Backdrop
On my way to USA, I had a splendid a week long Sojourn at Dubai with Tabish, Samiya and their children. Their affection and hospitality coupled with personal consideration for my selective choices of venues and commercial locales filled me with affection and grattitude. I had visited Dubai earlier on a number of occasions, however, this jaunt was special.
On my return journey to India, I was planing to stop by in countries which I had not touched so far namely, Spain and Portugal, and spend a few days in each of them. However, Faizi (Baqar, my son), counselled me, that rather than spending a few days in each of these countries, it would be more expedient to stay for a longer period in any one of them. I found his proposition rational and reasonable. I anticipated difficulty, to endure alone in an alien ambient using digital technology for logistics and entertainment ! Arshi (Jafar, my elder son) couselled me to pair up with my grandson Eshan (Faizi’s son), who was at home enjoying his college holidays. Although I had been in London a few years back for a short duration only, I decided to spend more time there,
Eshan agreed and so did Pooja his mother, we flew to Heathrow airport. from Philadelphia. We stayed there for six days. On coclusion of our trip Eshan returned to Philly and me to Hyderabad.
Most of my dear friends with me on Whatsapp, have the travelogue of the six days in London, with pictures and videos. For those who do not have and wish it, please join me on WhatsApp, where I can post it to them. My WhatsApp number is +918978000816.
In this Blog, my attempt is to highlight certain aspects relating to my sojourn in London, which may interest you and also arouse your perspectives and perceptions!
The Journey
Day 1 – Hyde Park
The historic 350 acre Hyde Park in Westminster, Greater London, is the largest of the Royal Parks and green spaces. There are a few areas in the Park which are inaccessible due to thick undergrowth, unlike the Central Park, in New York, where I could sit and contemplate undisturbed in any portion.
The nearby famous Dishoom resturant, highly recommended, had a long que, we waited for a half hour or before we were ushered into the bar where after another hour or so we were escorted to our table.
The Que outside.
The ambience inside was lively and the food indeed was good, Eshan enjoyed the mutton curry and me fish and rice.
Day 2
Hop -On / Hop – Off
The iternerary was planned earlier, however, the bus ride was primarily to visit those places that were unplanned and to have a glance at those, where we were to spend more time on subsequent days. We achieved that by hopping on to the bus, Hop off when required to have a look and then Hop on another bus, when it arrives at the designated halt. Do try it out, it is useful!
The National Art Musuem
Trafalghar Square
The Ride Continues
Day -3
Travelled to Westminister in the Subway train.
Eshan’s reflection!
House of Commons
House Of Lords
Big Ben
The cruise on R Thames- Do listen to the guide.
More such videos follow. To be continued – soon.
Impressions, Perceptions and Views. 