Last Day in London

Today was our last day in London before we leave for Budapest. We first went to a WWII exhibit called “Churchill’s Britain at War.” We thought it was the Churchill War Rooms (it’s located practically in the same place on the map), but it wasn’t. It was still very interesting and had a lot of memorabilia from WWII. It was interesting to see the history through British eyes. 

We then headed to Buckingham Palace to view the Royal Mews, The Queen’s Gallery and the State Rooms. Getting around the outside of Buckingham was a bit claustrophobic feeling. There were dozens of tour groups and hundreds of other tourists. Also, today was the Changing of the Guard, which is cool, but makes it almost impossible to get around. We had a quick lunch across the street from the Palace and then toured the Gallery. The Gallery showed works collected by Prince Albert and Queen Victoria. We then went to the Royal Mews where the horses, carriages and cars are kept for the Queen.

The best part of the tour of course was seeing the Queen’s State Rooms. They were beyond ornate and even explanation. I would gladly post a picture or two from the State Rooms, but no photography was allowed. In the Palace there was also a special exhibit about “The Queen’s Year” and what she does from season to season. 

After our tour we walked through the Royal Gardens, which is really just a big park we sat down to rest and figured out what do for dinner.

Royal Carriage that carried the Queen after her Coronation 

Besides all the touring around London here are a few other things I’ve observed.

One: Fashion, as in I’m sooooo out of fashion here in London. Every girl wears skinny jeans, tights or leggings (I’ve seen  toddlers even wearing them). Ben rolls his eyes every time I say “If only I had some skinny jeans, then I would fit in!” Of course I’m saying it sarcastically, but also a tinge of truth. Ben just thinks everyone here looks like they’re from the 1980’s. :)

Second: The Tube/Underground really should be considered for an Olympic sport. After all London is hosting the 2012 games! Ben and I consider ourselves brisk walkers, but Londoners take it to a whole new level of walking. We move at a snails pace compared to these people. I’ve had old ladies carrying their cane in one hand pass me! 

And last: This isn’t so much an observation of London as it is of our Hotel. Where we’re staying at must be considered very international because at breakfast we’re one of the few people who speak English. The rest speak Italian, German, Spanish, and who knows what else. I suppose this is a good thing considering we’re about to live in a country where English is not widely spoken. 

We look forward to getting to Budapest for our orientation and then onto Debrecen. We miss having a home base and we’re tired of lugging around our bags. Until next time take care in the States, especially Texas with it’s 100 degree temperatures! Not to brag, but today’s high in London was in the 70’s. :)