Tagged With "More strikes planned for London's Tube."
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Re: Finding Reiner #7: Shrapnel & Bones
Originally Posted by Carlin Scherer: Beautiful image - grabbing on to the spider web and flying into a peaceful land/world. Reiner wrote beautifully!!! Reiner was a great writer, and I'm sure in the original German it's even more elegantly phrased than in this fine translation! PHeymont -- agree with the sentiment. Believe we'll always have evil, power grabbing tyrants in our midst and our challenge is not to keep them from seizing power. Not an easy task. I've been reading Eric Metaxas...
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Re: Heads Up for Travelers: Iceland's Volcanoes May Disrupt Travel Again
There can be an up side to travel during an eruption. My plans proceeded during the 2010 eruption and the first result was a southern route to Rome and a spectacular view of the Pyrenees, flying parallel to them. I learned how big those mountains are, had had no idea. After arrival in Rome I immediately booked sleeper compartment tickets from Budapest to London (already had Rome-Budapest), to replace the flight I'd booked. As it transpired, the flight ban was over by the time I got on the...
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Re: Where in the World is TravelGumbo? (#45)
By e-mail, PortMoresby suggested this answer: I haven't seen these details anywhere, but because of some other similarities and the date, I'm going to say the Bank of England, London. " 1925-1939 Sir Herbert Baker Between 1925 and 1939 he demolished what had become known as 'The Old Bank' or 'Soane's Bank' (then regarded as one of London's architectural gems) and built a new headquarters for the Bank on the same 3 ½ acre Theadneedle Street site." Unfortunately, not the right answer! ONE MORE...
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Re: Gumbo's Pic of the Day, February 14, 2015: Maple Leaf Gardens, Toronto
Dark chocolate is good for you Garry I actually don't watch hockey much anymore, although from time to time I'll try to catch a game in person. As with many sports, watching it on the tube doesn't do it justice. You need to see a game in person to appreciate the action, the speed of the sport, the skill in passing and stick handling. Done properly, I think it's one of the world's greatest spectator sports.
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Re: Iceland's new attraction: tunnel into a glacier
Glaciers are constantly moving, and not all parts at the same rate! Makes you wonder how they plan on keeping the tunnel safe and in good condition all the time?
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Re: Where in the World is TravelGumbo (#72)
Other cities with at least two distinct rail mass transit systems (excluding trams) include Barcelona, New York, and London. So...where is Gumbo? The rest of yesterday's clue should help...in fact each of my comments contains a piece of the puzzle...
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Re: Welcome to the town of Dawson City, Yukon
That's the nature of gold boom towns, PHeymont. I believe another gold vein had been found in Alaska near the mouth of the mighty Yukon River, and most of the Klondike prospectors flowed downriver to it. I've been fascinated by the Klondike gold rush since I was a school boy in Canada, reading the writing of Pierre Burton (famous Canadian author, former resident of Dawson City, whose father was one of those who came here during the Klondike Gold Rush and unlike most stayed in Dawson). On the...
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Re: Marriott to offer free wi-fi to all its Rewards member
It makes me wonder who they think is their target upgrader. In this age of data plans, most people who want or need fast access already have it. It seems to me not a very well thought out marketing plan. Having it free for everyone would make them more in goodwill than a few paying for it. For those, like me, who are more annoyed by the ploy than I need the service, it's definitely a losing proposition.
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Re: Marriott to offer free wi-fi to all its Rewards member
When you have a high-speed data plan on the phone, it can get eaten quickly when used as a hotspot, especially when the whole family is on devices! But if these chains want to be viewed by their customers the way many people view Spirit Airlines...they're on the right track!
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Re: Tupelo, Mississippi. Birthplace of the King of Rock 'n Roll
Great piece of living history DrF. I think I'd have to follow your plan of attack and travel without my p.a. She's not a fan of modern music ! I love anyone who spells Theatre correctly, and gives me new ways to describe being "skint" "before their deteriorating financial conditions (“dirt poo") forced them to move elsewhere"
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Re: For those who hate Heathrow, Gatwick plans new allure
Gatwick, if selected, will have much better transportation than now; in fact, they are committed to building it even with one runway. Every 2.5 minutes, into Central London. DrF: Gatwick is hoping this will bring some North American flights again; US Airways was the last North American carrier into Gatwick, and they stopped in 2009, sucked into the great vacuum of Heathrow. Gatwick used to have a lot of N. America business back when restrictive legislation limited the number of their flights...
