General questions about Euro

[Sambaman]

Well gents, I've never been to Euro, but lately I've been thinking about making the jump across the pond to visit and check out this modeling phenomenon! Especially with all this exciting Euro goings on here at the Planet the past few days! With that said, I have some general questions about a possible trip. Most of the things that concern me are usually budget related. Not being a wealthy chap, I have to save my pennies and plan as best I can for such an adventure. I also have a friend with some physical considerations that might be with me, some concerns are raised based on his needs as well. Any one with any thoughts or insight would be most appreciated. Thanks all!

What is the closest airport?

Is there reasonable public transportation available? (To and from airport? Also around town when we're there?) Are most things we will need withing walking distance? (food, lodging, other attractions possibly?) Are the streets/sidewalks, lobbies and such wheel chair accessible?

Are there plenty of lodging accommodations close to the venue? What are the room rates like? How many nights would you recommend staying?

What other worthwhile attractions are close that might interest figure painters and or their families?

Are there some good restaurants close by? What are the food prices like? This is where the natives can help out with suggestions and advice!

Are all the facilities handicapped accessible? For instance, are there elevators in all the 2 or more story buildings? (I believe you folks call them “lifts” over yonder) Would the show be wheel-chair accessible? Etc.

Does anyone know if a powered “scooter” would be available instead of a wheel-chair to rent?

Any other pearls of wisdom that anyone can share? All advice would be most appreciated. I’m going to start to save my pennies, fingers crossed I can make it over for the show in the next couple years. Thanks in advance ladies and gents!

Jay H

 

[housecarl]

Your nearest International Airport would be in London, probably Gatwick.
That's the only pearl of wisdom I can offer, would be nice to see you though.
Carl.

 

[Anders Heintz]

Ok here is my abreviated rant after two visits to Euro. I can share more with you at Chicago!

There are several hotels close to the show venue. If I recall correctly it was something like 54 Pound per night, including breakfast. The rooms are disgusting, but will serve their purpose. I have stayed at two different hotels in Folkstone, and both hotels were equally bad. They are nothing compared to the standard US Hotel room (or Motel for that matter). But again, it is Euro Militaire, some suffering is allowed!

As for good restaurants, havent found one of them either! There is a decent place next to the hotels, an Indian food place fairly close and the standard McDonalds. I am sure there are better places in Folkstone, but not close to the show venue, at least that I know of, though would love to know about it for the next trip over!

I have always flown into Stansted, then taken a train to London, and swaping there to get out to Folkstone from the London Bridge station. It is a pretty easy trip, each train taking approx 45 minutes.

As for worth while stuff to do in Folkstone... Euro Militaire...! I'd suggest taking a few days in London which have a ton of good stuff!! Get a subway (underground) day ticket and use the subway system, it is very fast and efficient to get around London in little time. We walked from central station to the National Army Museum, highly NOT recommended, London is HUGE! Get a subway day pass!!

The pubs are great!! Great beer and great company. Though it tends to get expensive, the memories and friends you make will last a life time!

Anyway, thats a few of my observations, we can chat about it at the next show.

I am also looking forward to more info from more experienced Euro goers for future trips.

 

[Uruk-Hai]

Well, I settle for Heathrow if I where in your shoes.

From Heathrow I usuall take the Heathrow express. Prebought ticket is easier.
To make it simple I take a cab from Paddington Station to Charing Cross.

At Charing Cross you buy the trainticket for Folkestone. There usually are one faster and one slower route taking 2-3 hours to get there. Also if possible, have a prebought open ticket. Also there is no point in going from Charing Cross after 21:00 as it will pretty dead in Folkstone when you get there, perhaps hard to find your stay and cabs arent that many. Also try if possible to get from Charing Cross before 16:00 as the many travel to work back and forth and the train gets crowdy.

There aint much to see in Folkestone to be honest. One time I took a stroll to Canterbury afterwards which was a little interesting.

The UK leaves a lot to be desired for people in wheelchair but I have seen them at Euro and many of the staff helped them a lot.

Cheers
Janne Nilsson

 

[stu]

Hi jay,

Euro and folkestone itself are pretty wheelchair friendly.

Most hotels are not great, but are ok. I know of one that is excellent and have stayed there with my kids, it is great, but the wheelchair may be a problem. You can allways contact me for its name.

Folkestone does have some great eating places, I always go for the curry,its gawjus, the chinese is pretty damned good but save the pub for sunday evening and winding down. I think the pub is the britania is great,bit of a walk but not that bad.

There is nothing in folkestone, london has lots to do and see, my favourite is the guards museum, small but what a collection. If you could get out further go to winchester. it has four military museums in one place and they are awesome, Rifles, hussars, gurkha and the local regt.

If you need more info I can help and I'm sure all the UK guys here will too

Come its great

Stu

 

[Figure Mad]

Hi jay

Sent you a pm

Dave

 

[Blind Pew]

Jay, I've sent you a PM

all the best mate

A