One of my last stories before hitting the tile floor of Heathrow Airport in London for my direct flight back to the States is the Tube ride back into Heathrow. I said my goodbyes to my cousin and took a different train up the Circle Line up towards a Piccidily Line. I was listening to some really awesome music on my iPod and I really couldn't undestand how this kid from Indiana (me) could be so comfortable on the Tube after being terrified riding it 4 weeks previous. You see, something had changed about me and the funny thing is that the entire experience has done this to me in various ways. Through friendships made while traveling through Ireland, London, Scotland and Paris something had changed about me. I had finally after years of searching gotten over a few things that were keeping me from being myself as well as understood that I was old enough and independent enough to get away from the person my parents have wanted me to be and what I want to be myself.
On that train I thought back to my first smell of European air, my first pint in a pub, my first conversation with a local Brit, my first booking of an airline to a foreign country, all of my firsts. It was in that moment when all of it sunk in, I was leaving and with it a part of me was leaving and another part of me was changed forever. On that train when Don Mclain's song "American Pie" came on indeed the music of old in me "did die." I found out something about myself, I found what I was made of, discovered a new culture learning about customs and what is similiar and different in my world back in Indiana from the UK, and I had made some great new friends who have a bond with each other that words can't describe, I had accomplished goals and dreams that were mearly just for show at times in my life, and for once I had done something diliberately because it was important to me, like discovering the Lourve, drinking wine under the Eiffel Tower, and playing a round of golf in the sport's birthplace. I had made friends that will hopefully last a lifetime, and in essence realized how important going out of your own comfort zone is, as well as how fickle stereotypes can be. I had experienced some of the greatest times and some of the worst times, but in overcoming the worst and experiencing the best I have realized that I have the ability to get through them on my own and move on.
Jumping over the pond was a very fitting title for this blog, I literally jumped into a foreign country with both feet and not looking back. In doing so I have grown up and become a better and more improved person. In the days, weeks, months, years, decades, and lifetime to come I will never forget what went on in these 5 1/2 weeks, how I grew, and what I learned. Sometimes jumping without looking back, though fearful is one of the best decisions a person can make. The most liberating feeling is that I can say that because I experienced it, and not because some book told me to. So to all of my benefactors, friends, family, co-workers, and strangers who read this. I thank you and wish for you all the best.
Cheers mates, good craic.
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Friday, June 27, 2008
London Heathrow and Other Things.... Great things.
Its 10:45 in the morning and as I climb in the coach all I can think about is that I only have one more night in Europe after this Monday. We got through customs alright into the UK and sat around waiting for our Eurostar train to depart from the French train station (unfortunately forgot its name because its French). As the Eurostar takes off, my seat mate arrives and we begin discussing the topics of the day. Apparantly, this Parisian who spoke very good English, is a renouned business professor and working on his book on his way from commuting from Paris to London. To be quite honest, I talked with this gentleman about everything I had experienced as an American in Europe. The funny part is that we never got each other's name. You see, this is the meaning of my trip, discussing life, understanding culture, and honestly, being human with everyone you meet. After this 2 hour long conversation me and my seat-mate went our seperate ways, me back to Heathrow at St. Pancras Station, and he to the University of London to give class and seminars as well as writing his book.
As I walked into St. Pancras Station the entire city of London it seemed to be caught up in one major event. Wimbledon, and the train station was no different. Aaron a friend of mine and I went over to a large television screen to watch Federer dismantle his first round sheep of a player. The Londoners love their tennis, and pretty much anything that goes with it. I was looking forward to a 25 hour stay in the Heathrow Airport waiting for a Virgin Atlantic flight over to O' Haire, when an idea dawned upon me. Why not grab the Tube and head over to see what Wimbledon is all about. After pitching this idea in the 45 minute coach ride to the airport I had about 4 followers and 1 uncertain girl who would like to make the Tube journey with me.
As we got to the airport the reality of the end of the trip set in. Our dean of students said "goodbye" and we said goodbye to each other because for some of us this was a departure to America from other flights. The goodbye's were heartfelt, and all of us promised to keep in contact with each other. After this emotional moment, it was difficult to get our minds set on a journey to Wimbledon. We found out that the stop we must find is Southfields and is in a perfect location in London for us to make it there by train. After purchasing our tickets we were run down by Lisa, the uncertain one, who said and I quote, "Screw this paper, I'm watching Wimbledon my dad would kill me if I had this opportunity and didn't take it." The ride to Wimbledon for me was unnerving, each stop getting closer to a tournament that I had watched as a young child. We were only there to take pictures of the gate and to say that we were at Wimbledon when the tournament was being played. Little did we know what to expect next.
As we got off of the Tube at our stop in Southfields I turned into the largest tourist that I could have possibly been. My other 5 travelers looked at me as my warn face opened up with a smile that could not contain that I was in the vicinity of some of the greatest tennis players in the world. I took many pictures of the walk over to Wimbledon, not just the stores, but the street signs, homes and people. We passed the queue in excitement to just get a glimpse of Centre Court and the cheers inside of the 1st round of Wimbledon. So, we got there, and in awe of the fact that I was within a mile of Johhny Mac, Federer, and Nadal I stood speechless. I heard the cheers of the fans, and wondered if I could be so lucky to get inside. This is when the amazing part of this excursion began.
We passed the queue a few minutes before seeing the stadium and spectators walking the grounds. Lisa had a good point, (thank God that she made it to us), we should queue up to get into Wimbledon and see if we can't get inside because the twilight pass was only 14 pounds ($28). So, we got into the line I was pass number 15,111 and as I stood in a quarter mile long line the queue attendants kept reassuring us all that we would be able to make it into Wimbledon. At that I was completely shocked 1: because I was going to get to see a major tennis tournament and not just any one, but Wimbledon, 2: because I only had 10 pounds on me. So in a fit of quick thinking Aaron and Brandon took off with our ATM cards and took out 20 pounds for us all in order to get into the stadium, (Wimbledon at the gates doesn't allow for those who use credit if you are "non-ticket" holder). I saw the sign, you are 300ft away from security and suddenly our friends arrived with 20 quid for us to see some of the most amazing tennis of our lives.
I got through security with them only having to check my laptop. It was quick and I only had two hours to spend there because I was meeting my cousin via the Tube for dinner. There we were, at the ticket counter. I could hardly believe it, (I still can't). I was at Wimbledon, I paid my 14 pounds to the nice ticket attendant who could hardly believe my excitement. As I walked into the grounds I saw the first sign that I was in a place that I would never be in again, the (ORDER OF PLAY) board. We walked over to it and found out that a few notables were playing on the side courts, which is what our passes had access to.
All five of us wandered around and found our player Marat Safin on court 11 while watching the other professionals hit tennis balls on the other side courts. I was in a Dream. I was really at Wimbledon, seeing the grass for the first time, watching the pros hit on it for their Wimbledon dreams to be a reality. I was much to fortunate to be in this position, and I only had an hour and a half in front of the greatness of this sport that I played.
So I said goodbye to my group and wished them the best at getting to Heathrow before the last train on the Tube. I walked to court #2 where David Ferrer was playing a match against an unknown German opponent. I stood in line waiting for the guard to let me into the standing only section. And with a wink and a laugh that I was a bloody Yank waiting in line at Wimbledon he let me through. I watched the match for over an hour, and was able to see all of the other matches being played on all of the side courts around me. It was amazing, and yet I was in shock. I talked tennis with some of the local Brits, especially to one woman who turned out to be a former #1 player for the University of West Virginia. I learned how grass was different from hard-court and saw with my own eyes as the players tried to gouge for offensive advantages with dropshots, volleys and serves. It was amazing, and nothing I write here can really explain the feelings that I had while watching it.
