Lost in London

So I'm a bit lost here in England, but in a completely good way. Everything is foreign, new and exciting... more so than I expected! I step outside and initially feel as if I could be home. Then I enter a crosswalk (or zebra crossing as Brits call it) and realize that everyone is driving on the left side of the street and they talk differently. Then I am pulled back into this reality that seems like a dream. A pretty amazing dream.

 

After spending a couple days on Newcastle's campus for international orientation, our Loyola program took a weekend trip to London. I have wanted to travel to London since I was young, and heard so much about it through others' experiences there. It was interesting to see how the trip would compare to what I always imagined it would be like. Once again reality exceeded expectations. I really hope this trend continues!

On the first day after everyone dropped their belongings in the hostel, we took the Tube for a night tour of the city. I wasn't exactly sure which sights were included on the tour. So when we walked up the stairs from the tube, my breath was taken away when I looked right up at Big Ben. I have seen pictures of the famous landmark, and all of a sudden it was right in front of me. As corny as it sounds, it took my breath away. It was one of those nights when I felt so happy that I felt a little sad too.  It's a strange paradox to say the least. I think it was the notion that I could never experience London like this for the first time again with such wonder. I reminded myself to take in every moment, and enjoy it all as it comes.

The tour was so beautiful at night, but I wanted to see the city during the day again. So we went back to see all the touristy attractions which included Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, the British Museum, Westminster Abbey and Camden which were all equally amazing.

 

 

 

 

I have to say the best experience of all that weekend was going on the London Eye with two of my friends. The wait was long, but the view was completely worth it. Once again, I felt like I was in a dream. Seeing the cityscape from such a tall height reminded me of my view while skydiving. Everything looks so small, and not as intimidating anymore. Simultaneously, it was beautiful and breathtaking. Words can't really describe it even though I could go on forever about how great it was.

 

Although I absolutely loved London, I was happy to get back to Newcastle. London can be a little overwhelming, and I love the community atmosphere that Newcastle gives off, if that makes sense. Although it is a city, it feels more personal and close-knit than London.

So after a week or two of vacationing, orientation and Fresher's week, I finally am starting classes after five months off. I hope my brain still works. Even though I will have work now, I'm pretty sure I will continue to love it here. Wish me luck!