Jan 16, 2012

London: Double-decker


On Saturday morning Hayley, Shiva, and I went on a University College London sponsored double-decker bus tour of London (try saying that five times fast). Afterwards, we explored the neighborhoods around our campus and checked out the British Museum!

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Hayley and I didn’t arrive early enough to sit on the top, but we were okay sitting inside on the bottom, where it was a bit warmer. We learned a lot about the city, and it was fun to hear about all the rich history in London!

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After the tour, Hayley, Shiva, and I visited a few of the gardens around UCL. We went to the Tavistock Square Garden in Camden (where we got to see a statue of Gandhi) and the Russell Square Garden.

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Between gardens, we got to see a ton of beautiful houses and buildings around our campus. The area is incredibly beautiful; UCL couldn't be in a more lovely spot!

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After visiting the parks, we walked to the British Museum ! Although we didn’t go in, it was awesome to see the building (and realize that it’s practically down the street from where I live!).

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There are so many beautiful buildings around the museum area; just across the street are some gorgeous apartments in different shades of brick! I love all of the history behind some of the older buildings. 

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Across from the museum we stopped into the Highland “Scottish Goods” Store to check out the tartans and gloves. The scarves were absolutely beautiful, and super soft! I might have to go back and get one if it stays cold!

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Our final stop of the afternoon was a visit to the LondonReview Bookshop. We browsed the shelves, and then grabbed tea and snacks at the London ReviewCake Shop. Hayley and I both got an absolutely delicious tomato soup with crème freche, a baguette, and olive oil. It was the perfect way to warm up!

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After doing schoolwork for a few hours, we ended the night at the UCL student union (which is sort of like a university activity center and a bar rolled into one). On Saturdays they have karaoke, and I had a blast listening to the performers and dancing (plus, you really can’t beat pints of Strongbow for 1.65 pounds!)!