Not much time to update, but I figured I'd fill you in quickly on what we're up to!
Natalie and I had a full day of travel yesterday. We said goodbye to London by 2 pm, and took the chunnel over to Brussels. We were in completely different train cars, and my seat had been assigned to somebody else, too. I was a little concerned, but I flagged down the train manager and he found me a new seat. No big deal.
We only had 40 minutes in Brussels before we had to catch our train to Amsterdam. It was our first major culture-shock moment, though, stepping off the train in Brussels. Definitely a language neither of us is familiar with. There are some words where you can figure out what they mean based on German or English, but also some that did not look like they should be able to form a sound.
We also stumbled upon our first pay-bathrooms. I'd forgotten Europe is like that. We didn't have any Euro change on us, so no bathrooms for us.
We got our Eurail passes validated, and then hopped on the train to Amsterdam. It took about 3 hours. We were told halfway through the ride that we were sitting in 1st class instead of 2nd, which our tickets are for. Oops. So we had to go back to the steerage area and try to find seats. By then, it was really crowded and we hit many people with our bags. They loved us, I'm sure.
We met a couple of Belgian guys on the train, who were probably old enough to be our parents. One said he was a singer who had performed over 7000 events. ...Impressive? Anyways, they proved hard to shake. They wanted to show us the way to our hostel, but we eventually managed to convince them we didn't need their help. It was a relief to lose them.
Our hostel was pretty easy to find, even at 9:30 pm. It was full of young people. We went out to the Red Light district, which was certainly a sight to see. Bizarre, is the word I'd use.
Then, we met a couple nice Canadians at the hostel bar and just relaxed into the night.
Now, Natalie's telling me it's time to go. We have to check out of our hostel, and then see the rest of Amsterdam before we head to Bruges this afternoon!
Monday, May 31, 2010
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Krisi and I have had yet another adventurous day in London, and I am going to be really sad to say goodbye to it. I really enjoy being in this city, despite the rainy and unpredictable weather. (Krisi ended up buying an umbrella - the London rain didn't seem to care that we were trying to share mine...)
Last night, after Krisi updated, we went out on the town to see what London has to offer. We started at a party the hostel was holding, and it was very, very strange. They attempted to have hostelers do this dance to win a free iPod shuffle. First off, I think iPod shuffles are a waste because you can't even choose what song you want. The other problem with this situation was that the dance was incredibly awkward. Anyway, not many people did it, and we left the party fairly quickly after Krisi tried a Strongbow, which is a popular cider here that I have come to love.
We then attempted to check out the night scene, but somehow ended up with an older crowd a lot of the time. We went to a pub first, and I think everyone was 30+, so we left after feeling sure we had the experience of a London pub. Our next and last stop was a club, but somehow they were all older there, too. I don't know if everyone just looks older or we aren't finding the right places, but now we know to ask the hostel or locals where we can find the typical night scene for younger people. Tonight, though, I have some friends staying in London one tube stop away so I think we are going to try to meet up with them. (They are from America - boring...) Last night was successful in that we got to experience different places, though.
Today we had our only day that we were able to sleep in, so we took advantage. We went down to breakfast as 10:30 (and I have become a big fan of tea with milk in the morning...Krisi has yet to get on board with this tradition), and began our day shortly after that. Krisi wanted to see Big Ben and other parts of the Westminster area, such as Westminster Abbey, Parliament, and Westminster bridge. Although I had seen those the last time I was here, I still really enjoyed seeing all the beautiful buildings with a companion. I don't know how many of our many, many readers have read Ken Follett's The Pillars of the Earth, but the buildings are completely what I picture them building throughout the novel. Anyway, on the way back to the tube, a lady asked us to "donate to the children" and forced flowers in both of our faces. Unsure as to whether it was a scam or not but also realizing turning down a donation to children is terrible, we each gave some money. Apparently Londoners don't believe in giving more information as to where the donation is going, such as a charity name? Anyway, we saw many more people with the same flowers, so I am confident it was not a scam and we donated to the children. (When I asked what children exactly, the lady just said poor children...very strange).
The next part was my favorite: we got to see Abbey Road! This was one of my life goals and I can check that off my bucket list now. Despite the fact that is was raining, I did get a picture walking over Abbey Road. Umbrella in hand, I looked like a true Londoner :). I loved imagining that The Beatles walked across that same road for their famous picture.
With all of this sightseeing, Krisi and I decided to rest up in the hostel for a bit. A short rest turned into a bit of a lengthy nap, but I feel like that is better than being tired. The only rest of the plan for the night is to attempt to meet up with my friends. Other than that, we are taking the chunnel tomorrow to Brussels, then headed to Amsterdam for the night! I love my life.
