Travel Diary

Reflections and Tips

• During the week in London, I had no soda or coffee and had no ill effects from the lack of caffeine. Guess I'm not too addicted.
• It's easy to forget, but the Tube air is quite dirty. I felt particles (iron or something?) in my throat at times. It's odd to see virtually no masks on. For people who live in London, this may not be wise.
• Traveling heavy is fine when not moving place to place. For just one flat for the week, it's okay to have large suitcases.
• The weather even in May is risky, but risks are necessary for life. Just have to pack for both situations.
• Brits can be VERY helpful. Even random women will offer to help with luggage. Men may help without even saying a word.
• The Tube is awesome as it has short waits (mostly).
• Expect to make mistakes on Tube or bus lines on occasion. This is fine. More random things to see.
• Buses can be fun too. Enjoy the view from the front of the second level!
• Oyster card rocks as it's fast and easy and works for Tube and busses.
• Asking directions is essential. Easier than you think. And can have great results.
• It's easy to see why people get season passes at Kew Gardens. It's a wonderful place.
• Data plans are vital! Stop by Carphone Warehouse right after you land.
• Sainsbury's is vital! Find the nearest one fast.
• Never do two walking tours on same day.
• Allow decent blocks of time to just rest and nap if necessary. Don't fill every minute of every day.
• If possible, bring clothes to dress up a little. You also won't look so much like a tourist (not that there's anything wrong with that).
• Evensongs are a nice free treat. They're filled with angelic music.
• In London, there are SO many free things to see and do.
• London theatre is outstanding. Second only to Broadway.
• Brits cover American accents quite well. It's almost uncanny.
• Theatres may upgrade your seats without you even having to ask. (Though perhaps one could ask even when they don't offer outright. Did not try. Next time.
• Pro Secret: Buy standing tickets. Then sit.
• Pro Secret: Airlines don't seem to care if you switch to a better seat.
• Pro Secret: Ask about getting better seats.
• Pro Tip: stay in one lodging as long as possible. Packing and moving is a time loss and quite tiring.
• Always carry snacks and water.
• Backpacks will almost always be searched at theatre and museums.
• Leave the camera behind sometimes. (If you carry a DSLR.)
• Wander down random streets (in safe neighborhoods of course)
• London is very safe even late at night (in general)
• There is way too much to do in a week--or even a full semester. Keep a: "this can be done next time" mindset. Balance between "invest in adventure and fun" versus "no need to throw away money" frames.
• Airline prices are at historic lows. Waiting for a "better time" may be waiting for never.
• Brexit can be a sad thing when meeting nice people from other countries making their livelihoods in London. Too bad this may change.
• Once can never visit London too many times. Plus, it gets much easier to get around each new visit. I eagerly await my next trip.