However, it was time to go, and after numerous pictures of Wimbledon and talking to some Aussies I walked out of the gate onto the street to catch the Tube to see my cousin for dinner. I ran, to the Tube in between all of those who had just headed out from the final Centre Court match of the evening. After successfully getting into Southfields station, I crammed myself into a small subway car and thought about what I had just experienced. It hadn't sunk in, and to be honest, while watching the matches afterwards, it still hasn't sunk in that I was at that facility days ago.
I got off at the Gruener Road stop that was to be Michael and my meeting point for our dinner. I saw him and we got back onto the Tube to get to a more "pub" friendly part of town. Dinner was great, I had my last pints in England with a relative in the heart of London at a pub. Great times, good food, and a good experience. I was really happy that I got to meet up with a relative who was experiencing some of the same things I was in England. After viewing where Michael worked and getting to the tube stop at St. James it was time for me to make one of my last journeys alone.
As I walked into St. Pancras Station the entire city of London it seemed to be caught up in one major event. Wimbledon, and the train station was no different. Aaron a friend of mine and I went over to a large television screen to watch Federer dismantle his first round sheep of a player. The Londoners love their tennis, and pretty much anything that goes with it. I was looking forward to a 25 hour stay in the Heathrow Airport waiting for a Virgin Atlantic flight over to O' Haire, when an idea dawned upon me. Why not grab the Tube and head over to see what Wimbledon is all about. After pitching this idea in the 45 minute coach ride to the airport I had about 4 followers and 1 uncertain girl who would like to make the Tube journey with me.
As we got to the airport the reality of the end of the trip set in. Our dean of students said "goodbye" and we said goodbye to each other because for some of us this was a departure to America from other flights. The goodbye's were heartfelt, and all of us promised to keep in contact with each other. After this emotional moment, it was difficult to get our minds set on a journey to Wimbledon. We found out that the stop we must find is Southfields and is in a perfect location in London for us to make it there by train. After purchasing our tickets we were run down by Lisa, the uncertain one, who said and I quote, "Screw this paper, I'm watching Wimbledon my dad would kill me if I had this opportunity and didn't take it." The ride to Wimbledon for me was unnerving, each stop getting closer to a tournament that I had watched as a young child. We were only there to take pictures of the gate and to say that we were at Wimbledon when the tournament was being played. Little did we know what to expect next.
As we got off of the Tube at our stop in Southfields I turned into the largest tourist that I could have possibly been. My other 5 travelers looked at me as my warn face opened up with a smile that could not contain that I was in the vicinity of some of the greatest tennis players in the world. I took many pictures of the walk over to Wimbledon, not just the stores, but the street signs, homes and people. We passed the queue in excitement to just get a glimpse of Centre Court and the cheers inside of the 1st round of Wimbledon. So, we got there, and in awe of the fact that I was within a mile of Johhny Mac, Federer, and Nadal I stood speechless. I heard the cheers of the fans, and wondered if I could be so lucky to get inside. This is when the amazing part of this excursion began.
We passed the queue a few minutes before seeing the stadium and spectators walking the grounds. Lisa had a good point, (thank God that she made it to us), we should queue up to get into Wimbledon and see if we can't get inside because the twilight pass was only 14 pounds ($28). So, we got into the line I was pass number 15,111 and as I stood in a quarter mile long line the queue attendants kept reassuring us all that we would be able to make it into Wimbledon. At that I was completely shocked 1: because I was going to get to see a major tennis tournament and not just any one, but Wimbledon, 2: because I only had 10 pounds on me. So in a fit of quick thinking Aaron and Brandon took off with our ATM cards and took out 20 pounds for us all in order to get into the stadium, (Wimbledon at the gates doesn't allow for those who use credit if you are "non-ticket" holder). I saw the sign, you are 300ft away from security and suddenly our friends arrived with 20 quid for us to see some of the most amazing tennis of our lives.
I got through security with them only having to check my laptop. It was quick and I only had two hours to spend there because I was meeting my cousin via the Tube for dinner. There we were, at the ticket counter. I could hardly believe it, (I still can't). I was at Wimbledon, I paid my 14 pounds to the nice ticket attendant who could hardly believe my excitement. As I walked into the grounds I saw the first sign that I was in a place that I would never be in again, the (ORDER OF PLAY) board. We walked over to it and found out that a few notables were playing on the side courts, which is what our passes had access to.
All five of us wandered around and found our player Marat Safin on court 11 while watching the other professionals hit tennis balls on the other side courts. I was in a Dream. I was really at Wimbledon, seeing the grass for the first time, watching the pros hit on it for their Wimbledon dreams to be a reality. I was much to fortunate to be in this position, and I only had an hour and a half in front of the greatness of this sport that I played.
So I said goodbye to my group and wished them the best at getting to Heathrow before the last train on the Tube. I walked to court #2 where David Ferrer was playing a match against an unknown German opponent. I stood in line waiting for the guard to let me into the standing only section. And with a wink and a laugh that I was a bloody Yank waiting in line at Wimbledon he let me through. I watched the match for over an hour, and was able to see all of the other matches being played on all of the side courts around me. It was amazing, and yet I was in shock. I talked tennis with some of the local Brits, especially to one woman who turned out to be a former #1 player for the University of West Virginia. I learned how grass was different from hard-court and saw with my own eyes as the players tried to gouge for offensive advantages with dropshots, volleys and serves. It was amazing, and nothing I write here can really explain the feelings that I had while watching it.
However, it was time to go, and after numerous pictures of Wimbledon and talking to some Aussies I walked out of the gate onto the street to catch the Tube to see my cousin for dinner. I ran, to the Tube in between all of those who had just headed out from the final Centre Court match of the evening. After successfully getting into Southfields station, I crammed myself into a small subway car and thought about what I had just experienced. It hadn't sunk in, and to be honest, while watching the matches afterwards, it still hasn't sunk in that I was at that facility days ago.
I got off at the Gruener Road stop that was to be Michael and my meeting point for our dinner. I saw him and we got back onto the Tube to get to a more "pub" friendly part of town. Dinner was great, I had my last pints in England with a relative in the heart of London at a pub. Great times, good food, and a good experience. I was really happy that I got to meet up with a relative who was experiencing some of the same things I was in England. After viewing where Michael worked and getting to the tube stop at St. James it was time for me to make one of my last journeys alone.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Paris with Bottles of Red (Part 4)
A late morning on Sunday. We ended up getting out into the city at about 11AM and took the metro to the Holy Seplacur Church on the other side of town. We stopped at a Quick Burger in order to grab some food and got lost looking for the Church. A local French woman pointed us in the right direction and we ended up walking 17 flights of stairs to get to the beautiful Church. We weren't let in because of our garb, but we got a great view of the city from the hill the Church was on. After a sit on the steps and listening to a violenist we took a shuttle down to the street and looked at souvenirs for a few minutes. Fran and Rachel wanted to see the Moulin Rouge and we all decided that the metro would be the best way to get there because we were so tired from walking everywhere the day before. Matt pretty much jumped the line in the metro and we made it to the Moulin Rouge after a long metro ride.
After taking Superman pictures and Rachel grabbing a crepe, we decided to sit for a while and take a break. We went into a souvenir shop and heard some American music and couldn't believe in a day's time that we'd be hearing American rock music in America. We got back on the metro and took some pictures of the odd cafe's that we saw. Once in the metro we headed to the Piccasso Museum. We got in to the Museum after forging our 2 day Paris Museum Cards to say we got them on Saturday. And though it was Piccasso we weren't impressed because his famous works weren't present in the museum.
All of us thought it would be best after viewing Piccasso to walk back to the hotel which was 3/4 of a mile away. We did so, I took pictures of street art, saw children playing soccer in the streets in preparation for the French side's match later this week. We got to the hotel took a break and got ready to head out for our last night in Paris with the Harlaxton group. We all decided to have one last French dinner with just the 4 of us.