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Re: For those who hate Heathrow, Gatwick plans new allure
There is no problem with London City, I wasn't suggesting expansion. Au contraire, and for those who can use it, it's the best.
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Re: New Eurostar Service, London - Provence
And if you fly to Marseille and take the train to London, you avoid Heathrow and the British APD!
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Re: New Eurostar Service, London - Provence
Sorry Paul but you've lost me ! If you fly to Marseilles and take the 760 mile train journey to London you'll avoid the APD. True. But that will cost you more than the APD and you'll waste a day. You dont see much from the window on a train doing 186 MPH. Be aware that the nation with the most heavily taxed European passengers is France, where over 60% of airport and passenger charges are in the form of state taxes to be paid by the passenger.
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Re: New Eurostar Service, London - Provence
Aside from a chance to take another jab at Heathrow, my point was that if you wanted to visit both London and Provence, you might save a bit by making London last, rather than first.
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Re: Cruising down the Nile (part 2)
Hi Karl - sorry for a delayed reply. We booked onto a Thompson Holidays trip out of London and were very satisfied with the whole experience, including value for money. We chose the "all inclusive" option and were very pleased with the quality of their wines etc. The boat was very clean and well maintained, all the crew cheery and pleasant, the food good and plentiful (buffets). There were a good number of "included" trips to temples whilst other trips were extras (Abu Simbel and Cairo for...
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Re: Where in the World is TravelGumbo (#126)
I think I know where this is, as I plan to go to the area in September and looked at relevant websites yesterday, hence I think I have the answer. Unfortunately, I cannot e-mail it to suggestions@travelgumbo.com. , as my server is down for repairs.
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Re: Your TSA Approved Locks Won't Keep Thieves Out
I assume locks on suitcase are like locks on our doors, as someone installing one at my house once said, to "keep honest people out". Or maybe just slowing down the dishonest ones, although not by much, I'm sure, in either case. A better plan might be to have nothing of value to such people where they can take it. The highest probability of theft from our bags seems to be from the baggage handlers. I wonder how they choose bags to go through? Maybe by size, the smaller the bag, the less...
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Re: The Historic Fort and Town of Galle, Sri Lanka
DrFumblefinger, then you should absolutely spend some time in Galle next time you visit Sri Lanka! GarryRF, the plan was originally to go to Unawatuna (30 min away) staying there and doing a day trip to Galle. But after doing a little bit research online, we found out that Unawatuna would not fit us, and ended up doing the opposite. On our daytrip to Unawatuna we certainly got confirmed that staying in Galle was a much better option. See my thought about that on...
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Re: How do you see Airbnb? The Times keeps track.
The most negative feelings I've seen expressed online directed at Airbnb have been on forums, almost all from those not adventuresome enough to try it but who consider themselves "in the know". I think it must be terribly frustrating for those who'd like us to think they know everything, but who know nothing but hearsay about what's really become a movement. I've been verbally turned on when I've posted anything positive, accused of shilling for the site, among other imaginary sins. I always...
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Re: Church of the Holy Spirit, Heidelberg (Where Gumbo Was #125)
Actually, I do know of another, and it’s been featured on TravelGumbo! But that was a different sort of division. St. Helen’s Bishopsgate, in London, has two parallel naves; one was used by the lay parish congregation, and the other by the nuns of the adjoining convent. The division there was by a ceiling-high curtain running the length of the church. The original blog was for Where in the World #23, almost a year and a half ago! Here's the LINK
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Re: Visiting Cuba.
It's similar rules for people like me coming from the Caribbean into Cuba. I flew via Panama and I was surprised how easy the process was entering Cuba given some horror stories I have heard. I planned my entire trip, thankfully with the help of locals. The only stress was getting an internal flight from Santiago back to Havana before we arrived (which I tried to do the minute we arrived). After a week of trying I finally scored the last two seats on the last flight out before our connecting...
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Re: Airline scheduling: Hurry up and wait, or run like crazy?
Of course the king of "Banking" for years has been Icelandic Air. They have made their whole business plan around bringing planes from 10 different North American cities in the morning and having those same planes fly out to 10 different European cities 1-2 hours after landing. This allows 10 plane loads of passengers the ability to mix and match origins and destinations. Then in the afternoon they do the reverse run. For 2-4 hours a day the terminal is full as passengers switch planes, the...
