Monday, April 12, 2010

London

I spent a lot of time in London because I had a business associate located there and because it was often a layover when traveling to the Middle East. My business associate had two Rolls Royce and would always pick me up at Heathrow. After a long flight, it is very nice to have a Rolls Royce waiting for you at the door as you exit the terminal. The first time we met he handed me a paid membership card in my name to an exclusive casino favored by the royal family. Black tie!

Me and a friend from Tokyo at Hard Rock Cafe Grand Opening
Changing Of The Guard


Around Town
In my friends Rolls











On The Tube 
Don't mind me mate,
while I tunnel into the Palace

One of my drivers.
John knew all of the non-tourist hot spots.







The "Bullet Train"
The "Bullet Train" broke down halfway between London and Paris. It was still a good way to travel between Paris and London and see some of the city and countryside.



































The "Ritz" London

Not to be confused with a "Ritz Carlton" which are real luxury hotels! This was one of the worst hotel experiences I have had in thirty years of international travel. I booked a suite at this hotel because someone said It was a national landmark built around 1900. Their attitude and service were terrible! The place was worn, filthy and the staff looked like they got their uniforms from a charity. Of course the food was terrible, cold and leftover. I checked out first thing in the morning and moved to a real luxury hotel where I stayed for a week. I had planned on staying at the "Ritz" in Paris but changed my planes as a result of my London experience. I stayed at "George V" in Paris which is a truly great hotel and became my hotel whenever in Paris. Of course "George V" is part of the Four Seasons Hotels which explains the luxury and attention to detail with impeccable service. 










More photos being edited and in process of posting!