We’re here!
Today was long, and it’s only 8am UK time. Our flight departing PHL was delayed, but we still arrived at Heathrow just about 8 a.m. Wednesday morning. The flight was uneventful, but we didn’t sleep very much.
Then we got on a coach, and it was a 2-hour drive to Greenwich. The streets of London were alternately gorgeous brownstones and pretty slummy with lots of graffiti. Our Viking guide on the bus was Kevin, and he gave us “tour guide” treatment, sharing details about the places we were passing and the history of the buildings and other landmarks. When we finally got to the port, there were queue after queue just to get on the ship, so another 30 minutes or so until we walked the plank.
First up was the safety briefing, where they told us about the evacuation plan, where we would meet, and how to put on the PFD. Then lunch. The food is pretty terrific. The casual dining area is called the World Cafe, and it’s a buffet. After that, we toured all the different decks. Our room wasn’t ready until 130 p.m. so we sat poolside and relaxed. The staff is so welcoming and lovely. Our room steward is named Ria. She’s already brought us some extra pillows and blankets. Here are some photos.
This is the main pool deck and hot tub.
And this is the retractable cover for the main pool on days that it’s raining so people can still swim:
The Greenwich Creekside from one of the decks. We are docked in the middle of the Thames.
Here is a model of our ship, the Jupiter.
And here’s our luggage being ferried to the ship.
Here’s our room, it’s one of the larger ones, and there is a desk for Shane to work on his laptop, and I’m out on the balcony.
Of course, we forgot Shane’s flip-flops at home, so our first purchase tomorrow will be new flip-flops… sigh! Hopefully, there will be a shop in Greenwich where we can find something Shane’s likes. If not, each new day is a new city, so we’re bound to find something good.
Finally, here’s the sunset over London at the end of our Embarkation Day. Tomorrow it’s Royal Greenwich by Foot, a 2-mile walking tour of Greenwich’s premier maritime and royal highlights in about 2 hours. Then SHOPPING! (lol)
The Cutty Sark: Walk starts at the riverfront at the 1869 historic tea clipper, the fastest ship of its time.
Old Royal Naval College: Walk a couple of minutes east to this stunning architectural masterpiece designed by Sir Christopher Wren. Don’t miss the breathtaking Painted Hall.
Queen’s House: Cross Romney Road to view this 1616 Palladian villa, the first classical building in England, which now houses a fantastic art collection.
Royal Observatory & Prime Meridian: Head south up the hill into Greenwich Park. At the top, you will find the Observatory, where you can stand on the official line of 0° longitude. “Greenwich Mean Time”
Greenwich Market: Loop back down into town to visit this vibrant, historic covered market, which has been operating since 1737 and offers excellent global street food.
Greenwich Foot Tunnel: Finish your loop by heading back to the river to walk a portion of this 1,215-foot subterranean path, which takes you 50 feet under the River Thames.
G’nite everyone…
Tracy-Shane-Trips 
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