Art and Architecture

The day started out with a visit to the Louvre. With twelve miles of corridors loaded with paintings and sculpture it is impossible to take it all in. The kids were great about finding the things we had talked about in meetings, the notable pieces of art and a few of their favorites.

After lunch we headed to the Montmartre area and enjoyed free time there. It was a chance to see artists in action, perhaps get a portrait or painting done, visit the Sacre Coeur, and make a serious dent in our souvenir shopping.

We had a fabulous dinner and then made our way to the Trocadero area. Here we caught a boat to take us on a cruise of the Seine. It was perfect timing. The sun was setting as we saw all the famous sites from the river. Beautiful and fun to see all the people on the banks enjoying the Paris evening. The boat returned to the dock just as the Eiffel Tower was glittering the 11 o'clock hour. Perfect! A late night but well worth it.

What can go wrong will.....

It was a bit of a day of disappointments. We hopped on the bus and headed to Versailles. The workers there had decided to strike and the Palace was closed. We got EF on the phone and they started searching for alternatives but not much luck. In the mean time Versailles decided to open the gardens so we spent a lovely 1 1/2 hours wandering the park-like area.

The strike delay put the rest of the schedule into chaos. We headed to the St. Michel area and gave the kids some time for lunch and to explore. Then to Notre Dame with it's extraordinary gothic architecture and stained glass windows.

Dinner tonight was flammekuche. It's a French dish from the Alsatian region. It's a very thin bread crust with a  fromage blanc sauce and toppings. Kind of like a French pizza. Some kids ate it up and others couldn't take the change.....

Final stop was Montparnasse. It is the tallest structure in Paris and a quick elevator ride to the top provides amazing views of the city. It was a late night but worth it!

Tale of Two Cities

Today started early! We were out of the hotel at 5 (almost) and on our way to catch the Eurostar and leave London. The kids learned that their assumption that the entire ride would be in the chunnel was wrong. Only 30 minutes of the 2 1/2 hours is under the water. The remainder is through the English and then the French countryside. My favorite was a huge purple field of French lavender.

We made a quick stop to drop the bags at the hotel and then picked up a city guide. She was very knowledgeable and very sweet. We went by the Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, Invalides, Notre Dame, and down Champs Elysees. We got a view not many have. The flag was flying in the center of the Arc today, a rare occurrence.

After dinner the kids chose to go back to the hotel instead of spending more time exploring the city. It made sense - today was a long day. We will however, have to work on our hotel behavior!

Breaking Free in London

Today started at the Tower of London. This is an amazing structure that was begun in 1066 when the Normans conquered England. It is the location of White Tower which is filled with all kinds of weapons and armor through the ages. Several famous royals were beheaded here and there even used to be a zoo! It is also home of the royal vault which is where we got to see all of the amazing crown jewels.

Next came the real test. Free time. The kids each had a pass for the Underground and the afternoon to do what they chose. The only requirements - stay in groups and see at least one more thing that had historic, cultural or artistic value. They then had to navigate the city, accomplish what they wanted and make it back to a specific meeting point by dinner. A large group went to the Churchill War Rooms and the rest here and there around the city. Everyone was back at the appointed meeting spot with time to spare. Success!

After dinner (most didn't touch the fish) we had a little more free time and most chose to ride the London Eye. Then it was back to the hotel to pack and get ready for tomorrow morning's 5am departure.

London Tour

We were lucky to have a full English breakfast this morning. It sets unrealistic expectations for food the rest of the trip but we aren't complaining.

Our city guide today was Keith. He is considered a rock-star in the tourism industry. He was very informative and cleverly funny. The kids missed about half the jokes he snuck in as we explored the city but the adults enjoyed him. We started at the Globe Theatre, a reconstruction of the original from the time of Shakespeare. From there walked across the Thames on the Millennium Bridge. The kids knew this bridge well since it was the one used in the opening scene of Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince. On the other side is the University of London where Daniel Radcliffe went to school. Then a quick stop at St. Paul's Cathedral, the official church of London. The kids know it from Mary Poppins (Feed the Birds) and as the wedding church for Charles & Diana.

We hurried across the city and made it in time to catch the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace. Then was a leisurely walk to the borough of Westminster where we took some time for lunch. In the afternoon it took an hour in an enormous line before we got to go in to Westminster Abbey.  The gothic architecture is stunning and there is so much history there. It is considered the church of the British Commonwealth. Most of the kings & queens of England are buried here. There are also many famous English artists, poets, authors and scientists either interred or memorialized. The hot spot today was a new marker. The day before yesterday a new stone was laid for Stephen Hawking. Half of his ashes are in the Abbey and the other half sent into space. Fitting!

Dinner was Wagamama's - a noodle shop. Yummy as always. We were early enough and ate fast enough that there was over an hour for the kids to do some shopping in the area.

Last stop of the day was Wicked. An excellent performance as always. The kids were super tired but were good sports about the late night. An interesting end was the bus ride home. Our crew was joined by another EF group on the bus. It was crowded! We had a sing along to keep us alert while we drove. We're back in the hotel after a full day!

