Chapter 9. The adventures continue
So instead of writing my paper, I'm writing my blog. (No need to freak out Mom)
I think it's been a while. So last week was the end of my British Politics class (hence the paper). Last Wednesday (should I be posting dates? Wednesday, September 17, 2014. Or the British version 17/09/2014. Ooooo) Anyway, last Wednesday, we (us Americans) moved from our on campus housing to our permanent housing in the Hendrefoelan Student Village (I don't even know how to say that). There are a bajillion houses (literally) and each house has 10 rooms and each student gets one room to themselves. We even have our own sink in our room. (No sharing!) It's decent sized, I get my own closet (that's better than at home!) desk, bedside table, bed (obviously). Plus 9 other roommates. Who are pretty awesome. Zani and Emma live with me, who were also in the presessional course. Then there's Casey who's from North Carolina, Jamie from Manchester, Lucy from the UK (I don't remember), Nathan from the UK, and I don't remember the last kid's name. He's also from the UK and I've seen him once. Everyone is super nice.
My favorite part of this whole thing is talking with my UK friends about the differences. I now know what a quid (slang for money, like when we say "bucks") and lorry (kind of like a UHaul, small semi). And what it means to be trolleyed, pissed, and battered (all mean drunk). Plus I have a pretty mean British accent. I'm jumping out of order here but it relates, on the bus I was talking to Seb (Sebastian) who is from the UK. He asked about my tattoo, which I explained was Finnish. It surprised him how much pride I have for my ethnicity, which isn't found in the UK. What really interested me (because I never really realized it) is that as an American, we are all from different places, so just as much as being an American is important, so is where you and your ancestors came from. However in the UK, where families may stretch generations in the same spot, the European culture doesn't have that. They identify with where they were born and that's it. (This may be the Psych major in me)
Also while I'm in serious-topic-mode, I've reflected on the fact that I have been here for about 3 weeks now. The 15 of us in the presessional course have become so close, I feel like I've known them forever. It's interesting to realize it hasn't been that long, but as tight of a group as we are. Of course we branch out and make friends, but we all understand what each other is going through and have that extra support to give. Sap time over.
Chapter 10. Field tripping and beyond
As the last day of our presessional course, we went to historical Bath and got to see the Roman Baths. As a bonus, four of us (including me) stayed overnight in Bath then traveled to see Stonehenge. The bath's and Bath were really cool to see! First, it's awesome to see what the Roman's used a long time ago, and how ingenious the construction was. They created a system starting from the spring to flow through all the different baths, then out through a sewer type system; some of which is still left today. The largest bath we were able to walk right up to, however they leave it untreated and the same way it has always been, so I wouldn't suggest touching it. It's green and will probably make you grow an extra arm. But either way, very interesting. Then, the city of Bath creates all of its' buildings and shops to continue the historical look. What an incredibly beautiful city.
So we had the opportunity to either go back on the provided bus with our lecturer or stay in Bath, and four of us (Emma, Zani, Kristen, and I) decided to stay. After the tour, we wandered around the city, looking at shops and the like, taking in the beauty. That night, we stayed in a hostel (my first hostel!). Zani, Emma, and Kristen were in one room with 7 other people, and I was in a separate room with 9 other people. I said hi when we first checked in, and some of the girls there were from the USA but studying in London. I wish I had been able to talk to them more, but by the time we got back one person was sleeping so we all had to whisper. As plain and simplistic as it was, it was nice. I enjoyed staying there.
The next morning, we embarked on our journey to Stonehenge. From Bath, we took an hour train to Salisbury. Then we caught a 20 minute cab ride to the entrance of Stonehenge. The cab driver was awesome, and his wife was actually from North Carolina. Once we got to Stonehenge, we picked up our tickets, got our audio tour radios, and started in the exhibit. It described the process of building Stonehenge, and all the mystery behind it. We then got on the 2 minute shuttle to Stonehenge itself. What a magnificent structure. Unfortunately, due to preservation of the stones, we weren't able to get super close, but what we could still see was awesome. The pathway encircled Stonehenge, so we were able to see all angles. The amazing part is that it is a World Monument, and I was able to see it. (Way better than pictures) As a bonus, all these pictures are already posted! (#ontopofit). After our afternoon with Stonehenge we embarked on our long journey back. 20 minute cab to Salisbury train station, 1 train back to Bath, 2 hour train back to Swansea.
