Yes, I finally got around to uploading the hundreds of photos I have from the trip. Here's what I have so far, including the first batch:
Album 1 (London)
Album 2 (London
Album 3 (London)
Click on the above links to view the album and enjoy!
Showing posts with label london. Show all posts
Showing posts with label london. Show all posts
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
London's Mine
Look! I finally added photos - in sequential, album form! click HERE to view them from my Facebook - Or just go to http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2090093&l=34998&id=21907984. Whichever. They are photos from take off and our first day or two out in the city. Let me know what you think.
I'm currently working on getting a few postcards to you guys. Also, I'm still up for receiving letters! :)
Yesterday was our trip to St. Paul's Cathedral, the first Protestant Cathedral in England. It's very spatious in everyway, unlike some of the other churches we've visited. Every part of it is very open and naturally lit. The Dome is definitely the most attractive part of the design and I started to get dizzy just looking up at it. Like other cathedrals and museums, photography was not permitted, and like other cathedrals and museums we've visited, I managed to sneak a few. After that experience, Amanda and I had an awkward moment as we attempted to get our photo together on the front steps. Let's just say she tends to fall into me sometimes.
After St. Paul's we crossed the Millennium Bridge and talked about it for awhile before heading to the Tate Modern. Since Pizza Express was not so express, we only got to see the inside of the museum for about 15 minutes. What I saw was great, so we're definitely going back there to explore. We ended the day with some more English rain and a walk across the Tower Bridge.
I cannot wait until this weekend. It's our long weekend, since we get Friday off. Most people are going to Dublin or Paris, but Amanda (and 2 others in the group, Kathleen and Nathan) and I are going to Skye, Scotland. We still have to figure out the details with the train and hostels there, so I'm guessing it's going to run up the bill a bit. But it's SCOTLAND! And we were told Skye Isle is a wonderful place, so I'm sure it will be worth it.
Tomorrow we have to be ready to leave at a grueling 7AM to travel to Avebury and Salisbury. I'm ready for a day in the countryside of England and I have no idea what to expect. After the site study trip is our second group dinner, marking the middle of the program. I cannot believe it's almost half over already. I've become accustomed to the flow of the city, the sirens, the people, the food, I can't imagine being back in America quite yet.
To answer a few specific questions about life in London:
cell phones - called mobiles here, and people here are just as attached to them as they are in the States. Since most people go through their day as if only they existed, there aren't too many unspoken rules of etiquette I've picked up on. Most don't use them in the underground, but that may be because service is so poor. I wouldn't even say the English are any quieter on their mobiles, just maybe more respectful of a quiet area.
city travel - like many other cities that use a subway/underground/metro system, the London underground has the choice of getting tickets or a scanning card. We have cards (called oyster cards) that are scan-able for use of the tube or the bus systems. It's cheaper than buying weekly tickets and more efficient since it's faster to scan a card rather than feeding in a ticket - and trust me, you want it to be fast when gobs of people are rushing to get to their platform. So you go to the tube station, scan the card and the doors let you through - same goes for exiting as well. If you get through without scanning (which can be done), you are at risk of a fine if they do a random check, and those don't happen often. The oyster card works the same for the buses, but it's harder to sneak on since the drivers keep an eye on who scans their card. Buses are a neat experience, but I prefer the tube, even though it's hotter and dirtier.
food - Sure bangers and mash or fish and chips don't seem like fantastic meals, but that's British food for ya. I have not eaten any of these meals, but the pub food I have tried is fried, boiled and deliciously bad for you - especially at the Irish pub. Since London is full of European immigrants, there is literally every type of ethnic food available and it sure is good. It is kind of a joke that is said around here that the national dish is the Indian dish, chicken tikki masala. Even the "fast food" is great because they are usually sandwich shops that are chains like EAT, Enjoy, or my personal favourite, Pret a Manger. They make various sandwiches daily and it works kind of like a classy grab and go. All of these places, inluding the ethnic foods have a lot more vegetarian options as well. They are creative and really yummy - also properly labeled. The grocery stores have a lot of the same general selections, but with most animal products and other things being organic. The best thing I have eaten so far would have to be either the pasta at the pub or the avacado, spinach, tomato, cheese, yogurt wrap I had today at Pret. mmm.
internet - Our flat does technically have wireless, but it is awful strength and mostly annoys me. Only one of the guys has a computer here, and I'm the only other one with internet access because I can access it through my iPod, however this is a huge distraction and I try to make Amanda break my habit. So we've mostly been going to the i-caf to update and such. 1 pound per hour!