After dinner and a 19 euro bottle of Bordeaux, we found some cheap wine in a market, chocolate, cheese, and bacquettes. It was cool, we saw everyone heading to the metro to party it up in front of the Eiffel tower and Matt, me, and Fran got into the metro and headed to the Eiffel Tower. We picked a spot right by one of the reflection pools and then decided that since it was our last night in continental Europe to buy some cigars to culminate our experience. We found a Tabac and got our cigars and smoked them in front of the Eiffel Tower. Everyone had a great time and that night we toasted ourselves and the things that we learned in Europe. It was an emotional night, Matt and I had become as close as brothers and since he was headed back to Nashville I realized that I may not see him ever again. Its cool though, the experience in Paris was coming to an end and we had made it the best 4 days we could.
Matt and I gathered the 30 drunken students and with the help of a Frenchman Constantine got eveyone safely in a cab to get back to our hotel. Constantine got us to a more affordable area of cab pick up and we headed back to our hotel and went to sleep. I was all packed up for our train journey to London. I said goodbye to the historical city of Paris, and thought my trip was over. However, Europe had one more amazing experience to show me. So goodbye Paris, thanks for the wine, friends, conversations, and amazing food, I hope to see you again with someone I'm in love with. A' due!
After taking Superman pictures and Rachel grabbing a crepe, we decided to sit for a while and take a break. We went into a souvenir shop and heard some American music and couldn't believe in a day's time that we'd be hearing American rock music in America. We got back on the metro and took some pictures of the odd cafe's that we saw. Once in the metro we headed to the Piccasso Museum. We got in to the Museum after forging our 2 day Paris Museum Cards to say we got them on Saturday. And though it was Piccasso we weren't impressed because his famous works weren't present in the museum.
All of us thought it would be best after viewing Piccasso to walk back to the hotel which was 3/4 of a mile away. We did so, I took pictures of street art, saw children playing soccer in the streets in preparation for the French side's match later this week. We got to the hotel took a break and got ready to head out for our last night in Paris with the Harlaxton group. We all decided to have one last French dinner with just the 4 of us.
After dinner and a 19 euro bottle of Bordeaux, we found some cheap wine in a market, chocolate, cheese, and bacquettes. It was cool, we saw everyone heading to the metro to party it up in front of the Eiffel tower and Matt, me, and Fran got into the metro and headed to the Eiffel Tower. We picked a spot right by one of the reflection pools and then decided that since it was our last night in continental Europe to buy some cigars to culminate our experience. We found a Tabac and got our cigars and smoked them in front of the Eiffel Tower. Everyone had a great time and that night we toasted ourselves and the things that we learned in Europe. It was an emotional night, Matt and I had become as close as brothers and since he was headed back to Nashville I realized that I may not see him ever again. Its cool though, the experience in Paris was coming to an end and we had made it the best 4 days we could.
Matt and I gathered the 30 drunken students and with the help of a Frenchman Constantine got eveyone safely in a cab to get back to our hotel. Constantine got us to a more affordable area of cab pick up and we headed back to our hotel and went to sleep. I was all packed up for our train journey to London. I said goodbye to the historical city of Paris, and thought my trip was over. However, Europe had one more amazing experience to show me. So goodbye Paris, thanks for the wine, friends, conversations, and amazing food, I hope to see you again with someone I'm in love with. A' due!
Paris with Bottles of Red (Part 3)
I awoke at 8:45 AM and tried to wake the crew up. That wasn't very successful, but hey, "I tried." Breakfast was delicious and we ended up getting our start on the day at about 10AM. We had a few things to do that day which included going back to the Lourve. On our second visit I went off on my own saw the archeological pieces in the museum as well as Napoleon's private collection. It was amazing, gold, the leaders of the Revolution's potraits and jewels. Some of the Babaylonian pieces I saw dated back to 3000 years and I can never call anything historical in the States old after seeing these artistic sculptures and writings. We ended up a bit tired at the Lourve and decided to have a cheap and knowledgable lunch. So McDonaldds we went. It was efficient and better than anything I'd eat in the States. After that to wake ourselves up we had some coffee at Starbucks right across the street and talked and shared stories for about 2 hours right outside of the Starbucks. It was fun.
Our next stop at about 2PM was the largest military history museum in the world. We had a long walk ahead of us. I love history especially military history and we saw countless knights and weaponry from long ago in the feudal period. I can't explain the ornateness these knights had for their armor back then, but I'll always remember it. Compared to the Tower of London what I saw in France was 100 times more effective. We then meandered to the WWI and WWII sections of the museum.. I wasn't impressed, though I saw a lot of European uniforms the French didn't give the US much credit for their liberation in both wars. However, its alright they didn't contribute much either. (sorry for the bantar).
We made our way to the monument next to the museum where Napoleon was buried, and I explained to Matt and Fran the French Revolution and Napoleon. Such a small man had such a large coffin. It was a bit much!! We eventually ran into some of our friends on the street to the Eiffel Tower and we decided at that moment that it would be the right time to go up and see Paris from its most famous landmark.
The elevator took us up to the top and I got a great deal of pictures and I really culminated my experience up there. It was a "Last Hurrah" for me, I'd seen what I'd really came to see in Paris at that moment, everything that we'd see from then was just Icing on the Cake! I signed my name on the Eiffel Tower in pen and it will be very fun saying that to all of my friends when I get back. After about an hour and a half, single and alone on the Eiffel Tower looking at the couples we decided to try and get to the Chanz de Leeze to see the Arch de Triumph and have dinner.
We ended up finding a Chinese restaurant that was family owned and ate some great Chinese food. It was tasty and we all enjoyed fine red that I picked out for the group. We ended up making it by metro to the Chanz de Leeze and walked towards the Arch de Triumph. It was crazy, seeing the French drive around it and realizing that Napoleon himself built it for his troops. It was getting late and we all wanted to experience the Eiffel Tower again that night. So we hopped on the metro and bough a few bottles of red from a vendor and enjoyed an hour and a half with our bottles. We toasted our friends back home and realized that we only had one more day in Paris. Our walk back was interesting because we drank our wine so fast, and lets just say it was patriotic as well. We found a cab and got back to our apartment for less than 10 euro. I stumbled to my room and fell asleep waiting for my last day in Paris.
Our next stop at about 2PM was the largest military history museum in the world. We had a long walk ahead of us. I love history especially military history and we saw countless knights and weaponry from long ago in the feudal period. I can't explain the ornateness these knights had for their armor back then, but I'll always remember it. Compared to the Tower of London what I saw in France was 100 times more effective. We then meandered to the WWI and WWII sections of the museum.. I wasn't impressed, though I saw a lot of European uniforms the French didn't give the US much credit for their liberation in both wars. However, its alright they didn't contribute much either. (sorry for the bantar).
We made our way to the monument next to the museum where Napoleon was buried, and I explained to Matt and Fran the French Revolution and Napoleon. Such a small man had such a large coffin. It was a bit much!! We eventually ran into some of our friends on the street to the Eiffel Tower and we decided at that moment that it would be the right time to go up and see Paris from its most famous landmark.
The elevator took us up to the top and I got a great deal of pictures and I really culminated my experience up there. It was a "Last Hurrah" for me, I'd seen what I'd really came to see in Paris at that moment, everything that we'd see from then was just Icing on the Cake! I signed my name on the Eiffel Tower in pen and it will be very fun saying that to all of my friends when I get back. After about an hour and a half, single and alone on the Eiffel Tower looking at the couples we decided to try and get to the Chanz de Leeze to see the Arch de Triumph and have dinner.
We ended up finding a Chinese restaurant that was family owned and ate some great Chinese food. It was tasty and we all enjoyed fine red that I picked out for the group. We ended up making it by metro to the Chanz de Leeze and walked towards the Arch de Triumph. It was crazy, seeing the French drive around it and realizing that Napoleon himself built it for his troops. It was getting late and we all wanted to experience the Eiffel Tower again that night. So we hopped on the metro and bough a few bottles of red from a vendor and enjoyed an hour and a half with our bottles. We toasted our friends back home and realized that we only had one more day in Paris. Our walk back was interesting because we drank our wine so fast, and lets just say it was patriotic as well. We found a cab and got back to our apartment for less than 10 euro. I stumbled to my room and fell asleep waiting for my last day in Paris.
