Chapter 9
London and Beyond
Ashley and Jessica’s seven-hour flight landed in London at six thirty in the morning. They were both geared up in spite of getting little sleep. When Ashley was in England for orientation, she took a train from Heathrow Airport directly to Oxford and didn’t spend any time in the city.
Today they were taking a cab from the airport to their hotel in London.
They had the option of the Tube but weren’t fond of the idea of lugging their luggage through the Underground when they really had no idea how to get there.
Ashley was planning to rent a car at the kiosk at the hotel.
Driving after flying overnight, in uncharted territory, with the wheel on the opposite side of the car, and driving on the opposite side of the road, would definitely be a test of her aptitude.
She willingly acknowledged she had none.
As the cab maneuvered through traffic, Ashley began to question whether or not renting a car was the most prudent idea.
“Mom, would you mind if we altered our plans a bit?”
“What do you mean?”
“Instead of driving everywhere, perhaps we take a train from town to town until we get to Birmingham. I’d feel more confident driving where there isn’t this much traffic.”
Jessica looked out at the hundreds of cars zipping in and out of lanes. “I think you make a good point.”
Ashley breathed a sigh of relief. She pulled out her phone and checked the rail lines from London to Cambridge, from Cambridge to Nottingham, then to Manchester and Birmingham.
“It will take us an extra hour each day, but I think I’d be much more comfortable.
I’m already anxious enough about everything. ”
“Well, then we can reduce yours and mine.” Jessica let out a sigh of relief.
“Not that I don’t trust your driving ability, but we’ll both be more comfortable.
This is an extremely big deal for me too.
” She patted Ashley’s thigh, something she had done since childhood in order to comfort her daughter.
Ashley squeezed her mother’s hand. “I know and I apologize for being rather self-centered about all of this.”
“It’s understandable.” Jessica squeezed back.
Ashley turned to her mother. “You are quite remarkable. Do you know that?”
“I’ve had my suspicions,” Jessica ribbed.
Both women began to yawn and apologized to the driver. “Sorry.”
The cabbie looked into the rearview mirror. “No worries. I see it happen every day.” The man appeared to be in his late fifties and wore a newsboy cap.
The two women weren’t sure if they should continue to engage in conversation with the man. The British had a lot of rules of etiquette, but he invited more chatter when he asked, “How long are yer staying in London?”
Jessica answered, “Two days now, then we are going to see part of the country and return to London for the New Year’s celebration.”
“Aye. What part of the country?”
Ashley laid out their itinerary, and Jessica proudly added, “Ashley will be attending Oxford. She is doing research in Comparative Literature.”
“Well, blow me tight! We have a brain box in our midst!”
Jessica and Ashley looked at each other and grinned. They had a lot of slang to learn.
In the distance they were able to spot the London Eye, the iconic landmark of modern London. “Yer hotel is across the way. It’s quite remarkable. I suggest you make a reservation in advance.”
Jessica caught her breath. “I think I might skip that attraction.”
“Naw. It’s like a pod. Fits about twenty-eight, twenty-nine people. More like an observation deck.”
“I’ll wait for the movie,” Jessica said in jest.
“Movie?” the cabbie asked and then realized Jessica was being funny.
The driver began to point out a few of the famous historical sites.
As they approached Westminster, the grand facade of Buckingham Palace stood majestically before them.
Adorned with ornate stonework and a central balcony, it is one of the most recognized buildings in all of Europe, where countless historic events and ceremonies have taken place.
Surrounded by beautiful gardens and featuring the famous wrought-iron gates, the Palace is both a working royal home and a symbol of the United Kingdom’s rich history and tradition.
Not far from Buckingham Palace stands Westminster Abbey, an architectural masterpiece with soaring Gothic arches, and intricate stained-glass windows. For centuries it has been the site of royal coronations, weddings, and funerals, including grand tombs that honor monarchs, poets, and statesmen.
The cabbie mentioned another historic landmark, the Tower of London, which looms along the River Thames. Its storied walls have witnessed centuries of intrigue and drama, serving as a fortress and an infamous prison.
Jessica had a bit of a shiver. “I don’t know if I want to see the darker side of the city.”
The cabbie chuckled. “For every piece of glory, there is an equal amount of gloom.”
“You don’t suppose it’s because of all the rain?” Jessica asked.
“That could explain a lot of things,” the cabbie snorted.