I hope everyone is diong well. Thanks again for the comments, I love it! Please check out my first batch of photos by clicking HERE .
Peace & Love
I'm currently working on getting a few postcards to you guys. Also, I'm still up for receiving letters! :)
Yesterday was our trip to St. Paul's Cathedral, the first Protestant Cathedral in England. It's very spatious in everyway, unlike some of the other churches we've visited. Every part of it is very open and naturally lit. The Dome is definitely the most attractive part of the design and I started to get dizzy just looking up at it. Like other cathedrals and museums, photography was not permitted, and like other cathedrals and museums we've visited, I managed to sneak a few. After that experience, Amanda and I had an awkward moment as we attempted to get our photo together on the front steps. Let's just say she tends to fall into me sometimes.
After St. Paul's we crossed the Millennium Bridge and talked about it for awhile before heading to the Tate Modern. Since Pizza Express was not so express, we only got to see the inside of the museum for about 15 minutes. What I saw was great, so we're definitely going back there to explore. We ended the day with some more English rain and a walk across the Tower Bridge.
I cannot wait until this weekend. It's our long weekend, since we get Friday off. Most people are going to Dublin or Paris, but Amanda (and 2 others in the group, Kathleen and Nathan) and I are going to Skye, Scotland. We still have to figure out the details with the train and hostels there, so I'm guessing it's going to run up the bill a bit. But it's SCOTLAND! And we were told Skye Isle is a wonderful place, so I'm sure it will be worth it.
Tomorrow we have to be ready to leave at a grueling 7AM to travel to Avebury and Salisbury. I'm ready for a day in the countryside of England and I have no idea what to expect. After the site study trip is our second group dinner, marking the middle of the program. I cannot believe it's almost half over already. I've become accustomed to the flow of the city, the sirens, the people, the food, I can't imagine being back in America quite yet.
To answer a few specific questions about life in London:
cell phones - called mobiles here, and people here are just as attached to them as they are in the States. Since most people go through their day as if only they existed, there aren't too many unspoken rules of etiquette I've picked up on. Most don't use them in the underground, but that may be because service is so poor. I wouldn't even say the English are any quieter on their mobiles, just maybe more respectful of a quiet area.
city travel - like many other cities that use a subway/underground/metro system, the London underground has the choice of getting tickets or a scanning card. We have cards (called oyster cards) that are scan-able for use of the tube or the bus systems. It's cheaper than buying weekly tickets and more efficient since it's faster to scan a card rather than feeding in a ticket - and trust me, you want it to be fast when gobs of people are rushing to get to their platform. So you go to the tube station, scan the card and the doors let you through - same goes for exiting as well. If you get through without scanning (which can be done), you are at risk of a fine if they do a random check, and those don't happen often. The oyster card works the same for the buses, but it's harder to sneak on since the drivers keep an eye on who scans their card. Buses are a neat experience, but I prefer the tube, even though it's hotter and dirtier.
food - Sure bangers and mash or fish and chips don't seem like fantastic meals, but that's British food for ya. I have not eaten any of these meals, but the pub food I have tried is fried, boiled and deliciously bad for you - especially at the Irish pub. Since London is full of European immigrants, there is literally every type of ethnic food available and it sure is good. It is kind of a joke that is said around here that the national dish is the Indian dish, chicken tikki masala. Even the "fast food" is great because they are usually sandwich shops that are chains like EAT, Enjoy, or my personal favourite, Pret a Manger. They make various sandwiches daily and it works kind of like a classy grab and go. All of these places, inluding the ethnic foods have a lot more vegetarian options as well. They are creative and really yummy - also properly labeled. The grocery stores have a lot of the same general selections, but with most animal products and other things being organic. The best thing I have eaten so far would have to be either the pasta at the pub or the avacado, spinach, tomato, cheese, yogurt wrap I had today at Pret. mmm.
internet - Our flat does technically have wireless, but it is awful strength and mostly annoys me. Only one of the guys has a computer here, and I'm the only other one with internet access because I can access it through my iPod, however this is a huge distraction and I try to make Amanda break my habit. So we've mostly been going to the i-caf to update and such. 1 pound per hour!
I hope everyone is diong well. Thanks again for the comments, I love it! Please check out my first batch of photos by clicking HERE .