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Re: Heathrow Airport Will Show Live Costs and Times to Central London
I wonder why not the tube, as well, I'm guessing the most popular option of all. Considering tube stations have screens for "next train" arrivals, it seems it would be a simple extension to give that information along with those 2 more expensive options. I've paid for speed on the Heathrow Express train, only to have it stuck along the way, making the slower/cheaper Heathrow Connect train or the tube the best option all-around.
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Re: France to Send 120 Extra Police to Secure Channel Tunnel
Did the tunnel last Friday - Paris to London and back same day. No trouble, but was very concerned there might be having read about tires being set on fire on the tracks. The migrant issue hadn't occurred yet. That's new. But I wonder why the French government didn't do a damn thing about the tire burning. Ah, it was a union issue - no wonder.
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Re: November 1, 2019: London Colors
The lead picture today reminded me of a painting I'd seen in an exhibition: Piccadilly Circus, London by L.S. Lowry shows the same building, with part of it already a giant billboard in 1960.
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Re: Brits still in love with long-haul holidays
I can get an 11 hour flight from the UK to Cuba, Airport transfers, All inclusive Resort on the Beach and evening Entertainment. 2 weeks in June. Same price as I pay for a return Flight only to New York - 6 Hours. $1250 US. I'll be responsible when the UK Prime Minister gets the Train from London to Brussels instead of Flying.
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Re: Traveling Essentials for Everyone
Don't forget to notify your credit card company where and when you will be traveling. Many companies today will suspend your card if you use it outside of your normal places leaving you in a financial bind in your new country. In London I had my bank debit card captured by the ATM for suspected fraud. Also, I suggest a camera with a big zoom lens since many great photo opportunities don't allow you to get close to the attraction.
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Re: Monumental Madrid
I've never been to Madrid, a drive-through in 1966 doesn't count. When the world seems a good place to wander again I plan to go. Thanks for the preview.
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Re: Carnival ending free room service
UPDATE: Carnival announced on January 7 that it has canceled plans to charge for room service for items ordered before 10 pm. A Carnival spokesperson said the line is "making some adjustments to that plan to balance the interests of our guests with our efforts to reduce food waste costs. For the time being, there will be no changes until we finalize a plan that will be communicated to guests and travel agency partners alike."
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Re: April 27, 2019: Pride of Spitalfields
Did you try the ESB? It's my favourite - but difficult to get on draught outside the London area.
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Re: Ryanair boss: We'll crush German competitors
Most of Mr O'Leary's predictions are just attention seeking and looking for free advertising. If you look on you tube you'll see a list of his comedy acts and predictions for Ryanair from the past years. A very successful man with an Irish sense of humour.
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Re: The Murals of Winnipeg Pt 1
You are correct. I was there mid April and there was a light dusting of snow falling. I will be back in the fall or new year again and plan on checking out more murals for a part 2.
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Re: The Murals of Winnipeg Pt 1
Thank you. If my schedule is good I will be back to Winnipeg in the fall sometime and plan to do more for a part 2.
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Re: Flying Emirates Business Class: a review
A small taste of self indulgence. Reminds me of a TV ad. "Because I'm worth it" On a First Class BA flight from London - San Francisco the only problem I had was staying awake. Not paying all that money for a good sleep ! OK - I paid for a Round - the - World Ticket but the first flight was overbooked. It pays to be well dressed in economy. But I would have enjoyed the Black Forest Gateau you had instead of my French Champagne.
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Re: February 3, 2016: Another Notre Dame Cathedral
Amazing pictures. I have been to the Notre Dame in Paris but not this one. We are heading to Canada this year, but only to Vancouver. Will have to plan another to see this beautiful building. Thanks for sharing.
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Re: Gumbo's Pic of the Day, October 24, 2015: Poppies -- Weeping Window at Woodhorn
I bought a Poppy in September this year from a Vietnam Vet in Easton MD. I commented on his cap with the dates on - and he removed his jacket to show me his T-shirt with his Division and Da Nang and a host of other cities where he fought. Had some amazing stories to tell. There should have been a crowd watching him, but just me. In 2015 a total of 888,246 hand made ceramic Poppy's were placed at Tower Bridge London to remember the number of men who fell in battle 1914 - 1918. The Poppy was...
