Day 16,17 Wales to Manchester, U.K.

KI think I lost a day in there some way, but at least we didn't show up to MAN airport a day early, like 20 yrs ago when I had more of a mind, even!

We decided not to push things in the drive down hilly, narrow roads from Wales to Manchester airport on the day we were to fly out.  So, I booked a hotel near the City Centre of Manchester, on our last night in UK.  No windows in it, but a new rehab of an old building with a great roof top garden/bar,

within short walking distance of the City Centre with loads of restaurants and a great modern bath and a first for this trip, pillow top mattresses!!!!

Had an ok dinner meal last night, deteriorating from the asparagus toast, down through hake tapas.  Found our fav restaurant from DC, Pret something, for fresh croissants for breakfast, and ran a little late heading out to the airport, but suffered no consequences gassing up, returning the car, and checking in for our flight.  Even had time for a "spot of tea" after security clearance.  

We are on board AA Flight 55 (Boeing 767-300, my fav plane and not even close to full) to Ohare, five hours out, with minimal turbulence so far and free flowing wine.  Even Rex is taking advantage, relieved as he is to have turned in the rental car with no incidents (they didn't even spot our side mirror repair complete with my custom spit polish to remove the white car scratches from the plastic part I made Rex retrieve)

Thank you Uk and Portugal for all your courtesy and kindness.  We had a wonderful time!