Last night, after Krisi updated, we went out on the town to see what London has to offer. We started at a party the hostel was holding, and it was very, very strange. They attempted to have hostelers do this dance to win a free iPod shuffle. First off, I think iPod shuffles are a waste because you can't even choose what song you want. The other problem with this situation was that the dance was incredibly awkward. Anyway, not many people did it, and we left the party fairly quickly after Krisi tried a Strongbow, which is a popular cider here that I have come to love.
We then attempted to check out the night scene, but somehow ended up with an older crowd a lot of the time. We went to a pub first, and I think everyone was 30+, so we left after feeling sure we had the experience of a London pub. Our next and last stop was a club, but somehow they were all older there, too. I don't know if everyone just looks older or we aren't finding the right places, but now we know to ask the hostel or locals where we can find the typical night scene for younger people. Tonight, though, I have some friends staying in London one tube stop away so I think we are going to try to meet up with them. (They are from America - boring...) Last night was successful in that we got to experience different places, though.
Today we had our only day that we were able to sleep in, so we took advantage. We went down to breakfast as 10:30 (and I have become a big fan of tea with milk in the morning...Krisi has yet to get on board with this tradition), and began our day shortly after that. Krisi wanted to see Big Ben and other parts of the Westminster area, such as Westminster Abbey, Parliament, and Westminster bridge. Although I had seen those the last time I was here, I still really enjoyed seeing all the beautiful buildings with a companion. I don't know how many of our many, many readers have read Ken Follett's The Pillars of the Earth, but the buildings are completely what I picture them building throughout the novel. Anyway, on the way back to the tube, a lady asked us to "donate to the children" and forced flowers in both of our faces. Unsure as to whether it was a scam or not but also realizing turning down a donation to children is terrible, we each gave some money. Apparently Londoners don't believe in giving more information as to where the donation is going, such as a charity name? Anyway, we saw many more people with the same flowers, so I am confident it was not a scam and we donated to the children. (When I asked what children exactly, the lady just said poor children...very strange).
The next part was my favorite: we got to see Abbey Road! This was one of my life goals and I can check that off my bucket list now. Despite the fact that is was raining, I did get a picture walking over Abbey Road. Umbrella in hand, I looked like a true Londoner :). I loved imagining that The Beatles walked across that same road for their famous picture.
With all of this sightseeing, Krisi and I decided to rest up in the hostel for a bit. A short rest turned into a bit of a lengthy nap, but I feel like that is better than being tired. The only rest of the plan for the night is to attempt to meet up with my friends. Other than that, we are taking the chunnel tomorrow to Brussels, then headed to Amsterdam for the night! I love my life.
Friday, May 28, 2010
A New Perspective
Well, I'm here! I'm with Natalie in our hostel room in London, and it's still a little surreal. The jet lag probably isn't helping. But it's very nice to be here.
My flight was uneventful. A little late, due to a malfunction in the entertainment system, but we made up some time on the way. I had one of the cool planes (which Natalie unfortunately did not have) where I had my own TV screen and could choose from a whole bunch of TV shows and movies. That, plus a couple hours of sleep, made the 7 1/2 hours go by pretty quickly.
Once I landed, I discovered that Heathrow is a very convenient airport. Everything is clearly marked, so I easily found my way to baggage claim and then over to the tube. The tube is as easy as Natalie said it is, which makes me feel a little dumb for getting on the wrong one at first. I took the westbound instead of the eastbound, but I realized it right away so only backtracked one stop. And then got off and got right on the correct one. No big deal.
The tube ride to central London took a little over an hour. From there, it was a very short 5 minute walk to the hostel, where Natalie was waiting for me. It was very exciting to see her and actually be in London with her. The hostel is also nicer than I was really expecting. We're sharing with 2 other girls, who are from Germany. They didn't seem to understand a word we were saying to them. But oh well.
After checking in, we did some London exploring. First, we went to Covent Garden and looked at all of the merchant ware. It was surprisingly busy for a Friday afternoon. People everywhere. From there, we went on to Harrod's and explored. It's a huge department store, full of pretty things way out of our price range. They have a champagne bar inside where you could have a flute of champagne for 15 pound. Way more than we were willing to spend.
Hyde Park was a highlight to me. I got lucky and had a very lovely first day weather-wise, so wandering around Hyde Park was awesome. Lots of trees and flowers and people laying in the grass, reading. Plus many dogs. One of the first differences I've noticed here is how few dogs are on leashes. But they really don't need to be, because they're so obedient! I was impressed. We also saw the Princess Diana Memorial, which is a fountain shaped like a necklace. Pretty cool, but didn't come out that way in pictures. (I've taken a lot of pictures today, but I'll probably upload them tomorrow or Monday. Limited internet time.)
We walked from Hyde Park over to Buckingham Palace, which was cool, but one of those things that you look at for a couple minutes and then move on. No guards in black furry hats. Natalie tells me those are found at one of the prince's residents. We might swing by there tomorrow.
