Things I missed while in Europe:
- cleanliness
-my family (including Chi Chi of course)
-having food around whenever I wanted it
-a normal size shower
- a normal towel (I did not enjoy drying myself with 2' by 2' piece of felt!)
- my bed
Things from Europe I know I will miss when I am at home:
-European candy and gelato
-Gorgeous buildings and views
-being with Hannah
-the accents
-a sense of adventure
-people watching (it was bloody fabulous over here!)
Things Europe has taught me:
- Things may seem like they're not going to work out but some way God always makes it happen (for example traveling and weather problems)
-You can spend every minute of the day with one person for three entire weeks and not kill them
-If you and your stuff is not as clean as you would like, you won't die (although Febreeze always helps)
Monday, June 4, 2007
Last Thoughts on Our Adventures
I'm really sad now that our trip has come to an end. I have learned so much and seen even more than that. I've met lots of really cool people, and I know this experience has changed me forever. There are some things that I have missed and things I won't miss about this trip though.
I will NOT miss:
-washing my hair in the sink
-wedging foamy earplugs into my brain as to block out noise from people while I sleep
-free water
-not paying for toilets
-exchange rates
-Belgian men
-drying myself with a large piece of felt pretending to be a super absorbent towel
-sparying my clothes with febreeze and making myself believe that they are clean enough to wear at least 5 more times
-overall European B.O. (seriously everyone needs a deoderant makeover here)
I WILL miss:
-freaking awesome chocolate
-old buildings within a big city
-meeting new people
-being able to walk everywhere
-random parks within a big city
-Saint John's Wood (the funniest tube stop ever)
-Eurpeans' lack of style
-eating lunch on the street while people watching
Here are some summaries of People/Places/Countries:
Ireland:
People here were actually not very nice. If Ireland wasn't so darn beautiful, I might not like it so much. People tried to rip us of night and day, and no one was very cheery. As for stuff to do, there's so much and the countryside is to die for.
Paris/French People:
I loved Paris. I loved the French. No one was rude to us, and they were very nice when we tried to speak to them. Some people had really horrible experiences in France, but I loved it. Nothing bad to say here. I'm definitely coming back and learning more French. It's a beautiful language. Even when they're being mean to you it still sounds pleasant!
Germany:
The smaller cities were much nicer than Germany. The German people were ok, they weren't super nice or super mean. I think they suffered so much from the wars that there just really isn't much old stuff left. If you're looking for a lot of historical buildings, this is not the place for you. The city is all modern. The people really do love to drink beer here though. They walk down the streets with it at all times of the day.
Amsterdam/Holland:
All the stores close way early, and I think it's because they all go get stoned or laid. Not really. I loved Amsterdam it's beautiful and basically everyone speaks English. I would go back again.
Belgium:
The men are sexest. They stare like no other country I've been too. The waffles are awesome though.
England:
People aren't overly friendly, but there is so much to do. There are lots of different people here, and it's just a cool place overall. So much history and stuff you learn about, and now you get to see it.
-H
I will NOT miss:
-washing my hair in the sink
-wedging foamy earplugs into my brain as to block out noise from people while I sleep
-free water
-not paying for toilets
-exchange rates
-Belgian men
-drying myself with a large piece of felt pretending to be a super absorbent towel
-sparying my clothes with febreeze and making myself believe that they are clean enough to wear at least 5 more times
-overall European B.O. (seriously everyone needs a deoderant makeover here)
I WILL miss:
-freaking awesome chocolate
-old buildings within a big city
-meeting new people
-being able to walk everywhere
-random parks within a big city
-Saint John's Wood (the funniest tube stop ever)
-Eurpeans' lack of style
-eating lunch on the street while people watching
Here are some summaries of People/Places/Countries:
Ireland:
People here were actually not very nice. If Ireland wasn't so darn beautiful, I might not like it so much. People tried to rip us of night and day, and no one was very cheery. As for stuff to do, there's so much and the countryside is to die for.
Paris/French People:
I loved Paris. I loved the French. No one was rude to us, and they were very nice when we tried to speak to them. Some people had really horrible experiences in France, but I loved it. Nothing bad to say here. I'm definitely coming back and learning more French. It's a beautiful language. Even when they're being mean to you it still sounds pleasant!
Germany:
The smaller cities were much nicer than Germany. The German people were ok, they weren't super nice or super mean. I think they suffered so much from the wars that there just really isn't much old stuff left. If you're looking for a lot of historical buildings, this is not the place for you. The city is all modern. The people really do love to drink beer here though. They walk down the streets with it at all times of the day.
Amsterdam/Holland:
All the stores close way early, and I think it's because they all go get stoned or laid. Not really. I loved Amsterdam it's beautiful and basically everyone speaks English. I would go back again.
Belgium:
The men are sexest. They stare like no other country I've been too. The waffles are awesome though.
England:
People aren't overly friendly, but there is so much to do. There are lots of different people here, and it's just a cool place overall. So much history and stuff you learn about, and now you get to see it.