Peace & Love
Sunday, June 1, 2008
Gallery Hop
Short post, but picture previews!
Amanda and I went to 4 galleries here in London yesterday. The National Gallery, National Portrait Gallery, the Photographer's Gallery and the Victoria & Albert Museum. It was so overwhelming seeing amazing works of art. Tomorrow we'll visit the Tate Modern with the group as a part of our site study trip, which I'm very excited about. Today was spent getting started on the 10 papers I have due this week. Also, I have a novel to start, finish and write a paper on by wednesday. Amanda, Laura and I spent about 5 hours at our favourite pub, the Duke of York writing papers.
The weekend went very quickly and was productive, yet I'm still not ahead. Friday we went back down to covent gardens and found a cool place to hang out with everyone. Last night was a good old fashioned dance party in our flat, then ended with some good conversation with friends -- and we finally got music to play on our speakers!
If you want postcards, please e-mail me your address to hopkins.hillary@gmail.com
And mom & terry, I got the email and I'll answer the questions ASAP - they're good ones, keep 'em comin! I love all you Yanks!
Here are some obligatory shots of the last few days:
Mind the Gap!
My Flatmates on the tube
On Millennium Bridge going to the Globe
Tower Bridge from the Ferry
Amanda and I went to 4 galleries here in London yesterday. The National Gallery, National Portrait Gallery, the Photographer's Gallery and the Victoria & Albert Museum. It was so overwhelming seeing amazing works of art. Tomorrow we'll visit the Tate Modern with the group as a part of our site study trip, which I'm very excited about. Today was spent getting started on the 10 papers I have due this week. Also, I have a novel to start, finish and write a paper on by wednesday. Amanda, Laura and I spent about 5 hours at our favourite pub, the Duke of York writing papers.
The weekend went very quickly and was productive, yet I'm still not ahead. Friday we went back down to covent gardens and found a cool place to hang out with everyone. Last night was a good old fashioned dance party in our flat, then ended with some good conversation with friends -- and we finally got music to play on our speakers!
If you want postcards, please e-mail me your address to hopkins.hillary@gmail.com
And mom & terry, I got the email and I'll answer the questions ASAP - they're good ones, keep 'em comin! I love all you Yanks!
Here are some obligatory shots of the last few days:
Mind the Gap!
My Flatmates on the tube
On Millennium Bridge going to the Globe
Tower Bridge from the Ferry
Thursday, May 29, 2008
New Glue
I'm beginning to believe that the business here is going to be non-stop. We've seen some magnificent things so far this week, but it has been one of the most exhausting. Our schedule has been getting up between 7:30-8am and being out until later in the afternoon and not finishing homework until 2 or 3am. I'm hoping to manage my time better, as I would love to have time to go out and just sit or photograph.
Tuesday was AMAZING to say the least. We had our first time in an actual classroom for a few hours to discuss what we've done so far (and also attempt to learn some very elementary engineering). After that we went to a nearby university called AIU (American Intercontinental University - London)and visited their arts program. We got to look at some fantastic sample work and talk to some students (a few of which were from the States) about their experiences. The idea is that many students get two undergraduate art degrees - one in American and one here, so the students ranged from 18-25. I spoke with two students, one in photography whose work just blew my mind. Sure he's paying $170,000 in debt, but the opportunities the school provides are unbelievable. The other student is planning on staying in London and is already making a great wage. Their exhibition opening is tonight, but I will have to get to see it later. That night, we went as a group to see Shakespeare's A Mid-Summer Night's Dream at the famous Globe Theatre. It honestly went beyond my expectations. Everything was so well done, the acting, costumes, ambiance, music. Just being at the Globe made it the all better. It's an open roof amphitheater with all of the original design elements. We had great seats, right beside the stage in a balcony-type area. I wasn't expecting it, but I laughed until I just about cried. Shakespeare sure was kind of pervy and the actors put a great sense of physical comedy into it. After it was over, our section walked out and it was dark, of course. The view of the Millennium Bridge over the Thames looked magnificent with St. Paul's Cathedral standing beyond the other side of the river. We walked to the tube in awe of the sites and in true London fashion, it began to rain.
We were so exhausted on Wednesday because of the eventful Tuesday and gobs of homework to do. Amanda and I go on lock down in our room so we can write our papers. Last night was another one of those times because it was so tempting to go out and watch the England v. America football game. A few of the guys went to the game and said it was great even though we lost.
