The Royal Yacht Britannia

July 16, 2022July 6, 2022 / youngretireeneedsalife / Leave a comment

What an amazing tour… Definitely a must see..

This was Queen Elizabeth’s floating palace for 44 years. It was known as her favorite place to be with her family. When she disembarked in 1977, all clocks were set to the time of her departure, and remain set to that time.

She has never returned.

The ship has a fudge shop, Tea Room, and gift shop for shopping pleasure as you certainly will want a remembrance from this visit.

Let’s start our visit.

The Britannia was commissioned in 1953, and traveled over a million miles till her 1997 decommissioning. Forty five staff traveled with the queen along with innumerable crew.

The Mechanics of the Ship..

Where the crew lived..

Where the crew bathed..

The Laundry Room

Officers Rooms, Kitchen, and Dining Areas

The Royal Family Area

The Queen’s Office. Her briefing information was flown to her daily.

The State Dining Room – here she entertained heads of state and celebrities. From Frank Sinatra to Liz Taylor to Bill Clinton to Nelson Mandela, according to the pamphlet information. William and Harry spent summer holidays here. It is also the honeymoon vessel to three failed marriages -Princess Anne, Prince Andrew and Prince Charles. However, the ship is available for parties and other events.

The visit is well worth the cost. Plan on at least 2 hours and have a treat at the Royal Deck Tea Shop.

You never know who you might meet.

Cruise Entertainment

July 15, 2022July 6, 2022 / youngretireeneedsalife / Leave a comment

Cruising provides much entertainment at bars and other ship locations. Walking through the ship one is never at a loss for music. But perhaps my favorite entertainment is the nightly shows, usually two per evening of the same performance, in the main ballroom. Here guests can relax with a cocktail to a 45 minute show of dancers, singers, magic, comedy, or juggling acts.

Take a peek..

This 60 something Irishman was a hoot relaying his life in Ireland growing up in a family of 11. While now living in Florida with a wife of German descent he had the audience rolling in the aisles with his common sense, clean humor.

What fun! Jon combined comedy with juggling. British humor is my favorite and this young gentlemen certainly can perform. He also is a teacher of juggling and world renowned. Great shows.

Always marvel at how these folks can twist and turn.

This performance by the cruise ship dancers/singers brought tears to my eyes recalling the Burt Bacharach and Dionne Warwick collaboration. While the cruise staff performances stellar nothing can compare to that night at Saratoga Performing Arts where Burt and Dionne performed together. He on the piano accompanying her as she sang over 20 songs.

The poster says it all. Unusual magic and contortion acts from this married couple.

Another magical night by the cruise ship performers. Music from the 70’s, 80’s, and beyond…

AND, last but not least… This man began his life as an English bus driver always wanting a career in the performing arts. His dream came true when he was picked during an open call for Lion King.

What an astounding voice.

Always a sure bet at the evening performances.

On to Southampton, England

July 14, 2022July 6, 2022 / youngretireeneedsalife / Leave a comment

Good bye Big Ben and Londontown. Am on to Southampton for a 12 day cruise with ports in Scotland, Norway, and Iceland.

Took the train from the hostel to Southampton. Trains in the EU are amazing. Joe Biden is on spot with trains, we need more in the US.

Southampton is an industrial port.

However, there are also beaches nearby.

Cabs were waiting outside the train station for cruise passengers, but arrive early as limited volume. Some folks schedule cabs, however was unable to locate that info..

Shared a cab with a man from Key West boarding a ship to Antarctica in 3 days. He arrived early to ensure his plans as with climate change, and flight concerns need this buffer. Many I spoke with are doing this now. Have heard horror stories of folks missing entire trips as they were unable to “catch up” with the ship or the tour.

Those who arrived in Southampton early enjoyed their visit. Apparently, Southampton has much to see and do. Check out the web site below.

https://www.planetware.com/tourist-attractions-/southampton-eng-hmp-so.htm

Something to consider and believe this is a wise idea.

Cab fare was 15 pounds, and my gracious companion paid 10. First time in decades any man ever paid anything for me. What a treat.

Met long lines at ship registration. While pre-boarding is required there are always other hoops to jump with this process. Met several fascinating people who enjoyed chatting which made time fly. Boarding also goes faster when you carry on luggage. If not luggage arrival will not occur till late in the afternoon and we all need that toothbrush. So if you let the cruise folk care for your luggage pack a carry-on of needed items.

My room – been cruising since my early 20’s and first time I ever had a window. WOW!

Tomorrow: Cruise Entertainment

Bath

July 13, 2022July 6, 2022 / youngretireeneedsalife / Leave a comment

Bath is a Unesco World History site known for its Roman Baths. The Roman Baths began upon the discovery of the areas hot springs. Romans who visited would drink 2 bottles daily of the medicinal waters known to have 43 minerals in them. It is the only hot springs in Europe and was discovered and unearthed in the late 19th century. Since then the Baths have been restored and waters continue to flow as does tourists anxious to visit this ancient city where great Roman rulers walked.

The Museum gives an excellent presentation of the era surrounded by the 2000 year old ruins. Some pictures starting with the entrance to the Baths.

Water flowed to the Baths through these rocks.

And the waters continue to flow with over 1 million liters daily at 46 celsius Translation 260,000 gallons 114 fahrenheit

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Bath is also known for a famous resident, Jane Austen who lived here for 5 years. There is a museum dedicated to her in Bath and annually a Jane Austen Festival. Jane received her only marriage proposal while residing in Bath from a wealthy but somewhat uninteresting Harris Bigg-Wither. While she accepted the proposal the following day she withdrew her acceptance.

The home where Jane lived while in Bath and for those enthusiasts note the To Let sign. It’s available.

Bath has much charm with its many shops, and restaurants. If looking for a unique stop outside of London, consider Bath.

Stonehenge

July 12, 2022July 6, 2022 / youngretireeneedsalife / Leave a comment

On Day 3 in London took a bus trip to Bath and Stonehenge. Recommend bus trips to sites as it is a relaxing way to visit. In London there is an entire station devoted to those taking tour bus excursions. It is known as Victorian Station Coach. This is a separate station from other regular bus lines. Remember this when attempting to locate the Station as those you may ask have no idea…………… ?

The ride to Stonehenge from London is approximately 2 hours through farmlands. Stonehenge rises out of a field which has caused many to wonder, ‘Why?” On this trip the answer was not obtained, however, it was a fun day with these interesting sites.

Purchase tickets at the booth near the gift shop. Then mount the bus or trek up to the site.

On return from the site tour the Stonehenge Museum, and see the outside huts displaying how those building Stonehenge would have lived. Children love this.

One more shot of this amazing creation before departing.

Churchill War Rooms

July 11, 2022July 6, 2022 / youngretireeneedsalife / Leave a comment

While at Windsor Castle asked the security staff about the Churchill War Rooms. This site ranks highly as things to see in London. They assured me I had adequate time to get there, gave directions, and I was on my way. Grateful I made this visit as it was astounding. These are the actual rooms where Churchill worked during World War II. Besides seeing the rooms there were also fascinating displays depicting the various eras of Churchill’s life. For those war buffs plan a whole day visit, for others at least 3 hours.

A must see.

Another extremely important Room in the underground.

Sad World War II Facts…

30,000 killed in London
60,000 killed in Britain
Half million homes destroyed in London
Four million homes destroyed in Britain
Approximately 20,000 tons of bombs fell on London
Approximately 70,000 tons of bombs fell on Britain

The War Room in the underground is totally intact. Both Churchill and his wife, Clemmie, maintained a room at the underground, however, it was stated Churchill only napped there and slept only 3 nights during the War.

Clemmie’s Room left and Winston’s Room above

Churchill hated noise and staff in the underground worked 18 hour days and entire weekends. Both men and women worked tirelessly devoted to the cause.

Eleven typists worked in this small area.

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Caveat: After the visit, stop by the Park across from the War Rooms. It is devoted to Diana, another warrior.

Windsor Castle

July 10, 2022July 5, 2022 / youngretireeneedsalife / Leave a comment

Took the train from London to Windsor which was a delightful hour and 15 minute journey. From the train station the walk is brief but climb steep. Upon entry you are welcomed by Prince Charles via headset. The tour is informative with historians giving information on the Castle interiors.

On the day of my visit the weather was stellar and the gardens pristine. Can understand why the Queen loves to be here. Almost heaven..

Make reservations as the Queen still resides here every weekend. Arrive early to see all, and attend the Changing of the Guard. This is a fun and interesting event which occurred at 11 on the day of my visit.

Was unable to see the interior of St. George’s Chapel due to the Queen’s Centennial, however an outside picture. The Changing of the Guard occurs next to St. George’s.

