FINALLY OFF TO THE UK

 Here we go off to the UK for a bit over a week. This is a trip which had been rescheduled a couple of times but now is a go.

With COVID, travel and country entry requirements are changing all the time. As we are fully vaccinated, there is no pre-entry COVID test required. There is a requirement for a test within 48 hours of arrival. This test needs to be arranged and payed for prior to arrival. This is documented with a pre-arrival tracking form. This form can only be completed 48 hours before arrival. The form includes your arrival information, lodging information, vaccine information and more. One per traveler and it took a bit of time to fill out.



Arrived at DEN nice and early so had all documents checked, and we were off through security, which went smoothly. 

Pre flight time is in a club room for coffee and a snack. There used to be a non stop from DEN to LHR, but not now. We will be flying via Chicago (ORD). The nonstop United service will resume in the future.

Chicago to LHR went well and we even got a few, very few, hours of sleep. Passport Control went smoothly with the E-gates, just needed passports. I thought we would be asked to show Vaccine Cards and our UK Locator,  as we have in the past. 

The Underground service from LHR to St. Pancras was interrupted due to a strike. So train to Paddington, Underground to Edgware Road, change line, and then onto St.Pancras. We plan extra time for just such events. 

We arrived St St. Pancras and collected our rail tickets to Dover. We had about 15 minutes before an earlier train was leaving for Dover. Yes, we were able to get on the earlier train. Starting to see some blue skies. I think Lynn was hoping for a coffee before this rail journey.

Arrived Dover and walked to the Castle House Guest House. Very nice and friendly as you can see.

Then off to Poundland for some necessities, then stopped in for a pint at The White Horse. (the oldest pub in Dover)

We unpacked a bit and headed to Blake’s to get a bite to eat. We had their Fish and Chips. 

The evening consisted of rekindling friendships with great conversation and many a laugh and a few pints. 

We got back to the room by early standards and Lynn did some laundry.

Oh we did learn there is a Christmas Market in Folkestone so might be going there tomorrow.