Green Park is right across from Buckingham Palace, so we ended up sitting on the grass there for a while. Well, first we tried to sit in some chairs out there, but then we were told it cost 1.50 pound to sit in the chairs. Bizarre. So we sat on the grass and rested our feet. Lots of walking today, and my feet were not pleased. They're going to have to get used to it, though.
We headed back to our hostel area to find a place for dinner, and we came across the London Pub. The creativity of the name really won us over. But really, it was just what we were looking for. A traditional pub where we could get fish and chips and have a beer. The fish and chips were delicious. (Natalie introduced me to malt vinegar for the fries, which was great.) And the beer was refreshing after a long day of travel/walking.
For now, we're pretty tired. My second wind is fading, but I'm certainly not going to bed yet. For my first night in Europe, we're going to head out on the town and see what people do around here. So far, I can confirm that there are many foreigners, most girls do wear leggings, and British accents are lovely, but sometimes difficult to understand.
Tomorrow, more London exploration. I still want to see Big Ben and the Parliament before we move on to another city. I really can't wait to see more!
My flight was uneventful. A little late, due to a malfunction in the entertainment system, but we made up some time on the way. I had one of the cool planes (which Natalie unfortunately did not have) where I had my own TV screen and could choose from a whole bunch of TV shows and movies. That, plus a couple hours of sleep, made the 7 1/2 hours go by pretty quickly.
Once I landed, I discovered that Heathrow is a very convenient airport. Everything is clearly marked, so I easily found my way to baggage claim and then over to the tube. The tube is as easy as Natalie said it is, which makes me feel a little dumb for getting on the wrong one at first. I took the westbound instead of the eastbound, but I realized it right away so only backtracked one stop. And then got off and got right on the correct one. No big deal.
The tube ride to central London took a little over an hour. From there, it was a very short 5 minute walk to the hostel, where Natalie was waiting for me. It was very exciting to see her and actually be in London with her. The hostel is also nicer than I was really expecting. We're sharing with 2 other girls, who are from Germany. They didn't seem to understand a word we were saying to them. But oh well.
After checking in, we did some London exploring. First, we went to Covent Garden and looked at all of the merchant ware. It was surprisingly busy for a Friday afternoon. People everywhere. From there, we went on to Harrod's and explored. It's a huge department store, full of pretty things way out of our price range. They have a champagne bar inside where you could have a flute of champagne for 15 pound. Way more than we were willing to spend.
Hyde Park was a highlight to me. I got lucky and had a very lovely first day weather-wise, so wandering around Hyde Park was awesome. Lots of trees and flowers and people laying in the grass, reading. Plus many dogs. One of the first differences I've noticed here is how few dogs are on leashes. But they really don't need to be, because they're so obedient! I was impressed. We also saw the Princess Diana Memorial, which is a fountain shaped like a necklace. Pretty cool, but didn't come out that way in pictures. (I've taken a lot of pictures today, but I'll probably upload them tomorrow or Monday. Limited internet time.)
We walked from Hyde Park over to Buckingham Palace, which was cool, but one of those things that you look at for a couple minutes and then move on. No guards in black furry hats. Natalie tells me those are found at one of the prince's residents. We might swing by there tomorrow.
Green Park is right across from Buckingham Palace, so we ended up sitting on the grass there for a while. Well, first we tried to sit in some chairs out there, but then we were told it cost 1.50 pound to sit in the chairs. Bizarre. So we sat on the grass and rested our feet. Lots of walking today, and my feet were not pleased. They're going to have to get used to it, though.
We headed back to our hostel area to find a place for dinner, and we came across the London Pub. The creativity of the name really won us over. But really, it was just what we were looking for. A traditional pub where we could get fish and chips and have a beer. The fish and chips were delicious. (Natalie introduced me to malt vinegar for the fries, which was great.) And the beer was refreshing after a long day of travel/walking.
For now, we're pretty tired. My second wind is fading, but I'm certainly not going to bed yet. For my first night in Europe, we're going to head out on the town and see what people do around here. So far, I can confirm that there are many foreigners, most girls do wear leggings, and British accents are lovely, but sometimes difficult to understand.
Tomorrow, more London exploration. I still want to see Big Ben and the Parliament before we move on to another city. I really can't wait to see more!
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Concerts galore.
Okay, prepare yourselves for a long post. (And hopefully interesting!)
I know I mentioned that I was in Leeds and we went to the Chiddy Bang concert, but I didn't really talk about much since I didn't have time. But, Friday night in Leeds, after I went shopping, I went to my first English pub! It was so different because they either played all house music (techno) or Pop music from America that is like 3 years old. Very interesting. It was really fun, though, and I enjoyed seeing the nightlife in England. It is very similar to the US in many ways, though. Then, on Saturday, Haley and 2 of her friends from Nottingham got into Leeds. We all played baseball in the park during the day, and since it was a group of a ton of Americans playing an American sport, we actually got a few spectators...one even was taking pictures! I hope I see myself in some newspaper or magazine here, haha. That night was the Chiddy Bang concert, and it was awesome because it was such a small venue, so we were very close to the stage. I found out afterward that he is only 19! He is apparently on his way up if he is getting famous and so young.