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Re: Walking the Burgundy Canal
Every walk is different, of course, so planning, for someone like me who isn't a distance walker, is essential. I can walk comfortably up to about 10 miles with my little pack, more if I must but try to avoid it, so there's no rush in the morning to be out early. I enjoy a leisurely breakfast and head out mid-morning. I'm never in the position of looking for a place to overnight because I've reserved in advance, either well in advance or at least a day or 2, knowing where I'll be. In France...
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Re: Are ATM's at European airport going to cost you more?
I'm working on a series right now for TG about planning a trip outside the US. One of the items I plan to discuss is arriving with no cash and using an airport ATM on arrival versus buying a starter amount of currency through an online dealer. I haven't made up my mind but the online currency vendor I'm thinking of using just got points for non-usurious rates.
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Re: Are ATM's at European airport going to cost you more?
Jonathan, do you have a link for the AAA card you mention. This is the one I found: http://www.aaa.com/AAA/Financi..._Travel_Card_FAQ.pdf It charges a 3% foreign transaction fee and it can't be used in some countries I plan to visit. Maybe there's a newer version?
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Re: Images of Yorkshire
Hi Paul. Did you plan to catch those photos at the right time - or was it a spur of the moment "stop the car" ? Either way they are amazing pictures !
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Re: Lodi Garden, Delhi (Where Gumbo was #162)
Dear Karl - A beautiful sequence of images. I especially enjoyed seeing all the space(s) that you moved into and through and gave to your armchair companions through your fine images. Thank you. I plan to share your experience with my friend Ximena, who is planning to travel to India next year with a group of women friends. All my very best to you, Neil
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Re: Britain's #1 attraction: The British Museum
Another "Best of Britain" survey that doesn't see beyond London. The Albert Dock in Liverpool has 6.3 Million visitors per annum - and not a mention. The Albert Dock is a UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE.
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Re: Mar. 31, 2016: Cherry Blossoms, Washington, D.C.
Love all these pictures. We have been to D.C. a few times,but never in the spring. Seeing this post reminds me that I need to plan a future trip in March or April sometime. Thanks for sharing these amazing photos.
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Re: Improving airline food: Do you hunger for umami?
It is very good to know that the airlines are still trying to improve the "customer experience". I rather like airline food. Perhaps my expectations are low, but I find it a modern miracle that food arrives at my lap at 35,000 feet. What a luxury to sit in a metal tube, examining each bit of the meal, while, outside of the window, I know that the immediate environment is not survivable. Hurray for overcooked mystery meat and somewhat bland chicken. A good dose of umami fixes that. Say,...
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Re: Where Gumbo Was #3 and #3.5: Vernon and Paris
Gets to be an interesting subject when explored Medieval London Bridge - from an engraving in Eton College
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Re: Sometimes a Trip is just a Walk in the Park
Garry's note about Olmsted's travels (and he was quite a traveler) set me off on a quick look to find the park he was referring to (which I didn't; apparently "people's garden" was a description rather than a name?) and found that Liverpool has more parks and especially top-class parks than any British city besides London. The article also mentioned that for reasons of health—and keeping social unrest down—the city commissioners set out on a park-building spree starting about 1833. Many...
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Re: Where in the World is Gumbo? (11/20/13)
It's been a great game, Gumbo fans, and you've now pinned it to the wall. Tuesday morning's post will confirm your correct answer, with more details. It was fun playing with the group. In answer to the question: I've only been to Kaliningrad twice, both times on paper. Most recently, I was reading Tatiana, and was struck by Smith's comments on the rebuilding of churches, partly as vanity projects of the new capitalist class. When I came to the chapter in which Renko is attacked at the...
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Re: Gumbo's Pic of the Day, Jan. 26, 2014: Big City, Small Details
For another urban perspective, from Pheymont's details to the photographs of Michael Wolf's Hong Kong, large scale " Architecture of Density ", currently at Flowers Gallery, London. Don't neglect to click on "#39" on the gallery page for more images.
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Re: Gumbo's Pic of the Day, Jan. 26, 2014: Big City, Small Details
Unbelievable density...unimaginable to me to live in such a tight space. It started a discussion here at home on the viability of cities, whether we could, with Marge Piercy, look forward to a future where cities do not exist—or to a future where, free of some of the economic and political structures of today, we could guarantee cities that are a pleasure to live in. In the meantime...I wish I could be in London to see these pictures at gallery size.