From living in the heart of London for the past three weeks I have come to see myself as some-what of an American-Londoner, if that makes sense.
I call my apartment the flat, the elevator the lift and the trash rubbish and it annoys my family back in the States. I know the best way to get to the Buckingham Palace or Trafalgar Square. I drink beer here which is new for me, as prior I thought it was disgusting, and still sometimes think it is disgusting.
As I have been in London these past few weeks, I feel I have learned countless lessons about living in this unique city, traveling, and myself.
So sit back and relax as I share with you what I think are the most valuable things I have learned through this experience.
Always bring an umbrella everywhere. Even when it is sunny… as it can rain for five minutes, then stop, then rain again.
Do not be afraid to ask for help. Or for someone to take your picture.
Stay on the right side of the escalator always. Londoners are always rushing and if you are on the wrong side of the escalator someone will call you out.
When crossing the street look in every direction you can, as many times as necessary. These drivers do not care if they hit you.
Always dress to impress.
Do not ask British people about Brexit, as they will either be pretty aggressive about it, or admit they have no idea what it is.
Travel as lightly as possible. I am amazed with how much I can fit in my back pack and my tiny little wallet purse. Also traveling up 4 flights of stairs with your 40 pound checked bag is not fun.
Reaching your daily 10,000 step goal is no challenge, as we average around 13,000-15,000 a day.
Parks are the best places to go when you need a little nature in this big city. However, watch out for pigeon poop as it silent and can happen instantly.
Tell the ones you love that you love them. Whether you are 5,000 miles apart or 5 feet apart, as the words are still meaningful no matter the distance.
Do not be afraid to get lost in the city, as you my stumble upon new places you never knew existed.
Keep an open-mind. This experience in itself exposes you to new people, views, cultures and it is up most important that you remember to take everything in and be as unbiased as you can.
Do not let others determine your happiness. If you have a must-list item that no one else is really interested in and you still haven’t done while here in London, I highly encourage that you just do it! You will most-likely look back regretting not doing it.
And most importantly, keep calm and carry on.