Chapter 11. Feeling Fresher
Alike in America, there is a week long freshman orientation. Unlike America, it's all parties. Hosted by the University. Some on campus. Which is frickin awesome. (Why doesn't Duluth do that?!) So we get back to the village on Sunday, tired as hell, and end up going out to the Fresher's Rage (that's what they call freshman, freshers) which is on campus. It was crazy. Like packed. Like so many people the ceiling of the tent was sweating. On top of us. (I did not drink enough for that) But I met awesome drunk people (and haven't seen since) and am super pumped that I am not the oldest here! (bonus)
This week then we had an orientation for international students (boring), and got to register for classes. (finally!) Although my course schedule sucks. Majorly. All my classes are around 4 and 5 at night, including Friday, with Wednesday off. Boo. But I am registered and I won't be deported back to good ole USA :)
Last night (Tuesday the 23rd) we all went to a football game (soccer for you Americans) and it was sweet! My seats were right off the field just to the right of the goal. The game was Swansea v. Everton. Guess who the keeper for Everton is? Tim Howard! (keeper for USA in the World Cup) I really wanted to ask someone if I could get a picture with him. Counterintuitively, I was rooting for Swansea and Tim Howard. Ha.
Chapter 12. Right now and a little extra
Which leaves us right now. Sitting in my room, typing up this blog. Surprisingly (or not) I'm not worried about classes. The weirdest part is that 70%-100% is an A. Below 40% is failing. I like that system. And, I'll have 2 essays that will make up my grade for the entire course. So like a shorter essay worth 30% of my grade during the semester, then a paper worth 70% in lieu of a final (which is in January after winter break). Good thing I can write, eh?
We (us traveling Americans) are also planning trips. I want to go everywhere. But I can't. So I think I decided on 6 trips. (Not even enough) We booked Amsterdam, and are talking about Dublin and Edinburgh. Plus I'm meeting my lovely cousin Michelle in London, and am visiting my Swiss aunt and uncle in Switzerland. And I want to go to Spain. Pretty sure I will be broke by the end of all this. (#YOLO) Best of all, Mister Mac will be visiting! Can I get any luckier?!
Until next time. As the British say, Cheer!
Wednesday, September 24, 2014
Saturday, September 13, 2014
Chapter 6. It's been a while
So I know I haven't posted in a while. Since my last time, I've had class. As a part of my pre-sessional program through Swansea, we are required to take a course called British Politics from 1945-Now. (Do you italicize class names? I don't even know) It's pretty interesting. The professor is funny, and we go through not only politics, but music and movies as well. What I've learned thus far: Britain had a lot of decline, the Beatles rock, the Sex Pistols are scary, and I saw a movie with Helena Bonham Carter and Professor McGonagall. Cheers.
Not only is Bryn (that's what we call our prof, and that's his first name) our prof, but he's also more than willing to give us awesome ideas about pubs to try and the best places to drink. So naturally we try them out. Wednesday's are student nights and they are crazy! It's called Wind Street (like Whine with a 'd') and it's the place to be! So we go to class and check out pubs. That's my first week in Wales.
