London: Views From a Broad

Filed in archive Flying high on May 27, 2008

So I just returned from London. A bit tired, so I will the write up of my experiences for tomorrow. However, a few observations about travel in general. Sometimes, it's not about the places you see, the food you eat or the hotels where you stay. Quite often, it's the unique, often humorous, sometimes heartwarming experiences that happen en route to our destination. Here are just two examples:

1. Prior to my United flight, the gate agent made the typical pre-boarding announcement. However, he informed us that a very special group of gentleman would be given pre-boarding privileges. They were European soldiers who had fought on the side of the Allies during World War II. They walked to front of the boarding line, accompanied by the sound of a thunderous applause from the other passengers.

2. Upon arrival in London, I took the Heathrow Express to Paddington Station, where I was to change for the Underground. Unfortunately, I was in desperate need of the loo, which was located deep down in the basement. After making the equivalent of Dante's descent into the Underworld, I discovered that there was a 20 pence fee to get into the bathroom. I must have looked rather mournful as I stood there with a ten pound note in my hand. This poor middle aged and middle class American broad can't use the loo.

Suddenly, a lovely young Brit gal who could be described as having what we would once call a hippy appearance looks at me and says, "A bloody 20 pence to use the toilets!" She goes through her wallet and hands me 20 pence. Times are surely changing when the hippies give the baby boomers their spare change!

This is the stuff that memories are made of!