-H
Last Day of Our Euro Trip
Today we accomplished a whole lot! We got off to an early stop and headed over to the houses of parliament and Big Ben. I never realized before that Big Ben is actually attached to the houses, I have always just seen it potrayed seperatley. We got some good/funny pics in front of Ben.
Then we headed to Westminster Abbey, which is basically just right next door to the houses of parliament. It was really neat and I was happy that we payed the admission. They have tons of really important people buried there, including Elizabeth the 1st. Princess Diana's funeral service as well as the Queen Mother's was held there. In Westminster is located the coronation chair. It was too pretty, just an old wood chair, but it was neat to see it because of it's significance.
After our visit to the Abbey, we went to Buckingham Palace and got to see the changing of the guards. At first, we didn't have the best place to see it so we just decided to leave. On our way to the tube though, we endedd up getting an excellant view. Hannah got some really good pics of the traditional guards in the red uniform and funny hats!
Then we went to Harrod's. I had no idea that it was in such a fancy building. Everything in there was so expensive. We toured around and basically the only thing we could afford was keychains, so we got those. I really liked getting to see Harrod's because there is a scene in Bridget Jone's Diary where her mother gets a job in Harrod's selling some sort of egg cracking device.
Our last major stop of the day, was the monument. We had payed for a ticket the other day at the Tower Bridge and decided that we had to use it. We were hoping there was a lift to the top because we were tired and had just eaten lunch so our tummies were full. Instead there was yet another spiral staircase. I feel that we have climbed so... many stairs in Europe in order to get to the top of things. For example, the Pantheon, Notre Dame, and the Belfry. Once we climbed the 311 stairs to the top, we had an excellant view of London. It actually ended up being a wonderful way to say goodbye to the city!
Lastly, we went to the Whiterose grocery store and bought some candy to bring back. I picked out some pretty good stuff I think you all will love. I am sad to say that I did not find ANY sort of toffee candy mom. Sorry! I thought for sure they would have a lot, but seriously not a single one.
Our Evening:
We went back to the hostel, showered, and got dressed up. Hannah and I went to go see "We Will Rock You" at the theatre. It was a play by Queen and some other guy. Hannah treated me to the show! Thanks Hannah! The play was really entertaining and bloody hilarious! They had a lot of Queen music, so you can probably imagine how crazy it was. The overall play was about saving rock music and took place in the future. It was truly an excellant way to end our Europe excursion!
-MLE
Then we headed to Westminster Abbey, which is basically just right next door to the houses of parliament. It was really neat and I was happy that we payed the admission. They have tons of really important people buried there, including Elizabeth the 1st. Princess Diana's funeral service as well as the Queen Mother's was held there. In Westminster is located the coronation chair. It was too pretty, just an old wood chair, but it was neat to see it because of it's significance.
After our visit to the Abbey, we went to Buckingham Palace and got to see the changing of the guards. At first, we didn't have the best place to see it so we just decided to leave. On our way to the tube though, we endedd up getting an excellant view. Hannah got some really good pics of the traditional guards in the red uniform and funny hats!
Then we went to Harrod's. I had no idea that it was in such a fancy building. Everything in there was so expensive. We toured around and basically the only thing we could afford was keychains, so we got those. I really liked getting to see Harrod's because there is a scene in Bridget Jone's Diary where her mother gets a job in Harrod's selling some sort of egg cracking device.
Our last major stop of the day, was the monument. We had payed for a ticket the other day at the Tower Bridge and decided that we had to use it. We were hoping there was a lift to the top because we were tired and had just eaten lunch so our tummies were full. Instead there was yet another spiral staircase. I feel that we have climbed so... many stairs in Europe in order to get to the top of things. For example, the Pantheon, Notre Dame, and the Belfry. Once we climbed the 311 stairs to the top, we had an excellant view of London. It actually ended up being a wonderful way to say goodbye to the city!
Lastly, we went to the Whiterose grocery store and bought some candy to bring back. I picked out some pretty good stuff I think you all will love. I am sad to say that I did not find ANY sort of toffee candy mom. Sorry! I thought for sure they would have a lot, but seriously not a single one.
Our Evening:
We went back to the hostel, showered, and got dressed up. Hannah and I went to go see "We Will Rock You" at the theatre. It was a play by Queen and some other guy. Hannah treated me to the show! Thanks Hannah! The play was really entertaining and bloody hilarious! They had a lot of Queen music, so you can probably imagine how crazy it was. The overall play was about saving rock music and took place in the future. It was truly an excellant way to end our Europe excursion!
-MLE
Last day in London/Europe...:'(
Today was fun. We got up early and went to Big Ben/Houses of Parliament, Westminster, Buckingham Palace, Back to Big Ben, Harrods, Back to Buckingham Palace, the Monument, shopping for lots of candy, and then to Queen's musical: We Will Rock You.
It was a busy day, but I must say we've had really good timing so far. It was a little overcast, but we missed any rain. We went back to Buckingham Palace to take pictures because when we went the first time we were there to see the changing of the guard with about a thousand other people.