As the car moved closer to the hotel, Jessica caught sight of Big Ben towering above the Houses of Parliament.
The iconic clock tower, with its bold face and resonant chimes, is internationally recognized as a symbol of London.
Standing watch over the city since the mid-nineteenth century, Big Ben has marked historic moments and daily life alike, with its bells echoing through the streets and across the Thames.
“You’re lucky you’re visiting us now. Big Ben was silent for five years while they renovated the Elizabeth Tower. That’s the actual name of the building which houses the clock. Now you can hear it chime every hour and four smaller bells chime every quarter of the hour.”
“I presume it continues throughout the night?” Jessica asked.
“Right-o. But ye get used to it.” The driver pulled the vehicle in front of the hotel. Ashley paid him and gave him a handsome tip. He helped with their luggage as a young bellman greeted them.
“Welcome! I’ll take your bags inside for you.” He had a refined English accent.
“I could get used to their accents,” Jessica whispered to her daughter.
Ashley smiled at the bellhop. “Thank you,” she said, and followed the young man to the reception desk where he patiently waited a few feet away.
The sleek modern hotel was in vast contrast to the historical buildings surrounding the area. It was only a few minutes’ walk to the River Thames and less than half a mile to the world-renowned museum, Tate Britain. Westminster Abbey was also within walking distance.
Once they were checked in, the bellman escorted them to their room, where they had a view of Big Ben. “This is very exciting,” Jessica cooed as she looked for more historical sights.
“Mom, you are a perfect tourist,” Ashley teased.
“Oh hush.” Jessica pulled out a few pounds and handed them to the bellman.
“Thank you. If there is anything I can do, please do not hesitate to ring up reception. Enjoy your stay,” he said as he backed out of the room.
Ashley flung herself on top of one of the beds. “I’m glad we decided to stay here; the hotel is central to everything. Although, we’re not going to be able to cover too much ground in two days. I’m glad we plan to come back.”
“Speaking of our return”—Jessica paused before she spilled the beans—“I booked us a suite for when we get back.”
“You did what?” Ashley shot up from her prone position.
“Since it is our last few nights together, and it will be New Year’s Eve, I wanted something really special. We can spread out and enjoy the view, including a majestic fireworks display. I also made a reservation at The Rubens overlooking Buckingham Palace.”
Ashley’s eyes welled up. “Oh, Mom. You did all of this when I wasn’t paying attention?” She bounded over to her mother to give her a big hug. “You are the best.”
“You can also thank your father. He’s footing most of the bill.” Jessica grinned from ear to ear. “So, my darling, do you want to take a nap or get something to eat?”
“Can I do both?” Ashley let out a big yawn.
“We could order room service,” Jessica suggested.
“Nah. Let’s go downstairs But first, let’s rest a bit. Then we can go get a bite and see some sights.”
“Brilliant!” Jessica exclaimed.
“You’re starting to sound like a fine English woman,” Ashley teased.
“I have to make a quick call and then I’ll doze.
” She tapped the numbers. “Hello, Duncan? It’s Ashley.
” She paused. “Yes, we’ve made it over the pond.
We’re in London now and then plan to take a madcap ride through the hills and dales of merry old England.
” She listened then chuckled. “I originally thought about driving the entire map I’ve drawn, but we decided to take the train for the first half of our journey.
We’ll pick up a car in Manchester, and I shall do my best to stay on the proper side of the road.
” She chuckled again and listened while Duncan said a few words.
“The plan is to arrive in Oxford on the twenty-sixth, get myself sorted, and then return to London to welcome the New Year.” Ashley was nodding as she listened. “That would be lovely, but I don’t want to put you out.”
Jessica pretended not to eavesdrop, but she couldn’t help but notice the delight in Ashley’s voice.
“Then it’s settled. I shall ring you when we arrive in Oxford.” Ashley nodded and smiled. “Me as well. Have a very merry. Cheers!” Ashley was all aglow.
“Duncan?” Jessica asked coyly.
“He’s one of my classmates. I met him when I was here for orientation. He’s a year ahead and is going to be my mentor. Supervisor.” Ashley attempted to conceal her enthusiasm. “He offered to help me get organized when we arrive in Oxford.”
“That’s very thoughtful.” Jessica was relieved that Ashley made a connection with someone at her college. “Tell me more,” Jessica prodded.
“Not much else to tell.” Ashley didn’t want to tell her mother that Duncan was rather cute, in a nerdy, professorial way.