The beauty and majesty of this Castle from 1377 where 39 monarchs have lived, and 10 buried is breathtaking. The Queen’s art collection is beyond robust with over 1 million items in the Royal Collection. All are on the web at http://www.RCT.UK.

Found the Queen Anne Dollhouse a fascinating exhibit. Take time to view all the intricacies. There also is a restaurant where tea is served and is a good rest from the visit. Plan on at least 2 to 3 hours. Much to see.

After visiting Windsor take time to visit the town. It is a trip back in history with its many fish and chip shops, souvenir shops, and the like. Much to see and enjoy. It is a memory you will never forget.

Covid Testing in the UK

July 9, 2022July 5, 2022 / youngretireeneedsalife / Leave a comment

I lied, actually I forgot… Prior to Windsor Castle had to get Covid tested as testing was mandatory for ship entry within a 72 hour time frame, so had to hussle. From London was headed on a cruise, stay tuned. Finding a place near the hostel in the early morning hours was a data mining nightmare doing this from the US, but I prevailed locating a pharmacy inside a grocery store 3 miles from the hostel. Bus transport was convenient so was on my way…

Read the Metro from the bus kiosk for entertainment while waiting for store opening. For a laugh..

Babies given rubber bottles are likely to have a rubber fetish
The Queen’s 1947 wedding cake slice in its original box is up for auction
Japanese scientists have developed a way to cover a robotic finger with skin
And my favorite – unions urging increase in nursing pay for their “miserly wages” – like that is going to happen..

Upon completing the Metro the Sainsbury grocery opened. Since the pharmacy was not ready for me I explored the store finding clothing, liquor/wine, and other amenities available besides the traditional food stuffs. Just like US!

Once the pharmacy opened a friendly pharmacist swabbed the nose then waiting on pins and needles for 10 minutes received welcome news. The pharmacist steered me to the appropriate bus and train station and I was on my way to Windsor.

WHEW…. Never have I known negative to be such a positive..

Arrival at London Destination

July 8, 2022July 5, 2022 / youngretireeneedsalife / Leave a comment

Was unsure of the hostel location upon arrival at the train stop, however, once again friendly Londoners came through with directions. Locating the hostel entry was also problematic as it was a small door next to a rock music venue. While this location was a bit daunting I went with the flow and ventured forth.

With hostels one never knows what to expect, however, staff are always knowledgeable about transportation, friendly, patient, and guests insightful. The Expedia flight included three free nights at the hostel so who can argue with free room in London for 3 nights? As predicted the hostel manager was amazing with his assist, and even carried my bag to the 4th floor. What more could a girl ask for?

Upon entry to the room I introduced myself to three other women from New Zealand and South Korea. They gave me the lay of the land, some cell phone assist, and foretold the nightly rock music till 3 am. Instructions received I quickly unpacked and arranged the items needed for the next day as each of the 3 days included a 6 am departure to my destinations. Once out and about found the area safe with grocery stores and restaurants. Since I had been diagnosed with lactose intolerance within the month, (another blog), purchased orange juice, and relied on the hostel offering of bananas for my daily breakfast.

The welcomed ATM – unsure why anyone uses the airport cash transaction windows? Enlighten me.

Upon hostel return I showered in a clean bathroom, and made my way to the upper level bunk bed. While the music probably did last till 3 am exhaustion prevailed and surprisingly I slept.

Tomorrow: Windsor Palace

Air Europa from JFK to Madrid to Gatwick

July 7, 2022July 5, 2022 / youngretireeneedsalife / Leave a comment

Was impressed with Air Europa. Staff pleasant, plane comfortable, and good entertainment on board. Price was phenomenal. Stop over was Madrid Airport which was a clean airport with amenities. Didn’t find too many who spoke English, but with hand signals, and smiles I found my way. And of course this Ugly American could have learned a few phrases prior to the trip but I didn’t, shame on me. Guess I’m still traumatized from the time I tried this in an unnamed country, and the gal at the train desk took my book out of my hand and threw it at me… While I say ha! ha! at the time it was quite unnerving.. Enough.. We all have bad days.

The pictures…

Nice to see a B and J machine in Spain, and who knows you may have time to get your nails done. Never saw a venue quite like this at an airport.. But the best – the kid bathroom with the toilet. How sweet..

Gatwick Airport

Had thought I was going to Heathrow from Madrid but realized last minute I was landing at Gatwick. Decided not to fret, and all worked out swimmingly as the Brits would say… Once in the airport there was a gal at the desk about my age who had patience giving me a ticket along with a print out of all my connections for the hour train ride.