Westminster was really neat. I'm actually sad I didn't get to go in it last time I came. I had no idea that there were that many famous people either buried or had memorials there. It was completely different than any other cathedral I've been in, that's for sure.
Emily and I are both fully stocked on candy for a while. Lots of Penguins and Maltesers, so get excited!
The Monument was cool. We went right after we ate which was a bad idea because it ended up that you had to walk up 311 continuous steps. It was a cool cheap way to see the city skyline though. Emily had her first Harrod's experience, and that's always a fun thing to see and do.
The main event for today was most definitely the Theatre. Like I said earlier we went to see Queen's musical We Will Rock You. It was really funny. It was a mixture of an actual musical and rock concert at the same time. The jokes were a little on the corny side, but they made up for it by singing Queen's famous hits. Really funny stuff. It takes place in the future where there is no individual music allowed. All the music is controlled by this GlobalSoft group. There are a group of rebel kids known as the Bohemians who want a Rhapsody. Really really entertaining and funny. I love the theatre in general, but this was a cool change from the norm.
I'm going to miss London.
:'(
-H
It was a busy day, but I must say we've had really good timing so far. It was a little overcast, but we missed any rain. We went back to Buckingham Palace to take pictures because when we went the first time we were there to see the changing of the guard with about a thousand other people.
Westminster was really neat. I'm actually sad I didn't get to go in it last time I came. I had no idea that there were that many famous people either buried or had memorials there. It was completely different than any other cathedral I've been in, that's for sure.
Emily and I are both fully stocked on candy for a while. Lots of Penguins and Maltesers, so get excited!
The Monument was cool. We went right after we ate which was a bad idea because it ended up that you had to walk up 311 continuous steps. It was a cool cheap way to see the city skyline though. Emily had her first Harrod's experience, and that's always a fun thing to see and do.
The main event for today was most definitely the Theatre. Like I said earlier we went to see Queen's musical We Will Rock You. It was really funny. It was a mixture of an actual musical and rock concert at the same time. The jokes were a little on the corny side, but they made up for it by singing Queen's famous hits. Really funny stuff. It takes place in the future where there is no individual music allowed. All the music is controlled by this GlobalSoft group. There are a group of rebel kids known as the Bohemians who want a Rhapsody. Really really entertaining and funny. I love the theatre in general, but this was a cool change from the norm.
I'm going to miss London.
:'(
-H
Sunday, June 3, 2007
London Day 2!
So we were a bit lazy this morning and didn't leave the hostel till almost 11 AM. I guess our attempt at partying tired us out!
Anyway, as we were headed out the door I made a comment to Hannah about how we should do something outside because it was so pretty. One of the hostel workers overheard this and told us to go to Camden Market. Luckily, we took his advice.
On our way to the market, we stopped at King's Cross. We tried to enter platform 9 and 3/4 just like Harry. I ran as fast as I could but still no luck! The platform was actually marked and they had a basket that look like it was halfway through the wall. I really enjoyed this silly stop.
Camden Market was very neat. It was an eclectic mixture and there were tons of people. They were selling mostly clothes and accessories. It was very punk too. We walked around for quite some time and then headed to the British Museum.
The British Museum was free, which of course is always great. We didn't spend too much time in there but instead focused on seeing the Egyptian stuff. We got to see lots of mummies including mummified cats and falcons. It was creepy! After the museum, we had some lunch and then headed to this gorgeous park where Princess Diana's memorial playground is. I enjoyed seeing all the children playing. It was the perfect weather for a day at the park!
Next, we went to Traflagar Square. The square had a lot of statues and fountains and also provided us with an excellant view. There weren't any pigeons there to feed. Feeding them is now banned, it is kind of sad but I think it is a lot cleaner that way. While trying to leave the square, we got bombarded by this abnoxious yet slightly entertaining Scottish man. He went on and on about politics and the environment. He had all these sayings and stuff about the topics that sounded a little rehearsed. Sometime in the conversation, we came to find out that he is actually a stand-up comic. Figures!
Overall, I think we accomplished a lot today. We still have a ton to do tomorrow so we're getting to bed early. Good night!
-MLE
Anyway, as we were headed out the door I made a comment to Hannah about how we should do something outside because it was so pretty. One of the hostel workers overheard this and told us to go to Camden Market. Luckily, we took his advice.
On our way to the market, we stopped at King's Cross. We tried to enter platform 9 and 3/4 just like Harry. I ran as fast as I could but still no luck! The platform was actually marked and they had a basket that look like it was halfway through the wall. I really enjoyed this silly stop.
Camden Market was very neat. It was an eclectic mixture and there were tons of people. They were selling mostly clothes and accessories. It was very punk too. We walked around for quite some time and then headed to the British Museum.
