...Big Ben's no slouch either.

We have arrived - safe and sound - sleep is for the weak. Mom and I had predicted we would sleep for a full 6.5 hours on the plane... in reality, more like an hour tops!

That didnt slow us down today! We arrived in London at 11am (local... so, 6am Toronto time) and took to the streets right away. Our hotel looks across Westminster Bridge, with stunning sights of Big Ben, the Parliament buildings and the beautiful London Eye.

We walked from our hotel over Westminster Bridge and gawked at the enormity of the old-world splendor. London doesnt disappoint. We felt like we were walking on the set of dozens, if not hundreds of thousands of movies with London as the backdrop. It was certainly surreal, and thrilling.

Highlights of the day:

- walking up and down the Shopping district (including Oxford, Regent, and Carnaby) - Aunt Lynn, we found Liberty... but could afford no purchases, not even a hanky.

- However, we have managed to buy 2 pants, a skirt, a wallet, a blouse and a vintage style dress between the two of us. Pretty good for day one!

- Experienced 'The Tube' (and a public toilet... no comment)

- Had dinner in a hoity-toit French restaurant

- About to walk the banks of the Thames and see London lit up at night!

Pictures to come...

We are safe, we are well, we are looking forward to crashing in our fresh linens for the first time in a few days... uninterrupted by babies and fast moving plane-food carts.