We Made It!

This always feels like the longest day. Up early to make sure everything is ready for the trip, then the long flight and finally touring the city. It is brutal. All things considered the kids were really good today. The handled the flights, border check and meeting up with everyone like champs.

We met our tour director Francois at the airport. He is very intelligent, organized and trained us well. Once we had our suitcases packed in a van for transport to the hotel we caught the Underground. We hopped off at Covent Garden and learned a little bit about the history of this old produce and flower market. We had a few minutes to explore and then it was off to Trafalgar Square. We couldn't see a lot because West End Festival is this weekend and there is a bunch of staging and scaffolding up. We did however get to watch a bit rehearsal for some of the groups performing.

One hour was all we had at the National Art Gallery but we made the most of it. This is where you can see paintings by Van Gogh, Monet, Da Vinci, Rembrandt, Gainsborough, Degas, and so many other famous works. After we popped across the street and took our first group photo at St. Martin's in the Fields.

Then we were off to Piccadilly Circus and dinner. The restaurant EF picked tonight was Mother Mash, a restaurant specializing in fresh mashed potatoes. We were served meat & veggie pies (especially great crust) with gravy and a side of mashed potatoes. Ice cream for dessert.

Our hotel is far out of town but nice. Most are tucked safely into bed but a few have gone out to find a McDonalds. They must be a bit homesick (or hungry).

All is well and everyone is safe. Thanks parents for trusting us with your kids.

Packing in Pieces part 1

There are a few things I can prep in advance so that packing isn't overwhelming the night before departure. Packing ahead also means that there is still time to pick something up if needed. Today's prepack is my 'bathroom bag' or toiletry kit. A lot of European hotels don't provide sundries, you'll have to pack your own.

Counter space in European hotels is minimal so I take a bag that has divided sections and has a hook for hanging somewhere - towel rack, closet, shower curtain rod..... It zips shut and has a plastic lining so if anything leaks during the flight everything else in my suitcase stays clean. I've traveled enough to know about how much of everything I need for three weeks. Monique started using a 3 ounce bottle of shampoo this week so she can calculate how much she'll need for the whole trip. Avoid packing a big 24+ ounce bottle of something. It's more than you need, takes up a lot of space and is heavy! Remember that you are limited to no more than 50 pounds in your checked bag.

So, here's what's in my kit: shampoo, conditioner, contact solution, extra contact lenses, lotion, antiperspirant, shower gel, razor, toothbrush & toothpaste, floss, Blistex, nail clippers, tweezers, safety pins, make-up, comb, brush, hair ties/clips and Downy wrinkle release!

Packing

Packing Checklist

PASSPORT!!! – Have it with you!!! Keep it Safe!!!

TRAVELER JOURNAL – your little white binder

CREDIT/ATM CARD, MONEY YOU EXCHANGED

NAME TAGS ON ALL LUGGAGE: make them bright & easy to spot

CARRY ON TO INCLUDE: Anything you can’t live without for a day

TOILETRIES – All liquids 3oz. or less in a small baggie on top…

      soap, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, lotion, shampoo, hand sanitizer, contact stuff, your beauty stuff

MEDICATIONS/MINI FIRST AID KIT – pain reliever, prescriptions (in original container), allergy medicine, motion sickness medicine, antibiotic, etc. 

CAMERA – Extra memory card, charger or batteries, (film?)

STUFF – glasses, sunglasses, MP3, chargers/cords, books, cards (for layovers), etc.

ALL VALUABLES – don’t pack anything in your suitcase that might be stolen – bring it with you! (Cash especially)

ONE CHANGE OF CLOTHES – including underwear (just in case suitcase is delayed or lost)

MUNCHIES – water bottle, snacks, gum…..

       SUITCASE – Label inside and out. Tuck a copy of the itinerary inside.

CLOTHING FOR HOT & COOL WEATHER: long pants (1-2), long sleeved shirt (1), shorts (2), short sleeved shirts (6), jacket (1), umbrella?, (choose lightweight - fast drying!)

COMFORTABLE SHOES: with socks - break in well before we leave!!!

UNDERWEAR: at least 6 pair

ONE DRESSIER OUTFIT: for the theatre (shoes to match?)

BELTS, SWIMMING SUIT, HAT

PERSONALS: shampoo, soap, deodorant, makeup, feminine hygiene, replacement meds
CONVERTER/ADAPTORS & CHARGERS – if you bring any electronics you will need these!

PLASTIC BAG FOR WET ITEMS (or plasticized section in luggage) 

LAUNDRY DETERGENT (close securely), CLOTHES LINE, SINK STOPPER

GUM & SNACKS

FANNY PACK/BACK PACK: purses & wallets are easier to snatch. You could make your carry-on your back pack… just transfer everything to your suitcase once you get to the hotel then put your day items in the pack.

PACK LIGHT! You must carry what you take & leave room for souvenirs!

