The Royal Wedding

[Elizabeth Hansen]

Will you be there when Kate Middleton walks down the aisle? Will you see the predictably broad grin on Prince William’s face as he watches her make her way toward the altar?

No? Well my invitation hasn’t arrived either, but that isn’t going to keep me from enjoying the occasion.

When Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer married, I was there. Not “there” as in inside St. Paul’s Cathedral, but “there” as in “in London enjoying the celebration.”

Back in 1981, I stretched my Royal Wedding budget by staying in a friend’s flat and renting a window in an office building along the procession route. To reduce the cost of my vantage point, I passed on the option of the opulent buffet and arrived toting snacks purchased at Harrod’s Food Hall.

The viewpoint was popular with photographers from the local newspapers, and they acted as my commentators. These savvy guys recognized the occupants of every carriage and even the “number plates” of the closed cars. They also told me this was not the fairytale wedding I believed in – but I was sure they were wrong. Sadly, history proved them right.

So what are your Royal Wedding options? Is there an authentic luxury way to “attend” Kate and Will’s wedding?

The Henley Company, based in San Diego, has put together “A Celebration of the Royal Wedding” which will take place from April 24 to May 4, 2011. West Coast participants will fly non-stop from Los Angeles, but flights from other gateways can be arranged. Unfortunately, British Airways' San Diego - London nonstops don't start until June.

Promising to eschew the “typical tourist attractions,” spokesperson Nicole Matthews says the itinerary includes private tours and behind-the-scenes entry to palaces, gardens, and landmarks.

Upon arrival in London, guests will be met by a chauffeur and taken to the 5-star InterContinental London Park Lane where they will be accommodated on the Club floor. Highlights of the itinerary include an exclusive peek at the crown jewels, a private visit to Eton College (which HRH attended), and a leisure stroll around Windsor Castle.

On April 29, guests will watch the ceremony on big screens in London’s parks and the following day enjoy a private tour of the wedding venue - Westminster Abbey,.

This trip will be limited to 25 people and can be customized to suit various budgets. The 4-star itinerary is posted on this website. Contact Nicole for information on the package that includes the 5-star InterContinental Hotel.

The Henley Company’s goal is to help clients enjoy a little more RECESS in their lives through unique experiences, travel, and events.

In this case, it sounds like they’re turning London into a playground.

Caption: Londoners get quite enthusiastic about Royal weddings.

 
Photo credit: ADAMS / HANSEN STOCK PHOTOS.