Chapter 7. I lied
I lied. I forgot about Wednesday. On Wednesday we have the day off. (Weird I know) So a couple of us (Zani from New York, Carly from Maryland, Taylor from Nebraska with-a-blonde-spot-on-his-head, and Emma whom-you've-met-before) decided to go to Mumbles (it's a place near Gower Peninsula) to kayak! However after we went through all the trouble to get there (bus to bus station, station attendant suggest 2 more busses with half hour wait or cab... we got the cab) we get to the beach to find that the kayak place is only open on the weekends. Definitely didn't say that on the website! So we decided to find an adventure. Oh, this is called Oxwich by the way. It's beautiful also. (Catching a theme here in Wales?) So we find this trail called the Oxwich Trail (creative chaps) which we hiked. No idea where we were going, but it was pretty sweet. We encountered this guy way out of breath who told us the coast was down this trail he just came from, but not to go back up because it sucked. He was great. So we hiked down that way, and my god, it was beautiful! We climbed/hiked/took pictures (yes I swear I'll post them eventually) around the coast, then decided to head back. In Wales, the tide is incredible. It will catch you if you're not paying attention. The tide goes up about 30 feet in 6 hours. Don't worry, it didn't catch us smart kids! But we were conscious of it. So after we headed back to the actual shore, we saw a sign for Oxwich Castle. Obviously we had to go find it. And we did, after like a 10 minute hike straight up hill (behind these poor kids pulling their kayak up the 90 degree incline). So we got there and started taking pictures, and barely walked in when the woman walked up and said it was closed. Damn. So we called the cab and headed back down (waaaay easier) and waited for the cab. Then drove back. And took a nap. Then discovered student night at Wind Street. (Definitely missed breakfast the next morning)
Chapter 8. Field tripping
So, because there's a free day Wednesday, we have class Saturday. Not to fear however, it is a field trip. Today, (actually, technically yesterday) we went to the Big Pit. Wanna guess how it got it's name? (Smallest mine in the world) (Just kidding)
The Big Pit is a coal mine that we got to tour. It was awesome. The tour guide was a guy who had actually worked in the mines, was hilarious, and made fun of us. Also though, it was really cool being able to go down in the elevator (to 120 meters? feet? can't remember) and get a tour of the actual mine. We then had an hour after to wander around the rest of the areas, which was more museum like. So what modern mining looks like, and examples of daily life. We weren't allowed to take pictures until we were above ground so if you were hoping, sorry.
We then ventured off to St. Fagans. On side is like Jamestown, Williamsburg. Basically a recreation of what 1700 Wales looked like. Mostly small house and a lot of farm land, but pretty sweet. Then we walked to the other side, which was a castle. The gardens were gorgeous!! Good thing my phone takes awesome pictures! (and I'm not even being sarcastic this time) However when we got to the actual castle, it was just a manor (disappointing). The manor was on castle grounds so they called it a castle, but definitely not as cool. We couldn't take pictures inside the manor, but it was recreated to look like it did back when they occupied the house. Also, there was a wedding going on while we were walking around the grounds. How cool would that be! Talk about gorgeous. (I will post pictures......) So after the 2 hours there, we got back on the bus, promptly fell asleep, and headed back to Swansea. Then tonight we chill. And blog.
Also, applying for grad school abroad sucks, man. And I haven't registered for classes this semester. Are they trying to give me grey hair?!
But still, loving it! The people are amazing (both Welsh and other international friends), the area is just beautiful, and I can't wait to go to Europe and see more!
Good night, (or good evening since it's 7 there) and I swear I will post pictures.....
So I know I haven't posted in a while. Since my last time, I've had class. As a part of my pre-sessional program through Swansea, we are required to take a course called British Politics from 1945-Now. (Do you italicize class names? I don't even know) It's pretty interesting. The professor is funny, and we go through not only politics, but music and movies as well. What I've learned thus far: Britain had a lot of decline, the Beatles rock, the Sex Pistols are scary, and I saw a movie with Helena Bonham Carter and Professor McGonagall. Cheers.
Not only is Bryn (that's what we call our prof, and that's his first name) our prof, but he's also more than willing to give us awesome ideas about pubs to try and the best places to drink. So naturally we try them out. Wednesday's are student nights and they are crazy! It's called Wind Street (like Whine with a 'd') and it's the place to be! So we go to class and check out pubs. That's my first week in Wales.