Paris with Bottles of Red (Part 2)
8:00 AM my alarm clock went off, and I went into our bathroom in order to get ready for my day in Paris. This proved to be a test because we had a bath instead of a shower, and using the hand-held showering mechanism madet it hard to wash my hair. Oh well, I'm a traveler, and I got over it. I went down to the cafeteria and ate an amazing French breakfast. Hard-Boiled eggs, cheese, croissants, bacquets, and coffee. Matt, Fran, and Rachel didn't get down to breakfast until 10PM so I ended up just eating alone, looking at the French flag flying next to the EU flag. It was relaxing and fun eating alone in the cafeteria. I was getting pretty excited about the day.
Eventually, we picked up a few more people in our group and decided to make our way to Notre Dame Cathedral. I was so excited to be touring a French Catholic Church. The flying butresses, the gargoyles, and the huge wooden doors greeted us to the Cathedral. We walked into the Church and I couldn't believe the ornateness that I was able to see. Huge towering ceilings, decorated walls, and the gothic darkness that is a trademark of the era. I was engulfed. I saw a monstrance that was larger than me, and prayed in front of the chapel of St. Gregory. (I remember that my great grandfather was a knight of St. Gregory, so I thought of my family, friends, and grandparents at that time). It was a very spiritual experience, and being that I hadn't been in a Catholic Church in awhile its hard to explain how much I felt at home there.
I bought a 30 euro Paris Museum Pass and with that was entitled to climb the Towers on the Cathedral. Amazing views from that Cathedral of all of Paris. My Pictures really can't even describe it fully, you just have to be there in order to know what I saw. After what was about 3 hours we were done at Notre Dame and ready for lunch. Where did we go... Subway. So I ordered my Subway in the most broken French imaginable, and took my meal to the River Seim. Unfortunately, my Diet Coke spilled all over my sandwhich and I was forced to eat a soggy sandwich.... (not very appealing).
The group of us decided to check out the Notre Dame crypt Church and see what the old part of the Church looked like. It was cool, though I had nothing in English to explain the history... (I got pictures though). After that little Musee we made our way to St. Chappel, for what would be a line wait of about 2 1/2 hours. Security was tight there because the French Court is located there as well. Eventually, we made our way into the French Palace/Church and saw the basement which was cool, but not very impressive. I kept wondering why I waited so long to see this building. I got my answer after climbing 2 flights of stairs. It was something that left me speechless, towering windows full of stained glass, the rosepettle windows, and all the while each of the panes being masterfully hand-made. I sat down in disbelief and shock. I was entranced by the colors, this was truely a regal place, one of the few to escape the French Revolution. After a few pictures we decided to leave St. Chappel, and go to the Pantheon.
Amazing dome structure with art and revolutionist's graves in the crypt. I can't really explain the art and grandeur that was there. It was amazing and I was wondering if anything could top this building... in about 3 hours art would become something more amazing than what I could have thought of in comparison to what I saw at the Pantheon.
Yes, another Italian restaurant in France. Matt, Fran, and I got another bottle of red wine and I ate a great Quatre Formagge pizza. We had a great time, though the others were a bit "reserved" with their ordering. (I figure I'm only in Paris once or twice in my life, why not eat well and have fun). We had a decent time, and then we decided that it would be fun to go to The Lourve.
I saw the glass pyramids, the 7 blocks of complete art. Once again, speechless the world's most complete museum of art was at my finger tips and I wasn't even an artsy person when I first walked through those doors. That changed. I went into this huge musee which was art in itself and walked to the Mona Lisa. On my way I saw a picture of Francis receiving stigmata and being at a Franciscan school minoring in theology it left a lasting impression in my mind. I saw some great pictures from the masters... (you could spend a lifetime in there and totally see something new everyday). Eventually, I found the Mona Lisa, and it was beautiful. Though the mural behind it was even more impressive. Sculpture was our next priority and we looked at Greek and Roman sculpture. I was left speechless and I learned a lot about art that night.
It was about 9:30PM and the late night Lourve was closing its doors. Fran, Matt, Rachel, and myself weren't tired and we said, "We gotta go to the Eiffel Tower." So, we walked, about 3 miles to the tower and got there just in time to buy wine at a market along with some chocolate to see the 11PM light show on the tower. (Each hour the tower lights up in a light show). We went by one of the 4 legs of the tower and sat down next to the French graduates of the University and drank wine by the bottle. Toasting our Families and Friends...(a great souvenier that I have yet to put together for all of those who I poured a bit of wine out for). It was surreal sitting there next to Matt and Fran. We kept asking ourselves, "are we really here, is this Paris, is this a dream." Good conversations, and we ended up getting kicked out of the grassy field along with everyone else by about 1:30AM when the lights of the tower went out at 1AMl
It was a long walk back to the hotel. An hour and a half later we were there. All of us said our goodnights and pledged to be up by 9:00AM for our next day of adventure. I quietly walked into my room and took my bed and fell asleep quickly. Tomorrow was to be another spectactular day in Paris.
Eventually, we picked up a few more people in our group and decided to make our way to Notre Dame Cathedral. I was so excited to be touring a French Catholic Church. The flying butresses, the gargoyles, and the huge wooden doors greeted us to the Cathedral. We walked into the Church and I couldn't believe the ornateness that I was able to see. Huge towering ceilings, decorated walls, and the gothic darkness that is a trademark of the era. I was engulfed. I saw a monstrance that was larger than me, and prayed in front of the chapel of St. Gregory. (I remember that my great grandfather was a knight of St. Gregory, so I thought of my family, friends, and grandparents at that time). It was a very spiritual experience, and being that I hadn't been in a Catholic Church in awhile its hard to explain how much I felt at home there.
I bought a 30 euro Paris Museum Pass and with that was entitled to climb the Towers on the Cathedral. Amazing views from that Cathedral of all of Paris. My Pictures really can't even describe it fully, you just have to be there in order to know what I saw. After what was about 3 hours we were done at Notre Dame and ready for lunch. Where did we go... Subway. So I ordered my Subway in the most broken French imaginable, and took my meal to the River Seim. Unfortunately, my Diet Coke spilled all over my sandwhich and I was forced to eat a soggy sandwich.... (not very appealing).
The group of us decided to check out the Notre Dame crypt Church and see what the old part of the Church looked like. It was cool, though I had nothing in English to explain the history... (I got pictures though). After that little Musee we made our way to St. Chappel, for what would be a line wait of about 2 1/2 hours. Security was tight there because the French Court is located there as well. Eventually, we made our way into the French Palace/Church and saw the basement which was cool, but not very impressive. I kept wondering why I waited so long to see this building. I got my answer after climbing 2 flights of stairs. It was something that left me speechless, towering windows full of stained glass, the rosepettle windows, and all the while each of the panes being masterfully hand-made. I sat down in disbelief and shock. I was entranced by the colors, this was truely a regal place, one of the few to escape the French Revolution. After a few pictures we decided to leave St. Chappel, and go to the Pantheon.
Amazing dome structure with art and revolutionist's graves in the crypt. I can't really explain the art and grandeur that was there. It was amazing and I was wondering if anything could top this building... in about 3 hours art would become something more amazing than what I could have thought of in comparison to what I saw at the Pantheon.
Yes, another Italian restaurant in France. Matt, Fran, and I got another bottle of red wine and I ate a great Quatre Formagge pizza. We had a great time, though the others were a bit "reserved" with their ordering. (I figure I'm only in Paris once or twice in my life, why not eat well and have fun). We had a decent time, and then we decided that it would be fun to go to The Lourve.