Sunday morning, Haley and I went straight to Birmingham, which was where we got the free upgrade in the hostel, which was awesome. Right next door to our room, though, there were three Italians and they were absolutely hilarious. The dad didn't speak much English, so he would act things out to describe them, and it was very amusing. He had Haley and I laughing the entire time. He had his son and his son's friend with him, and they were really nice, too...although one of them was kind of overbearing and the other one didn't talk at all, I think because he didn't speak much English, though. They got a lot of English words wrong, though, and it was always very funny when that happened. One of them called Haley ugly, thinking it was a compliment, and they said I was drunk for happiness and Haley was drunk for studying...not totally sure how they think those makes sense. I enjoyed talking to them for about 20 minutes and then when they wouldn't leave our room for about 2 hours, it got a little frustrating.
On Monday, Haley and I went shopping again ( I know...I can't help it). We ended up getting invited to taste test a restaurant's new menu, so we got about 70 pound worth of free food. We got 2 appetizers, 2 pizzas, and 2 ciders each COMPLETELY free. I love England. We also met this 87ish year old man and talked to him for like 2 hours about England and the States and who knows what else. He was really funny, and he was completely shocked when he heard that the US is in an economic crisis right now - I think a lot of people that aren't from the states idealize it and think everything is perfect...even though it is definitely not.
The John Mayer concert was on Monday night (last night), and that was awesome, but definitely different than a concert in the states. Absolutely none of the audience was dancing; they were sitting, watching, and not moving. Haley and I were dancing, though...I think it was clear we aren't from around here. I still had fun, though. Despite the fact that John Mayer can be inconsiderate in many ways, I LOVE his music, and I loved his concert.
Now it is Tuesday, and I leave for London to meet Krisi on Friday morning. I have a few days left here, and I plan on relaxing, maybe going into town, and maybe going out at night. I want to try to really enjoy my last few days in Nottingham (or as I have heard it called: Shottingham...apparently it is not the safest city in England).
I know I mentioned that I was in Leeds and we went to the Chiddy Bang concert, but I didn't really talk about much since I didn't have time. But, Friday night in Leeds, after I went shopping, I went to my first English pub! It was so different because they either played all house music (techno) or Pop music from America that is like 3 years old. Very interesting. It was really fun, though, and I enjoyed seeing the nightlife in England. It is very similar to the US in many ways, though. Then, on Saturday, Haley and 2 of her friends from Nottingham got into Leeds. We all played baseball in the park during the day, and since it was a group of a ton of Americans playing an American sport, we actually got a few spectators...one even was taking pictures! I hope I see myself in some newspaper or magazine here, haha. That night was the Chiddy Bang concert, and it was awesome because it was such a small venue, so we were very close to the stage. I found out afterward that he is only 19! He is apparently on his way up if he is getting famous and so young.
Sunday morning, Haley and I went straight to Birmingham, which was where we got the free upgrade in the hostel, which was awesome. Right next door to our room, though, there were three Italians and they were absolutely hilarious. The dad didn't speak much English, so he would act things out to describe them, and it was very amusing. He had Haley and I laughing the entire time. He had his son and his son's friend with him, and they were really nice, too...although one of them was kind of overbearing and the other one didn't talk at all, I think because he didn't speak much English, though. They got a lot of English words wrong, though, and it was always very funny when that happened. One of them called Haley ugly, thinking it was a compliment, and they said I was drunk for happiness and Haley was drunk for studying...not totally sure how they think those makes sense. I enjoyed talking to them for about 20 minutes and then when they wouldn't leave our room for about 2 hours, it got a little frustrating.
On Monday, Haley and I went shopping again ( I know...I can't help it). We ended up getting invited to taste test a restaurant's new menu, so we got about 70 pound worth of free food. We got 2 appetizers, 2 pizzas, and 2 ciders each COMPLETELY free. I love England. We also met this 87ish year old man and talked to him for like 2 hours about England and the States and who knows what else. He was really funny, and he was completely shocked when he heard that the US is in an economic crisis right now - I think a lot of people that aren't from the states idealize it and think everything is perfect...even though it is definitely not.
The John Mayer concert was on Monday night (last night), and that was awesome, but definitely different than a concert in the states. Absolutely none of the audience was dancing; they were sitting, watching, and not moving. Haley and I were dancing, though...I think it was clear we aren't from around here. I still had fun, though. Despite the fact that John Mayer can be inconsiderate in many ways, I LOVE his music, and I loved his concert.
Now it is Tuesday, and I leave for London to meet Krisi on Friday morning. I have a few days left here, and I plan on relaxing, maybe going into town, and maybe going out at night. I want to try to really enjoy my last few days in Nottingham (or as I have heard it called: Shottingham...apparently it is not the safest city in England).