Chapter 7. I lied
I lied. I forgot about Wednesday. On Wednesday we have the day off. (Weird I know) So a couple of us (Zani from New York, Carly from Maryland, Taylor from Nebraska with-a-blonde-spot-on-his-head, and Emma whom-you've-met-before) decided to go to Mumbles (it's a place near Gower Peninsula) to kayak! However after we went through all the trouble to get there (bus to bus station, station attendant suggest 2 more busses with half hour wait or cab... we got the cab) we get to the beach to find that the kayak place is only open on the weekends. Definitely didn't say that on the website! So we decided to find an adventure. Oh, this is called Oxwich by the way. It's beautiful also. (Catching a theme here in Wales?) So we find this trail called the Oxwich Trail (creative chaps) which we hiked. No idea where we were going, but it was pretty sweet. We encountered this guy way out of breath who told us the coast was down this trail he just came from, but not to go back up because it sucked. He was great. So we hiked down that way, and my god, it was beautiful! We climbed/hiked/took pictures (yes I swear I'll post them eventually) around the coast, then decided to head back. In Wales, the tide is incredible. It will catch you if you're not paying attention. The tide goes up about 30 feet in 6 hours. Don't worry, it didn't catch us smart kids! But we were conscious of it. So after we headed back to the actual shore, we saw a sign for Oxwich Castle. Obviously we had to go find it. And we did, after like a 10 minute hike straight up hill (behind these poor kids pulling their kayak up the 90 degree incline). So we got there and started taking pictures, and barely walked in when the woman walked up and said it was closed. Damn. So we called the cab and headed back down (waaaay easier) and waited for the cab. Then drove back. And took a nap. Then discovered student night at Wind Street. (Definitely missed breakfast the next morning)
Chapter 8. Field tripping
So, because there's a free day Wednesday, we have class Saturday. Not to fear however, it is a field trip. Today, (actually, technically yesterday) we went to the Big Pit. Wanna guess how it got it's name? (Smallest mine in the world) (Just kidding)
The Big Pit is a coal mine that we got to tour. It was awesome. The tour guide was a guy who had actually worked in the mines, was hilarious, and made fun of us. Also though, it was really cool being able to go down in the elevator (to 120 meters? feet? can't remember) and get a tour of the actual mine. We then had an hour after to wander around the rest of the areas, which was more museum like. So what modern mining looks like, and examples of daily life. We weren't allowed to take pictures until we were above ground so if you were hoping, sorry.
We then ventured off to St. Fagans. On side is like Jamestown, Williamsburg. Basically a recreation of what 1700 Wales looked like. Mostly small house and a lot of farm land, but pretty sweet. Then we walked to the other side, which was a castle. The gardens were gorgeous!! Good thing my phone takes awesome pictures! (and I'm not even being sarcastic this time) However when we got to the actual castle, it was just a manor (disappointing). The manor was on castle grounds so they called it a castle, but definitely not as cool. We couldn't take pictures inside the manor, but it was recreated to look like it did back when they occupied the house. Also, there was a wedding going on while we were walking around the grounds. How cool would that be! Talk about gorgeous. (I will post pictures......) So after the 2 hours there, we got back on the bus, promptly fell asleep, and headed back to Swansea. Then tonight we chill. And blog.
Also, applying for grad school abroad sucks, man. And I haven't registered for classes this semester. Are they trying to give me grey hair?!
But still, loving it! The people are amazing (both Welsh and other international friends), the area is just beautiful, and I can't wait to go to Europe and see more!
Good night, (or good evening since it's 7 there) and I swear I will post pictures.....
Monday, September 8, 2014
Chapter 3. Oh good lord
So Sunday, after a glorious 11 hour sleep, we awkwardly trudged through London bags a-tow to hit up the tube and transfer to the train station (this is why I like cars). We then embarked on a 4 hour train ride. Without wifi #firstworldproblems.
Which means... yes, I'm finally in Wales!
So we got here, got a taxi (they don't have trunks here), got to Swansea University, got our rooms, met two other lovely international students (Taylor and Billie), and walked around. The beach is literally right across the street. The pub is literally 2 blocks over. How more perfect can this get?! So obviously we got a beer, and somewhere our conversation turns to how much we would enjoy learning Welsh. This adorable 8-year-old looking boy next to us interrupts us and says "I know Welsh!" So we ask him how to say hi. He responds with something (no idea what he said) but I'm pretty sure he's at his sassy age where he told us how to swear. Anyway, walking back and we encounter like 11 other international people! How did we not know?! Anyway, more new best friends. Actually we've been awkwardly traveling as an awkward freshman pack of 16 international students all walking together.... it's quite awkward. If I would've driven by myself, I would've yelled "freshman!"
