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Romans laid the first structures in London.  Later, a Norman invasion gave them the Tower of London.  It is here, the Crown Jewels are kept.  The Tower of London is considered by locals as their greatest landmark but it must compete with such icons as the Bell Tower (Big Ben), Westminster, the Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, St. Paul's Cathedral, Hyde Park, Piccadilly Circus and the Spice Girls.  Actually, I'm kidding about the Spice Girls but you can't forget about the Yeoman (Beefeaters) and the Guards.

The picture at right is an aerial view of Oxford, England.  This university town is rich in history. Lori and Ruy were married the day before graduation.  (Lori graduation from Keble.)  Some family members got together to celebrate the occasion and a good time was had by all.  This is truly a unique city.

Windsor Castle was born from a Norman fortress.  Over the centuries, the castle has been added on and renovated countless times.  The Royal Family is currently in semi-residence here.  Not bad for a home begun in 1080.

You may have heard about the 1992 fire that left St. George's Hall decimated but all has since been restored.  The town itself is also a noteworthy place to visit.

When you are in London and a train ride away from Paris it is hard to ignore the temptation.  We decided to make a day trip out of it and catch the Eurostar train to Paris by way of the English Channel Tunnel/Chunnel.  You must be laughing....  What can you do in Paris in a day?  Well, get on a fast train and visit the obvious.  After arriving at the station, catch the metro to downtown.  Check out the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomph, Notre Dame, go down the Champs Elysses, catch the Louvre, view the Grand Palais, Opera House, Musee D'orsay and then catch your breath at the end of the day on the Seine with a glass of wine - a real big glass of wine.