The British Museum was free, which of course is always great. We didn't spend too much time in there but instead focused on seeing the Egyptian stuff. We got to see lots of mummies including mummified cats and falcons. It was creepy! After the museum, we had some lunch and then headed to this gorgeous park where Princess Diana's memorial playground is. I enjoyed seeing all the children playing. It was the perfect weather for a day at the park!
Next, we went to Traflagar Square. The square had a lot of statues and fountains and also provided us with an excellant view. There weren't any pigeons there to feed. Feeding them is now banned, it is kind of sad but I think it is a lot cleaner that way. While trying to leave the square, we got bombarded by this abnoxious yet slightly entertaining Scottish man. He went on and on about politics and the environment. He had all these sayings and stuff about the topics that sounded a little rehearsed. Sometime in the conversation, we came to find out that he is actually a stand-up comic. Figures!
Overall, I think we accomplished a lot today. We still have a ton to do tomorrow so we're getting to bed early. Good night!
-MLE
There is too much to do in London!
There really is so much to do and so little time. If Emily and I both weren't really tired from our adventures last night, we might have done more today. We did accomplish a lot though.
After breakfast, we went to King's Cross railroad station and took pictures by Platform 9 and 3/4! There is a trolley that is bolted down to the wall that looks like it is half way in the wall and half out. It was really funny. I couldn't believe that actually had a real sign for it and everything. Hilarious.
As we were walking out of our hostel Emily said out loud "I wonder if there is anything we should do outside since it is so pretty?" One of the staff just happened to be walking by and told us we should really go to Camden Market. We're staying in Camden I believe, our stop is Swiss Cottage. Anyway, after King's Cross we headed over there, and boy were we surprised. It was like a mile long road of nothing but tons of people and tons of really cool stores and stands. There was one huge section where vendors had their clothes, bags, jewelry, ect. hanging all around. There were also a lot of souvenir shops and many many hot topic like stores and some stores even more hardcore than hot topic. We didn't go into a lot of those, but I did get some sweet presents for Marissa, Ansley, and Will. You are going to love what I got you all!
After our awesome adventure to Camden Market, we headed over to the British Museum. We didn't stay too long, but we saw some of the Greek stuff and a lot of the Egyptian stuff. We're a little sick of museums, but the mummies were cool. After the museum we shopped a little at some stores near by, and then we went to Kensington Parks. We saw the Kensington Palaces aka Embassies, and we went to the Princess Diana memorial park. We weren't actually allowed to go inside because we didn't have kids. I guess what rule is to prevent pedophiles or something, but it was a little weird.
After that we headed to Trafalgar Square where we took a lot of pictures and talked to a very long time with an older Scottish Man. I was getting something to drink and Emily was getting ice cream when this guy just asked us where we were from. I knew instantly he was from Scotland seeing as in I could only understand every 3rd word coming from his mouth. He ended up talking our ears off about pollution, George Bush, Katrina damage, Tobacco, and other random stuff. He had a horrible mouth on him, but he asked us to excuse that because he was a stand up comedian and had to swear. Really funny dude, but he totally crossed the personal space boundaries!
Anyway, we're zonked, so I'm about to head to bed. Tomorrow is a big day. We're going to try to do Big Ben, Westminster, Buckingham, candy shopping (and germaline mom), and anything else we can squeeze in. See you all soon! Love you!
-H
After breakfast, we went to King's Cross railroad station and took pictures by Platform 9 and 3/4! There is a trolley that is bolted down to the wall that looks like it is half way in the wall and half out. It was really funny. I couldn't believe that actually had a real sign for it and everything. Hilarious.
As we were walking out of our hostel Emily said out loud "I wonder if there is anything we should do outside since it is so pretty?" One of the staff just happened to be walking by and told us we should really go to Camden Market. We're staying in Camden I believe, our stop is Swiss Cottage. Anyway, after King's Cross we headed over there, and boy were we surprised. It was like a mile long road of nothing but tons of people and tons of really cool stores and stands. There was one huge section where vendors had their clothes, bags, jewelry, ect. hanging all around. There were also a lot of souvenir shops and many many hot topic like stores and some stores even more hardcore than hot topic. We didn't go into a lot of those, but I did get some sweet presents for Marissa, Ansley, and Will. You are going to love what I got you all!
After our awesome adventure to Camden Market, we headed over to the British Museum. We didn't stay too long, but we saw some of the Greek stuff and a lot of the Egyptian stuff. We're a little sick of museums, but the mummies were cool. After the museum we shopped a little at some stores near by, and then we went to Kensington Parks. We saw the Kensington Palaces aka Embassies, and we went to the Princess Diana memorial park. We weren't actually allowed to go inside because we didn't have kids. I guess what rule is to prevent pedophiles or something, but it was a little weird.
After that we headed to Trafalgar Square where we took a lot of pictures and talked to a very long time with an older Scottish Man. I was getting something to drink and Emily was getting ice cream when this guy just asked us where we were from. I knew instantly he was from Scotland seeing as in I could only understand every 3rd word coming from his mouth. He ended up talking our ears off about pollution, George Bush, Katrina damage, Tobacco, and other random stuff. He had a horrible mouth on him, but he asked us to excuse that because he was a stand up comedian and had to swear. Really funny dude, but he totally crossed the personal space boundaries!
