From Chennai to London: A Family's Festive Adventure
- Vijay Verghis
- Apr 13, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 16, 2024
Embarking on a journey from Chennai's vibrant streets to London's iconic landmarks, my family and I were filled with anticipation for the adventures that awaited us. Join us as we recount our unforgettable experiences, from the warmth of Chennai to the glittering lights of Oxford Street.
A Taste of Home in the Sky:
Our journey began aboard BA flight BA 36, where we were treated to a delightful South Indian meal at the airport lounge. We settled into our seats with satisfied appetites, eager for the experiences ahead. The flight was peaceful, and my daughter enjoyed the entire duration of the flight watching her movies. BA staff were very friendly and attentive to all our needs. The cost of a premium economy flight ticket for the entire family was around INR 562079.00.
Touchdown at Heathrow:
As the wheels touched down at Heathrow Airport, we were greeted by the hustle and bustle of one of the world's busiest airports. Surprisingly, our immigration process was swift, allowing us to breeze through with ease. This is because they have a dedicated line for families with children. This is something the Indian airports and immigration can follow top. However, the excitement was slightly tempered by the lengthy wait for our baggage, which stretched nearly two hours. Nevertheless, with our luggage finally in tow, we were ready to dive into the heart of London. Since there were 5 of us with luggage, we pre-booked a big van.
A Haven in the City:
Our home base for the next two days in London was the Thistle Marble Arch Hotel, located on the prestigious Bryanston Street. Its central location and impeccable hospitality provided the perfect launchpad for our shopping adventures in London. Hotel Stay is around Rs 40,000 for two rooms for five people per night. One of the things that I personally do is to travel light and do all my shopping at the local store. This is not advisable if you are on a budget. However, over the years, I have realized that most of the brands in India are pretty costly, so why not buy locally from the local stores?
Exploring Orchard Street:
With the city at our doorstep, we set out to explore the vibrant streets of London. We spent almost two days in Orchard and Regent Street doing our winter shopping. Our first stop was Orchard Street, adorned with festive decorations and alive with the spirit of Christmas. From boutique shops to high-end stores, the street offered a plethora of shopping delights for every family member. Against gently falling snowflakes, we immersed ourselves in the magical atmosphere, creating memories that would last a lifetime.
Oxford/Regent Street's Glittering Lights:
As night fell, we went to the legendary Oxford Street, aglow with twinkling lights illuminating the darkness. The festive decorations lent an enchanting aura to the bustling thoroughfare, drawing crowds from far and wide. Among the highlights of our visit were the largest Hamleys in the world, a paradise for our daughter and a favourite destination of the trip. We also explored the largest LEGO store and M&M's World, indulging in their whimsical delights.
Tech and Fashion Finds:
Every trip to London would be complete with a visit to the iconic Apple and Microsoft stores, where we marvelled at the latest gadgets and technology. We also picked up stylish sneakers from Sketchers for the whole family and some cool outerwear from Uniqlo, preparing ourselves for the long walks and adventures that lay ahead. Primark is a very good option for shopping if you are on a budget.
Preparing for the Next Leg:
As our time in London drew close, we eagerly anticipated the next leg of our journey to Edinburgh, Scotland. We booked our train tickets from King Cross Street to Edinburg. With hearts full of memories and bags filled with winter clothes, we bid farewell to the bright lights of London, ready for the adventures that awaited us in the Scottish highlands.
