London Eye – A massive
Observation Wheel located over the Thames River
The British Airways London Eye is a massive
Observation Wheel, which is located strategically on the picturesque South Bank
of the legendary Thames River. The ethereal joy of soaring high above the city
of London and the corresponding excitement of catching the panoramic views of
one of the world’s greatest cities is like being in the seventh heaven.
This
marvelous amusement center was the brainchild of the maverick husband-wife
architectural team of David Marks and Julia Barfield who won one of the
toughest competitions in the annals of contemporary London’s beautification
project for the new millennium.
Prior
to the construction of the London Eye, London was perceived as a city steeped
in tradition and history and the stiff upper-lipped British behavioral trait
didn’t win the hearts of tourists and visitors. The city planners and
administrators were bent on show casing London in a more contemporary fashion
and credit goes to their pioneering zeal. Today, this astonishing observation
wheel is a symbol of London’s modern face.
As
you step into any of the 32 compact, air conditioned passenger cabins or capsules
and begin your voyage to the higher realms of London, there is a feeling of
expansion within you and if the weather is clear and sunny, you are sure to see
breathtaking views of the city of London.
The
Parliament House, the grand Buckingham Palace and the up-coming Canary Wharf to
the east all appear before your eyes in a stunning display of aerial splendor,
which is unparalleled to say at the least.
The
impact of London Eye was such that it became an instant hit with not only the
tourist and visitors but also with the world of entertainment.
There
are three designer flights available – Standard Flight, Discovery Flight and
Fast Track Flight. If you apt for the Standard Flight, you have to be there at
least 40 minutes before the commencement of flight and the flight duration is
30 minutes. In case of Discovery Flight, you are provided with a knowledgeable
guide who not only helps you trace the important London landmarks like
Buckingham Palace, St. Paul’s Cathedral, etc but also provides with a fascinating
insight about how the London Eye was assembled and put together. The Fast Track
Flight is the most exclusive of all flights, complete with express check-in and
boarding. You are also provided with an informative guide book while children
receive an exclusive in-flight pack with an attractive guide and a pair of
binoculars.
The
London Eye becomes the hot spot of London particularly during the New Year’s
Eve with state of the art pyrotechnics, laser and projection effects. The
countdown to midnight commences with a spectacular fire works display, which
bathes the entire area with effulgent lights.
