July 11, 2008 - Gatwick, N. England -Arrived at London Gatwick Airport. Cleared customs and rented a car at Enterprise. Remember, drive on the LEFT! This is easier to say than to put into action. First the driver gets into the (US) passenger seat and reaches for the seatbelt that is on the other side. Then the manual shift lever is manipulated with the left hand. Driving on the left, after 40+ years of driving on the right, is very disorienting. The very simple task of turning a corner and driving in the correct lane is a constant mind game. Turning across traffic is really interesting. The whole experience is stressful and creates a minor headache. Click on pictures to enlarge.
Using the onboard GPS (essential tool) we drive north towards Shakespeare Country. Arriving in the North, we decide to try to view Warwick Castle. The castle is a huge group of structures surrounded by walls and at times water (moat). The history of England's castles is rich, with landlords building a social structure of power and control. Other monarchs and, at times, groups from other countries and sometimes just a group of dissidents would attempt to overthrow the landlord. To prevent his losing his power, he built first, wooden and then stone fortresses. The warring parties would also use new methods to gain control. As newer weapons were developed additional protection was required. Sometimes the conqueror just surrounded the castle and waited until the landlord ran out of money.
We spent the night at a local Holiday Inn (the only hotel with airconditioning). As Americans, travelling in Europe, we are seeing their revenge. The currency exchange rate is almost double. A simple 7.00 (pound or euro) meal costs us $14.00. Our $44.00/day rental car is $88.00/day in English dollars. The room rental is 65.00 pounds and will converrt to $135.00 US. It will be good to get on the boat and have the rest of the trip paid for in American currency.
For the photo album of the entire day, click on the link below: