UK Trip 23 April to 12 May 2024
In the early stages of planning my retirement travels, my wife and I initially intended to visit Switzerland. However, my cousin, who was also retiring around the same time, suggested that we instead travel to the UK to visit our relatives in the Cotswolds. She proposed that we later continue our journey to Scotland. My wife and I loved the idea and decided to change our plans and join them on this exciting adventure. We had planned the trip since October 2023.
My wife (in black), my cousin, and I at Changi Airport
On board SQ308 reached Heathrow airport on 23 April after 13 hours flight
Embarking on our journey on 23 April 2024, aboard flight SQ308 bound for Heathrow Airport in London, we enjoyed a smooth and pleasant flight. Upon touchdown, we were welcomed by the chauffeur of the taxi service, who whisked us away to the home of our gracious hosts, Kak Leha and her husband, Tony King at Tetbury, UK.
Meeting Kak Leha was a delightful experience filled with warmth and hospitality. She welcomed us with open arms into her lovely home. Kak Leha's genuine smile and kind demeanor instantly made me feel at ease. It felt like Kak Leha had been a long-time friend, even though it was our (my wife and I) first meeting with her and her husband, Tony. Their warm welcome instantly made us feel at home from the moment we walked in the door.
With Kak Leha in her beautiful home
The time spent together was filled with laughter and the joy of bonding with newfound relatives. Kak Leha, also known as Saleha Salim King, is related to my cousin Mariam through a unique family connection. Mariam's mother, who was my father's younger sister, was adopted by a relative of Kak Leha's family. This intricate family history enriches our relationship.
My cousin, Mariam, and her husband, Aswan
Our rented car, Subaru Outback SUV, while staying in Tetbury
On the second day of our stay, I picked up our rented car, a 9-month-old Subaru Outback SUV. I was thrilled with the choice. The car's comfort made driving a pleasure, and my passengers enjoyed the smooth ride to our destinations.
Daily interactions at breakfast table
During our 12-day stay at the King’s residence, we had a wonderful time with Kak Leha and her husband Tony. We enjoyed daily breakfast chats, sharing jokes, and creating cherished memories. Kak Leha acted as our local guide, leading us through some of the most popular villages in the Cotswolds, including Malmesbury, Bibury, Burford, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Stow-on-the-Wold. We also explored famous shopping destinations like Bicester Village and Swindon.
Ready for a morning walk with Tony. Nice weather in Spring
A visit to a beautiful Cotswold village in Bibury, a short drive from Tetbury.
Arlington Row in Bibury
Trout Farm in Bibury
Trout Farm in Bibury
Stow-on-the-Wold
Stratford-upon-Avon, a town where the famous writer, William Shakespeare was born and is buried
Birthplace of William Shakespeare
Bath, a city in the ceremonial county of Somerset, known for and named after its Roman-built baths
Memory shot with the Kings in Cardiff
On the sixth day, we visited Sophia King, our host’s daughter, in Cardiff. Kak Leha and Tony accompanied us, with Tony impressively driving his customized vehicle using hand controls for acceleration and brakes. Like her parents, Sophia was incredibly hospitable and gave us a delightful tour of Cardiff.
Behind us is the Senedd Building in the former Cardiff docks
Sophia’s residence in Cardiff
Cardiff Castle
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Cardiff Castle
On 3 May 2024, we took a cab to London and stayed for two nights. This wasn't my wife's first visit; she had lived in the UK for three years in the '90s. Thanks to her familiarity with the city, I had the fortune of having a personalized guide for my maiden visit to London.
My cousin and her husband had also been to London quite frequently. On our second day in the city, we decided to split up to explore and enjoy London on our way.
Portobello Road, London
Big Ben. The clock tower stands at the north end of the Palace of Westminster in London
Buckingham Palace. Unfortunately, it was closed at the time of our visit
Lovely morning walk at Hyde Park, London
We began our Scottish adventure on the 13th day of our UK trip, heading to King's Cross Train Station early on 5 May 2024. We picked up our rental car after a four-hour train journey to Edinburgh. We were pleasantly surprised to receive a complimentary upgrade to a brand-new Mercedes GLB200, making my first UK trip even more memorable.
The rented car at our first AirBnB accommodation in Briggers Brae, Scotland.
We drove north towards the Isle of Skye, stopping overnight in Fort William, Broadford, and Inverness. Along the way, we marveled at the stunning scenery and numerous lakes, enhancing our enjoyment of the journey.
On our way to the Isle of Skye. I am getting used to the nice weather with the cool breeze and I didn't need the jacket to enjoy the wonderful Spring.
One night stay at Onich Hotel in Fort William. Breakfast by the lake. Good company, nice weather, and beautiful scenery
On 10 May 2024, we took a train back to London and returned to the King's residence that same evening. We stayed at Kak Leha’s place for another two nights, enjoying the delightful meals and delving into more enriching conversations, before we departed for home on 12 May 2024. This collection of memories and experiences certainly created a journey we will always cherish.
My trip to the UK was a fantastic start to my retirement. From exploring the beautiful Cotswolds and Scottish Highlands to cherishing time with family, every moment was joyful and full of new experiences. This journey enriched my life with unforgettable memories and set the stage for more adventures in my retirement. I hope for good health to enjoy the remaining years of my life to the fullest.