London, Paris, and Lessons Learned

Well, according to Facebook messages and multiple emails, I have been named the worse blogger ever. And I can't really argue with that as I have not updated in a while. Apologies. But here I am now: blogging! 

A lot has happened since my last post, including adventures in the UK and elsewhere. I have become slightly more savvy with public transportation, using the Tube and buses with more ease...(whether I go in the right direction on these modes of transportation is another story) I have ventured outside of the confines of Kensington and done some pretty cool stuff, like mud larking (walking up and down the shore of the Thames looking for artifacts....I found an engraved pipe from the 1600's). 

In between adventures in London, I had an adventure in Paris as well. While I loved Paris with the river, Notre Dame, and the amazing architecture, I realized that I am rather glad I am living in London. I think it has something to do with the range of things to do in London (or maybe it has something to do with the fact that I don't speak any French)

Well I have loads of pictures to share with you all so I will just put a bunch of these up there...everyone likes books with pictures better anyway, why not the same with blogs?? 

 the river in Paris: PRO-much prettier looking than the Thames CON-but I found no pipes along its shores

 NOTRE DAME: Everyday I was there, I felt the need to go look at it...

 Their eyes follow you...creepy

 Bird Man in front of Notre Dame

 Pensive looking gargoyle...reminded me of a friend

 Climbed all the way up the top of the belltower

 oh yeah, this thing

 Me soaking wet after climbing stairs and catching elevator to the top of Eiffel

 Had to leave my mark on Paris

 Parliament and Big Ben at night

 BBC PROMS! too awesome

 Reason #312 why I love this place

 Buckingham palace gardens

 Hampton Court...gorgeous

 Note to self: no sleeping pills when traveling less than 12 hours

 ICE BAR

 my flat and me

 

ripped off Donna's nice early picture of Notre Dame

Wandering the Mews of London

Arrived in London about four days ago and I am still amazed by it. Even when I think I have gotten to know a borough pretty well, I discover another side alley (mew) or something that takes me farther into the city.
This last weekend we have been guided through the city mostly by FIE via bus tours, boat tours, walking tours (what's next: a skydiving tour?). The best out of all of these was definitely the walking tour. We were led by this Scottish man named Duncan (who was awesome) and he showed us the Kensington Gardens and Kensington Palace. We wove in and out of the streets of the borough and he gave us loads of advice on how to really appreciate our opportunity. He advised us to get lost and not overuse the Tube because London can really only be explored by foot. I am truly going to try to live out his advice because I don't want to miss the variety of places and things that are available in London.

Last night, I went with friends to the BBC Proms (Promenade) which is this huge classical musical festival that is held at the Royal Albert Hall. Every night there is different music with different featured players. 5 pounds bought us arena tickets which meant we had to stand in the pit right in front of the stage. It was incredible: as I listened to amazing music, I tilted my head up to take in Albert Hall which is a sight within itself. Another thing I love about London: all these amazing opportunities at little to no cost. Boredom is not an option.

Tomorrow is my first official free day as I am not obligated to do anything by FIE and I have no classes. I hope to do some more exploring of nooks and crannies outside of Kensington as well as make a bicycling adventure through Hyde Park. Maybe have some tea?

I realize I sound a bit like a kid in Disneyland for the first time. Maybe once the awe wears off I can stop gawking at every little thing and have locals mutter "tourist" behind my back. But I have a feeling that London is going to continue to surprise me for the months to come.

I feel as if all these musings are a bit cliche and cheesy, but I really couldn't put it any other way. Congrats if you made it through. Thanks for reading :)

A few early pictures: much more to come

Kensington Gardens (right across the street from the flat)

 Typical buildings in my borough

 Terrace with water fun over looking Tower bridge

 London Eye with porn infested telephone booth (not as charming at it looks)

 Royal guard

 English major....what can I say?

 Walking Tour

Here We Go!

Yikes! 10 hours to go before I start my adventures abroad! Can't believe the time is here; I am still trying to process how I feel, excited, nervous, happy, sad etc. More shocking still is that I am completely packed. That's right. I did not procrastinate....*pause for dramatic effect*.

Maybe that's a sign that I really am ready and excited for this and am ready to say goodbye to summer, family and friends. Hopefully I will gain some clarity on how I feel on that 10 hour plane ride. yipee

Anyways, hopefully my blog posts will be much more exciting that this one, full of stories and pictures! Will write again when I get to jolly ole England! :)