London in summer is a fantastic escape from the winter chills of Wanaka. To recap, travelled across from Hong Kong to London with Air New Zealand on Monday. How do I start to describe this flight. We were so fortunate to be able to travel in Business Premier. I mentioned previously about the joys of Premium Economy but Business Premier is the only way to travel!

The 12hr 45min flight seemed to pass by in a blink. There is just so much room in these huge seats with multiple recline positions that it really does feel you are on a magic carpet. After take off the meal starts to be served and with such attentive service and expertly prepared and cooked food there is no way this feels like you are on an aeroplane.

Then it's time to watch one of the many hundred films available on your own personal screen before an English afternoon tea of sandwiches, scones and clotted cream.

The lie flat bed provides an easy afternoon nap before dinner is served and then in the twinkle of an eye our descent begins.

I should add that whilst all this is happening in the air, outside the window is a continuing geography lesson. China, Russia, Denmark, Sweden, The Netherlands and then the North Sea glide by with easy pinpointing of landmarks provided by the on-screen navigation system.

The above does not even start to adequately explain what Business Premier is like. After this all other forms of travel will be a disappointment. Thanks, Air New Zealand for the flight of a lifetime.

Our arrival in London was typical of their summer I guess. Drizzle, low cloud base and mirk everywhere.

We had another day of this on Tuesday but spent the day quite easily exploring the shops of Oxford Street. I must admit, being a bit of a country boy the number of people were totally overwhelming. Yesterday was more my style. We awoke to clearing skies so decided to take a stroll in Hyde Park. Sun, flowers and coffee by the lake are much more my idea of a holiday. A visit to the New Zealand Memorial at Hyde Park Corner was a highlight. Placed gently beside one of the memorial stones was a tribute to a New Zealand fighter pilot. Warrant Officer Burke from Matamata, killed in France flying a Typhoon and remembered in London. Truly from "The Uttermost Ends of the Earth".

We had a commentator meeting last night for the Biggin Hill Air Show this weekend and what an eclectic mix - an American, an Englishman and a Kiwi. I can see we are going to have a lot of fun.

Today the sun shines again, time for a coffee al fresco I think.

Tags: England, Travel, Garden, Flower