Yesterday we visited Greenwich (the beginning of time!) where I saw the Prime Meridian. I think if I could ever live in the city of London itself, it would have to be in Greenwich. It's so beautiful with large green spaces, river views, quaint houses and great shops. We took a ferry back to Westminster that was very chilly, but also lovely as we passed under the Tower Bridge and various beautiful homes.
As Amanda and I were eating our four cheese frozen pizza on our beds while writing papers, my loose lateral incisor fell out. I knew it was going to happen since it started to come loose after I arrived here. It was quite funny though, scaring the crap out of Amanda and the rest of my flatmates. I couldn't get ahold of Dr. Stoner so I found a Doctor on my own and told Sean about my situation. Since I wasn't in pain, I went to the site study trips until my appointment today. I felt a little embarrassed about the situation, but more embarrassed that Sean lent me fifty pounds so I didn't have to travel back to my flat. I was a little nervous getting there on my own from the South Kensington Museum since I had never truly been alone in the city. I found my tube station, connecting line just fine. I got the tooth re cemented and now I have my smile again! woo! I met back up with the rest of the group at the Victoria & Albert Museum where I was once again blown away by the art I got to experience. I literally saw my favourite photographers of all time (William Eggleston, Alfred Stieglitz, Julia Margaret Cameron, Joel Meyerowitz). I'm definitely going back to get a better look - and to see that piece by Raphael.
Once again, I'll refer you to Amanda's blog for some photos until I can get my own up here. I'm beginning to really miss my family & friends, even though I couldn't be happier about being here. Your comments really mean a lot to me! I ran up the phone bill last night by catching up with my Liz and it really made me miss home. I'll get to spend my 21st there celebrating though. Annie, I'll be sure to update for you as much as possible :) and I saw a blown glass vase today with kitties on it and it made me think of LOLcats...I'm pretty sure it's just you and Emily who will appreciate that.
Love from London!
Tuesday was AMAZING to say the least. We had our first time in an actual classroom for a few hours to discuss what we've done so far (and also attempt to learn some very elementary engineering). After that we went to a nearby university called AIU (American Intercontinental University - London)and visited their arts program. We got to look at some fantastic sample work and talk to some students (a few of which were from the States) about their experiences. The idea is that many students get two undergraduate art degrees - one in American and one here, so the students ranged from 18-25. I spoke with two students, one in photography whose work just blew my mind. Sure he's paying $170,000 in debt, but the opportunities the school provides are unbelievable. The other student is planning on staying in London and is already making a great wage. Their exhibition opening is tonight, but I will have to get to see it later. That night, we went as a group to see Shakespeare's A Mid-Summer Night's Dream at the famous Globe Theatre. It honestly went beyond my expectations. Everything was so well done, the acting, costumes, ambiance, music. Just being at the Globe made it the all better. It's an open roof amphitheater with all of the original design elements. We had great seats, right beside the stage in a balcony-type area. I wasn't expecting it, but I laughed until I just about cried. Shakespeare sure was kind of pervy and the actors put a great sense of physical comedy into it. After it was over, our section walked out and it was dark, of course. The view of the Millennium Bridge over the Thames looked magnificent with St. Paul's Cathedral standing beyond the other side of the river. We walked to the tube in awe of the sites and in true London fashion, it began to rain.
We were so exhausted on Wednesday because of the eventful Tuesday and gobs of homework to do. Amanda and I go on lock down in our room so we can write our papers. Last night was another one of those times because it was so tempting to go out and watch the England v. America football game. A few of the guys went to the game and said it was great even though we lost.
Yesterday we visited Greenwich (the beginning of time!) where I saw the Prime Meridian. I think if I could ever live in the city of London itself, it would have to be in Greenwich. It's so beautiful with large green spaces, river views, quaint houses and great shops. We took a ferry back to Westminster that was very chilly, but also lovely as we passed under the Tower Bridge and various beautiful homes.
