Our Family Adventure: Flying to London and Exploring with Kids

Welcome to our family adventure as we embark on a journey from the sunny landscapes of Arizona and the lush beauty of Georgia to the bustling streets of London and beyond! We are a family of five, with our youngest member at just 9 months old, joining us for their very first flights as part of our full-time travel lifestyle.

For the past six months, we've been traversing the diverse landscapes and rich cultures within the United States, immersing ourselves in local communities and savoring every moment of this nomadic lifestyle. Now, we're extending our horizons across the Atlantic to Europe, starting with a short but exciting stop in London before heading to Italy.

Our goal as a family is not just to see the world but to immerse ourselves in it, to live among different cultures, and to create lasting memories that shape who we are as a family and as individuals. Traveling while our children are young allows us to experience the world through their curious eyes and to instill in them a love for exploration and discovery.

As we venture into London with kids aged 10, 3, and our littlest adventurer, we are embracing the concept of "slow travel." We've packed light, focusing on essentials that support our desire to live like locals, soaking in each destination's unique charm without the burden of excess baggage.

Join us as we share our tips, adventures, and heartwarming moments from our family journey. From navigating airports with young children to discovering hidden gems in London's vibrant neighborhoods, we're excited to show you how traveling as a family can be enriching, inspiring, and above all, unforgettable.

Let's embark on this adventure together, weaving our way through cultures, experiences, and the joy of being a traveling family discovering the world one step at a time.

Preparing for the Journey

After spending a month with family in Georgia, we took the time to carefully plan and pack for our international adventures. With a focus on "slow travel," we prioritized essentials that would support our nomadic lifestyle while keeping our suitcases light and versatile.

For our family of five, packing efficiently meant including a small but versatile wardrobe that could adapt to different climates and occasions. We also ensured we had homeschooling materials for our 10-year-old, preschool learning resources for our 3-year-old, and a collection of creative play items and convenient baby essentials for our youngest traveler.

In another blog post, we delve into the specifics of how we packed for slow travel, detailing our strategies for maximizing space without sacrificing comfort or functionality.

As we geared up for our red-eye flight, we prepared our kids’ backpacks with snacks and a few small toys to keep them entertained during the journey. However, our main goal was to create a comfortable environment for them to sleep during the flight, ensuring they were well-rested for our adventures in London and beyond.

Family-Friendly Accommodations

Our stay at the Moxy Hotel at Heathrow airport exceeded our expectations, starting from the moment we arrived at the property. Situated just a short shuttle ride away from the airport, the convenience factor was a huge plus, especially after a long flight with our young children.

Upon arrival at 7 am, earlier than our initial booking time, we were pleasantly surprised by the hotel's flexibility. As Marriott members, we were quickly checked into a spacious room, which was a relief after a tiring journey. The room featured a comfortable queen bed for us and a pull-out couch already made up for the kids, saving us the hassle of setting it up ourselves.

One of the highlights of our stay was the delicious hot breakfast offered in the lobby. While there was a nominal fee for guests aged 10 and older, the variety and quality of food far surpassed typical airport or fast-food options. We found ourselves returning for breakfast each day of our stay, appreciating the convenience and quality of the meals.

Requesting a baby bed was a breeze, with the hotel promptly delivering it to our room within minutes. This level of efficiency and attentiveness to family needs made our stay even more enjoyable.

A standout feature of the hotel was its security measures, including elevator access restricted to guests with room keys. This added layer of safety, especially for a mom traveling with kids, provided peace of mind throughout our stay.

The hotel's lobby area was a haven for both adults and kids alike, offering various games such as pool, jumbo Jenga, and foosball. The kids particularly loved the photo booth, adding a fun element to our downtime at the hotel. With these amenities conveniently located near the dining and bar areas, we appreciated the relaxed atmosphere that allowed us to enjoy meals at our own pace without feeling rushed.

Overall, we highly recommend the Moxy Hotel at Heathrow airport not only for families but for all travelers seeking a comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable stay near the airport.

Exploring London with Kids

Our time in London with our young adventurers was a blend of discovery, rain-soaked adventures, historical marvels, and cherished moments that we'll forever treasure.

Day 1: Trafalgar Square and Buckingham Palace

After a rejuvenating nap post-flight, we eagerly set out to explore London's iconic landmarks. Opting for public transport, we hopped on a bus to Charing Cross Station and seamlessly transitioned to the Elizabeth line, whisking us into the heart of the city. Our first stop was at the Blues & Royals coffee company, a local institution since 1947 that we chose over the Starbucks conveniently situated on the opposite corner, as we always prefer to support local businesses wherever we go.

