The Beginning of an Idea:
It all started with a long-overdue plan to reunite with college friends and relive the old days. After much discussion, we decided to meet at Akshay’s house on May 25th. The timing was perfect, as Shrikant, one of our friends, had recently returned from the US after spending six years there.
The plan came together flawlessly, and soon, all of us gathered at the designated spot. The day was filled with laughter, nostalgia, and camaraderie. What made the gathering even more special was that we prepared our own snacks and dinner—a delightful vegetarian spread, which included some egg dishes.
While we thoroughly enjoyed the reunion, we couldn’t help but miss our dear friend Kiran, who is currently in the UK. To bridge the distance, we had a video call with Kiran, sharing jokes, reminiscing about our college days, and creating new memories to cherish. It was a day filled with joy, connection, and pure fun!
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A Dream Plan for the Cricket World Cup
With the Cricket World Cup in full swing in the UK, an exciting idea struck us—why not travel to the UK and watch an India match live at the stadium? The added bonus? Our friend Kiran is already in the UK, so we’d have free accommodation!
Excited by the thought, we began looking into match tickets and flight options. However, reality soon set in. With limited time and steep costs, it became clear that this plan would be challenging to pull off. Reluctantly, we decided to let go of the idea, but the dream of experiencing a live match remains alive in our hearts!
The Plan Takes Shape
Even after dropping the idea of watching a Cricket World Cup match in the UK, the thought of visiting the UK lingered in the back of my mind. A few days after our party, I brought up the idea again—this time with a different focus: a trip to explore the UK.
When I discussed it with another friend, the idea gained traction. With some convincing, we managed to rally the group, including Vishal, Raja, Sangappa, Akshay, Shrikant, Anand Cholli, Shashi, and Nitin. Eventually, six of us (Vishal, Nitin, Shashi, Shrikant, Anand Cholli, and myself) committed to making the trip happen.
To organize everything, we created a WhatsApp group called "UK Trip" and added the six members. Of course, we couldn’t forget Kiran, who’s already in the UK—he was an integral part of the group and our plans!
Step One: Applying for the UK Visa
The first task was to tackle the UK visa application process. Luckily, Kiran was well-versed in it, having recently helped his parents. He guided us through the steps, explaining the required documents and how to fill out the application forms.
To streamline the process, I arranged a meeting at Shashi’s house on June 23rd, where Shashi, Shrikant, and I gathered to complete the visa forms. Meanwhile, Nitin had already completed his application and secured a visa appointment for June 27th, which added some pressure on us to finish ours quickly.
Unfortunately, the UK visa website's slow speed became a hurdle. In an attempt to save ₹750, we tried uploading the documents ourselves but ultimately gave in and paid the fee to have them uploaded professionally. As a result, we managed to secure a visa appointment for June 28th.
Shashi faced a minor setback—he forgot his form password and struggled to recover it. After much effort, he had to start over and pay the visa fee again, finally booking an appointment for July 1st. All four of us completed our applications with a tentative travel date of August 23rd.
The process wasn’t without its unique twists. Anand Cholli, for instance, discovered that his passport had expired only when he started filling out the visa form! He had to apply for a passport renewal before proceeding with his visa application. This situation sparked a lighthearted realization: we should travel abroad more often to keep tabs on our passport expiry dates! Currently, for Shashi and me, passports are primarily used as address proof. 😊
Attending the Visa Appointment
The first step was for Nitin to attend his visa appointment, which was scheduled at the Global Tech building near the TV9 office, behind the Hockey Stadium. Interestingly, finding parking for a bike or car there seemed as challenging as securing the visa itself! Pro tip: book a cab to save yourself the hassle.
Nitin successfully completed his visa appointment, which primarily involved submitting the required documents. After his experience, he gave us a detailed "KT" (knowledge transfer), helping us prepare for our own appointments.
The process itself was straightforward—a token system guiding us through three counters for document submission. We were all hopeful as we completed our appointments, eagerly anticipating our passports to return with the coveted UK visa sticker.
Now, with all four of us done, the waiting game begins. It typically takes 15 working days for the visas to be processed. Fingers crossed!