I saw the glass pyramids, the 7 blocks of complete art. Once again, speechless the world's most complete museum of art was at my finger tips and I wasn't even an artsy person when I first walked through those doors. That changed. I went into this huge musee which was art in itself and walked to the Mona Lisa. On my way I saw a picture of Francis receiving stigmata and being at a Franciscan school minoring in theology it left a lasting impression in my mind. I saw some great pictures from the masters... (you could spend a lifetime in there and totally see something new everyday). Eventually, I found the Mona Lisa, and it was beautiful. Though the mural behind it was even more impressive. Sculpture was our next priority and we looked at Greek and Roman sculpture. I was left speechless and I learned a lot about art that night.
It was about 9:30PM and the late night Lourve was closing its doors. Fran, Matt, Rachel, and myself weren't tired and we said, "We gotta go to the Eiffel Tower." So, we walked, about 3 miles to the tower and got there just in time to buy wine at a market along with some chocolate to see the 11PM light show on the tower. (Each hour the tower lights up in a light show). We went by one of the 4 legs of the tower and sat down next to the French graduates of the University and drank wine by the bottle. Toasting our Families and Friends...(a great souvenier that I have yet to put together for all of those who I poured a bit of wine out for). It was surreal sitting there next to Matt and Fran. We kept asking ourselves, "are we really here, is this Paris, is this a dream." Good conversations, and we ended up getting kicked out of the grassy field along with everyone else by about 1:30AM when the lights of the tower went out at 1AMl
It was a long walk back to the hotel. An hour and a half later we were there. All of us said our goodnights and pledged to be up by 9:00AM for our next day of adventure. I quietly walked into my room and took my bed and fell asleep quickly. Tomorrow was to be another spectactular day in Paris.
Paris with Bottles of Red (Part 1)
St. Pancras Station. That's where the coach ended up taking us. A long 3 1/2 hour drive to London, where our Eurostar train would depart. We had packed lunches, made our way through customs, and played Euchre waiting for our train. All of us were exhausted on the train, I remember getting into the "Chunnel" (The tunnel under the English Channel), and remember freaking out about not knowing any French besides Hello, Goodbye and Thank You. We got into Paris at about 5PM their time, because France is only 1 hour ahead of the UK. After getting off of the train, I was emmersed in a language that I had never spoken, and it was all around me. Our couriers and professor in charge led us to the French Metro to get us to our hotel. We all successfully made it to our hotel, and found our small quarters where we would be staying for 4 amazing nights.
I made my way down to Matt's room and asked what he had in store for the evening's festivities and Matt, myself, and Fran decided getting our bearings was the most important part of the first night of Paris. We walked... basically that's the night. Saw the musee's, the National Palace, and some of the river Seine. Matt, Fran, Rachel (our person we picked up out of another group), and myself were starving at around 7PM. So we looked for a cafe' and found a Greek one that served amazing pizza. I picked out an amazing 10 euro bottle of Bordeaux and we ended up having a great meal, once again followed by great conversation. Fran's Parisian dream was to grab a bottle of red and drink it down by the River Seim. We almost lived up to that dream... we bought a few bottles of red, took it back to the hotel and watched French tv. in Matt's room. Matt translated Scream 3 which was helpful because I hadn't seen the movie before. We ended up taking a late night walk through Paris, and really just had a relaxing night compared to the next few. I fell asleep that night to the sound of snoring, and couldn't wait to begin my first whole day in Paris.
I made my way down to Matt's room and asked what he had in store for the evening's festivities and Matt, myself, and Fran decided getting our bearings was the most important part of the first night of Paris. We walked... basically that's the night. Saw the musee's, the National Palace, and some of the river Seine. Matt, Fran, Rachel (our person we picked up out of another group), and myself were starving at around 7PM. So we looked for a cafe' and found a Greek one that served amazing pizza. I picked out an amazing 10 euro bottle of Bordeaux and we ended up having a great meal, once again followed by great conversation. Fran's Parisian dream was to grab a bottle of red and drink it down by the River Seim. We almost lived up to that dream... we bought a few bottles of red, took it back to the hotel and watched French tv. in Matt's room. Matt translated Scream 3 which was helpful because I hadn't seen the movie before. We ended up taking a late night walk through Paris, and really just had a relaxing night compared to the next few. I fell asleep that night to the sound of snoring, and couldn't wait to begin my first whole day in Paris.
Last Nights in Harlaxton
After the amazing Scottish experience, I wasn't sure how to react to the fact that I had only one more full week in the UK. The biggest shock was that the people I had grown close to in 5 weeks I may never see again, "To you I say thank you, you will always be a part of me." Tuesday was my last day of class formally, and I ended up learning a great deal about leadership, and finding that I had the competence to be a leader as well. Tuesday night was really the last night with everyone at our school, we went to club Gravity for pound shot night, and then to the Royal Oak to finish our partying. It was a good time, saying goodbye to those who wouldn't be joining us in France, and saying goodbye to Grantham which had been so good to us.
My last day in Grantham was a mix of packing, writing the rest of my final paper, and saying goodbye to good friends. Wednesday night we had a final reception in the Grand Hall where our orientation began. With cocktails, wine, Chicken Co'DonBlue, and desserts we ate, and realized we may never see each other again. We took a group picture of ourselves out in the circle and many of us shed a few tears. I went into town one last time, spent some time in my first English pub, and said goodbye to the bar staff who knew how much I'd grown just in ordering a drink in England. (I was terrified to order one in England at first, and now I had grown accostomed to it). We made our way back to Harlaxton, and I spent my last night in the Manor. I checked my luggage earlier that day and realized I may never get to come back to see where I spent 5 weeks. There are many things I'll never forget, late night computer labs, talking to some great people, and a night when the room next to me created a fort!
I'm not sure what to say here, I'll miss Grantham and Harlaxton College, but as a professor expressed, "Harlaxton has a sense of place, we will all remember it in our own way and leave our mark on it as well." I feel like this will be the same experience for me, and I know I already have and will keep taking something special from its walls.
After my last breakfast, we hit our coach and waved goodbye all the while talking about living in such beautiful surroundings. But we had another experience yet to have, Paris.
My last day in Grantham was a mix of packing, writing the rest of my final paper, and saying goodbye to good friends. Wednesday night we had a final reception in the Grand Hall where our orientation began. With cocktails, wine, Chicken Co'DonBlue, and desserts we ate, and realized we may never see each other again. We took a group picture of ourselves out in the circle and many of us shed a few tears. I went into town one last time, spent some time in my first English pub, and said goodbye to the bar staff who knew how much I'd grown just in ordering a drink in England. (I was terrified to order one in England at first, and now I had grown accostomed to it). We made our way back to Harlaxton, and I spent my last night in the Manor. I checked my luggage earlier that day and realized I may never get to come back to see where I spent 5 weeks. There are many things I'll never forget, late night computer labs, talking to some great people, and a night when the room next to me created a fort!
I'm not sure what to say here, I'll miss Grantham and Harlaxton College, but as a professor expressed, "Harlaxton has a sense of place, we will all remember it in our own way and leave our mark on it as well." I feel like this will be the same experience for me, and I know I already have and will keep taking something special from its walls.
After my last breakfast, we hit our coach and waved goodbye all the while talking about living in such beautiful surroundings. But we had another experience yet to have, Paris.
Scotland is for Lovers (Part 3)
It was time to say goodbye to Edinburgh. There was so much that happened there that isn't in this blog, and to today when I'm writing this analysis of my travels to Scotland it is the best city that I have visted. We headed out on the bus at 10:00AM and with a slight headache I waved goodbye to a city that had been so good to me.
