h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

We already had that, B. Your invitation most have got lost in the post.

Actually, I think it's about time we had EMM3

Hi, Hypatia.

This is now probably a little late but here goes...

It can and should, except some people have been to so many meets that they are happy just to attend the evening session. Also not everyone is 100% mobile.

As for dates, they are decided on relatively early for those who are non-UK resident, so they can inexpensive flights. Maybe pre-deciding dates should be started 3 months ahead, with voting before a two month deadline?

I also have found that different people of different age-groups, singles, couples and families have different tastes. For example, there is the RAF Museum, Hendon, The Imperial War Museum, Lambeth and the Army Museum, Chelsea, but it is a small selct crowd who would enjoy those, which is why I haven't included them. I also didn't include the Science Museum as most people have indicated, in the past, that they were getting a little tired of the NHM and Science Museum.

But hey, I am happy to research any venue (NOT Peppermint Hippopotamus though ) if there is a consensus.

Can you rent binoculars at the centre or do you have to bring your own?

I think so too, Serephina, it seems to fit all the requirements of drinking facilities, afternoon event, a base of contact, afternoon activities and childfriendly to boot... I am only concerned with the location. I wonder what out of towners make of it? It is a snip by bus from Hammersmith and you'll be ok from Croydon - the Barnes trains go through Clapham Junction which means Waterloo and Victoria trains work well too - not too sure about King's Cross though.

*frets about 2legs' journey*

*studiously ignores Mu's suggestion above and glowers at Not Him*





W

* stumbles over the preceding posts*

As you were

we can rolly wor out an easy route and plan to collect people at different ponts om=n the way or something. victoria is a good meeting point for those who dont know london too well and either me or roymondo will go n get old leggsy.

i really cant type today..fing painkillers

Yup you're really having trouble typing. I think you mean: fu.. oh, I see.

Yes, Hypatia, you can, (I believe they are around £5:00). Quite comfortable with staggering with three pairs to loan, as well as my telescope for those interested. Also pretty good at Identification if needed.

Happy to do winter or summer and, depending on numbers, could provide hot food (jackets and fillings) but my flat is tiny...

Seraphina.

The wetlands centre sounds like a great meeting place.

*scribbles furiously

Thanks Mazin'. That would be easier than packing binoculars in my luggage.

I think it's amazing that London has so many natural areas. It's very impressive.

It's history is even more amazing, but I can everybody with that if it is chosen as a venue. There is also Hammersmith Bridge to view. BTW, I would not suggest walking from Hammersmith to Barn Elms, as Castlenau is deceptively long... especially if carrying optical gear and a picnic. Catering is relatively in expensive, with a vegetarian salad at £6:50, and a meat salad at £7:50. I haven't finished one yet!!!

If there are any other areas you'd like checking, please shout.

Ooh! and you are welcome, Hypatia. I may even be able to borrow a couple more pairs.

For those who haven't been and need convincing, the reserve is horseshoe shaped. The West side has a continent-themed tethered bird section, with birds from the continents seen in their (simulated) native surroundings. The East side has all the lagoons and scrapes, with three standard viewing hides, as well as the 2 storey Peacock Hide. In the summer, the West side has an extention where the Wildside is open to the public. There are rare birds found there, including three resident bittern, and currently nesting avocets.

BTW, if driving, you need to collect a token from the Visitor Centre, or you won't get out of the Car Park.

History never bores me. But I know plenty of people who are happy to give it a miss.

Unfortunately, my travel guides hit the famous, touristy venues and skip the smaller ones, which are often more interesting. I would love to live in London for a year or two or however long it takes to see things properly. Perhaps when I retire - if I can win the lottery.

I wonder if it would be an idea to do a scouting pub crawl/trial a month or so before the meet. To see if any of suggested pubs meet up to hootoo standards.

Only a month before the Meet? That isn't long.

And what is the HooToo standard?

Okay 2 or 3 months before the meet with regular double checks.

Hootoo standard?

A horse trough filled with Guiness? well it would be better than The Pendrels Oak.

ANYTHING would be better than there.

I know the Red Lion, Barnes is ok-ish, but they do a good Carvery.

So, decide on a venue, or send me out Scouting, and I'll assess the Establishments, and hopefully somewhere can be decided by November, ready for the date votes. Does that seem right?

Yep sounds like a plan

Also must harrass Jims and the post for advertising