Falling in Love

Before departing on my trip people jokingly made remarks to me that maybe I would find a nice, smart, charming, and handsome British man that would sweep me away and I would never come back because I was in love.  Conversely, my older sister sternly instructed me not to fall in love while in London because she would miss me too much.  I'm so sorry to inform you Yimaira, but I have fallen in love!  Walking through the streets of London on a daily basis there is no shortage of attractive young men.  Katie and I are almost constantly giving each other little nods to point them out to each other.  But, alas, I have not fallen in love with a man on this trip.  I have fallen in love with the city itself.  Last night while trying to find a place to eat with a classmate after our class photography session, London and I had a bit of a quibble.  NOTHING was open and I was starving.  But a short tube trip to China Town and signs reading "Open till 1 am" became my best friends.  This area of town was vibrant and very active unlike the part we had just come from near St. Paul's Cathedral, which seemed like a ghost town.  This diverse little neighborhood demonstrates how multifaceted this city really is.  I really like that London has these little pockets of world culture tucked away where you least expect it.

In addition to London's diversity, he is also quite attractive.  Walking around last night taking night photos helped me to appreciate how beautiful the city is.  The night skyline is breathtaking and it was nice to enjoy it in such a calm and serene location. I have enjoyed the views from several points during my trip.  My first glimpse was from the top of St. Paul’s Cathedral and it was spectacular, although a bit windy.  My second glimpse was from the perfect place to fly a kite on Primrose Hill in Regent’s park.  My final view was an extended one from the one and only London Eye, which brought me even more up close and personal to some great landmarks.  The ground view isn’t bad either.  Watching the moon over the city from the Millennium Bridge was what really sealed the deal for me.

Something else that’s really great about London is that it is so active.  There are so many green spaces throughout the city to enjoy the outdoors.  You can just come out to enjoy the sunlight and a book, or you can go for a run through the beautiful gardens, play a little pick-up game of soccer, or even just take a nap under a shady tree. 

London has so many great things to offer and I've done so many amazing things while I've been here.  I have seen some amazing shows, enjoyed the spectacular scenery, and you have all already read about my love affair with the food and the transportation here.  This is a place I could really see myself living in one day (maybe sooner rather than later).  Maybe my relationship with London will have to be long distance for a while, but I will definitely be back.  London has certainly stolen my heart.