Anyway, we're zonked, so I'm about to head to bed. Tomorrow is a big day. We're going to try to do Big Ben, Westminster, Buckingham, candy shopping (and germaline mom), and anything else we can squeeze in. See you all soon! Love you!
-H
London music is about 30 years too late
Well, I can't really sum up what happened last night better than Emily. It was really crazy and really funny. I did feel safe the whole time because the streets were well lit and there is transportation everywhere. It was really crazy though.
The Big Chill Bar is pretty much exactly like the name. It is lined with sofas and the bar is just kind of a chill area. I've never seen the Big Chill movie, but I'm pretty sure it's in the same decade as the music they were playing. What is really funny is that everyone would sing along while Emily and I were just laughing. Also, European guys are not afraid to dance around without anyone dancing with them. That was really funny. Usually guys in America don't dance unless they're dancing with a girl, or else they'll just bob their head or something. Oh no, not here! The guys there would just dance around when no one was near them! It was hilarious!!! Their dancing is completely different too. It's more like an awkward swaying type thing. There is really no words to describe it, so Emily and I will reenact it for you when we get back.
It was kind of weird when we saw the guys snorting coke. Emily and I were in denial at first because we've never seen or been around anything like that. We were like, did they just do what we thought they just did? Crazy!
Emily has given me her sickness she had in the beginning of our trip. I really despise having head colds more than anything, and now I have one. My throat started hurting once we left the Tower yesterday, and this morning it feels like raw meat. (gross I know, but it's a realistic analogy.) My eyes and sinuses hurt. I'm about to take this Irish medicine Em bought back in Ireland. Hopefully it will work at least while we're out sightseeing.
Oh, I have Emily hooked on Penguin bars now. I'm pretty sure she's bringing a pack home for her family. I think they're my favorite. Maybe more than crunchie! ah!
Glad to hear you had a good time Rissa, and I'm sorry you got sick. I can't wait to hear about everything you did.
Thanks for the email Aunt Hilary. I wouldn't worry about Emily and my poor eating habits. We're actually eating pretty healthy other than the last minute cheap food we buy every now than then. Plus I think our total stair count is way into the thousands, so we're getting some good cardio in while we're here! haha.
-H
The Big Chill Bar is pretty much exactly like the name. It is lined with sofas and the bar is just kind of a chill area. I've never seen the Big Chill movie, but I'm pretty sure it's in the same decade as the music they were playing. What is really funny is that everyone would sing along while Emily and I were just laughing. Also, European guys are not afraid to dance around without anyone dancing with them. That was really funny. Usually guys in America don't dance unless they're dancing with a girl, or else they'll just bob their head or something. Oh no, not here! The guys there would just dance around when no one was near them! It was hilarious!!! Their dancing is completely different too. It's more like an awkward swaying type thing. There is really no words to describe it, so Emily and I will reenact it for you when we get back.
It was kind of weird when we saw the guys snorting coke. Emily and I were in denial at first because we've never seen or been around anything like that. We were like, did they just do what we thought they just did? Crazy!
Emily has given me her sickness she had in the beginning of our trip. I really despise having head colds more than anything, and now I have one. My throat started hurting once we left the Tower yesterday, and this morning it feels like raw meat. (gross I know, but it's a realistic analogy.) My eyes and sinuses hurt. I'm about to take this Irish medicine Em bought back in Ireland. Hopefully it will work at least while we're out sightseeing.
Oh, I have Emily hooked on Penguin bars now. I'm pretty sure she's bringing a pack home for her family. I think they're my favorite. Maybe more than crunchie! ah!
Glad to hear you had a good time Rissa, and I'm sorry you got sick. I can't wait to hear about everything you did.
Thanks for the email Aunt Hilary. I wouldn't worry about Emily and my poor eating habits. We're actually eating pretty healthy other than the last minute cheap food we buy every now than then. Plus I think our total stair count is way into the thousands, so we're getting some good cardio in while we're here! haha.
-H
London Nightlife- a bit stressful
We managed to make it out last night after taking a little nap. We both woke up with blood shot eyes but somehow we showered and got into our dresses. Then we headed to The Big Chill in Liverpool. I had picked up a London guide when we first arrived in England from the U.S. The guide had a nightlife section and so we chose our place to go from there.
We first decided to go somewhere chill, so of course we chose The Big Chill. Afterward we planned on going to a superclub where they play European techno music. It took us quite some time to find the bar. Finally, after asking some people we found it! The streets were packed with people and VERY dirty. Both of us have glass imbeded in our black flip flops- guess I have to throw them out. Anway, on the way to the bar we saw these guys on the corners snorting cocaine! We were both in complete shock! The area was crowded and didn't seem like the place where people would do hard drugs. I guess we were just a little naive.