As Amanda and I were eating our four cheese frozen pizza on our beds while writing papers, my loose lateral incisor fell out. I knew it was going to happen since it started to come loose after I arrived here. It was quite funny though, scaring the crap out of Amanda and the rest of my flatmates. I couldn't get ahold of Dr. Stoner so I found a Doctor on my own and told Sean about my situation. Since I wasn't in pain, I went to the site study trips until my appointment today. I felt a little embarrassed about the situation, but more embarrassed that Sean lent me fifty pounds so I didn't have to travel back to my flat. I was a little nervous getting there on my own from the South Kensington Museum since I had never truly been alone in the city. I found my tube station, connecting line just fine. I got the tooth re cemented and now I have my smile again! woo! I met back up with the rest of the group at the Victoria & Albert Museum where I was once again blown away by the art I got to experience. I literally saw my favourite photographers of all time (William Eggleston, Alfred Stieglitz, Julia Margaret Cameron, Joel Meyerowitz). I'm definitely going back to get a better look - and to see that piece by Raphael.
Once again, I'll refer you to Amanda's blog for some photos until I can get my own up here. I'm beginning to really miss my family & friends, even though I couldn't be happier about being here. Your comments really mean a lot to me! I ran up the phone bill last night by catching up with my Liz and it really made me miss home. I'll get to spend my 21st there celebrating though. Annie, I'll be sure to update for you as much as possible :) and I saw a blown glass vase today with kitties on it and it made me think of LOLcats...I'm pretty sure it's just you and Emily who will appreciate that.
Love from London!
Monday, May 26, 2008
When in London...
Apologies for the various typos, I'm typing on my iPod and can't easily make revisions.
The last few days have been incredibly busy and I have hardly had time to explain what I have really been doing do far. The weekdays are busy with site study trips, which are the equivalent of classes. 4 out of the 5 days we go out in the city with our group of 20 students and 4 faculty members (spouses sometimes included). We have carefully planned out itineraries that correspond nicely with our mass amounts of daily readings. As the city is our primary text in this program, there is a great deal of hands on learning and visual application. Everyday we meet in the lobby of our building and leave promptly at 9am and finish up around 2-3 in the afternoon. The day consists of the entire group trying to keep up with Sean (as he is the primary leader and extremely fast paced walker). We go to not one, but many sites in the city and make various stops to hear what the teachers have to tell us. Sometimes we stop along busy streets or quieter sections of parks and churches, so that can feel kind of strange. We have already seen so much that it feels overwhelming to try and explain. The idea is to learn about the city in an integrated way. This includes ideas of history, literature, architecture/engineering and aesthetics/art in London. Our trips are usually to specific sections of the city. As it would be impossible to do a completely chronological tour of the city, we instead learn each area and kind of make connections as we travel.
Thursday was our first site study trip and our itinerary included Westminster (Parliament & st. George's tower), Whitehall, the London Eye (which was unfortunately closed), Bank, Lloyd's, Swiss Re and Liverpool street. We took our first double decker bus home and Amanda and I got the two front seats on the upper level. I thought so many times that we were going to hit a pedestrian or bicyclist! Friday included sites like Monument, Magnus, London bridge (not to be confused with the tower bridge), Chespside, Guildhall, the museum of London, St. Bart's, Smithfield and Barbican. That may not make too much sense, but pictures should help when I get the chance to post some. We have also seen various beautiful churches inside and out as well as parks and squares. My favourite from this day was Postman's park, which appears in the movie, Closer.
Friday night made a splash into the awesome weekend ahead. The girls in my flat and I went to the national portrait gallery to see the vanity fair photographs on exhibit. We got all dressed up and made the mistake of wearing heels like the rest of the London women do on a daily basis. It was so great seeing some of my favourite photographer's work and so many iconic images of the last 90 years in portraiture.
After the return to the flat and a quick reunion at the pub with the rest of our group, some of us decided to go dancing. We went to an over priced, but happening place in Leicester Square and danced the night away. We all got to bond and it was nice how much we looked out for one another. Saturday was an attempt at doing homework all day then a trip to the Covent Gardens area that had a great trendy place where we all danced our faces off again. That night was our first experience with getting caught in the English rain - I loved it.
To answer a few questions I know my parents had:
I have not noticed the prices of petrol (gasoline) here, but it is undoubtedly expensive. Public transport is thecwsy to go. Our oyster cards take us all over central London (zones 1&2) in either the underground or by bus. There are a lot of cyclists here, not for fun, but as a means of travel and they fly fhrough the streets alongside the buses. Of course, the wealthy and extremely poor do not take public transportation, but it seems like the best way for most to travel. They do pretty well trying to promote energy conservation and environmental issues. Recycling us relatively easy and there are even a few "charging posts" for electric cars. Many of the new buildings are also made environmentally friendly - look up the Gerken, it's fantastic.
