AT KEW

My hostess, Zina was about to go out and had asked a friend to look out for me. It was now nearly 1pm. She had just enough time to show me my room and give me a key. I just have a room here and share the bathroom with Zina and another guest. He is Brian from Christchurch who is researching the Vietnam War at the National Archives. A lovely young man, father of three. In my room is a tiny fridge and a microwave oven and an electric jug.

First I needed a rest. My ankles had disappeared and I was exhausted. After a nap I thought I had better go find a local store and get some food. I got to the front door of the apartment building and realised I could get into the apartment but not into the building. Once I shut that door I had no way of getting back in. Zina had forgotten to tell me the door code. There are three apartments on each floor. I started on the ground floor ringing each persons door bell. No response. Went up to the next floor to start there when a lady from the ground floor opened her door. She graciously gave me the code so I could leave the building. TM14.

Kew Village is just a few houses away. As I walked around it I was getting worried. I could see some nice restaurants – out of my league and a few other interesting stores, but no Sainsbury's which is what I really wanted. There was a store selling all kinds of organic food and produce. Great if I was at home with my kitchen. Found the last few shops and among them was a Tesco Express store. So relieved. At least I could get a few supplies. TM15.