Mom and dad arrived right on time yesterday. It sounds like about five other flights arrived at the same time which got them caught in immigration for a good hour. Then they headed my way. I messed up and didn’t give them the local version of my number (requires an additional digit) so they sat at the local train station for a little while waiting on me. Luckily I am #1 and easily forgiven. We made our way back to my place and mom decided she needed a short nap before we headed out for a day of adventures. Dad and I ran over to one of the local markets to pick up a bite to eat. Then we returned home where he passed out as well.
I let them sleep for an hour or so then woke them up and told them they could sleep when they are old. The bus us my favorite mode of transportation at the moment, so we hopped on a double decker and headed off. We got off just before Piccadilly Circus and found an incredible little shop called La Maison du Chocolat. You know dad and I couldn’t resist that place. We tested a few items while standing around and then made a wonderful dark chocolate ganache purchase. From there, we walked on to Piccadilly Circus.
After taking in all the advertising at PC, we decided to head over to Trafalgar. On the way, we ran into a great little bar called the Texas Embassy Cantina. I think I am the only person to enjoy such a place but oh well. We enjoyed some Mexican beer and chips and salsa. What a great way for mom and dad to begin their European vacation. At Trafalgar, we found the spot where dad took a picture with Chris and me about 25 years ago. We tried to reenact the moment but I believe I was sitting on dad’s shoulders in the original picture. We did have Chris either so we just took a cute one of him and me.
From there, the afternoon went by pretty quickly. We walked down to see Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, hit a local pub, walked the Thames, hit another local pub and then headed up to Covent Garden.
By this time, I could tell mom and dad were beginning to fade but needed some good food. We decided to hit a traditional fish and chips joint but when we got to the place, it didn’t open for another 15 minutes. We headed across the street to grab a pint and enjoy the lovely weather. After finishing our drinks, the restaurant was open so we headed over for a great dinner at the North Sea Fish Restaurant. This is a good recommendation for any of you looking for a nice place to have dinner.
With full bellies and a minor case of jetlag, we headed back home and I put the kids to bed. They had a very successful first day out and have a full week of adventures awaiting them.
Texas Cantina
Phone Booth Peep Show
The Ladies
Lovers at Trafalgar
