After Russia we jetted off on Aeroflot (scary) to London to see Kallie! From Heathrow she’s about a 40 minute tube ride and a 10 minute walk away. Pulling our suitcases we made it through Earl’s Court, across Cromwell Rd, and down Marloes Rd to her third floor walk-up. Luckily, she met us and carried my bag up all those narrow, twisty stairs. We left almost immediately to take the Eurostar to Paris!
We have never gone to the top of L’Arc de Triomphe so we climbed the twisty, never ending stairs to the top. Great view. Paris, always spectacular!
We met our “French son” Denis, who came to us as an exchange student at age 17 when Ariel was just a baby. He and his wonderful parents let us stay in their flat on Rue Cler, a fun street full of restaurants and shops. It is across from the former flat of President Macron before he moved up to the Presidential Palace. The Eiffel Tower was visible from the flat. Tres jolie!
After a wonderful lunch at Denis’ house we went to Marie Antoinette’s little farm and walked around. Such a nice day with old friends.
Back to London where we continued our touring.
We met more of my wonderful new-found family, cousins Emma, Carol, and Jeremy! Emma took us for a ramble on Hampstead Heath. It is a beautiful place with long views of London. Carol had us to her house for a yummy dinner, and Jeremy showed us around Newcastle upon Tyne and environs. I still am in awe of this family I’m a part of and I really must thank Mark for coming along on this adventure with me.
My father was born in Newcastle so Jeremy spent a lot of time showing us the town. He was the mayor there at one time and now represents the area in the House of Lords. His name is inscribed on the wall in the town hall. The town hall building itself is very impressive. This guy hanging off the side of the building is part of Newcastle’s legend of beginning. The town itself is charming and ancient and straddles many relics of Roman occupation, foremost among which is Hadrian’s Wall!
Since this wall has always been on our bucket lists we really enjoyed the day seeing the wonderful relics from so long ago. Really incredible,
Returning to London we packed our bags and headed home. We have more great adventures to share with you so stay tuned!
Mark and Kathie's Excellent Adventure 