At The Big Chill, we both ordered a yummy and very expensive drink. It was our only drink of the night, so I didn't feel too bad. The bar/club was packed and they were playing hilarious music. The Londoners have a very goofy way of dancing. They can't of just move their upper body back and forth and stomp their feet in place. It is difficult to describe but Hannah and I had a fabulous time watching them!
When The Big Chill closed at 1 AM, we just decided to head back to our hostel. We didn't end up going to a superclub because we thought it would be way too crazy and dangerous. We made it safely back and it was a fun/interesting experience.
Our travel back to our hostel was an experience in itself. We had to take the bus back because the metro was closed. It started getting cold and it seemed like the buses took forever to pick us up. Since our hostel is a little ways out, we had to take two seperate buses to get back. On our last bus, this girl who was dressed in a VERY revealing outfit got on the bus with her boyfriend. She was definitely drawing negative attention to herself! Then an old woman made a comment to her that she smelled like scrumpy fries or something. They started gettting into a fight! It was a very entertaining way to end and interesting night. We arrived back at Palmer's Lodge at 3:30 in the morning, even though we probably only spent like 45 minutes in an actual bar!
I have decided that Hannah and I are just not cut-out for London partying! Super Club in Auburn is more our scene!
Parents you don't have to worry, Hannah and I don't plan on going out anymore! (or at least while we're still in Europe!)
-MLE
The weather today is sunny and the sky is clear. It looks like we lucked out again with the London weather. It was originally supposed to rain today too!
We first decided to go somewhere chill, so of course we chose The Big Chill. Afterward we planned on going to a superclub where they play European techno music. It took us quite some time to find the bar. Finally, after asking some people we found it! The streets were packed with people and VERY dirty. Both of us have glass imbeded in our black flip flops- guess I have to throw them out. Anway, on the way to the bar we saw these guys on the corners snorting cocaine! We were both in complete shock! The area was crowded and didn't seem like the place where people would do hard drugs. I guess we were just a little naive.
At The Big Chill, we both ordered a yummy and very expensive drink. It was our only drink of the night, so I didn't feel too bad. The bar/club was packed and they were playing hilarious music. The Londoners have a very goofy way of dancing. They can't of just move their upper body back and forth and stomp their feet in place. It is difficult to describe but Hannah and I had a fabulous time watching them!
When The Big Chill closed at 1 AM, we just decided to head back to our hostel. We didn't end up going to a superclub because we thought it would be way too crazy and dangerous. We made it safely back and it was a fun/interesting experience.
Our travel back to our hostel was an experience in itself. We had to take the bus back because the metro was closed. It started getting cold and it seemed like the buses took forever to pick us up. Since our hostel is a little ways out, we had to take two seperate buses to get back. On our last bus, this girl who was dressed in a VERY revealing outfit got on the bus with her boyfriend. She was definitely drawing negative attention to herself! Then an old woman made a comment to her that she smelled like scrumpy fries or something. They started gettting into a fight! It was a very entertaining way to end and interesting night. We arrived back at Palmer's Lodge at 3:30 in the morning, even though we probably only spent like 45 minutes in an actual bar!
I have decided that Hannah and I are just not cut-out for London partying! Super Club in Auburn is more our scene!
Parents you don't have to worry, Hannah and I don't plan on going out anymore! (or at least while we're still in Europe!)
-MLE
The weather today is sunny and the sky is clear. It looks like we lucked out again with the London weather. It was originally supposed to rain today too!
Saturday, June 2, 2007
I Tried to Steal the Crown Jewels- sadly I failed
This morning we woke up early and were determined to get a lot accomplished today. Luckily, we were successful! We had a really good FREE breakfast at our hostel and headed to the Tube.
Our first stop was at the London Tower. We listened to some goofy and gruesome stories told by the yeomen. Then we walked aroung inside all the different towers. The bloody tower was really very sad; they suspect two young princes were killed there! We also went into the white tower were the armoury is held. Very boyish. The Crown Jewels were of course my favorite. I could not get over the gemstones that the crowns and sceptors contained. One of the sceptors holds the largest diamond in the world! The tower took all morning to complete and we were pretty tired afterward.
After the tower, we had our fish and chips. Very good and cheap! Then we went to the Tower Bridge. We went up to the top, which gaves us a great view of the Thames. The Tower bridge is a whole lot prettier than the London Bridge!
Next, we walked along the Thames and made a brief stop at Shakespeare's Globe Theatre. We didn't want to pay to go inside but it was just neat to be able to see the actual building where Shakespeare himself directed and wrote plays.
We continued our walk along the river and then crossed back over to St. Paul's Cathedral. St. Paul's is enormous! It didn't look much like a cathedral from the outside; it appeared more like some sort of government building or something. Anyway, Hannah and I had decided earlier that we were not going to pay to enter because we wanted to spend our money elsewhere. Instead, we really lucked out and go to enter for free because they were having a choral service. So I got to see the beautiful inside filled with domes covered in mosaics. It was also neat because we got to listen to the choir, a group of men that sounded like monks!
