Tuesday 28 April. London

After a very long night of flying we landed at Heathrow at 8.00 this morning. The Singapore Airlines flights were comfortable, with very tasty meals and a good range of movies. I think I watched 4 but I can only remember 3.

By 9.30 I had arrived at Paddington Station after speeding through immigration, working out how to turn on my eSIM, wending my way to the Heathrow Express and zooming in to London. After a juice and a muffin it was time to take my case to my accommodation as they had agreed to let me leave it there until check in time at 3.00.

That gave me 5 hours with my heavy backpack before I could even change out of my squeezy aeroplane socks. I decided to use the time to find the man in the clock, Paddington for the boys and visit my favourite card shop in Balham. This required 2 Tube lines and numerous stairs, escalators and hallways. I know I’m in London!

Had a lovely time in the card shop. Might have to post my purchases home as they’re more weight in the case. Then a coffee and cookie in the market lane, which is now full of rather trendy eateries and it was still only just after 12.00.

By now I was starting to feel a bit “unco” from tiredness so it was back to Paddington on the Northern and Bakerloo lines. Sat on a seat in the station and people-watched for a while, then went back to this morning’s cafe which doesn’t seem to mind you staying a while.

Finally I made the 5 minute walk to my accommodation and collapsed in my little apartment. The nice young man had brought my case up to the room. It’s going to suit me very well for the next few days and I can’t wait to turn in and get some real sleep.