Chapter 4. All things Swansea
So it's Monday morning in Swansea, we decided to meet for breakfast at 915 (its free) then go to our orientation which is at 10. Obviously leave right on time with 16 people (not) and ask 5 different people where to go and finally find it. It goes from 7:30-9. Oops. They were nice and fed us. Orientation was much more successful. We had an hour and half to find a lunch (took 5 min) then we field tripped (is that a verb?) to Glower Peninsula. It's AMAZINGLY BEAUTIFUL!! Like seriously. I will be posting pics (yes Facebook). Basically Swansea's claim to fame. However I'm seriously surprised our bus made it through the narrow, winding roads. Straight up talent. So with all that we got back and went shopping (just for groceries, and a towel, which I forgot. Future reminder, don't forget a bath towel!)
Chapter 5. You have to pay for grocery bags?!?!?
It didn't need a new chapter, but I was in shock. You have to pay for grocery bags?!?!? WHAT?! So, 5 pence for a plastic, or 50 pence for a reusable. So I paid for the reusable (just don't forget it!). And when you use a credit card, it reads it, has an associate come over and verify your card, then a slip prints and you sign it and the associate puts it in the machine, then you get your receipt. Weird. Then we ventured back, and re-ventured out for food. Found a super cheap delicious pub, ate, started drinking, and decided to go pub-hopping. Doesn't roll off the tongue as well as bar-hopping. Found a Welshman who LOVES Americans. Also don't order Irish Car Bombs. Just Car Bombs. We didn't do it, but were informed. Then we piled into a taxi (there were only 8 of us by then) and came back to Swansea. I would've posted earlier but Facebook is just so intriguing. And somehow I still haven't posted those pictures. I will, I swear!
In other news, I just applied for graduation. What the hell?! I thought I was still a freshman!!
And I'm applying for grad school. What is this life?!
It's 12:30, and I actually have to wake up for breakfast so..... peace out yo.
So Sunday, after a glorious 11 hour sleep, we awkwardly trudged through London bags a-tow to hit up the tube and transfer to the train station (this is why I like cars). We then embarked on a 4 hour train ride. Without wifi #firstworldproblems.
Which means... yes, I'm finally in Wales!
So we got here, got a taxi (they don't have trunks here), got to Swansea University, got our rooms, met two other lovely international students (Taylor and Billie), and walked around. The beach is literally right across the street. The pub is literally 2 blocks over. How more perfect can this get?! So obviously we got a beer, and somewhere our conversation turns to how much we would enjoy learning Welsh. This adorable 8-year-old looking boy next to us interrupts us and says "I know Welsh!" So we ask him how to say hi. He responds with something (no idea what he said) but I'm pretty sure he's at his sassy age where he told us how to swear. Anyway, walking back and we encounter like 11 other international people! How did we not know?! Anyway, more new best friends. Actually we've been awkwardly traveling as an awkward freshman pack of 16 international students all walking together.... it's quite awkward. If I would've driven by myself, I would've yelled "freshman!"
Chapter 4. All things Swansea
So it's Monday morning in Swansea, we decided to meet for breakfast at 915 (its free) then go to our orientation which is at 10. Obviously leave right on time with 16 people (not) and ask 5 different people where to go and finally find it. It goes from 7:30-9. Oops. They were nice and fed us. Orientation was much more successful. We had an hour and half to find a lunch (took 5 min) then we field tripped (is that a verb?) to Glower Peninsula. It's AMAZINGLY BEAUTIFUL!! Like seriously. I will be posting pics (yes Facebook). Basically Swansea's claim to fame. However I'm seriously surprised our bus made it through the narrow, winding roads. Straight up talent. So with all that we got back and went shopping (just for groceries, and a towel, which I forgot. Future reminder, don't forget a bath towel!)
Chapter 5. You have to pay for grocery bags?!?!?
It didn't need a new chapter, but I was in shock. You have to pay for grocery bags?!?!? WHAT?! So, 5 pence for a plastic, or 50 pence for a reusable. So I paid for the reusable (just don't forget it!). And when you use a credit card, it reads it, has an associate come over and verify your card, then a slip prints and you sign it and the associate puts it in the machine, then you get your receipt. Weird. Then we ventured back, and re-ventured out for food. Found a super cheap delicious pub, ate, started drinking, and decided to go pub-hopping. Doesn't roll off the tongue as well as bar-hopping. Found a Welshman who LOVES Americans. Also don't order Irish Car Bombs. Just Car Bombs. We didn't do it, but were informed. Then we piled into a taxi (there were only 8 of us by then) and came back to Swansea. I would've posted earlier but Facebook is just so intriguing. And somehow I still haven't posted those pictures. I will, I swear!