We were headed southbound on the motorway in our coach. We had two more stops on our excursion. Hadrian's Wall and Durham England. Hadrian's wall greeted us with sheep. Our coach on one of the roads got behind an entire flock of sheep, and it took a good 20 minutes to herd the sheep into the gates. It was hilarious, seeing sheep run in front of a huge tour bus. Eventually, we made it to Hadrian's Wall and saw the Roman structure that kept the barbarian "scots" out of the Empire. It was interesting, sheep everywhere grazing, and knats biting our American skin. I stood on the wall and tried to comprehend that it spanned the entire upper part of the country. After that Fran, Matt and myself taunted the sheep by the wall and had a great time imagining that we were sheep. (It sounds corny, well.. it was, but it was fun). Anyways, we got back into the bus and headed south towards Durham.
Once we got to Durham we were given 2 hours to spend touring the city. There was a definite University presence there and as we walked in, extremely hungry from our 4 hour drive we found a Subway and bought some footlong subs. Unfortunately, I made a tourist mistake and called the Crisps (chips) chips (crisps). (I hope you could follow me on that one). Another oddity on this meal was that they don't offer tomatoes with sandwiches which was very disheartening. After getting my sub, we as a group ate our lunch on the steps leading towards the university. We got done eating and still had an hour and a half to kill before our bus left.
The group of us decided that it would be cool to check out the Durham Cathedral which I believe in one of our living room coffee table books. We got to the door, and I realized that I hadn't been to Church in a while. I went into the Church shocked by the stained glass and the beauty of the Anglican Church and prayed for a long time. After I was done thanking God for many things I should thank Him for everyday, I walked around the Cathedral. I had a spiritual experience that stemmed from a girl's questioning mind of her mother.
In front of a stained glass window that had pictures of Christ's passion on it a little girl exclaimed in British English, "There's Jesus" and her mom said, "yea that's Jesus." The little girl then yelled, "Jesus is God" and her embarressed mother said, "yes that's right muffin." Finally, the girl yelled, "Jesus is everywhere" and her mom said, "you're right." Truely, these very innocent remarks are completely true, and it was amazing to hear the Word of God come from the lips of a child. Christ was right in asking us to pay attention to "These Little Ones." I don't think I will ever forget that moment as well, it was powerful, memorable, and true in my life.
My trip after that was winding down. We had seen a great deal of the UK that weekend, Scotland where I lived my two dreams, and seen architecture that was older than anything I could fathom. Scotland was for Lovers, I fell in love with the country, I kinda fell for an Aussie, I fell on the Golf Course, and I basically loved the entire experience. To those kind Royal Navy British Sailors, cheers, to the Scots who played Johhny Cougar Melankamp cheers, and to those who were so hospitable I promise to pay it forward. Cheers Mates!
We were headed southbound on the motorway in our coach. We had two more stops on our excursion. Hadrian's Wall and Durham England. Hadrian's wall greeted us with sheep. Our coach on one of the roads got behind an entire flock of sheep, and it took a good 20 minutes to herd the sheep into the gates. It was hilarious, seeing sheep run in front of a huge tour bus. Eventually, we made it to Hadrian's Wall and saw the Roman structure that kept the barbarian "scots" out of the Empire. It was interesting, sheep everywhere grazing, and knats biting our American skin. I stood on the wall and tried to comprehend that it spanned the entire upper part of the country. After that Fran, Matt and myself taunted the sheep by the wall and had a great time imagining that we were sheep. (It sounds corny, well.. it was, but it was fun). Anyways, we got back into the bus and headed south towards Durham.
Once we got to Durham we were given 2 hours to spend touring the city. There was a definite University presence there and as we walked in, extremely hungry from our 4 hour drive we found a Subway and bought some footlong subs. Unfortunately, I made a tourist mistake and called the Crisps (chips) chips (crisps). (I hope you could follow me on that one). Another oddity on this meal was that they don't offer tomatoes with sandwiches which was very disheartening. After getting my sub, we as a group ate our lunch on the steps leading towards the university. We got done eating and still had an hour and a half to kill before our bus left.
The group of us decided that it would be cool to check out the Durham Cathedral which I believe in one of our living room coffee table books. We got to the door, and I realized that I hadn't been to Church in a while. I went into the Church shocked by the stained glass and the beauty of the Anglican Church and prayed for a long time. After I was done thanking God for many things I should thank Him for everyday, I walked around the Cathedral. I had a spiritual experience that stemmed from a girl's questioning mind of her mother.
In front of a stained glass window that had pictures of Christ's passion on it a little girl exclaimed in British English, "There's Jesus" and her mom said, "yea that's Jesus." The little girl then yelled, "Jesus is God" and her embarressed mother said, "yes that's right muffin." Finally, the girl yelled, "Jesus is everywhere" and her mom said, "you're right." Truely, these very innocent remarks are completely true, and it was amazing to hear the Word of God come from the lips of a child. Christ was right in asking us to pay attention to "These Little Ones." I don't think I will ever forget that moment as well, it was powerful, memorable, and true in my life.
My trip after that was winding down. We had seen a great deal of the UK that weekend, Scotland where I lived my two dreams, and seen architecture that was older than anything I could fathom. Scotland was for Lovers, I fell in love with the country, I kinda fell for an Aussie, I fell on the Golf Course, and I basically loved the entire experience. To those kind Royal Navy British Sailors, cheers, to the Scots who played Johhny Cougar Melankamp cheers, and to those who were so hospitable I promise to pay it forward. Cheers Mates!
Scotland is for Lovers (Part 2)
After my amazing nap in the hotel room with my golf spikes still on my feet, I wake up at about 3PM, more hungry than ever. I decided at this point to venture out alone in Edinburgh and find myself a light lunch. Eventually, after meandering through the Royal Mile I found a little cafe and ordered a pint of Carling and some tomato basil soup with bread. I people-watched for about an hour and took in what had just gone on. Golf in Scotland, what do I do next. Well, I decided to walk into a now raining city and go up to Edinburgh castle to take in the views. As I make it there I find enterance for a half-hour is twelve quid. Basically, I take a few pictures and make my way back to the hotel. Carrolers are singing near a monument, I thought to myself I am truely here. God bless this city, and the people in it. Sitting here right now as I write this, I'm speechless for this moment in the day when I'm in Edinburgh, at that time I've finally crossed some barriers in my life, gained confidence in myself, and learned that sometimes the best moments are silent walks in big cities by yourself. That was a special hour for me in my life, and I needed to have one of those moments with a sense of place.
As I make it back to the hotel, Fran and Matt were in the mood to have dinner with me again. We made it to the Royal Mile and had dinner at the Raddisson. Yes, I picked a bottle of red and had a quesadilla that looked more like a pepperoni pizza. Good conversations again and I feel that at that moment a bond occured at dinner. We were good friends, talking about home and everything under the sun. We had to get out of the cafe though, we were due to go to the Bank Bar to start a pub crawl with all of our mates. As I walk into the pub and talk about my round of golf with those who knew I was playing that day, I came across a pretty girl named Kylie. I went over, talked with her a bit and found out that she was a solo-traveling Aussie (Auzzie), please do not make the mistake of using the "s" sound. I had made a new friend, her and I talked all night throughout the pubs about life, culture, wine, and everything under the sun. I find at this moment in my journey that its not about where you are that gives you that feeling that you belong, its who you meet and what your conversations are.