From there, we navigated the bustling streets to Trafalgar Square, where M gleefully splashed about in rain puddles, reveling in the novelty of London's drizzly weather. While there, L, our oldest, couldn’t contain his excitement at the sight of the colossal lion statues guarding the Nelson's Column monument. As hunger beckoned, we found respite and delectable pastries at The Admiralty restaurant, tucked away at a charming corner near the square.

Our explorations continued past regal landmarks like St. James Palace and through The Green Park's serene pathways until we reached the majestic gates of Buckingham Palace. Though the kids half-expected a royal greeting, their disappointment was swiftly replaced by awe at spotting the unicorn statue perched atop the gates, a symbol of fantasy amidst historical grandeur. Our stroll also led us to the imposing monument dedicated to the Duke of Wellington and the nearby Wellington Arch, weaving history seamlessly into our London experience.

As tired feet and contented hearts led us back to our hotel, we couldn't help but marvel at the day's adventures and eagerly anticipate the wonders awaiting us in the days ahead.

Day 2: British Museum, Covent Garden, and Harry Potter Magic

Joined by our friends Dan and Sara, we embarked on a cultural odyssey at the renowned British Museum. L, our inquisitive 10-year-old, found himself captivated by the museum's vast collection, particularly immersing himself in the narratives of Roman and Greek artifacts. A chance encounter with an ancient chess set piqued his interest, enhancing his recently found passion for the game.

Despite a slight mix-up that led us to the British Museum instead of the National Army Museum (where Steven eagerly anticipated seeing the Skeleton of Napoleon's horse 'Marengo'), our day brimmed with fascination and shared moments of discovery.

Post-museum explorations led us through the lively streets of Covent Garden, where street performers captivated our attention before we set our sights on London's iconic landmarks. Quick snapshots at Big Ben and Westminster Abbey added to our photo collection, weaving history and modernity into a tapestry of experiences.

Our farewell with Dan and Sara at St. Pancras and Kings Cross stations culminated in a quintessential British experience — relishing fish and chips before bidding fond farewells and embarking on our next adventure.

As our day wound down, we couldn't resist a detour to experience a bit of Harry Potter magic. Making our way to King's Cross Station, we sought out the famous Platform 9 3/4. The excitement was palpable as we posed for photos, pushing a trolley "through" the platform's brick wall, capturing a moment of whimsy and nostalgia that resonated with both young and old.

Adjacent to the platform, the Harry Potter Shop beckoned with its enchanting displays of wizarding paraphernalia. From wands to house scarves, the shop transported us into J.K. Rowling's magical world, offering souvenirs that would forever remind us of our brush with Hogwarts.

Day 3: Tower of London and Departure

On our final day at the Moxy Hotel, we seamlessly transitioned to our new accommodation at the Hampton Inn near Stansted Airport, thanks to the convenience of services like Stasher, which ensured our luggage was safely stored as we roamed the city unencumbered.

Our afternoon commenced with a delightful lunch at Eataly, fueling us for a historical immersion at the Tower of London. Memories flooded back from my high school visit, now revisited with my own family, making it a poignant journey of reminiscence and new discoveries.

L was captivated by the animated 'Beefeater' tour, while Steven savored what he claims to be the best Scotch Egg he's ever tasted. The allure of the Crown Jewels exhibition and a quick snack rounded off our Tower experience.

A spontaneous detour to Tower Bridge added a picturesque finale, bridging the past with the present before we rushed to retrieve our luggage, ensuring we caught our train with mere minutes to spare, bidding adieu to London with a treasure trove of memories and a longing to return.

Our London escapade with the kids not only enriched us culturally but also strengthened our bonds as a family, reminding us that every journey is not just about the destinations but the beautiful moments shared along the way.

Dining Experiences

Our culinary adventures in London were a delightful blend of traditional flavors, international delights, and unexpected gastronomic discoveries that left us satiated and eager for more.

Breakfast and Dinner at the Moxy Hotel

The Moxy Hotel at Heathrow not only provided us with a comfortable stay but also tantalized our taste buds with its delicious offerings. Each morning, we indulged in a hearty breakfast spread at the hotel's dining area, relishing in options beyond the usual airport fare. While there was a nominal fee for guests aged 10 and older, the variety and quality of food made it a worthwhile experience. From freshly baked pastries to savory options, it was a great start to our days in London.

Dinner at the hotel was equally satisfying, with shared pizzas becoming our family favorite. The pizzas, while different from what we were accustomed to in America (much to M's surprise, no pineapple toppings!), offered unique flavors and ingredients that showcased London's culinary diversity. The prompt service and fresh ingredients also helped keep the kids happy and content after long days of exploring.