From what I have observed, the British do like their personal space. On the tube, especially in the busy mornings, they keep to themselves. Most read a book or the newspaper or listen to music. I try to do the same, but it's difficult in a large group. Even when I think I'm being quiet, I can still recognize the low roar of our American voices. I hate being labeled as "another loud yank" but I can see where londoners would come to that conclusion, especially after dealing with tourists daily. I have met some friendly, or at least curious British people. It's difficult to tell when they might be making fun of you since they seem to still be polite while carrying on a conversation. The pharmacist in a local drug store chatted with amanda and I about our upcoming presidential election. I was truly blown away by how
much he knew about American politics. He jokingly(?) assumed we were voting for McCain and supported the Bush administration. Another funny thing was wgen I talked to a guy from Yorkshire and when he didn't understand me he kept saying "say again, in English." I have found some uncomfortable situations with ordering food, too but I'm learning!
As I predicted, my temporary lateral incisor has come loose. It's still in place but can feeely move. If you ever need a periodontis, I urge you to go to dr. Jason stoner. I'm saying this because he is definitely kindly getting me through this problem and calling in favors for me, even overseas.
Today's trip was primarily centered around paddingtin station. I think this may be my favourite underground/train station so far. It's another rainy day and I regret bringing my rainboots and a waterproof coat. Oh well, bring on the showers! I have 7 papers total due this week and 2 to finish fit tonight so time to go at last! Amanda is currently reading a midsummer night's dream in preparation for seeing it tomorrow night at the Globe.
I know I said it before, but picture to come!
The last few days have been incredibly busy and I have hardly had time to explain what I have really been doing do far. The weekdays are busy with site study trips, which are the equivalent of classes. 4 out of the 5 days we go out in the city with our group of 20 students and 4 faculty members (spouses sometimes included). We have carefully planned out itineraries that correspond nicely with our mass amounts of daily readings. As the city is our primary text in this program, there is a great deal of hands on learning and visual application. Everyday we meet in the lobby of our building and leave promptly at 9am and finish up around 2-3 in the afternoon. The day consists of the entire group trying to keep up with Sean (as he is the primary leader and extremely fast paced walker). We go to not one, but many sites in the city and make various stops to hear what the teachers have to tell us. Sometimes we stop along busy streets or quieter sections of parks and churches, so that can feel kind of strange. We have already seen so much that it feels overwhelming to try and explain. The idea is to learn about the city in an integrated way. This includes ideas of history, literature, architecture/engineering and aesthetics/art in London. Our trips are usually to specific sections of the city. As it would be impossible to do a completely chronological tour of the city, we instead learn each area and kind of make connections as we travel.
Thursday was our first site study trip and our itinerary included Westminster (Parliament & st. George's tower), Whitehall, the London Eye (which was unfortunately closed), Bank, Lloyd's, Swiss Re and Liverpool street. We took our first double decker bus home and Amanda and I got the two front seats on the upper level. I thought so many times that we were going to hit a pedestrian or bicyclist! Friday included sites like Monument, Magnus, London bridge (not to be confused with the tower bridge), Chespside, Guildhall, the museum of London, St. Bart's, Smithfield and Barbican. That may not make too much sense, but pictures should help when I get the chance to post some. We have also seen various beautiful churches inside and out as well as parks and squares. My favourite from this day was Postman's park, which appears in the movie, Closer.
Friday night made a splash into the awesome weekend ahead. The girls in my flat and I went to the national portrait gallery to see the vanity fair photographs on exhibit. We got all dressed up and made the mistake of wearing heels like the rest of the London women do on a daily basis. It was so great seeing some of my favourite photographer's work and so many iconic images of the last 90 years in portraiture.
After the return to the flat and a quick reunion at the pub with the rest of our group, some of us decided to go dancing. We went to an over priced, but happening place in Leicester Square and danced the night away. We all got to bond and it was nice how much we looked out for one another. Saturday was an attempt at doing homework all day then a trip to the Covent Gardens area that had a great trendy place where we all danced our faces off again. That night was our first experience with getting caught in the English rain - I loved it.
