The weather hadn’t improved on our second day in London. But we weren’t deterred. We were on a mission to meet the Queen, whether she knew it or not.
Since we didn’t rent a car — and I wouldn’t recommend it — we decided to walk everywhere. We mapped out a walking tour of Westminster, which included Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey and the House of Parliament — all an easy walk from each other.
But, like on any great adventure, there were a lot of unexpected sights, shops and restaurants, too. Who knew that you could buy a Cornish pasty in a convenience store, for example, or tonkatsu in a Korean restaurant off Oxford Street?
We didn’t know that — but now we do.
Here’s what our second, exciting day in London looked like:
22 Comments
Did you know that Big Ben is actually the name of the bell inside the tower, and not the tower itself? I was told that by at least three Brits while taking pics of it and discussing photography with them. Interesting factoid there…
Westminster Abbey is quite “odd” inside. Probably worth a trip back to see inside. While most cathedrals in Europe are have expansive interiors, W.A. is quite cramped as it is narrow and has many rooms inside. Also, many people are buried under the floor. As it became full, they started burying people upright.
Let’s see… Vietnamse: check! Korean: check! Only Chinese and Japanese cuisine for you to go Cat! (hehe)
Oh, your pounds to USD conversion was “over” favorable to the dollar… 8 pounds is actually around $13 US. Wouldn’t want you to overspend. A couple of months ago, 8 P probably was closer to $10 US as the pound tanked, but now it’s back up to $1.60 per pound. Unfortunately the two times I was there, one pound equaled TWO US dollars… YIKES!!!
@MaxMaxMax You’re right about my shoddy conversion. I think I was thinking euro to dollar. Oh, well. Now I’m depressed…
@Cat Oh well… just spend anyways and be happy… After all, you can’t take it with you, and memories are priceless!!! ;^D
@MaxMaxMax @Cat There’s a big Chinatown in London although I can’t remember how I got there. It’s quite close to the Theater District I believe.
@MaxMaxMax @Cat …. @MaxMaxMax I agree with you… I can’t recall where I read / heard this before, but someone said that you will enjoy life more when you spend money on “experiences” versus “things / possessions”.
Cat, great job of reporting!… I don’t know how you find the time to post such detailed reports along with pictures.
All right… fuud prom. Derek ordered a Kalbi Set. The soup looked like a water down rice gruel. At least they put Scallions in the soup.
You both covered a lot today. I agree with @MaxMaxMax about revisiting Westminster Abbey when the walking tours are in session. There’s a lot of history as @MaxMaxMax says that only a guide will point out as you walk thru the Abbey.
If you find a place, try a Scone with Clotted Cream. It’s a British (or is it English) thing. The closest I’ve seen in Hawai`i is High Tea in a famous Waikiki hotel.
I guess the big question after all your adventures is, are you ready to come home? Or could you use another week or so in Europe?
CAT,
Pix 18 cracked me up as it did you! Which reminds me, it’s time for me to schedule a colonoscopy!!
Hello Cat!
What an adventure! A virtual one at that! Keep the pixs coming!
badger hair brushes are awesome! man i could spend hours in there. great pics…..looking forward for more “nonstop” sticker tags across the town!
I’m enjoying your daily updates – thank you! You’re so conscientious with your posting while on a fabulous vacation. I truly don’t know when you can fit it in. Europe is a favorite destination of mine.
Hey Cat & D, thanks for sharing all of the great pics and the histroy behind all of those great palce you guys are visiting. It feel like we are on tour with you guys. Looking forward to seeng more! Take care be safe and most of all have FUN! which we all know that not a problem.
Any particular reason you’re not drinking caffeine or alcohol? 😉
Seeing your pictures of the Green Park brings back memories of my prior visits to London. I really enjoyed walking through that massive park, even though it was drizzling at the time. Thanks for sharing.
How is the Queen not on Twitter???
Westminster Abbey was SO COOL, gotta love 800-year-old tombs. Looks like you’re having a great time. Get a beer next time you’re in the pub! 😉
there’s a soft drink in England named ‘Tiser’
Can we go back to Paris now?
I don’t think I would have eaten Korean fuud traveling in Europe.
I wouldn’t be eating any asian fuud while in Europe.
@M She’s in London though… they ain’t exactly known for their food, (haha)! I think asian is a good alternative! ;^D
Did you make it out to Cryer’s Corner? had to be on of the funniest things I’ve ever witnessed. People yelling out there positions with others cheering, jeering, and arguing back. There is always someone there preaching about killing off all the white people… made me think of Bulaia frankly.