Hi katrinacov -
I've travelled to Manchester at about every time of year and the weather is NOT predictable, your fiance is correct. Oh before I start let me preface this with I am a chronic over packer and am “starting” to learn over the course of many transatlantic flights what I need and don’t need. Plus Virgin has now started charging for bags
so this has encouraged me to slim down a little on the packing.
Shoes:
1. 1 pair of UGG type boots (not the slipper kind but ones with a sole) – I wore these most everyday over Christmas and was always warm and comfortable as we walked all over the city.
2. 1 pair of nice boots
with a heel, you want to look nice for dinner! - You can’t be going around in trainers for a nice meal ;-)
Clothes:
1. Two pairs of jeans – one darker and dresser, one more casual and day time.
2. Various different tops to layer just like people have suggested. Short and long sleeves will do you just fine.
It has been quite a cold April still and you will want a light jacket. I also carry various scarves that help add a little something to your outfit and also keep you warm if you don’t want to wear a jacket all day.
Have you flown into Manchester before?
If not, let me give you a little play by play once you get off the plane until you meet your DF. I wish someone would have explained to me the first time.
1. Once you land in Manchester, make sure the immigration form they give you on the plane is filled out, ask for a blue form if you haven’t gotten one before you land. This basically asks your personal data and where you will be staying during your journey (know the address if you don’t already).
2. Go through immigration, the Immigration Officer will ask you why you are there, who you are there to see, how long have you known each other, and more very personal – invasive questions until he is satisfied you aren’t going to try and stay in the UK without permission.
a. Have your return itinerary printed out and ready to show -they
WILL ask for it.
b. I bring pay check stubs from work to show I have a job and ties back to the US
c. Whatever you do – do not lie even if you think it will make the process easier, they are trained to trip you up and even when you are telling the truth they make you feel like a criminal!
3. After immigration you will walk down the stairs to Baggage claim – you won’t see your DF until after you leave baggage claim (this is what tripped me up because in the US, you get your bags after you leave arrivals!)
a. Have a one pound coin ready to get a luggage cart (if you need one, I always need one as I have 3 bags + a purse)
b. Everyone is SO friendly there, I always have so random kind gentleman help me pull my bags off the carousel.
Hope this helps! Have a great time