Booking Flight Tickets:Due to various personal reasons, a few friends had to step back, but finally, Shashi, Nitin, Shrikanth, and I are all set for a once-in-a-lifetime experience—an unforgettable international trip with our closest friends!
Our passports are now adorned with UK visas, and we're ready to embark on this adventure. We've already booked our flight tickets, departing on September 7, 2019, and returning on September 21, 2019. The excitement is building as we dive into shopping and finalizing all the essentials for the trip.
Leave applications at work are approved, plans are in place, and now, all that’s left is to eagerly count down the days to the big moment. Bring on the D-day!
Day 1: 7th Sep 2019 (Bangalore to Manchester)
Heading: The Journey Begins: Bangalore to Manchester
Our exciting journey kicked off with a flight scheduled at 10:10 AM from Bangalore to Muscat, arriving at 12:10 PM, followed by a connecting flight to Manchester at 2:10 PM, reaching the destination by 7:10 PM. Since we needed to be at the airport three hours early, we planned to arrive by 6:30 AM.
I booked a cab from my house to Nitin's house, and from there, we headed to the airport together in his car. Shashi and Shrikant opted to meet us directly at the airport. According to the plan, I reached Nitin's house by 6:00 AM, and we left for the airport at 6:30 AM. After crossing the toll gate, we coordinated with Shashi and Shrikant, and all of us proceeded to the airport together, arriving at 7:30 AM.
After getting our confirmed tickets, I tried to secure a window seat but, unfortunately, couldn’t get one. We completed the check-in process by 8:30 AM and had 1.5 hours left before boarding. Feeling hungry, we explored the airport food options but found them underwhelming. Thankfully, Shashi had packed delicious homemade food in his cabin bag. He shared chapati rolls, chakli, kadle puri, and more, which we all enjoyed together.
The airport impressed us with its cleanliness and well-maintained facilities, especially the restrooms. We even appreciated the hardworking staff near the restrooms and took a photo with them to remember their efforts.
Finally, it was time to board our flight. The first leg of our journey began, and we reached Muscat on time at 12:10 PM.
At Muscat, we had a two-hour layover, but the process of deboarding, navigating through the airport, and reaching the next boarding gate took up almost all the time. Fortunately, the second flight was also on schedule, and we boarded smoothly.
We landed in Manchester right on time at 7:15 PM. However, clearing immigration and collecting our luggage took until 9:00 PM. Kiran, who had come to receive us, was patiently waiting outside.
We initially booked a single cab, but with five people and all our luggage, it wasn’t feasible. So, we arranged for another cab and reached Kiran’s house within 20 minutes.
Day 2: 8th Sep 2019 (Cricket)
We woke up early in the morning, eager to be on time for the cricket match at the stadium. The day began with a refreshing cup of tea and some biscuits. After getting ready, we embarked on our journey, first taking a bus and then a train to reach the iconic Old Trafford stadium.
This plan had been in the works for a while, and we had already booked our tickets. As die-hard cricket fans, Nitin and I were especially excited. It took some convincing, but we managed to persuade Srikant, Shashi, and Kiran to join us for this unforgettable experience. After all, it’s not every day you get to watch a live international match—one of the most prestigious and widely followed Test series, the Ashes—at a world-class stadium outside India.
We reached the stadium via the Metroline, and the sight left us absolutely stunned—another goal of our trip accomplished! The lush green ground surrounded by the iconic red-bordered buildings with gleaming glass facades made for a breathtaking view. It was surreal to be standing in a place we had so often seen on TV. Now, we were here to witness a live match at this legendary stadium.
While walking past the commentators' section, we spotted none other than Shane Warne, who was one of the commentators for the day. Without a second thought, we approached him and politely requested an autograph. Though we didn’t have paper on hand, we quickly offered our ticket printouts, and he graciously signed them. Meeting Shane Warne face-to-face, getting his signature, and even shaking his hand was an incredible moment—one we’ll cherish forever.
The stand where we had our seats to watch the match was massive, offering a great view of the game. During the lunch break, curiosity led us to explore the area behind our stand, where we discovered that it was a temporary structure constructed using iron rods, resembling scaffolding, to create such a large seating area.
We also visited a shop inside the stadium that showcased cricket bat manufacturing, giving us a fascinating glimpse into the craftsmanship behind the game.
