A flotilla of 1,000 boats on the Thames & fireworks to celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee

By MOOK Travel & Lifestyle Li Xinyi | Compiled & Reported

In 2012, the 60th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s accession to the British throne was celebrated. Buckingham Palace has announced the celebration plans for June 2 to 5. To honor the UK’s maritime history, on June 3 more than 1,000 boats will gather on the River Thames, with Queen Elizabeth II sailing in the Royal Barge at the center of the fleet.

At the same time, the Diamond Jubilee Bell, sponsored by London Vinter’s, will also travel along the route of the boat parade. Churches along the way will ring bells in accompaniment, and celebrations will be held at Battersea Park, with live footage shown on outdoor screens. On June 4, around 22:30 GMT, the Queen will light the UK’s last beacon. A total of 2,012 beacons will also be lit across the UK, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man, the Commonwealth, and other countries.

The highlight of the June 5 events is a thanksgiving service at St Paul’s Cathedral, scheduled for around 10:30 AM UK summer time. A carriage procession from Buckingham Palace is expected to take place at approximately 2:30 PM, and at around 3:00 PM, the Queen will appear on the balcony of Buckingham Palace as the Royal Air Force aircraft fly overhead, accompanied by a series of gun salutes.

In addition, the Foreign Office announced yesterday (10th) that the British Overseas Territory of the British Virgin Islands has granted visa-free access to our nationals. Starting April 3, holders of Republic of China passports can visit the islands visa-free for tourism, family visits, business, or study purposes, for stays of up to six months, without applying for a visa.

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