After making it to all 5 pubs with discounted drinks Kylie is ready to get back to her hostel and I'm ready for bed. I gentlemenly walk Kylie home, and goodbyes were said. Its hard to explain the bond I had with Kylie, the sad thing is that I know I'll never get to see her again and talk with her, though when she said goodbye she exclaimed, "goodbye Indiana" with a peck on the cheek. I walked back contemplating why we run into people who are only in our lives for one night, and make my way to bed. This was my last night in Edinburgh and I had totally been encompassed in the culture and understanding more about myself. Being that Edinburgh was the Vienna of the north in Rennasiance times, enlightenment was my experience as well. I went to bed that night tired, but grateful for the experience I had that day. To this day it will be one of the most memorable days of my life! Cheers Lads
As I make it back to the hotel, Fran and Matt were in the mood to have dinner with me again. We made it to the Royal Mile and had dinner at the Raddisson. Yes, I picked a bottle of red and had a quesadilla that looked more like a pepperoni pizza. Good conversations again and I feel that at that moment a bond occured at dinner. We were good friends, talking about home and everything under the sun. We had to get out of the cafe though, we were due to go to the Bank Bar to start a pub crawl with all of our mates. As I walk into the pub and talk about my round of golf with those who knew I was playing that day, I came across a pretty girl named Kylie. I went over, talked with her a bit and found out that she was a solo-traveling Aussie (Auzzie), please do not make the mistake of using the "s" sound. I had made a new friend, her and I talked all night throughout the pubs about life, culture, wine, and everything under the sun. I find at this moment in my journey that its not about where you are that gives you that feeling that you belong, its who you meet and what your conversations are.
After making it to all 5 pubs with discounted drinks Kylie is ready to get back to her hostel and I'm ready for bed. I gentlemenly walk Kylie home, and goodbyes were said. Its hard to explain the bond I had with Kylie, the sad thing is that I know I'll never get to see her again and talk with her, though when she said goodbye she exclaimed, "goodbye Indiana" with a peck on the cheek. I walked back contemplating why we run into people who are only in our lives for one night, and make my way to bed. This was my last night in Edinburgh and I had totally been encompassed in the culture and understanding more about myself. Being that Edinburgh was the Vienna of the north in Rennasiance times, enlightenment was my experience as well. I went to bed that night tired, but grateful for the experience I had that day. To this day it will be one of the most memorable days of my life! Cheers Lads
Scotland is for Lovers (Part 2 "A morning of golf")
Not because of the fun I had did I not catch a wink of sleep, no way it was not that. I was to play golf in the morning at Lothianburn Golf Club on the outskirts of Edinburgh with a classmated named Jess. I had asked reception the day before what the course was like and this is what he told me "Ay Lad, I hope you packed your hiking boots." Anyways, I wake up in the morning around 6:30, put on my golf shoes, grab my tees and golf balls and walk down to the lobby to get some much needed breakfast before my round. The guy at the desk told me, "Well nothing opens in Edinburgh until 8:00AM, so you're best bet for breakfast is McDonalds." Haha I thought, starting a round out the same way I would in Fort Wayne. After a very good cup of white americano java and a sausage egg mcmuffin I was ready to play golf. I knocked on Jess's door and we ended up in a black cab on our way to the course.
I really don't know how to describe the next four hours. Amazing... doesn't even begin to describe it. We wait for the head pro to get to the course in order to get our rental clubs and end up talking to about every Scottish member of the club, each of them asking us... (are you sure you want to play this course). They were right for the most part about the warning, the course was impeccably different than what I am used to in the states. I got my clubs, A Slazenger driver, John Daly Dunlop irons, and a putter that made a ping sound... (I don't remember the name of it, only that when I putted It sounded like the oven was done cooking something)
Jess and I get to the first tee, (bounce tees as they call it) basically you have medal tees where the big boys play, and (bounce tees where your everyday golfer tees it up). Two Scottsmen offered to play with us and show us the course, and let me tell you if it wasn't for those two gentlemen John and Allen we would still be out on that course trying to get off it. I really can't describe what the course was like, built into the mountains, hills, pot bunkers, heavy rough, heather, gourse, and all the works were in it. I could see the entire city of Edinburgh from a few of the holes and the views were breathtaking. I kept wondering how my dad was playing back in the states, and kept telling everyone that I'm going to come back to Scotland one day to play with Dave. It was unreal, on the first nine I was just getting my swing back and went 10+, but on the back I tore it up. Driving two greens under reg. and making pars on 5 holes. 16 was a test of my skills. A 290 yard entirely downhill fairway I was told to pull out a seven iron. I get caught up in the rough about 140 yards from an entirely down hill green. I look at Allen and say, "what do I do here, I'm literally looking straight down on the green and I'm not sure what to do." In true Scottish fashion he says, "Putt it" and heeding his advice I put 140 yards completely downhill and the ball falls on the back left fringe of the green.... (this is the difference really in Scottish golf). I ended up at 5+ on the back and shoot an 86. Pretty good I thought with not having my own clubs and playing on an impossible and unfamiliar course. To all the golfers reading this (grandma, grandpa, dad, uncles aunts, this was the most amazing experience in Scotland and I hope to be able to share with you what it is like to play a truely amazing hillland links style course). ((Dad PS.. we are heading over there in 10 years at the max, so start saving up for the most amazing golf trip you are ever going to have, plus its fine to put out of the fairways there *cough*)
I witnessed generosity as Jess and I said our goodbyes to John and Allen. A Scotsman from the club offered to spare us cab fare expenses and drive us back into the city. When you keep in mind that gas in the UK is about $10 a gallon, this was an amazing act of generosity and friendship. We thanked him again and again, all he said was, "Just tell your friends in the US that you met one decent Scotsman in Scotland." To you sir I raise my glass of coffee and will pay it forward whenever that opportunity arrises though I don't think I run into many tourists in Fort Fun.
I was exhausted after my round of golf, quite possibly the most extraneous and tiring rounds ever. I took a two hour nap to recover and as I wake up I wonder what to do next. My #1 dream done, what do you do with yourself after that??? I was soon to find that Scotland is for lovers. And yes, I do love this country!
I really don't know how to describe the next four hours. Amazing... doesn't even begin to describe it. We wait for the head pro to get to the course in order to get our rental clubs and end up talking to about every Scottish member of the club, each of them asking us... (are you sure you want to play this course). They were right for the most part about the warning, the course was impeccably different than what I am used to in the states. I got my clubs, A Slazenger driver, John Daly Dunlop irons, and a putter that made a ping sound... (I don't remember the name of it, only that when I putted It sounded like the oven was done cooking something)
Jess and I get to the first tee, (bounce tees as they call it) basically you have medal tees where the big boys play, and (bounce tees where your everyday golfer tees it up). Two Scottsmen offered to play with us and show us the course, and let me tell you if it wasn't for those two gentlemen John and Allen we would still be out on that course trying to get off it. I really can't describe what the course was like, built into the mountains, hills, pot bunkers, heavy rough, heather, gourse, and all the works were in it. I could see the entire city of Edinburgh from a few of the holes and the views were breathtaking. I kept wondering how my dad was playing back in the states, and kept telling everyone that I'm going to come back to Scotland one day to play with Dave. It was unreal, on the first nine I was just getting my swing back and went 10+, but on the back I tore it up. Driving two greens under reg. and making pars on 5 holes. 16 was a test of my skills. A 290 yard entirely downhill fairway I was told to pull out a seven iron. I get caught up in the rough about 140 yards from an entirely down hill green. I look at Allen and say, "what do I do here, I'm literally looking straight down on the green and I'm not sure what to do." In true Scottish fashion he says, "Putt it" and heeding his advice I put 140 yards completely downhill and the ball falls on the back left fringe of the green.... (this is the difference really in Scottish golf). I ended up at 5+ on the back and shoot an 86. Pretty good I thought with not having my own clubs and playing on an impossible and unfamiliar course. To all the golfers reading this (grandma, grandpa, dad, uncles aunts, this was the most amazing experience in Scotland and I hope to be able to share with you what it is like to play a truely amazing hillland links style course). ((Dad PS.. we are heading over there in 10 years at the max, so start saving up for the most amazing golf trip you are ever going to have, plus its fine to put out of the fairways there *cough*)
I witnessed generosity as Jess and I said our goodbyes to John and Allen. A Scotsman from the club offered to spare us cab fare expenses and drive us back into the city. When you keep in mind that gas in the UK is about $10 a gallon, this was an amazing act of generosity and friendship. We thanked him again and again, all he said was, "Just tell your friends in the US that you met one decent Scotsman in Scotland." To you sir I raise my glass of coffee and will pay it forward whenever that opportunity arrises though I don't think I run into many tourists in Fort Fun.