The match concluded by 5 PM as darkness began to set in. On our way back, we stopped by a shopping mall near the bus stop before heading straight to Kiran's house. And with that, the second day of our trip came to an end—a day filled with cricket, exploration, and unforgettable memories.
Day 3: 9th Sep 2019 (Manchester To London)
Morning Departure:
We had booked a 9:45 AM bus to London from Manchester through megabus.com. The day started early, as Shashi woke up at 4:00 AM to prepare some food. By 6:00 AM, we were all ready and left Kiran's house at 6:30 AM to head to the train station.
Travel to London:
The bus departed from Manchester on time and arrived in London at 2:30 PM, as scheduled. The entire trip was well-planned, with all accommodations prebooked, ensuring a smooth experience.
Hotel Check-In:
We reached our hotel by 4:00 PM and checked into a comfortable apartment. The apartment featured a hall, two bedrooms, and a kitchen, providing us with ample space to relax.
Evening Exploration:
After some rest, we started exploring London at 5:00 PM with a leisurely walk around the apartment area. The evening concluded with a delightful party at a nearby hotel. We returned to the apartment and settled in for the night.
This marked the end of our memorable Day 3 of the trip!
Day 4: 10th Sep 2019 (Explore London)
Morning Visit to Buckingham Palace
We started our morning by visiting Buckingham Palace, and upon seeing it, we were awestruck by its grandeur and magnificence. The sheer scale of the palace, with its ornate architecture and historic significance, left us momentarily speechless.
The iconic balcony, the regal gates, and the impeccably maintained gardens added to the splendor. We couldn’t resist pausing to admire its beauty, capturing countless photos and marveling at how surreal it felt to stand before such an iconic symbol of British royalty.
The experience was both humbling and exhilarating—a memory etched in our hearts forever.
Awe-Inspiring Visit to the Tower of London Museum
Walking through the Tower of London Museum was like stepping back in time. The items displayed, from medieval armor to royal artifacts, evoked a sense of wonder and reverence for the history they represented.
Seeing the Crown Jewels, including the famous Koh-i-Noor diamond, was undoubtedly the highlight. The dazzling display of these treasures left us speechless—their brilliance and intricate craftsmanship were breathtaking.
Captivated by the London Bridge
Seeing the London Bridge was a moment of quiet admiration and reflection. While its simplicity contrasts with some of London’s more ornate landmarks, its historic significance and connection to the city’s past made it captivating.
Standing on the bridge, we marveled at the views of the Thames and the bustling life surrounding it. The bridge felt like a timeless link between eras, blending seamlessly into the vibrant modern city while holding centuries of history within its structure.
Visiting Trafalgar Square was an exhilarating experience filled with energy and charm. The iconic square, with its grand fountains, towering Nelson’s Column, and majestic lion statues, instantly captivated us.
The
lively atmosphere, surrounded by historic architecture and the bustling
crowd, made it feel like the heartbeat of London. We took a moment to
soak in the vibrant surroundings, appreciating the square’s role as a
gathering place for locals and tourists alike.
Day 5: 11th Sep 2019 (Explore London and Move to Bristol)
It was inspiring to witness the recognition of Basaveshwara’s contributions to equality, social justice, and democracy being honored far beyond his homeland. The statue stood as a symbol of his timeless ideals and the universal relevance of his teachings.
Awe-Inspiring Visit to the London Eye and Big Ben
Seeing the London Eye and Big Ben together was an extraordinary experience that perfectly encapsulated the essence of London’s iconic skyline.
The London Eye, with its massive Ferris wheel structure, was both mesmerizing and exciting. Watching the pods slowly rotate against the backdrop of the Thames offered a sense of wonder, and imagining the panoramic views it provides was thrilling.
Big Ben, with its majestic clock tower and intricate Gothic architecture, was a sight to behold. Its timeless charm and cultural significance made us pause and marvel at its grandeur. The chimes of the clock added a magical touch, making the moment feel straight out of a storybook.
Standing in the midst of these landmarks, we felt a mix of awe and admiration for London’s ability to seamlessly blend modern marvels with historic treasures. It was a memory we knew we’d cherish forever.
