New Beginnings

After much packing and anticipation, I left to study abroad for a semester in London. It's been almost a week since I arrived and I cannot believe it has flown by so quickly. Dad and I arrived during the annual Carnival in Notting Hill. The Carnival is a festival that takes place over two days and draws over 1 million tourists! Never have I seen so many people crowd the streets, nor did I know there was such a market for grilled corn! Later on our first day, after venturing away from the crowds we looked for bath towels in store called, Primark. This store was an ant farm; you couldn't move because people were swarming everywhere. Although Monday was a banking holiday it seemed like the hundreds of customers was a common occurrence in Primark.

Before the sunset we walked through Hyde Park, tried to rent bicycle to ride, although that mission failed, and got the lay of the land in South Kensington, where I'll be living, before having the best Italian Dinner I've ever had!


The next day, Dad brought me to Regent Park, around where he studied during his time in London. Our plan was to visit the zoo; however, the line was a long wait so we decided to venture somewhere else. Instead, we ended up having lunch in St. John's area, which was very upscale with nice shopping.
By the end of the trip we had eaten British, Chinese, Italian, and Lebanese food all within a mile radius of each other. Even though the British food might not have tasted the best, I am certain I will be well fed on this excursion!

I spent me last day with Dad in Piccadilly by Lester Square, where all of the theatres are located. We were able to get tickets to the Musical, We Will Rock You based off of Queen's hit songs. This musical was incredible. Not only were we able to sit second row, but the cast engaged the crowd, until the encore of Bohemian Rhapsody.

It was hard to say goodbye to my Dad today, but it was easier knowing that I would be living with my two close friends Janey and Mackenzie. Today, we went out to explore, which turned into a three hour adventure searching for one store! Today was only a short preview of my time in abroad and I cannot wait see what else London has to offer.