Twenty days and counting

Garry and I are cramming in a few final highlights before we depart London for good. We've debated the merits of various restaurants and West End shows, as well as a few seasonal sights such as the picturesque ice rink at Somerset House. The number of missing experiences we're able to list after five years here is rather surprising; and varied. This weekend's outings alone proved a rather eclectic mix.

Last night we caught the train down to Kew Gardens for dinner at the french-style The Glasshouse. I has a business dinner scheduled here on the night that Garry's appendix burst. Instead of enjoying a Michelin star meal I found myself frantically paging the resident on duty as Garry writhed in agony. My boss later took took pity on me and arrange a dining voucher that ultimately funded much of last night's bill. The meal was trully heavenly. We both ordered the venison main course and loved it.


Today we ventured into Oxford Street to make the most of an early sale at a popular hiking and outdoor emporium. We bought all of our last minute gear for Antarctica including warm socks, waterproof gloves and thermal underwear. We're now kitted out and ready to go penguin spotting. Afterwards we finished our outing with a look at the annual Christmas Lights along Oxford Street . This year's theme is quintessentially British thanks to a series of umbrella's hovering over the street.

Next weekend we've booked a table at Tom's Kitchen, a new Brasserie that recently in Somerset House. We thought that enjoying a hearty meal as ice skaters glide by would be a magical winter experience we're unlikely to replicate in Sydney.

UPDATE: November 22
The Met Office is warning of possible snow showers next weekend. Our forthcoming winter wonderland experience at Somerset House may end up being more authentic than originally anticipated.