London Calling 13.04.11

Entrance to the Underground

So on our way out of Croatia, Nicole and I had a common layover in a little old city they call London Town. Having always wanted to visit England's capital, it was perfect that we would have a full night and half day in between flights. Landing in London-Stansted from Pula, Nicole and I hopped on the express train into the heart of the city, ready for an exciting end to our already perfect trip.
When we arrived to Liverpool Station, we were startled by the contrast of the bustling underground system against our recent experience in laid-back Croatia. It was almost too much, especially with the busy worker crowd, the mass mobs walking in a flow of traffic (on the wrong side, the left!). London was also exceptionally chaotic with the marathon occuring that weekend and gathering excitement for the royal wedding this month. I breathed a sigh of relief after we were checked into our hostel, safe.

Because I Wouldn't Have Been in London WIthout this Picture

That night, we decided to grab some dinner at an Indian restuarant. It was Nicole's first time, and unlike "British" food, the Indian food in England is exceptional. The food was amazing, exactly the spicy something I had been missing in Madrid. We then went to Picadilly Circus, the UK equivalent of NYC's Time Square. Then we passed through the bustling nightlife of the Soho district. Finally we went to the Thames River waterfront to see the London Eye ferris wheel and a glimpse of Big Ben at night. We got to bed somewhat early, before midnight, in order to prepare for a busy next day.

Inside the Tube (Plus Random Guy!)

That morning we awoke early and had the free hostel breakfast before leaving for a free city tour. At first, I was questioning whether I could tolerate the tour--at 2.5hrs, it seemed unbearable to listen to the twangy British accent of our screeching tour guide. However, she soon redeemed herself with the wonderful stories she told along the way. On the monarchy-themed tour we saw Buckingham and the other royal palaces, several important government buildings, the prime minister's house, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the Parliament. After returning from the tour, Nicole and I went to see the so-called "London Bridge" but ran out of time to see the more impressive Tower Bridge. We left for the airports content in just how much of monster London we crammed in to such short time. Afterall, we had only ended up there by chance! I guess I say this every time with each new place, but again, I would love to return!

London Eye by Night

Buckingham Palace

A Queens Guard (You Can't Approach Them Anymore)

Big Ben and Double Decker

Me and Big Ben

In the airport, Nicole and I said goodbye. We had had a great weekend together, and knew that we would be seeing each other quite soon (she's coming in May!). I'm glad I've found a good travel buddy! Oh, to travel, such bliss...