Peter had a taxi booked for 8.00am this morning, so we definitely weren't going to be late. But in saying that, we really didn't do very much sitting around at the airport. The cost of the taxi was the same as the bus and the taxi works exclusively for the hotel. I would think it would be a pretty good business, just going backwards and forwards to Heathrow for 10 pound a trip. The taxi driver came from Afghanistan in 2001 and loves living in England.

We did the Vat business thing, after we got rid of the cases. The scales we purchased in Tavistock have been a good investment, although you can have 30 kgs with Singapore Airlines. Does that mean I can have a shop in Singapore? 

We had a really nice breakfast, rang Barbara to say a final farewell and once our gate number came up on the screen, set off on our 15 minute walk to our departure lounge. Heathrow is an amazing airport. Down a huge, steep escalator that had even had emergency stop buttons on the side. Then across a number of walk elevators and then up another steep elevator!

We have 12 hours and 5 minutes flying time to Singapore. A number of people have previously asked us and we have said about 14 hours. With these larger aircraft the flying time is decreasing. I always marvel at how these planes get in the air with all these passengers and all that luggage. Not to forget the huge weight of the aircraft! Peter has looked up that there was at least 500 passengers on the aircraft.

The sun went down on this flight, just after 3.30pm London time. By 4.00pm it was completely dark and they had dimmed the lights in the cabin, hoping I guess passengers would think about sleeping. I don't feel tired, so I'll keep tapping and catching up on blogs. We will have about 8 hours of flying in the darkness. We are flying at 1035 kph ground speed, an altitude of 35,000 feet (10668 m) and the distance from London to Singapore is 11,381 kms.

As we say 'Goodbye' to England, the English Batten's and Johnny B's 'Old Country', it is with a degree of sadness. We have had the most amazing holiday and the visit to the relatives was a very special part of it. God willing....maybe we will be back.  

Our grateful 'Thanks' once again to you all. Your hospitality was amazing and we have so many special memories to take back to 'Aussie' land and the Batten family back there. Cheers, our best wishes and love to you all. The following very special snaps will make a cherished chapter in my printed book of memories.