Tonight, we plan on taking a nap and then waking up at around 11 or so. We want to experience a little bit of London's night life. Nothing too crazy or anything! We can't have too much fun tonight either because we still have lots of stuff to see tomorrow :)
Mom: I am going to try to find you some really good toffee or caramel. Wish me luck! Love you!
-MLE
Our first stop was at the London Tower. We listened to some goofy and gruesome stories told by the yeomen. Then we walked aroung inside all the different towers. The bloody tower was really very sad; they suspect two young princes were killed there! We also went into the white tower were the armoury is held. Very boyish. The Crown Jewels were of course my favorite. I could not get over the gemstones that the crowns and sceptors contained. One of the sceptors holds the largest diamond in the world! The tower took all morning to complete and we were pretty tired afterward.
After the tower, we had our fish and chips. Very good and cheap! Then we went to the Tower Bridge. We went up to the top, which gaves us a great view of the Thames. The Tower bridge is a whole lot prettier than the London Bridge!
Next, we walked along the Thames and made a brief stop at Shakespeare's Globe Theatre. We didn't want to pay to go inside but it was just neat to be able to see the actual building where Shakespeare himself directed and wrote plays.
We continued our walk along the river and then crossed back over to St. Paul's Cathedral. St. Paul's is enormous! It didn't look much like a cathedral from the outside; it appeared more like some sort of government building or something. Anyway, Hannah and I had decided earlier that we were not going to pay to enter because we wanted to spend our money elsewhere. Instead, we really lucked out and go to enter for free because they were having a choral service. So I got to see the beautiful inside filled with domes covered in mosaics. It was also neat because we got to listen to the choir, a group of men that sounded like monks!
Tonight, we plan on taking a nap and then waking up at around 11 or so. We want to experience a little bit of London's night life. Nothing too crazy or anything! We can't have too much fun tonight either because we still have lots of stuff to see tomorrow :)
Mom: I am going to try to find you some really good toffee or caramel. Wish me luck! Love you!
-MLE
Fish and Chips and Penguin Bars Oh My!
Today was quite exhausting. We woke up, got ready, and ate breakfast at our hostel. The breakfast here was quite nice for being free. We stole two pieces of fruit and hid them in our purses for later. After that we headed off to the Tower.
The tower was just as cool as I remembered, but a lot has been done to it. They've added a lot more videos than I remembered, and we went in a few more towers I don't remember either. The weather was gorgeous for being there. It's actually pretty hot and clear skies all day long. We saw the crown jewels, went on some of the tour with the yeomen, went in the towers, and we even got to see a 62 gun salute for the Queen's coronation anniversary.
After the tower we headed off the Tower bridge. We paid to go in because I remember always wanting to do it last time I came and we never did. We went up and got to see the skyline of London. We also learned some cool history of how and why it was made. Poor old Horace didn't get to see his design finished, but he did win the contest for the design contest. We even got to see the bridge go up and down while we were on top. Pretty cool.
Then we went to the Globe Theatre. I'm not really sure if it was open because they're actually holding Othello or some other play there right now. We kind of just snuck into the gate area and took some pictures. The iron gates were the coolest thing I remembered anyway. We then walked to St. Paul's Cathedral across the river. We really lucked out here. We didn't have to pay to go in because in a few minutes there was going to be a choral service open to the public. It was cool that we got to go in for free because we weren't going to pay to go in.
After that we went to the "Monument." We paid an extra £.50 on our Bridge ticket to get a ticket for the Monument too. It was closed when we went there, so I guess we'll go some other time. The monument is for the fire that destroyed most of London.
Oh! After the Tower we got really good cheap fish and chips from this place trying to compete with everyone else around the tower. It was so good. Tonight we went to the grocery store and bought hummus, pita bread, and penguin bars. A very good dinner indeed!
I haven't been to Harrow yet, but I might stop by if we have time. It's north harrow right?
Tell Jake I said congrats on graduating! Don't let him go to the beach next week though because it's nothing but a drunken abomination of graduates.
-H
The tower was just as cool as I remembered, but a lot has been done to it. They've added a lot more videos than I remembered, and we went in a few more towers I don't remember either. The weather was gorgeous for being there. It's actually pretty hot and clear skies all day long. We saw the crown jewels, went on some of the tour with the yeomen, went in the towers, and we even got to see a 62 gun salute for the Queen's coronation anniversary.
After the tower we headed off the Tower bridge. We paid to go in because I remember always wanting to do it last time I came and we never did. We went up and got to see the skyline of London. We also learned some cool history of how and why it was made. Poor old Horace didn't get to see his design finished, but he did win the contest for the design contest. We even got to see the bridge go up and down while we were on top. Pretty cool.
Then we went to the Globe Theatre. I'm not really sure if it was open because they're actually holding Othello or some other play there right now. We kind of just snuck into the gate area and took some pictures. The iron gates were the coolest thing I remembered anyway. We then walked to St. Paul's Cathedral across the river. We really lucked out here. We didn't have to pay to go in because in a few minutes there was going to be a choral service open to the public. It was cool that we got to go in for free because we weren't going to pay to go in.
