London is calling, answer it with a Virgin Atlantic air ticket

I was very fortunate to be one of the lucky Travel Counsellors to be part of South African group that headed off to the UK to attend our international conference in Telford. Flying direct to the UK from South Africa was a real treat. Hop-on and hop-off - it’s quick, easy and comfortable. Virgin Atlantic Economy cabin is both spacious and comfortable. The meals, entertainment and cabin crew are a pleasure. A new domestic airline is now operating within the UK, called Little Red. It is part of Virgin Atlantic, and I was privileged to experience it. A short 35 minute flight from London to Manchester, with a full bar service! Unheard of before! Seats are leather, spacious and comfortable. Our conference in Telford was inspiring and motivating. It was wonderful to celebrate achievements with new and old friends. Telford is a beautiful town in the West Midlands – definitely on my bucket list is to go back to this area. So beautiful, especially in autumn. But of course, any trip to the UK would not be complete without venturing into London. It is important to choose the right hotel in London. There are so many to choose from and it can get very daunting. Remember to discuss your needs and wants with me when deciding on a hotel. Factors when choosing a hotel in London: • Proximity to Tube station • Which tube station – remember, Piccadilly line is a direct line to Heathrow. So airport transport is quick and easy. • Size of hotel – remember larger hotels have groups, which can be noisy • Free Wi-Fi in rooms – this is important, as data bundles are expensive when travelling • Quality of room • Bathroom – Most hotels offer showers, some both showers and a bath. There is an endless list of things to see and do in London. My favourite would have to be Ripley’s Museum. It is a factual museum packed with unbelievable memorabilia and information. I literally spent hours there! Loads of fun for the whole family.

For a trip back in time, a visit to the Tower of London is a must. The Crown Jewels are so awe inspiring, and a treat to witness. Be sure to squeeze in a stop there.

Getting around London is both easy and affordable. The London Underground is easy and fun to navigate. You feel like a great adventurer when you work out a route which includes multiple lines, and you can hop across the city like a bouncing ball.

But, as easy as the Underground is, don’t be sucked into it. Be sure to get out in the open. Grab a raincoat (yes, you will need one) and walk the streets. You will be amazed at all the beauty you see between stations. From Russell Square, to Hyde Park, Notting Hill and Portobello Road, to Westminster Abby, Southbank and Covent Gardens. I thoroughly enjoyed my day out in the open. I met Santa, smiled at policemen on horseback in Hyde Park, grabbed a bite to eat from a street side café and experienced the winter Christmas market on the Southbank while eating warm roasted chestnuts.

Returning to South Africa was an absolutely amazing experience! Virgin Atlantic spoilt us with Upper Class (Business class) seats. This is definitely THE way to travel! French Champagne, flat beds, wonderfully catered food, dedicated cabin crew, pj’s, fluffy duvets and a soft pillow. The list is endless. Congratulations Virgin, you have spoilt me. This was my fifth trip to London, and I miss it already. I can’t wait to go back.

While trying to sum up how I felt after my trip, I came across this quote by Samuel Johnson; "Why, Sir, you find no man, at all intellectual, who is willing to leave London. No, Sir, when a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford."