Orchid Extravaganza!

When the weather forecast showed that rain wasn't likely today, J and I decided to visit Kew Gardens to enjoy the last day of the Orchid Extravaganza. I should mention that we tried to go before, but a terrific downpour ensued right when we arrived at the Kew Garden Tube station. We made the executive decision that day to turn around and head straight back home and to try again later when the weather wasn't so evil. Lucky for me, today was that day.

Although the weather was cooperative, the Tube was not. There are improvements that are constantly taking place on the weekends, and certain crucial sections of the Tube was down. Three station transfers and a ride on a replacement bus later, we finally arrived at Kew Gardens. It's a green space spread over 326 acres and is home to more greenery than you can imagine. You can enjoy the gardens and trees outdoors or you can head inside to a greenhouse for the plants that are not indigenous to the UK.

We ran around like madmen trying to see it all.

First, we did a quick run through of the Cactus room in the Princess of Wales Conservatory.

Then we entered the Tropical Plants room. There were all kinds of flowers everywhere.

And more orchids than at a wedding on steroids.

For real, they were hanging off the ceilings!

And the piece de resistance... the Orchid Tree.

So I'm kind of flowered out by now, so I'll continue the post tomorrow since I need to get some sleep for my first day of work at my new job tomorrow!