The flight left on time and we both commented as we took off "boy when was the last we did not have to queue forever for take off". We literrally left the gate and as soon as we got to the runway we took off.
The flight was actually quite good. We did dose off and on for the entire trip but no real rest.
We touched down at 8:30 am and got in the queue for customs. The line for non UK, or non EU snaked back and forth, back and forth. In the end it took a half hour to clear and get our passport stamped. Welcome to Britain! Just glad we did not have a tight connection.
We have been to Gatwick before where when we travelled into the city so we knew where we were going. But that is also where we started making mistakes.
We got in the ticket line. Thankfully an attendant assisted us with the right ticket and told us where to head to. Another good thing is we each had only one bag that we were able to maneuver easily.
When we got to the platform a train was just pulling out. The next one was a few minutes later.
We boarded, sit down and rejoiced that we had made it. Until.... they came around to check tickets. We were on the Gatwick Express instead of the regional, slow train, that stops everywhere, that cost less for a reason. No problem we just pay the difference of 7£ each.
Mistake one.
Because we are now on a different train we get off at a different spot.
Mistake two.
We are at victoria station. Okay we just have to take a different line to our hotel. As we travel through the underground tunnels with our bags, patience is wearing thin. We have to ask a few people for directions but eventually we make it to Stratford station.
But my ticket is not working in the machine. Thankfully an attendant helps me get thru saying to us he does not know why it won't work.
Mistake three.
We leave the bustling station trying to find our hotel which is apparently a few minutes walk away as per my app. We walk and i am leading Bernie the wrong way.
Mistake four.
We finally arrive at the hotel, in twice the length of time it should of taken us. But we are here.
We are staying at the Ibis Stratford. We have stayed at their hotel once before but in a different city. Staff are helpful, friendly and young. I am sure I looked a hot mess after the night/morning we had.
Our room is small. But I knew it would be. Heck I think it is even smaller than a ship's cabin. It is also very warm. I would call the front desk but there are no phones. This hotel uses WhatsApp to communicate. Fine, I have that app but i rarely use it and don't plan to start now.
This hotel feels modern and young, or maybe i just feel old. It will work out fine for the three nights. It is clean, perfectly situated and the price was right.
At the front desk we decide to just move rooms. Next room is better but still not great. I like a cool room. But since the window can open we should be fine.
We lay down and have a short snooze for 1.5 hours. Although I could of slept longer we both knew we should not.
Showered and refreshed we are back at Stratford station. Oh and we found a short cut through the mall that saves a ton of time.
More to follow with our evening adventures.
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