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Being busy in England
This weekend has been quite busy and will continue to be, so I won't be able to update much until Tuesday. But, I was in Leeds the past few days, which was amazing. Great shopping, great weather...everyone that lived there was out at the park enjoying the day. I loved it. We went to see a concert by Chiddy Bang, which is an up and coming rapper, he was really quite good. He loved England, it was very clear. The Americans kept shouting USA in the crowd, but I tried to get away from them...haha.
Haley and I are in Birmingham now and we are headed to the John Mayer concert tomorrow...SO EXCITED! We got to the hostel and they lost our reservations so they ended up giving us an UPGRADE to an awesome private room for only 12 pound each, which is super cheap. So, it's like we are staying in a hotel, I love it.
I will update more when I can, but right now I am being charged to the use the computer at the hostel.
Haley and I are in Birmingham now and we are headed to the John Mayer concert tomorrow...SO EXCITED! We got to the hostel and they lost our reservations so they ended up giving us an UPGRADE to an awesome private room for only 12 pound each, which is super cheap. So, it's like we are staying in a hotel, I love it.
I will update more when I can, but right now I am being charged to the use the computer at the hostel.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Master Crumble
I have quite possibly found the best food in the world, and in England, too! England is not exactly known for their food. It is a cereal and it is called Master Crumble. It's only like 99 pence a box, and Haley and I have been going through it like crazy. I know it sounds strange, but this cereal is AMAZING. If they had it in the states, I would buy it weekly, for sure. I am in love.
I didn't really do a lot today, so there is not much to say. I am still in Nottingham, and Haley still has to prepare for tests. Here in England, though, instead of "studying" they say "revising". I don't think it makes much sense, because you are just reading material, not really revising anything, but I suppose a lot of American words don't make sense either. Another interesting thing they say differently here is while we say the letter "z" just ZEE, they said ZED. Not totally sure why..
The English school system absolutely baffles me. They don't have barely any assignments throughout the school year, then at the end of the year (now) they have one huge exam or paper that is worth nearly all of their grade. Some are 100%, 80%, and Haley has one that is 35% and that's very rare. I would be so nervous if I had an exam worth 35% of my grade at U of I! I can't understand how the teachers think they can provide an adequate assessment of the student's knowledge through one test or exam. Although, I know it goes through a lot of people, not just the professors. I think at least 2 people read over the exam or test, the professor and another person in the field, and they agree on a grade. Also, a 70 here is almost impossible, and that's an A. (Not 100, I know...weird). Usually students get around 55-65. If a student gets a 80, the professor is required to publish the work in some professional book or something. I find it all so interesting, but the English have had this system forever and cannot seem to understand our system, either.
Anyway, today I went to this really pretty park and walked around. It is on University of Nottingham's campus, and it has a castle! So pretty. I loved it.
Tomorrow morning, I leave for Leeds. Apparently they have really good shopping places, so I am excited for that (Haley says the have shoes for 2 pound! NUTS)
Also, we just bought tickets for a concert for Saturday night for a group called Chiddy Bang. I don't really listen to them, but they are good, and everything is better in England, anyway.
GREAT NEWS: I found a way to watch Lost and Glee online (fastpass.com). It's great, but it takes forever to load, so I am only halfway through each....but it's better than nothing!
I didn't really do a lot today, so there is not much to say. I am still in Nottingham, and Haley still has to prepare for tests. Here in England, though, instead of "studying" they say "revising". I don't think it makes much sense, because you are just reading material, not really revising anything, but I suppose a lot of American words don't make sense either. Another interesting thing they say differently here is while we say the letter "z" just ZEE, they said ZED. Not totally sure why..
The English school system absolutely baffles me. They don't have barely any assignments throughout the school year, then at the end of the year (now) they have one huge exam or paper that is worth nearly all of their grade. Some are 100%, 80%, and Haley has one that is 35% and that's very rare. I would be so nervous if I had an exam worth 35% of my grade at U of I! I can't understand how the teachers think they can provide an adequate assessment of the student's knowledge through one test or exam. Although, I know it goes through a lot of people, not just the professors. I think at least 2 people read over the exam or test, the professor and another person in the field, and they agree on a grade. Also, a 70 here is almost impossible, and that's an A. (Not 100, I know...weird). Usually students get around 55-65. If a student gets a 80, the professor is required to publish the work in some professional book or something. I find it all so interesting, but the English have had this system forever and cannot seem to understand our system, either.
Anyway, today I went to this really pretty park and walked around. It is on University of Nottingham's campus, and it has a castle! So pretty. I loved it.
Tomorrow morning, I leave for Leeds. Apparently they have really good shopping places, so I am excited for that (Haley says the have shoes for 2 pound! NUTS)
Also, we just bought tickets for a concert for Saturday night for a group called Chiddy Bang. I don't really listen to them, but they are good, and everything is better in England, anyway.
GREAT NEWS: I found a way to watch Lost and Glee online (fastpass.com). It's great, but it takes forever to load, so I am only halfway through each....but it's better than nothing!
