Our First Day in Madrid

Mon (6 Aug 07) - Deb and I arrived at Hotel Vincci along the Gran Via, a busy shopping strip in Madrid. Luckily the hotel was near the Metro station, we were relieved to find it so quickly especially after getting on the Metro from the airport in the wrong direction!

Champagne time!

We went to see a Spanish costume display on the top level of a Spanish department store called El Corte Ingles (the English Cut).

Feeling hungry after our flight and the long train ride to the hotel.

We had an early paella dinner along the Gran Via.

At Puerto del Sol

At the Ham Museum - check out all the expensive hanging jamon.

At Plaza Mayor




We tried the Spanish beer "Cruzcampo" (sparkly beer that tasted like champagne).


Me trying to take arty shots like Garry!

Spanish band

Night view of Puerto del Sol

Buckingham Palace & London Eye

Sunday (5 Aug 07) - We visited Buckingham Palace with Deborah, and met up with Elisa & Caroline for the Thames River cruise and London Eye ride.

Garry and Deb mucking around with a bearskin hat whilst I was collecting tickets for Buckingham Palace.

Deb not looking too happy whilst waiting for security clearance.

In the Buckingham state room, where the Queen receives visiting dignatories and where honorary ceremonies are held.

Outside Buckingham Palace

In the back gardens of Buckingham Palace

A photo with the Bobby

At the main entrance of Buckingham Palace

Main balcony of Buckingham Palace - where the Royal Family greets the public

Striking a pose for Garry

Walking backwards was tricky for Deb!!

Deb wanted a photo with the red telephone booth - she is such a tourist!

Ready for the boat ride along the River Thames

In the boat with Elisa & Caroline

Boat going under the Blackfriar Bridge

Boat going under the Millenium Bridge

Boat going under the Tower Bridge

London Eye

Inside the capsule

View of Big Ben from our capsule


Saying goodbye to Elisa - her last night in London.

Oxo Tower behind us

Dinner at Oxo Tower


Garry was supposed to strike a silly pose too but he was too shy.

Yummy desserts

Night view of River Thames from Oxo Tower

Night view of St Paul's Cathedral