London and Tuscany

 Milano: Warm, beautiful Day! September 28, 2024 It was wonderful to enjoy Milan on a warm day after the chill and rain of London. Even though it was the end of September it felt like summer and the crowds were also in proportion to a busy tourist season which we thought we'd avoided.  At times we felt like salmon going up stream to spawn. And yet, we enjoyed our time in the city immensely.   Being the fashion capital of Italy, Milan is home to trendy high end stores along with H&M, Zara, Mango, and Max Mara. We just had to "browse " to check out the current fashion trends. And yes,  some items were purchased. Nothing with labels or high-end.  Famished from shopping fatigue,  we found a pretty outdoor restaurant that featured delicious pizza that went down easily with a glass of white wine. I am finding that food and especially wine prices are very reasonable. A glass of delicious white was 5 Euros.  We walked the city, found a castle built in...

 London: Last full day I woke up to sunshine. Just a few things to check off my list for this trip. I've enjoyed traveling via "The Tube." Underground transportation is fast and efficient.  Above ground groans to a hault,  the meter "gaining" lbs as each minute ticks off regardless of the lack of forward movement. The traffic in London is worse than NYC if that is possible! Today I visited Covent Garden which does not live up to its name. No real garden. Just shops full of trinkets, teas, and other specialty items. There's a plethora of chocolate and candy shops, a whole block where Shakeshack resides, and a couple of pubs. Nearby is the Royal Opera house and several office buildings. There's even a church for actors.  I spent some time in the National Portrait gallery where paintings and photos of all the royals reside. Additionally,  there is every well known actor, author, and public officer. There's almost an entire floor dedicated to the Tutors....

  London: Two Days of intermittent Sun I've been lucky, good weather has followed me for two busy days. On Tuesday I traveled by train to Oxford. Once out of the city there's miles of rolling grassy fields, old brick farm houses, and a few grazing animals.  Oxford is a lovely ancient village surrounded by approximately 45 historic small universities. Oxford (name derived from oxenford) began in the early 11th century when Henry II banned anyone from seeking a higher education abroad. Exetor, St. Johns, and Trinity, are a few of the well known Universities.  Women had their own college which began in the 1920's and it was not until 1975 that  women integrated into the all male institutions.    I took a two hour guided walking tour with a small, international group of travelers. Only three of us were from the USA. Three were from India, parents with their son who will study public policy at Oxford. One woman was from Argentina.  She told me that she...

  Travel Day::  September 23, 2024 Planning, anticipation, worry and finally the departure day arrives. Goodbye Sunny San Diego. Hello London! It is possible to travel to Europe from San Diego. As I headed to my gate, I saw a flight headed to Munich and thought, humm, maybe next year?? But today I'm taking British Airway for a 10.5 hour flight direct to Heathrow. BA is a partner with Alaska airline so points can be accrued.  In premium economy one gets extra wide, comfortable seats, foot rests, leg room, a good recline, along with great food, wine, and plenty of entertainment.  I am not a sleeper on long flights so just a a bit of elevated comfort is a perfect choice for me.  This is the first time I am traveling alone for the first 5 days of my month long trip. I rationalize that I'll be fine. I can set my own pace, eat when and where I desire and immerse myself in London without any time constraints.  I had a taste of this city last year so I am happy to ...