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Nottingham
So yesterday, after I updated the blog, I went with a bunch of the guys from the hostel to play football aka soccer. Although, they call it a soccer ball so I don't see why they don't just call it soccer. Whatever. I couldn't play because I didn't bring tennis shoes, and actually, tennis shoes are a difficult thing to translate, especially to the Germans. They got it eventually, but I had to point out a pair of tennis shoes then compare them to my sandals. I think they got it at least.
I feel asleep at like 11 again last night, which is so early for me. The day full of sightseeing really wears me down. I could continue, but it's just much easier to sleep, so that's what I did. Krisi and I will have to keep each other going when she gets here.
This morning, I took the tube to a bus station and got on a bus to Nottingham. Once I was on the bus, though, I realized I totally forgot the name of the dorm at the University of Nottingham that I needed to get to in order to see Haley, whom I am staying with. It was weird, though - it didn't make me nervous at all. Normally I would freak out about something like that, seeing as I had no internet or phone to call Haley. So, I just got in a taxi and explained to the driver what I knew about her dorm. Fortunately, she was outside and I found her. But throughout the whole situation, I was surprisingly calm. I really think I am becoming more independent when it comes to things like this because I can't call my dad or Keith right away.
Well, I am here safely, so everyone can stop worrying :). The campus is rather quaint and friendly, so I don't think it would have been terrible if I had to stop and ask someone what the dorm was that I was describing.
On the bus ride here, I got to see a lot of the English countryside, and wow, it is beautiful. I was going to take a picture, but I forgot. Anyway, there are these huge fields that are pretty much purely the color yellow. I think they are flowers, but I asked Haley, and she doesn't even know, nor do a lot of her British friends. I guess it's a mystery. But they are pretty. And I find it interesting because in the U.S., or at least in the midwest, open land like that is either farming land or preserved as a park. I don't often see fields that are just fields. They always have a purpose it seems. The ones here might have a purpose, I suppose, but I think they are just to make people smile when they pass.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Intellectual day.
So today was my day for seeing intellectual sorts of things. I didn't exactly mean to put them all on the same day, but it happened. I feel very smart as a result...haha no, but really.
I started out at the National Gallery, which is just a huge museum of famous paintings. It's right on Trafalgar square so the building is obviously beautiful, but the paintings are, as well. Honestly, I didn't realize it would be only art. But I am happy, it was really neat to see originals of so many paintings.
Then, I went to the Natural History Museum. It was really neat, but I could see the museum being in Chicago and it being the same. Although, there were differences. Everyone that spoke (like on machines and displays) had an accent. Also, the little kids from their schools were running around in their uniforms and it was so cute. Also, the displays were a bit more...explicit, I might say. There was an exhibit on human development and things, and it very clearly when through not only how humans are created, but the process in which 2 people undergo in order to begin that process. Also, there were models of humans doing this. I was very shocked. But, other than that, and the spellings of things (-ize to -ise or -er to -re), everything was that same as one might see in the States.
My favorite part of the day, though, was the British library. They have some very rare collections, and I loved them. I saw original manuscripts by Virginia Woolf, Jane Austen, Thomas Hardy, Lewis Caroll, William Wordsworth, and some others. I also saw the original writing of Beowulf. Honestly, I just stared at it to engrave it into my memory. I couldn't take a picture. I loved it, though. There were also some original writings of the New and Old testament. I saw some originals of The Beatles' and their songs, some lyrics on an envelope and others written in a basement and signed by the writers (I can't remember which members wrote it). Lastly, I saw the Magna Carta. It had its own room and everything, but that wasn't my favorite.
It's funny - I think people don't realize I am American until I talk. This one guy at the art museum started talking to me then I said something and right away, he goes, "Oh! Are you American?" It was funny. I don't think they dislike Americans, they are just interested maybe. Anyway, I told that same guy I am from Chicago and he goes, "My friends and I were just speaking about Chicago and how many Irish there are there." I guess? I never really thought about it.
Funny story - a guy from Germany next to me just looked over and said "What are you writing? A roman?" Well, that was in German. So I didn't know what it meant, and he didn't know how to describe it in English. I looked it up and it means novel. Maybe I have been writing too much.
I started out at the National Gallery, which is just a huge museum of famous paintings. It's right on Trafalgar square so the building is obviously beautiful, but the paintings are, as well. Honestly, I didn't realize it would be only art. But I am happy, it was really neat to see originals of so many paintings.
Then, I went to the Natural History Museum. It was really neat, but I could see the museum being in Chicago and it being the same. Although, there were differences. Everyone that spoke (like on machines and displays) had an accent. Also, the little kids from their schools were running around in their uniforms and it was so cute. Also, the displays were a bit more...explicit, I might say. There was an exhibit on human development and things, and it very clearly when through not only how humans are created, but the process in which 2 people undergo in order to begin that process. Also, there were models of humans doing this. I was very shocked. But, other than that, and the spellings of things (-ize to -ise or -er to -re), everything was that same as one might see in the States.
