Hi there smudger1. I am also booked onto this trip in November, and also flying from LHR. I would most definitely like to meet you in the bar pre-dinner and maybe continue our acquaintance over the dinner table too?
I haven't booked a hotel yet, and last time I flew from LHR I let JY book my parking and hotel for me - they got me quite a good deal. I figured I would wait until nearer the time. We must liaise and make sure we get together.
Regarding the DOs and Dont's, I am hoping that someone from one of the earlier departure dates will give us a complete list of what we will need / not need to take with us! That's not unrealistic, as most of the people on this forum are perfectly splendid in terms of posting reviews and giving advice. The tour managers aren't too bad either! It's a new tour for next year, so there probably won't be any reviews or advice available yet.
I am sure that Julia and or Monty will be able to let us know each others email address - I am quite happy for mine to be sent to you and then we can stay in touch. However, if we continue to use the forum like this, others who also book onto the tour might decide to join us in the bar too!
Only 10 months to go!
Regards
Toni