A Race Against Time to Catch the Bus
After an eventful evening exploring London and shopping, we had booked a BigBus journey from London, Victoria Coach Station (6:00 PM) to Bristol, Bond Street (8:35 PM). Little did we know the adventure wasn’t over yet!
As we realized we were running out of time and still 1 km away from the bus stop, chaos ensued. We sprinted through the streets of London, each of us pushing our limits. While we started running together, the group soon spread out, each moving at their own pace.
We finally reached the coach station, breathless, but 2 minutes late. Frantically searching for the platform, we discovered our bus was still there but about to depart. We pleaded with the staff, explaining that one of us—Nitin—was still on his way.
Meanwhile, Nitin, who had already reached the station, mysteriously vanished! After some confusion, we found out he was casually buying snacks and water, assuming the bus wouldn’t leave without us. The tension turned into relief (and a bit of laughter) when he finally boarded.
The bus eventually departed at 6:08 PM, delayed because of our wild dash. This unforgettable sprint through London’s streets left us both exhausted and amused—a story to remember for years to come!
Evening Arrival in Bristol: Riverside Fun and Relaxation
We arrived in Bristol at 8:30 PM and quickly took a taxi to our hostel near the beautiful River Avon. Though the hostel was small, its prime location right beside the river made it a charming and peaceful retreat.
Afterward, we headed to the dance floor, letting loose and enjoying the lively atmosphere. We wrapped up the night with a delicious dinner, filled with laughter and good vibes.
By 11 PM, we returned to our room, feeling content and energized. A restful sleep followed, marking the perfect end to a fun-filled day
Day 6: 12th Sep 2019 (Explore Bristol)
Road Trip to Durdle Door
We hired a car to begin our journey toward the stunning Durdle Door. Since driving in the UK requires insurance for each driver, we decided to take turns behind the wheel, giving everyone a chance to experience driving on UK roads—a fun and unique part of the adventure!
Along the way, we made a few pit stops to capture scenic snapshots of the breathtaking countryside and to enjoy a leisurely breakfast. The road trip itself was filled with laughter, scenic views, and the excitement of exploring new landscapes.
By the time we reached Durdle Door at 1 PM, we were already filled with anticipation for the natural beauty that awaited us. Standing before Durdle Door, we were completely mesmerized by the natural beauty of this iconic limestone arch. The way the turquoise waves of the sea gently kissed the rugged coastline created a breathtakingly serene and majestic scene.
Visiting the Roman Baths was like traveling back in time to ancient Britain. The grandeur of the preserved architecture, with its steaming pools and intricate stonework, left us awestruck. Walking along the same pathways where Romans once tread, we felt a deep connection to history. The warm, mineral-rich waters, combined with the stories of ancient rituals and daily life, painted a vivid picture of the past.
After our visit to Durdle Door, we drove back to our hostel in Bristol, returning the rental car and parking it nearby. The evening was calm and pleasant as we wrapped up the day with a delightful dinner at a riverside restaurant adjacent to our hostel.
At the hostel, we met one of our dorm mates, a friendly traveler from the Philippines. The room was a six-bed dormitory with three double-decker bunk beds and a shared bathroom. Additionally, the hostel provided access to a common bathroom, which was convenient for all guests.
Our group of five shared the space, with the remaining bed occupied by another guest for the night. As the day came to an end, we settled in, reflecting on our adventures and enjoying the warmth of a good night's rest.
Thus concluded the sixth day of our unforgettable trip!
Day 7: 13th Sep 2019 (Bristol - Bath - Bristol)
We checked out of the hostel but kindly requested if they could hold our luggage at the reception, to which they graciously agreed. Our plan for the day was to visit Bath, explore its beauty, and then return to Bristol to collect our bags before catching the bus back to Manchester. It was a well-organized day, allowing us to make the most of our time in both cities before continuing our journey.
A Day Trip to Bath
Visiting the Roman Baths was like traveling back in time to ancient Britain. The grandeur of the preserved architecture, with its steaming pools and intricate stonework, left us awestruck.
Walking along the same pathways where Romans once tread, we felt a deep connection to history. The warm, mineral-rich waters, combined with the stories of ancient rituals and daily life, painted a vivid picture of the past.