My favorite part of the day, though, was the British library. They have some very rare collections, and I loved them. I saw original manuscripts by Virginia Woolf, Jane Austen, Thomas Hardy, Lewis Caroll, William Wordsworth, and some others. I also saw the original writing of Beowulf. Honestly, I just stared at it to engrave it into my memory. I couldn't take a picture. I loved it, though. There were also some original writings of the New and Old testament. I saw some originals of The Beatles' and their songs, some lyrics on an envelope and others written in a basement and signed by the writers (I can't remember which members wrote it). Lastly, I saw the Magna Carta. It had its own room and everything, but that wasn't my favorite.
It's funny - I think people don't realize I am American until I talk. This one guy at the art museum started talking to me then I said something and right away, he goes, "Oh! Are you American?" It was funny. I don't think they dislike Americans, they are just interested maybe. Anyway, I told that same guy I am from Chicago and he goes, "My friends and I were just speaking about Chicago and how many Irish there are there." I guess? I never really thought about it.
Funny story - a guy from Germany next to me just looked over and said "What are you writing? A roman?" Well, that was in German. So I didn't know what it meant, and he didn't know how to describe it in English. I looked it up and it means novel. Maybe I have been writing too much.
Monday, May 17, 2010
London
Well, today has been eventful. Actually, I should say the last few days have been eventful.
The volcano ash is causing problems again and I didn't think I was even going to fly out yesterday. Yet, the flight took off and we booked it to beat the ash. Luckily, we made it, and I landed at Heathrow airport. Unfortunately, I got there and the taxi I booked wasn't there. So here I am, at 11 pm, in a country I have never been in. I have no phone and I cannot contact this taxi service, and I didn't want to get another taxi because the other one was already paid for. So after checking the internet with the computers at the airport and calling the company, only to find them closed, I decide to just pay for a another taxi. On my way out, I see a taxi driver just coming in holding a card with my name on it. Apparently he didn't realize that it is important to be on time to pick someone up from the airport.
After being a little frustrated with that situation, I finally get to the hostel at like 12:30. Haley's asleep, so in the process of trying to wake her up to say hi, i accidentally woke up like everyone else in the room. Oops. It was interesting, though, because nobody really seemed to mind. So apparently hostelers just have a much more relaxed attitude. We didn't do much last night; I just caught up with Haley and couldn't fall asleep until like 6 am because of the time difference.
I woke up super early this morning to catch the free breakfast, and then Haley, her friend, and I went to Shakespeare's Globe. It costs a lot of money and also requires a booking way in advance to get in and see a play, so I just had to take pictures on the outside. Kind of sad...
Then, Haley went back to Nottingham and her friend left for her flight to Chicago. So I was left in London by myself, and let me tell you, it was strange.
I completely mastered the tube, though! It's strangely very easy to use, and I love it. I feel comfortable going anywhere on it, really. And, there are stops almost everywhere, so I don't think I can get totally lost, then.
I took a walking tour the went through the major tourist spots of London, just to get a variety, and it was really neat. We saw Hyde park, Buckingham Palace (with British guards!), Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar square, and so much more. It was about 3 hours long, and I am so exhausted.
Here are some interesting things I noticed about London:
Even when the British are mad or mean, their accent makes them sound so nice.
They wear leggings or tights ALL THE TIME it's insane.
Also, they wear peacoats obsessively.
Actually, they always look put together and cute, and I don't in comparison...
London is a lot like Chicago in that I feel pretty safe and I am able to navigate easily.
In fact, the tube is SO easy, I love it.
It rains. A lot. And it's always cloudy. I thought it was just today, but apparently it is always like this.
The police don't have guns, just sticks. It's because guns are illegal.
They don't exercise nearly as much as Americans.
Now about hostels:
They are dirty and hot, but soo social.
Language barriers are there even within the same language.
The male to female ratio is SO uneven. There are so many more guys.
I like them.
Anyway, London is great. I knew I would like it, but it's just great. Honestly, their accents alone make it awesome. But the history! I mean, there are interesting things that have happened here from 600! The US didn't even exist then. Not for a long time after that. I love that the buildings have history and the traditions are still in tact. For instance, the queen doesn't have much power anymore, but they still hold true to a lot of the customs that have been put in place over the years such as celebrating her birthday and even having her live in Buckinham palace. It's really neat, and I really enjoy learning about it.
Tomorrow I want to do more a lot more, but I also want to save some stuff for Krisi, too. More updates to come!
