Here's a summary of trip just completed which may help with some people's planning: Took advantage of US Air's low fares and flew to Gatwick. Rented car through AutoEurope who booked it with National. Gas price averaged 96 pence per litre; drove total 800 miles which cost £100 for gas (had full size car). Temp averaged 68F day & 50F night. Not as many tourists this year so many hotels have discounts. Stayed at 2 Mariotts, both under £100 per night (1 near Cambridge & the new Courtyard at Gatwick). Also Dormy House in the Cotswolds & Ettington Park near Stratford. Went to Evensong service at Univ of Cambridge's Kings College Chapel (it's free). Toured Sandringham House in Norfolk, Arundel Castle in West Sussex, and several Cotswold towns. Avoided London this time. Went to horse races 2 days (a fun way to spend an afternoon). TV had lots of talk about swine flu, but most people were not very concerned and I didn't see anyone wearing a face mask. Overall a trouble-free and relaxed trip. TJM
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