The Admiralty Restaurant near Trafalgar Square

Our culinary exploration led us to The Admiralty restaurant, nestled near the historic Trafalgar Square. The restaurant's charming decor, featuring mismatched chairs and themed paintings on the ceilings, added to its unique ambiance. While not a traditional table-service establishment, the friendly staff guided us to our seats, and ordering at the bar was a breeze. The food, focusing on traditional British fare, arrived promptly and was both flavorful and satisfying. The kids enjoyed the lively atmosphere, and we appreciated the convenient location after a day of sightseeing.

Pub Fare at Skinners Arms - Douglas Inn

A highlight of our dining experiences was indulging in authentic fish and chips at the Skinners Arms - Douglas Inn near St. Pancras train station. This cozy pub off the beaten path delivered piping hot and delicious fish and chips that left no leftovers on our plates. It was the quintessential pub experience that Steven had hoped for, complete with hearty servings and a warm ambiance.

Exploring Eataly near Liverpool Station

Near Liverpool Station, we discovered Eataly, a self-serve Italian gastronomic paradise. The vibrant atmosphere greeted us with different counters offering a variety of Italian delights like panini, pasta, pizza, arancini, salads, and more. A whimsical hallway adorned with sweets led us to the dessert section, where gelato, pastries, and coffee awaited. Upstairs, a full-service restaurant and grocery market offered a glimpse into Italy's culinary treasures. Despite an underwhelming Italian dinner experience elsewhere in the city, Eataly reignited our passion for Italian cuisine and left us eagerly anticipating our culinary adventures in Sicily the next day.

Our dining escapades in London not only satisfied our appetites but also offered insights into the city's diverse culinary scene, leaving us with memories as rich as the flavors we savored.

Navigating Public Transport

Navigating London's public transport system with our family of five was an adventure in itself, filled with moments of seamless travel and unexpected challenges.

Utilizing the double-decker buses to reach train or tube stations from our hotel proved to be both convenient and efficient. The tap-and-go payment system simplified our journey, allowing us to use payment cards or digital methods with ease. Children traveled free of charge under a certain age, easing the financial aspect of our travels.

Our daily commute into the city involved taking the Elizabeth Line on the tube, where the kids' free fares streamlined our entries through electronic gates. Tapping our payment methods helped track our transportation costs accurately, offering insights into the system's efficiency and traffic management.

However, our experience wasn't without its hiccups. London's ongoing strikes impacted our travel plans, leading to longer waits for less crowded trains. One memorable incident had us waiting nearly 30 minutes for the third train due to overcrowding on the first two. Nevertheless, Londoners' resilience and our family's determination saw us squeezing onto the next available train, stroller and all, creating a bonding experience amidst the city's hustle and bustle.

Our journey back to the airport via the longer overground Stansted Express train from Liverpool Station introduced us to the unpredictability of travel schedules. Despite online schedule disparities, we navigated delays and unexpected changes with patience and adaptability, ultimately reaching our destination with shared stories and newfound travel wisdom.

Capturing Memories

Amidst the whirlwind of exploring London's iconic landmarks, navigating public transport, and savoring diverse cuisines, our family paused to capture cherished moments and create lasting memories.

Picturesque snapshots at Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace, and the Tower of London not only adorned our photo albums but also captured the essence of our family adventures. Steven's knack for historical tidbits added depth to our experiences, transforming each landmark visit into a journey through time and culture.

The unexpected delays and challenges of public transport became anecdotes that we laughingly recounted, showcasing our resilience as a family and our ability to find joy even in moments of inconvenience.

Noteworthy encounters, such as strangers offering a seat on crowded trains and friendly interactions with locals, highlighted the warmth and hospitality ingrained in London's bustling atmosphere. These gestures, uncommon in some parts of the world, left a lasting impression on us, reinforcing the beauty of cultural exchanges during our travels.

Our time in London wasn't just about ticking off tourist attractions but about weaving together moments of laughter, learning, and togetherness. As we boarded our flight to Sicily, our hearts were filled with gratitude for the memories created and anticipation for the adventures that awaited us.

Conclusion: Embracing London's Charms Together

Our journey through London was more than sightseeing—it was a tapestry woven with discovery, resilience, and cherished togetherness.

From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, each day brought new adventures and cultural insights. Navigating public transport and savoring diverse cuisines added layers of experience, while shared moments captured in photographs became treasured memories.

Accommodations like the Moxy Hotel and dining at The Admiralty offered comfort and immersion in local flavors, enhancing our journey.

London's charm, warmth from locals, and our family's resilience amidst challenges created an unforgettable travel narrative, strengthening our bonds and inspiring future adventures.

As we bid farewell to London, our hearts brimmed with gratitude for the memories created, lessons learned, and the enduring spirit of exploration as a family.

London, with its timeless allure, will always hold a special place in our family's adventures, reminding us of the beauty in shared journeys and the joy of discovery.

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