BD057 EDI-LHR A day of goodwill.

Well, here I am typing away overlooking 27R at Heathrow from the 3rd floor of the Renaissance reflecting on a few little details of the trip from Scotland.

Had planned a night here for a few reasons including the Mrs being nightshift, daughter going to her Grans and a combo of bmi/BA miles bonuses. Drove to EDI this morning and having checked in online for the 1310 BD057 online I breezed through security with carry on and decided to try the Serviceair (spelling?) lounge using Priority Pass. It was quite nice and has been extended since the last time I was in it a few years ago.

Pushed on time and advised of a 50 min flying time by the female F/O then took off to the west as usual and fiddled with my new iPod touch. Cart went forward then worked it's way back to me in the back row where I brandished my bmi 'Blue Plus' card for the first time and asked what was on offer. Despite having read that certain drinks were not included the lovely wee lady told me that I could have anything I liked! So, I opted for a bag of nuts and a can of Strongbow (despite this being off limits on the menu!).

Landed at a VERY quiet T1 and went for the Hoppa bus and just missed the H2.

After about 10 mins an H3 (or 4 maybe) rolled up and the driver asked me where I was going (I was alone at the bus stop) 'Renaissance' I replied - to which he said - jump on and I'll drop you at the bus stop on Bath Rd and save you waiting. Once aboard he also told me I shouldn't waste 4 and take the free bus!!

And who said avoid LHR!!!

[y]

Regards

John

I often use the Servisair lounge in EDI, rather than the BD lounge.. especialy in the morning, as they tend to have croissants, yoghurts, etc.. unlike BD next door with crisps and biscuits only.

And yes, LHR T1 isn't quite as bad as it used to be, although there is a lot of renovation going on, both in the departure/check-in area and in the arrivals gates.

I'm sure the links to the free buses around LHR have been posted on here before... definitely worth researching before you go to LHR.

I've never stayed at the Renaissance - always tend to use the HI on Bath Road. The Renaissance always seemed priced much higher when I looked up online rates.

Jim, I use ICHG hotels almost exclusively with one exception - the LHR Renaissance. You're right, it is usually priced way over the top for what it is midweek but at weekends it's a bit more reasonable. I just enjoy the grandstand view of the runway so much and can happily while away the hours just watching the comings and goings!

Regards

John