ON TIME TO THE AIRPORT (Absolutely 2½ - 3 hours prior)

Packing Guidelines

o    MONEY - cards and cash where only you can get at them and on your body all the time

o    ONE - Suitcase, duffel or backpack (24” or smaller)

o    ONE  - Carry on – bring everything you can’t live without in your backpack.  If your luggage is lost you’ll want documents, money/cards, toiletries, personals, medications and one outfit with you.

o    PACK LIGHT – You’ll carry what you bring!  (Pack a few days early then walk around the block a few times.  It will make you want to leave things home!)

o    RETHINK BLOW DRYERS & OTHER HAIR EQUIPMENT – They take up space, can be heavy, and the wattage is often too high even with a converter.

o    BRING small packets of Kleenex to carry with you. Some public toilets don’t have toilet paper and some will charge you for it!

o    DRESS MODESTLY when going to the Vatican & other churches.  You will not be allowed in St. Peter’s or other religious buildings if knees and shoulders are showing.  Wear long pants and shirts with a sleeve. (Girls, you can wear a skirt that goes below the knee.)

o    DRESS INCONSPICUOUSLY – Animosity is a problem in some countries right now.  To avoid problems don’t take fancy, flashy, colorful clothes that stand out as American.  Europeans usually wear dark colors.

o    HEAVY things should be packed in the bottom of your suitcase.  Stuff your shoes (w/socks, underwear, jewelry,…) so they don’t waste space.

o    SUITCASES are scanned and searched at the airport.  Keep your most valuable things with you.  Only TSA locks are allowed on cases during the flights.

o   PACK AND LOCK – everyday before you leave the hotel!!! Housekeeping is notorious for sticky fingers and management is usually not very helpful about it. 

Flights

EF has sent the flight information

REMEMBER YOU MUST BE AT THE AIRPORT 3 HOURS PRIOR TO DEPARTURE!

Itinerary A (38 Traveler(s) - THIS IS THE MAIN GROUP OF TRAVELERS

	Date	Time	City(Airport)	Flight/Transportation	Additional Flight Info			Paper/E-Ticket
Depart
	6/14/2018	1:50 PM	Salt Lake	American Airlines				E
	6/14/2018	5:28 PM	Dallas (DFW)	Flight# 1006
	6/14/2018	7:15 PM	Dallas (DFW)	American Airlines				E
	6/15/2018	10:25 AM	London (Heathrow)	Flight# 0078
	6/29/2018	12:05 PM	Rome	Iberia				E
	6/29/2018	2:40 PM	Madrid	Flight# 3231
Return
	7/2/2018	12:30 PM	Madrid	American Airlines				E
	7/2/2018	3:45 PM	Charlotte	Flight# 0749
	7/2/2018	8:14 PM	Charlotte	American Airlines				E
	7/2/2018	10:40 PM	Salt Lake	Flight# 0509

Additional Confirmation Numbers:

Itinerary B (2 Traveler(s) WENDY AND MONIQUE

	Date	Time	City(Airport)	Flight/Transportation	Additional Flight Info			Paper/E-Ticket
Depart
	6/7/2018	7:00 AM	Salt Lake	American Airlines
	6/7/2018	7:41 AM	Phoenix	Flight# 1065
	6/7/2018	8:48 AM	Phoenix	American Airlines
	6/7/2018	4:34 PM	Philadelphia	Flight# 0854
	6/7/2018	7:05 PM	Philadelphia	American Airlines
	6/8/2018	7:05 AM	Glasgow	Flight# 0024
	6/29/2018	12:05 PM	Rome	Iberia
	6/29/2018	2:40 PM	Madrid	Flight# 3231
Return
	7/2/2018	12:30 PM	Madrid	American Airlines
	7/2/2018	3:45 PM	Charlotte	Flight# 0749
	7/2/2018	8:14 PM	Charlotte	American Airlines
	7/2/2018	10:40 PM	Salt Lake	Flight# 0509

Additional Confirmation Numbers:

Itinerary C (2 Traveler(s) MAX AND OLIVIA

	Date	Time	City(Airport)	Flight/Transportation	Additional Flight Info			Paper/E-Ticket
Depart
	6/14/2018	2:25 PM	Salt Lake	Delta Air Lines
	6/14/2018	8:48 PM	New York (JFK)	Flight# 0802
	6/14/2018	10:00 PM	New York (JFK)	Delta Air Lines	OPERATED BY VIRGIN ATLANTIC AIRWAYS
	6/15/2018	10:15 AM	London (Heathrow)	Flight# 4359
	6/29/2018	12:05 PM	Rome	Iberia
	6/29/2018	2:40 PM	Madrid	Flight# 3231
Return
	7/6/2018	10:30 AM	Amsterdam	Delta Air Lines
	7/6/2018	12:28 PM	Minneapolis	Flight# 0161
	7/6/2018	2:30 PM	Minneapolis	Delta Air Lines
	7/6/2018	4:15 PM	Salt Lake	Flight# 0829

Additional Confirmation Numbers: 

64 days!

We had a good meeting learning about how to avoid pickpockets and about Madrid but the most important thing was learning how to post for group pictures.

Remember - squish in, get on various levels so we can see everyone (if you can see me, I can see you), and smile!