After that we visited Bath Abbey Standing before Bath Abbey, we were immediately struck by its towering Gothic architecture and the sheer beauty of its intricate design. The high, vaulted ceilings, the stunning stained glass windows, and the detailed stone carvings all added to the sense of awe that filled the space.
Inside, the atmosphere was serene and reverent, with soft light filtering through the windows, casting a peaceful glow on the ancient stone floors. We couldn’t help but admire the craftsmanship that has stood for centuries, a testament to the dedication and skill of those who built this magnificent structure.
As we stood there, taking in the beauty of the surroundings, we were struck by the intricate details—ornate stonework, classical columns, and beautifully manicured gardens in the center. The entire space felt both grand and intimate, a perfect blend of architectural brilliance and natural beauty.
After exploring Bath, we set out to find an Indian restaurant for lunch and were delighted to discover one right in front of Bath Abbey. It was a wonderful experience, and after such a long time, we thoroughly enjoyed the familiar flavors of Indian cuisine—it felt incredibly satisfying and comforting.
Once we finished our meal, we headed straight to the nearby railway station to catch our 3:00 PM train back to Bristol. We arrived in Bristol on time, picked up our luggage from the hostel where we stayed the previous night, and then made our way to the bus station to catch our bus to Manchester.
Day 8: 14th Sep 2019 (Manchester)
Day 9: 15th Sep 2019 (Manchester to Scotland)
Our journey to Scotland began with an early morning train ride from Manchester. After a restful previous day, we were energized and reached the railway station on time. The train departed punctually, but due to a technical issue en route, it slowed down briefly, arriving in Scotland 4 minutes late. The train driver apologized multiple times over the intercom, a testament to the impeccable discipline and courtesy we encountered.
The train journey itself was delightful, with scenic views keeping us captivated throughout. Upon arrival, we checked into our pre-booked 2 BHK apartment, situated slightly outside of Edinburgh. The apartment was cozy and well-equipped, offering the perfect base for our Scottish adventure.
After a hearty breakfast, we set off to explore the city. Our first stop was the magnificent Holyrood Palace. Behind the palace, we discovered a hill that beckoned us to trek to its summit. The hike was invigorating, and the panoramic views from the top were absolutely breathtaking—a perfect reward for our effort.
The day had only just begun, but it was already filled with memorable moments, marking the start of an exciting Scottish chapter in our journey.
Day 10: 16th Sep 2019 (Scotland)
We started our day early, checking out of the hotel to prepare for an exciting journey ahead. Our destination? A breathtaking three-day tour of Scotland, beginning from Edinburgh. We joined the vibrant HAGGiS Adventures Tour, a renowned travel group known for their spirited explorations.
The first leg of our adventure would take us from the historic city of Edinburgh to the enchanting Isle of Skye, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience amidst Scotland's stunning landscapes.
Visiting the Tomatin Scotch Whisky Distillery is an experience that stirs a variety of emotions:
- Serenity and Connection: Surrounded by the scenic beauty of the Highlands, the visit fosters a sense of peace and connection to Scotland’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
- Awe and Appreciation: The intricate process of crafting Scotch whisky, from malting to maturation, showcases the art and dedication behind this time-honored tradition. Seeing the copper stills, barrels, and tasting rooms leaves you in awe of the craftsmanship.
- Curiosity and Fascination: Learning about the distillery’s history, which dates back to 1897, and understanding how the unique Highland location influences the flavor of its whisky sparks a deep interest.
- Warmth and Hospitality: The warm welcome from the staff and the inviting atmosphere of the distillery make the experience memorable. Tastings often allow visitors to connect over shared stories and a passion for whisky.
- Joy and Fulfillment: For whisky enthusiasts, sampling the rich, complex flavors of Tomatin's whiskies is a moment of pure delight, making the visit truly rewarding.
Overall, a visit to the Tomatin distillery is not just about whisky—it’s an immersion into Scotland’s history, culture, and craftsmanship.
The Battle
The Battle of Culloden is a pivotal event in Scottish history. The Jacobites, composed largely of Highland clansmen, were vastly outnumbered and poorly equipped compared to the British forces. On the flat and marshy terrain of Culloden Moor, the Jacobites' traditional Highland charge was ineffective against the well-organized and heavily armed British troops.
