first-time visitors. Skip the line! What You Can Expect: The night kicks off at Piccadilly Institute– a bit of a schizophrenic giant of a club with its multiple themed rooms and discounted drinks. Your guide will be waiting for you right at the door and once you’ve gotten your wristband and first free shot token you will be taken inside to meet the other crawlers. The night is all about meeting new people and partying until the early hours so let your guide introduce you to everyone right from the get-go. Keep your wristband easy to see and new friends will be made quickly. Next up is Bar Soho on Old Compton Street, which is right in the middle of the diverse and celebrated area of Soho. The short walk there takes you along Shaftesbury Avenue and right past all the huge West End theatres. Then it’s off to the bars and clubs of Leicester Square, which is without a doubt the epicentre of London nightlife! At each bar and club you get a free shot as well as discounted drinks such as bottles of beer or single vodka mixers for around £3! The majority of bars and clubs in London charge heavy admission prices but with us you don’t have to worry about any of that just as long as you are with us. Come, save money, make friends, have a few drinks and have a brilliant time in the centre of London on our #1 rated London Bar Crawl! Read more a bout Pub Crawl of Central London - London | Viator at: https://www.viator.com/tours/London/Pub-Crawl-of-Central-London/d737-9075P1?pub=... Aug 30th Your last day in London...you have a red eye flight this evening home. "Backpacking Europe: Day 30" With 2016 marking 400 years since Shakespeare’s death, there’s no time like the present to revisit all of the theater favorites or follow in the footsteps of the iconic playwright. From standing on Juliet’s balcony in Verona to exploring Hamlet’s castle in Denmark, there are plenty of ways to celebrate Shakespeare all around the world, but the No. 1 destination is, of course, his home country of England. The country is celebrating the legacy of its national poet with a host of special events, plays, film screenings and exhibitions, and even if you missed the anniversary itself (April 23), there are plenty of ways to add a Shakespearean twist to your visit. Visit famous Stratford-upon-Avon landmarks and walk in William Shakespeare’s footsteps with this ‘All Five Houses’ tour ticket. Step back in time to the 16th century, when one of England’s most famous scribes was alive. Visit Shakespeare’s family homes and gardens at your leisure, where a broad range of exciting activities bring the bard’s story to life. Listen as the guides shed light on his life and times, watch live performances, test your Shakespearean knowledge, meet farm animals at Mary Arden's Farm and enjoy a fun-filled day for all the family. Highlights: Family-friendly Romantic experience, perfect for couples; Step back in time on a history tour; Perfect for all ages and skill levels. Read more about Shakespeare's Birthplace: 'All 5 Houses' Ticket - Stratford-upon-Avon | Viator at: https://www.viator.com/tours/Stratford-upon-Avon/Shakespeares-Birthplace-All-5-H... Dinner is a walking experience you'll appreciate before the long plane ride for some of us. Feast your senses on the cosmopolitan culinary scene of East London during a 3.5-hour walking tour of the vibrant London district. Accompanied by an expert gastronome guide, explore the eclectic neighborhoods of Spitalfields and Shoreditch to discover spots favored by local food-lovers. Appease your appetite with the English classic of a bacon sandwich at St John Bread and Wine restaurant; delight in the complex flavors of Beigel Bake's delectable salt beef bagels; and savor creamy artisan cheese during a tasting session. Stroll the renowned Brick Lane to sample spicy curries and try the traditional British dish, fish and chips, at Poppies restaurant. Highlights: 3.5-hour food tour of London’s East End; Explore Spitalfields with a friendly guide and discover where the locals eat; Head inside quirky cafes and top-rated joints endorsed by Time Out London; Visit St John Bread and Wine for a bacon sandwich and Beigel Bake for a salt-beef bagel; Enjoy fish and chips at Poppies s erved traditionally in newspaper; and sample curries on Brick Lane. Learn about the East End's multicultural cuisine and history. Read more about London East End Food Tour - London | Viator at: https://www.viator.com/tours/London/London-East-End-Food-Tour/d737-6093FOOD?pub=... Your flights are all arranged and transportation is covered. Exchange addresses, cell phone numbers and get all those hugs taken care of because the next month-long adventure with Lyn's Tour Guide Service is next August. If you have enjoyed your traveling experience, please feel free to tip your travel service "30-Day Bloggers Group" . It is always a pleasure to serve you. -Lyn's a Witchy Woman and Fivesixer . |