After that we went to the "Monument." We paid an extra £.50 on our Bridge ticket to get a ticket for the Monument too. It was closed when we went there, so I guess we'll go some other time. The monument is for the fire that destroyed most of London.
Oh! After the Tower we got really good cheap fish and chips from this place trying to compete with everyone else around the tower. It was so good. Tonight we went to the grocery store and bought hummus, pita bread, and penguin bars. A very good dinner indeed!
I haven't been to Harrow yet, but I might stop by if we have time. It's north harrow right?
Tell Jake I said congrats on graduating! Don't let him go to the beach next week though because it's nothing but a drunken abomination of graduates.
-H
Friday, June 1, 2007
A day of nothing but travel
So, we spent our entire day getting to London. That's ok though, because we have 3 full days left! The airport in Brussels was located quite a ways out of town as was the London one. So sadly, we had to pay a lot to take buses to and from the airports. I guess I will be working and making some money soon enough!
Our hostel is really neat. It is an old building that takes up the entire corner of the street! Should be interesting sleeping with Hannah; our room looks like a tree house. There is different levels bulit with lots of wood, and curtains everywhere! We'll take pics so you all can get the idea ;)
We were starving by the time we finally arrived at our hostel. We got fish n' chips and it was really good and fresh. I am excited about all we have to do tomorrow. I know we are going to be exhausted when we get back home. London is going to make sure we are exhausted because there is so... much to do here!
Family: I am bringing back some yummy British candy for everyone to try. Get ready, because you are going to love it!
Our hostel is really neat. It is an old building that takes up the entire corner of the street! Should be interesting sleeping with Hannah; our room looks like a tree house. There is different levels bulit with lots of wood, and curtains everywhere! We'll take pics so you all can get the idea ;)
We were starving by the time we finally arrived at our hostel. We got fish n' chips and it was really good and fresh. I am excited about all we have to do tomorrow. I know we are going to be exhausted when we get back home. London is going to make sure we are exhausted because there is so... much to do here!
Family: I am bringing back some yummy British candy for everyone to try. Get ready, because you are going to love it!
Fish and Chips...mmm
We're here safely in London. The only thing bad about Ryanair is that they take you to off the wall airports. Our trip out to the airport to leave took an hour, and then getting into London from the airport took another hour and a half. I guess it beats a train, but we really haven't gotten much accomplished today. We were starving once we got into London, so we checked into our hostel and then quickly found a fish and chips place down the street. SO good.
I don't really know if we're going to do much else tonight. It seems pointless to buy a ticket to go anywhere today when it's already 7ish at night. We're probably going to go out to the Tower tomorrow morning though.
Our hostel is quite big. It's a large old building, and Emily and I are sharing a double bed. It's the only mixed dorm here, so we're afraid it might be all couples! :O Oh well, the room is set up funny and it feels like we're camping somewhere with all the wood.
-H
I don't really know if we're going to do much else tonight. It seems pointless to buy a ticket to go anywhere today when it's already 7ish at night. We're probably going to go out to the Tower tomorrow morning though.
Our hostel is quite big. It's a large old building, and Emily and I are sharing a double bed. It's the only mixed dorm here, so we're afraid it might be all couples! :O Oh well, the room is set up funny and it feels like we're camping somewhere with all the wood.
-H
Headed off to London
Hey all!
Emily and I are leaving for London in a few hours. We're not exactly sure how to get to the airport, but we're going to give us plenty of time to figure it out. It seems like every other time we've flown we've been running to get to our gate. Not very Lanesque, but we've made it work.
Oh, the reason why I am not too fond of Canadians is because we've just not had really good experiences with them. It started off nice with the two girls in Germany, but it's pretty much gone down hill from there. I really think it might be the guys though. Most of the guys we've met are just kind of know it alls. Plus I really got angry when I woke up and saw the Canadian dude in our room peeing in the sink we all share. NOT COOL! They're just not my favorite out of the different cultures we've met.
Thanks so much for the t-shirt quilt Mawmaw. I'm sure it looks great, and I can't wait to see it.
We're off to harrass the Royal Guards!
-H
Emily and I are leaving for London in a few hours. We're not exactly sure how to get to the airport, but we're going to give us plenty of time to figure it out. It seems like every other time we've flown we've been running to get to our gate. Not very Lanesque, but we've made it work.
Oh, the reason why I am not too fond of Canadians is because we've just not had really good experiences with them. It started off nice with the two girls in Germany, but it's pretty much gone down hill from there. I really think it might be the guys though. Most of the guys we've met are just kind of know it alls. Plus I really got angry when I woke up and saw the Canadian dude in our room peeing in the sink we all share. NOT COOL! They're just not my favorite out of the different cultures we've met.
Thanks so much for the t-shirt quilt Mawmaw. I'm sure it looks great, and I can't wait to see it.
We're off to harrass the Royal Guards!
-H
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