To answer a few questions I know my parents had:
I have not noticed the prices of petrol (gasoline) here, but it is undoubtedly expensive. Public transport is thecwsy to go. Our oyster cards take us all over central London (zones 1&2) in either the underground or by bus. There are a lot of cyclists here, not for fun, but as a means of travel and they fly fhrough the streets alongside the buses. Of course, the wealthy and extremely poor do not take public transportation, but it seems like the best way for most to travel. They do pretty well trying to promote energy conservation and environmental issues. Recycling us relatively easy and there are even a few "charging posts" for electric cars. Many of the new buildings are also made environmentally friendly - look up the Gerken, it's fantastic.
From what I have observed, the British do like their personal space. On the tube, especially in the busy mornings, they keep to themselves. Most read a book or the newspaper or listen to music. I try to do the same, but it's difficult in a large group. Even when I think I'm being quiet, I can still recognize the low roar of our American voices. I hate being labeled as "another loud yank" but I can see where londoners would come to that conclusion, especially after dealing with tourists daily. I have met some friendly, or at least curious British people. It's difficult to tell when they might be making fun of you since they seem to still be polite while carrying on a conversation. The pharmacist in a local drug store chatted with amanda and I about our upcoming presidential election. I was truly blown away by how
much he knew about American politics. He jokingly(?) assumed we were voting for McCain and supported the Bush administration. Another funny thing was wgen I talked to a guy from Yorkshire and when he didn't understand me he kept saying "say again, in English." I have found some uncomfortable situations with ordering food, too but I'm learning!
As I predicted, my temporary lateral incisor has come loose. It's still in place but can feeely move. If you ever need a periodontis, I urge you to go to dr. Jason stoner. I'm saying this because he is definitely kindly getting me through this problem and calling in favors for me, even overseas.
Today's trip was primarily centered around paddingtin station. I think this may be my favourite underground/train station so far. It's another rainy day and I regret bringing my rainboots and a waterproof coat. Oh well, bring on the showers! I have 7 papers total due this week and 2 to finish fit tonight so time to go at last! Amanda is currently reading a midsummer night's dream in preparation for seeing it tomorrow night at the Globe.
I know I said it before, but picture to come!
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
LDN = 3 Weeks
In three weeks from today, I will be starting classes in London, England. I absolutely cannot wait. As finals week is coming to an end I find myself getting more and more anxious. There are so many loose ends to tie up at this point in the semester and so much still to do in preparation for London.
This summer is definitely one for travel. So far the master plan is to finish up school this Friday, then move back home. On the 7th I'll be taking my first trip to Texas to see my married friends for a week, which is very exciting. After my return back to OH I'll be scrambling to pack and get ready for Europe. My itinerary is to arrive in London on May 20th and spend 4 weeks there until June 21st. After the program is over, my fellow study abroad flatmate, photo major and future roommate, Amanda Baker will be traveling with me to a few other European countries. From June 21-28th we will see France, Switzerland and lastly, Ireland. We'll be back in the States just in time for my 21st birthday on June 29th!
Once I get back I hope to work at least a little while I'm at home. The end of summer might have another trip or two in store for me. Besides the occasional trip to my alma mater in Lancaster, I hope to visit another photo friend of mine who is residing in Boston for the summer. I'm not sure how that will work out, but it's an idea. A family vacation with my sister, dad and step-mom is also in the works. We'll likely go hiking in the Smokey Mountains in North Carolina for a few days.
As for now, I need to focus on finishing up with finals and saying goodbye to UD!
This summer is definitely one for travel. So far the master plan is to finish up school this Friday, then move back home. On the 7th I'll be taking my first trip to Texas to see my married friends for a week, which is very exciting. After my return back to OH I'll be scrambling to pack and get ready for Europe. My itinerary is to arrive in London on May 20th and spend 4 weeks there until June 21st. After the program is over, my fellow study abroad flatmate, photo major and future roommate, Amanda Baker will be traveling with me to a few other European countries. From June 21-28th we will see France, Switzerland and lastly, Ireland. We'll be back in the States just in time for my 21st birthday on June 29th!
Once I get back I hope to work at least a little while I'm at home. The end of summer might have another trip or two in store for me. Besides the occasional trip to my alma mater in Lancaster, I hope to visit another photo friend of mine who is residing in Boston for the summer. I'm not sure how that will work out, but it's an idea. A family vacation with my sister, dad and step-mom is also in the works. We'll likely go hiking in the Smokey Mountains in North Carolina for a few days.
As for now, I need to focus on finishing up with finals and saying goodbye to UD!
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