Been a fun couple of days in London. My extended family has been great hosts and tour guides. Couldn’t ask for a better introduction to the UK. Plus, there was something very familiar and relaxing about being in a house full of squawking Nigerian women. Felt just like home.
Today I explored the city by myself. The transit system in London is fantastic, as good as if not better than in NYC and DC, so getting around was easy.
Started the day in Notting Hill (yes THAT Notting Hill), which is an amazing eclectic mix of antiques, flea markets and cafes. And it was CROWDED. Damn. I’ll have to avoid going on weekends next time I swing through London. I also got a few side story ideas from the scenery. Love when that happens.
Also got to see a hint of the British Museum. That literally requires a half-day at least, and I did less than an hour. That’s also on my London re-do list.
One thing I noticed about London? It didn’t really feel that foreign to me. I mean yes, they drive on the wrong side of the road and use pounds for currency and speak in the Queen’s English (which has the bestest slang ever). But something about this city was very East Coast.
Even the night clubs and pubs all felt very American. One place I hit up last night only played American pop and hip-pop. I guess it is true that if you strip away all the cultural variances, most global city centers are pretty much the same. Still, there is so much I didn’t get to see, I’ll have to spend at least a week here whenever I come back, which will be sooner rather than later.
Tomorrow I’m off to Madrid. Can’t wait. Its still my favorite big European city. But London is now a close #2!
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