The battle lasted less than an hour. Over 1,500 Jacobites were killed or wounded, while British losses were fewer than 300. The Culloden Battlefield is a preserved site and a poignant reminder of this turning point in Scottish history.
During our time in Fort Augustus, Scotland, we stayed at a lovely hotel that offered the option to cook our own meals. Shashi took the opportunity to prepare a dish, and in a heartwarming moment, he also assisted a few Chinese guests who were struggling with cooking. Not only did he help them with their meals, but he even shared a few recipes with them.
Despite our efforts, we still weren’t fully satisfied with our food, so we set out to explore nearby dining options. Our search led us to the stunning Caledonian Canal, a true gem of Fort Augustus. Designed by the renowned Thomas Telford in the early 19th century, the canal’s beauty was captivating.
Adjacent to the canal, we discovered a charming restaurant where we finally had a satisfying meal. The area was lively, with beautiful ships docked along the canal, adding to the magical atmosphere.
The sight of the Caledonian Canal, nestled at the southern tip of Loch Ness, was an unforgettable experience. Its historical significance and serene surroundings made it a highlight of our visit to Fort Augustus.
Day 11: 17th Sep 2019 (Isle of skye)
Seeing Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland's most iconic landmarks, is an experience that leaves visitors with a deep sense of awe and wonder. Here's what you might feel The castle's dramatic setting, perched on a small tidal island where three lochs meet (Loch Duich, Loch Long, and Loch Alsh), is breathtaking. Its stone walls, ancient architecture, and the surrounding rugged Highlands create a picture-perfect scene.
Sligachan, Scotland is a picturesque location on the Isle of Skye, known for its breathtaking scenery, natural beauty, and connection to Scottish folklore. Situated where three mountain ranges meet—the Cuillin Hills, Red Hills, and Macleod’s Tables—it serves as a gateway to some of Skye’s most dramatic landscapes. Hiking and Outdoor Activitie Sligachan is a hub for hikers and climbers, providing access to the Black Cuillin mountain range, renowned for its rugged peaks and challenging trails The area offers less demanding walks, such as exploring nearby Glen Sligachan, which leads to Loch Coruisk, considered one of the most beautiful and remote lochs in Scotland
We returned to the same hotel, taking some time to unwind and explore the serene river views. A delightful photo session captured the beauty of the surroundings, adding lasting memories to our journey. And with that, the 12th day of our adventure came to a peaceful and fulfilling close.
Day 12: 18th Sep 2019 (Back to Eden burg)
The monument in the image is the Commando Memorial located near Spean Bridge in the Scottish Highlands. This memorial honors the soldiers of the British Army’s Commando units who trained in the area during World War II and paid tribute to those who died in the war. The inscription on the monument reads, "United We Conquer," and it commemorates the officers and men of the commandos who trained and died in World War II.
It’s a solemn and powerful tribute, with the statue depicting three soldiers in action. The surrounding landscape offers stunning views, adding to the significance of the location.
Seeing the Fort William Railway Station evokes a sense of excitement and nostalgia, especially if you're standing beside the iconic Jacobite steam train, famously known from the Harry Potter films. The station itself, set against the stunning backdrop of the Scottish Highlands, offers a feeling of stepping into a place that feels both historic and full of adventure.
The steam rising from the train adds a magical touch, making the scene feel timeless. Whether you're a railway enthusiast or simply appreciating the beauty of the surroundings, there’s a sense of awe as you take in the blend of nature, history, and travel. The station has a charm that feels inviting, and there's a thrill in knowing you're about to embark on one of Scotland's most scenic train journeys.
Pair of massive horse-head sculptures located in The Helix Park near Falkirk, Scotland. These striking sculptures, created by artist Andy Scott, stand 30 meters tall and are made of steel. They represent the mythological water horses called Kelpie, which are featured in Scottish folklore.
The Kelpies are a tribute to the role of horses in Scotland's industrial history, particularly in the development of canals and heavy hauling work. The sculptures have become a symbol of Scotland's heritage and a popular landmark for visitors.
Memorable UK Trip: The Final Days
