Today I went to see Big Ben and ended up wrestling with the wind for my umbrella in what can only be described as a classic English storm. That's what I get for bragging to my friends back home about the nice weather.
Katie Gronewold is a 24-year-old UCLA English major from West Hills, Calif. She is a senior at UCLA, and this is her first trip to England. She writes, "I'm super excited about going to see the Shakespearean plays performed, and of course trying to spot Prince Harry (hey, it could happen...)."Today I went to see Big Ben and ended up wrestling with the wind for my umbrella in what can only be described as a classic English storm. That's what I get for bragging to my friends back home about the nice weather.
We went to see our first play of the trip, the Shakespearean production of The Winter's Tale, Monday night at The Old Vic Theatre. I was pleasantly surprised to see that not only did Sam Mendes (aka Kate Winslet's award-winning hubby) direct it, but Ethan Hawke is in it, which is a treat in and of itself. Well, I know the girls certainly didn't mind.
1. To get a taxi in London, speak up. Back in the States I am used to aggressive cabbies who compete to get business, so I was surprised to learn that it is illegal for taxi cab drivers to solicit people in London. So if you need a cab, you've gotta speak up! That is a lesson my roomie and I learned the hard way on our first day in London as we shyly stood there waiting for someone to at least make eye contact with us. Note to self: they are not on break.
2. The Tube is a fast and effective way to navigate around London, but is not for those who are claustrophobic or those who value their personal space!
3. If all else fails, walk. Many things are within walking distance in London, but be careful because the drivers here are even crazier than they are in L.A., and getting hit by a double-decker bus is not the way I want to spend my vacay.