Day 18

Another relaxed start ... in town by mid-morning ... and skipped to the front of the fast track queue at Madame Tussauds with our pre-purchased tickets that we'd picked up at the London eye yesterday. If you're visiting any of these big attractions you can usually skip the long queues by booking on-line or buying tickets from other sources ... which rocks! Doesn't save you from the crowds inside but. Spent about an hour and a half checking out the various wax movie/pop stars, sports heros, royals, politicians and historical figures, as well as a few what we assumed we're B grade UK celebs we didn't recognise - the old reality TV show type stars.

Then headed our seperate ways for the afternoon - Jim off to do the Wimbledon tour while I decided to stay in town and check out some more of the shops. London definitely has more range at the Glassons-end of the fashion market but if you're spending NZ dollars I think you have to be bit more discerning with your purchases. That said I've now officially brought more shoes than I left NZ with - as well as my boots in Roma, a couple of pairs of flats (including the all impt metallic pair required for summer) and some nice peep-toes with a low heel from Shelleys. A couple of tops, a summer skirt and a new handbag also helping to bulk out the suitcase.

After a rest we headed back out to catch up with Neil and Robyn, ex work buddies from Wellie who have come over to make the big bucks for a couple of years, (for those who don't know) for dinner and drinks. Our second London pub with a Thai menu ... cool old pub though ... and good company so we had an enjoyable few hours catching up on the goss.