It almost felt like a normal Saturday morning. Andrew headed off to get his hair cut and I had breakfast before starting to pack. I had just about got it done by the time Andrew got home, but we then spent time getting other tasks done before finally setting off about 3.15pm. 

It soon started getting dark as we drove south down the M1 and, although we didn’t get any delays, it was busy and the roadworks continue to stretch for miles.

  
We had a not-exactly-lunch-but-not-yet-tea at Tibshelf services after which it was definitely dark and I was able to play spot the fireworks for the rest of the journey.

We arrived at Gatwick and, after driving one loop of the internal road network, narrowed down on the correct car park. We were valet parking next to the Hilton hotel which was extremely easy and quick and we then just had a short covered walk to the reception. At check in they offered us an upgrade to a deluxe room (not sure what makes it deluxe, although the bathroom is nice) but it is spacious and comfy for tonight.

   
 
Having failed to check in online (it just wouldn’t let me despite multiple attempts) we took a walk over to the terminal building which is just 5 minutes away, still under cover. Virgin operate s ‘twilight’ check in facility until 9pm so we were able to get them to check us in and print boarding cards. It did take a little time though as they failed to realise we had premium economy tickets and were trying to seat us in standard economy for a while… All sorted and we now have upstairs seats. Looking forward to it!

After that we had dinner and drinks at the hotel bar before heading to our room, where we are now relaxing, prior to getting some sleep before our trip begins in earnest tomorrow. Sleep well all!