In other news, I just applied for graduation. What the hell?! I thought I was still a freshman!!
And I'm applying for grad school. What is this life?!
It's 12:30, and I actually have to wake up for breakfast so..... peace out yo.
Saturday, September 6, 2014
Chapter 1. I got no sleep
Literally, I left for the Appleton airport at 7 for my flight at 9. Had a 7 hour layover in Detroit. Flew 7 hours to London. Got here at 7 in the morning. Why didn't I sleep on the flight? Screaming children (yes, multiple) and no comfortable sleeping position. And turbulence. Wasn't my night (or day?). Then once I got there, I met with my coordinators, and sat around the airport until 1030 when the other two girls here in London with me finally arrived. So let's pretend to count and say I've been awake for like 36 hours. Talk about tired!
We should also take a minute to talk about the girls previously mentioned. And everyone else. I am here with Emma from Rhode Island and Kristin from New York who are also studying in Wales as international students. Christina is a coordinator who met us at the airport. So is this other guy who I think is named Rev? And there's Shelby, a coordinator, and Maria, the coordinator of coordinators.
Chapter 2. More optimistic and loving London
So London is amazing! It's exactly like the movies show, but better. Imagine double decker red buses almost hitting you. Classic. We (Sarah, Emma, Kristin, and Shelby) walked down Portobello Road (Bedknobs and Broomsticks anyone?) and grabbed a delicious burger (with gorgonzola cheese!) and enjoyed the marketplace madness. Ever wanted to hear every single language in the world in one place? Portobello Road! We then embarked on the most tiring trip ever. Reminder, I am running on sleep from Friday night. It's now Saturday afternoon. In London. We (now Sarah, Emma, Kristin, and Christina) take the lift (elevator) down to the tube (metro/train/subway) for an exciting adventure in the belly of London where everything humid resides only to find the tube connecting us to our exit is closed. Thus begins exciting adventure #2 in the belly of London where everything humid resides to finally take us half a mile further away then we wanted to be. But don't worry, tour guide Tom helps us. (Another study abroad coordinator). We get on this boat tour thing where we started at the Tower of London, witnessed the London Bridge not fall down, eye up the Eye of London, selfie it up with Big Ben and Westminster Abbey (not Downton Abbey). We then commence to walking. A lot. Like take walking and times it by a million. Plus 36 hours tired. Damn girl. So anyway, the Parliament building was observed (which of course includes Parliament Square), Winston Churchill's statue (which is said to be electrified to keep away pigeons because he hated pigeons. And let me tell you, there were no pigeons in sight). Checked out Nelson Mandela's statue butt, and Abe Lincoln in the stony flesh. Real life phone booths were touched and Buckingham Palace guards on horseback not in front of Buckingham Palace were the subjects of my phone photos. And a video of them switching shifts. Kinda cool. Trafalgar Square was very square-like with a giant blue cock. Literally. There was a statue of a blue rooster. And some gold dude pretending to float. We walked through Piccadilly Circus, past Chinatown and Soho (that would've been cool to see) and finally down some popular street that has all the fancy clothing shops. So at this point it's like 5. No sleep + walking all day = one tired Sarah! So we begin our walk back (yes, I know) to the tube (no exciting encounters) make it back to the correct exit and walk (trust me, I know) to the restaurant for dinner. Turkish food! Ever have grilled chicken bites covered in tomato sauce with kinda sorta sour cream + yogurt dish? Yah, it was interesting. And delicious. And tried fresh hummus. Pronounced "hoomoos" by spaniard Christina. Delish. And then we walk (see my point?) back to the flat (apartment). And are surprisingly awake. That's why I'm still up at 8:42 at night (badass right).
So, that was London. I think I remembered everything. London is huge, and I'm going to come back to enjoy it without sleep deprivation. Tomorrow, we vamos to Swansea Wales. With a four hour train ride (woooooo). And a lot of walking (seriously guys?!). But for now, bed time. Cuz it's 8:45 and seriously getting late. Really here.