The volcano ash is causing problems again and I didn't think I was even going to fly out yesterday. Yet, the flight took off and we booked it to beat the ash. Luckily, we made it, and I landed at Heathrow airport. Unfortunately, I got there and the taxi I booked wasn't there. So here I am, at 11 pm, in a country I have never been in. I have no phone and I cannot contact this taxi service, and I didn't want to get another taxi because the other one was already paid for. So after checking the internet with the computers at the airport and calling the company, only to find them closed, I decide to just pay for a another taxi. On my way out, I see a taxi driver just coming in holding a card with my name on it. Apparently he didn't realize that it is important to be on time to pick someone up from the airport.
After being a little frustrated with that situation, I finally get to the hostel at like 12:30. Haley's asleep, so in the process of trying to wake her up to say hi, i accidentally woke up like everyone else in the room. Oops. It was interesting, though, because nobody really seemed to mind. So apparently hostelers just have a much more relaxed attitude. We didn't do much last night; I just caught up with Haley and couldn't fall asleep until like 6 am because of the time difference.
I woke up super early this morning to catch the free breakfast, and then Haley, her friend, and I went to Shakespeare's Globe. It costs a lot of money and also requires a booking way in advance to get in and see a play, so I just had to take pictures on the outside. Kind of sad...
Then, Haley went back to Nottingham and her friend left for her flight to Chicago. So I was left in London by myself, and let me tell you, it was strange.
I completely mastered the tube, though! It's strangely very easy to use, and I love it. I feel comfortable going anywhere on it, really. And, there are stops almost everywhere, so I don't think I can get totally lost, then.
I took a walking tour the went through the major tourist spots of London, just to get a variety, and it was really neat. We saw Hyde park, Buckingham Palace (with British guards!), Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar square, and so much more. It was about 3 hours long, and I am so exhausted.
Here are some interesting things I noticed about London:
Even when the British are mad or mean, their accent makes them sound so nice.
They wear leggings or tights ALL THE TIME it's insane.
Also, they wear peacoats obsessively.
Actually, they always look put together and cute, and I don't in comparison...
London is a lot like Chicago in that I feel pretty safe and I am able to navigate easily.
In fact, the tube is SO easy, I love it.
It rains. A lot. And it's always cloudy. I thought it was just today, but apparently it is always like this.
The police don't have guns, just sticks. It's because guns are illegal.
They don't exercise nearly as much as Americans.
Now about hostels:
They are dirty and hot, but soo social.
Language barriers are there even within the same language.
The male to female ratio is SO uneven. There are so many more guys.
I like them.
Anyway, London is great. I knew I would like it, but it's just great. Honestly, their accents alone make it awesome. But the history! I mean, there are interesting things that have happened here from 600! The US didn't even exist then. Not for a long time after that. I love that the buildings have history and the traditions are still in tact. For instance, the queen doesn't have much power anymore, but they still hold true to a lot of the customs that have been put in place over the years such as celebrating her birthday and even having her live in Buckinham palace. It's really neat, and I really enjoy learning about it.
Tomorrow I want to do more a lot more, but I also want to save some stuff for Krisi, too. More updates to come!
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Traveling (or soon to be Travelling...)
Let me just mention, for those who don't get the title of this post, the American way to spell traveling is with one "L" and the British way is to spell it with two. Very fitting for two travelers on their way to London, and then the rest of Europe, hence the name of this blog (by the way, please don't make fun of the name...it took some serious thinking).
Since this will be read by primarily family of Krisi and I (and possibly extended family), let me introduce us both for those of you who don't know one of us. To my family: Krisi is Keith's wife' s sister. That is, my sister-in-law's sister (if that is any less confusing). And she is my friend. To Krisi's family (although you may have picked up on who I am with that last sentence): I am Alex's husband's sister. I am Krisi's brother-in-law's sister. And I hope I am her friend. Although these introductions may have been pointless, it's easier than having anyone confused.
Back to the point of the blog. Krisi and I have long been planning a trip to Europe. A long while ago, a time which I cannot pinpoint, I was told by the University of Illinois (where I attend college) that I cannot study abroad because I have to student teach and whatnot. Well, that made me angry. So I decided I would go anyway, just without U of I. Ha. So, Alex mentioned that Krisi might want to go, and the story gets interesting. She said she would! A completely random, somewhat angry, thought turned into a wonderfully planned out trip consisting of two awesome travelers.
So our hope for our families is that this blog might help you all keep up with our travels. We will be in many different places and unable to keep up with consistent emails with everyone, so it's easier to tell you all at once. (Parents: don't worry, we will skype often).
As of now, we are planning on going to: London, Amsterdam, Brussels, Brugges, Paris, Versailles, Bern, Vienna, Prague, and Germany (many cities). I will leave about ten days before Krisi and go see my friends who are studying abroad (so I will also go to Nottingham and Leeds, in England), and then Krisi and I will meet in London!
It's all very exciting to us, and we hope you enjoy following along with us through this useful tool we call the Internet.
By the way, I leave May 16th, so you can begin reading about my adventures then. Krisi leaves May 27th, so you can read about our adventures together beginning then.
Ciao! (I'm trying to practice being European before I actually go)
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