Dispatching the Post

How to Do Mail for London

Our mail doesn't come directly to Manson Place, but is handled at the EUSA administraion building. It's great since our classes are there, so we can check for mail before or after. If a package comes, and we do all love to receive packages, we get email notification from the EUSA staff. I've already received a couple! THANKS Mom and Dad.

International shipping does require some extra paperwork, and Mom and Dad have found out the hard way that the United States Postal Service is both the cheapest and the fastest. That's not to say that shipping is cheap. Regular shipping from the Villanova area takes about six to ten days.

The post offices in England are privately owned. I guess they are operated a little like UPS stores in the States, just not quite as fancy. Unfortunately, the husband and wife who run the South Kensignton Post Office weren't too helpful when I was there last.

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Trains, Buses and Cabs, Oh My!

The tube, while absolutely excellent, gets very crowded during rush hours. A tip to the wise - most people don't make the effort to walk to the ends of the station platform, therefore the cars at the front and rear of any train are the least crowded. Do yourself a favor!

There are seats designated for the elderly and handicapped, but none for passengers with baggage. Because people are coming in from airports at all hours, people with suitcases can have an especially difficult time. I have been surprised that many riders offer to help. Some will even give up their seats for those less capable of standing. Show a little class!

The tube does shut down at 12:30 am. When we're out late, a play at the West End (my preference) or a pub, club or bar, alternate transportation must be found. The Oyster Card works on buses, but stops are sometimes hard to find and service is less frequent than the tube. If you're in a large group so that searching for the most convenient stop is a little less of a task and a lot more fun, buses are a good option.

Otherwise, cabs are not too difficult to find, especially near hotels and popular night spots. Cash is required and they're not cheap. Cabs in London are large however, so the tab can be split among three, four, maybe more. Don't spend all of your cash at the bar. Pitch in your share!