Also, everything I talked about should be depicted in photo form (maybe not as fun though) however via Facebook since me starting a blog is about all the excitement I can handle right now.
#YOLO
Literally, I left for the Appleton airport at 7 for my flight at 9. Had a 7 hour layover in Detroit. Flew 7 hours to London. Got here at 7 in the morning. Why didn't I sleep on the flight? Screaming children (yes, multiple) and no comfortable sleeping position. And turbulence. Wasn't my night (or day?). Then once I got there, I met with my coordinators, and sat around the airport until 1030 when the other two girls here in London with me finally arrived. So let's pretend to count and say I've been awake for like 36 hours. Talk about tired!
We should also take a minute to talk about the girls previously mentioned. And everyone else. I am here with Emma from Rhode Island and Kristin from New York who are also studying in Wales as international students. Christina is a coordinator who met us at the airport. So is this other guy who I think is named Rev? And there's Shelby, a coordinator, and Maria, the coordinator of coordinators.
Chapter 2. More optimistic and loving London
So London is amazing! It's exactly like the movies show, but better. Imagine double decker red buses almost hitting you. Classic. We (Sarah, Emma, Kristin, and Shelby) walked down Portobello Road (Bedknobs and Broomsticks anyone?) and grabbed a delicious burger (with gorgonzola cheese!) and enjoyed the marketplace madness. Ever wanted to hear every single language in the world in one place? Portobello Road! We then embarked on the most tiring trip ever. Reminder, I am running on sleep from Friday night. It's now Saturday afternoon. In London. We (now Sarah, Emma, Kristin, and Christina) take the lift (elevator) down to the tube (metro/train/subway) for an exciting adventure in the belly of London where everything humid resides only to find the tube connecting us to our exit is closed. Thus begins exciting adventure #2 in the belly of London where everything humid resides to finally take us half a mile further away then we wanted to be. But don't worry, tour guide Tom helps us. (Another study abroad coordinator). We get on this boat tour thing where we started at the Tower of London, witnessed the London Bridge not fall down, eye up the Eye of London, selfie it up with Big Ben and Westminster Abbey (not Downton Abbey). We then commence to walking. A lot. Like take walking and times it by a million. Plus 36 hours tired. Damn girl. So anyway, the Parliament building was observed (which of course includes Parliament Square), Winston Churchill's statue (which is said to be electrified to keep away pigeons because he hated pigeons. And let me tell you, there were no pigeons in sight). Checked out Nelson Mandela's statue butt, and Abe Lincoln in the stony flesh. Real life phone booths were touched and Buckingham Palace guards on horseback not in front of Buckingham Palace were the subjects of my phone photos. And a video of them switching shifts. Kinda cool. Trafalgar Square was very square-like with a giant blue cock. Literally. There was a statue of a blue rooster. And some gold dude pretending to float. We walked through Piccadilly Circus, past Chinatown and Soho (that would've been cool to see) and finally down some popular street that has all the fancy clothing shops. So at this point it's like 5. No sleep + walking all day = one tired Sarah! So we begin our walk back (yes, I know) to the tube (no exciting encounters) make it back to the correct exit and walk (trust me, I know) to the restaurant for dinner. Turkish food! Ever have grilled chicken bites covered in tomato sauce with kinda sorta sour cream + yogurt dish? Yah, it was interesting. And delicious. And tried fresh hummus. Pronounced "hoomoos" by spaniard Christina. Delish. And then we walk (see my point?) back to the flat (apartment). And are surprisingly awake. That's why I'm still up at 8:42 at night (badass right).
So, that was London. I think I remembered everything. London is huge, and I'm going to come back to enjoy it without sleep deprivation. Tomorrow, we vamos to Swansea Wales. With a four hour train ride (woooooo). And a lot of walking (seriously guys?!). But for now, bed time. Cuz it's 8:45 and seriously getting late. Really here.
Also, everything I talked about should be depicted in photo form (maybe not as fun though) however via Facebook since me starting a blog is about all the excitement I can handle right now.
#YOLO
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)