I was exhausted after my round of golf, quite possibly the most extraneous and tiring rounds ever. I took a two hour nap to recover and as I wake up I wonder what to do next. My #1 dream done, what do you do with yourself after that??? I was soon to find that Scotland is for lovers. And yes, I do love this country!
Scotland is for Lovers (Part 1)
What can I say, Its a Friday morning and I'm headed off to from what I hear is one of the most unique and beautiful parts of the UK. Scotland, oh how I had dreamed of it in my younger days talking to members who had been there from PV. I had a mission though, to play one round of golf and to have a really nice Scotch whiskey. Anyways, this is all going through my mind as our coach leaves from Harlaxton at about 7:45AM. I'm in this coach, looking at the English countryside for a total of three hours when the vehicle suddenly stops moving. I'm not sure what to think, when you've dreamed about a place for so long, it is really hard to realize that you are actually living a dream. I get out of the coach to see this small little wall that separates the border of England from Scotland, and almost with tears in my eyes take my first breath outside. It's hard to explain what it is like when you are looking at the blue flag with the white X. All I know is that a huge smile came over my face, and I kept saying to those around me, "We're in freaking Scotland!!!" for at least an hour and a half.
The rest of the landscape had changed dramatically. When in England we are passing hills and villages that are a bit steeper than the East Middlands where Harlaxton College is, but as we hit Scotland everything was different. We started seeing extreme rock formations, more sheep, more creeks and brooks, and more natural scenery. This was where God intended the birthplace of Scotch and Golf to occur. The differences though subtle to the naked American gaze, were completely evident in the landscaping. We drove for 2 more hours from bays, ocean, and mountains on the left and right of our coach, and valleys, livestock, and golf courses to the right. I was in my dream, and unable to understand why I was so fortunate to be experiencing just the scenery of this untaimed and different UK country.
Eventually, we pull into our stop in Scotland. Edinburgh (Ed-in-bur-ough), what can you say about a city that was built around a bay, mountain, volcano, and hills. It was magnificent gorgeous, old-school, and I was in awe while waiting to get to the Royal British Hotel. Once we got to the hotel I threw my bags into the room where Matt Thompson, Stedman Carmony, and myself would retire on our nights. My normal tour group was not with me this trip, they were in Rome. So politely I decided to tag along with my roomate Matt and a girl Fran. Little did I know that these two people would become great friends and instrumental in the next two weeks.
We walked out of our hotel which was on Prince's Street and began our look at Edinburgh. It was 55 degrees outside with sun dripping over the hills and mountains. We're walking through the city and see a building that at the time we thought was Edinburgh Castle (the thing to see in the city). It ends up after climbing up 10 stories of steps that we had not located the correct castle. So in our tired rage we made our way back to the city. See, the thing about Edinburgh is that the city is extremely hilly and full of elevation. Roads may look like the lead somewhere, but at one point or another you may realize that you are 100 ft. below your landmark. In a frantic look for the castle and the "Scotch Whiskey Distillery" we ended up taking the wrong road, "Not the Royal Mile" and looking up at the castle via its cliffs. It was intimidating, our tour was to start no later than 5:15 and we were looking up at the castle at 4:00... Thus our dillema.
Anyways, we end up walking around the castle and finding a parking garage with steps that said, "Castle Parking." In an Amazing Race sort of run, we end up on the Royal Mile right next to the Scotch Distillery Heritage Museum. The tour was amazing, 7 quid for enterance, a sample glass of scotch, and an hour long tour. We had a blast, and afterwards went to the scotch bar and I ordered a 21 year old Glenlivet. (Yes mom, I did drink a scotch that was older than me). It was amazing, tasty, and with over 500 different varieties of Scotch to choose from with my order I had definitely picked the best one for me. (I'm thinking that I may be teaching Dad about the ins-and outs of Scotch tasting when I get back).
After browsing the scotches for a half an hour Matt and I found this little Medievil warriors shop, where you could buy Roman Helmets, and swords.... That was a good idea, after a glass and a half of Scotch us deciding to get pictures of us in warrior stances and helmets. We're really just lucky to be alive, but it was amazing and a blast. Fran couldn't help from laughing at us and as she put it, "we were like kids in a toy shop."
Hunger was beginning to get the best of us at about 8PM, and we were thrown off by the light up in Scotland in the summer. The sun didn't set all weekend until 11:30 PM, so we hurried our way to the hotel and then went in search of food. We ended up finding a nice pub/restaurant and ordered some haggis and chicken. Fran and Matt were convinced that a bottle of red wine was in-order for us. So, I got to pick out the wine, which became a common theme for the rest of the trip. (Fran if you're reading this, I hope you are a vino now) Dinner was delicious, and the conversations even more palletable.
At about 10PM we ended up making our way back to the hotel to meet up with the group of Harlaxton students in the hotel. We made our way out to experience the Edinburgh night life, ending up at this pub called "The Establishment." I got Johhny Cougar to get played by the pub band and we ended up buying rounds of pints while enjoying the music. It was going well, 12AM and the pub was closing. We had met some 4 gentlemen who are in the Royal British Navy. The Welshman and 3 Englishmen were the most pro-US Brits I had ever met. They bought round after round and we all had ourselves some great times. After the pub, we went to this club that was a rennovated old Catholic Church called "Faith." Weird that a Satanist was in there trying to convert all of us to be dumb and worship Lucifer. So behind his back I gave him a little blessing and prayed for his conversion... (shh, he doesn't know that). We had a good time, I talked to a Canadian or as I now affectionately refer to them as (Kanucks), and an Indian guy. It was fun, until at about 3AM when I realized that I had a tee time at 8:00AM in the morning. Basically, I rushed back to the hotel, went to sleep and prayed to dear God that I would be ready to play in the morning. (I had a little too much fun in Scotland). The Scots are just a race of people who make you want to have more fun than you are supposed to. That was basically the lesson of the day. Oh well, golf tommorow I thought, time to live the dream.
The rest of the landscape had changed dramatically. When in England we are passing hills and villages that are a bit steeper than the East Middlands where Harlaxton College is, but as we hit Scotland everything was different. We started seeing extreme rock formations, more sheep, more creeks and brooks, and more natural scenery. This was where God intended the birthplace of Scotch and Golf to occur. The differences though subtle to the naked American gaze, were completely evident in the landscaping. We drove for 2 more hours from bays, ocean, and mountains on the left and right of our coach, and valleys, livestock, and golf courses to the right. I was in my dream, and unable to understand why I was so fortunate to be experiencing just the scenery of this untaimed and different UK country.
Eventually, we pull into our stop in Scotland. Edinburgh (Ed-in-bur-ough), what can you say about a city that was built around a bay, mountain, volcano, and hills. It was magnificent gorgeous, old-school, and I was in awe while waiting to get to the Royal British Hotel. Once we got to the hotel I threw my bags into the room where Matt Thompson, Stedman Carmony, and myself would retire on our nights. My normal tour group was not with me this trip, they were in Rome. So politely I decided to tag along with my roomate Matt and a girl Fran. Little did I know that these two people would become great friends and instrumental in the next two weeks.
We walked out of our hotel which was on Prince's Street and began our look at Edinburgh. It was 55 degrees outside with sun dripping over the hills and mountains. We're walking through the city and see a building that at the time we thought was Edinburgh Castle (the thing to see in the city). It ends up after climbing up 10 stories of steps that we had not located the correct castle. So in our tired rage we made our way back to the city. See, the thing about Edinburgh is that the city is extremely hilly and full of elevation. Roads may look like the lead somewhere, but at one point or another you may realize that you are 100 ft. below your landmark. In a frantic look for the castle and the "Scotch Whiskey Distillery" we ended up taking the wrong road, "Not the Royal Mile" and looking up at the castle via its cliffs. It was intimidating, our tour was to start no later than 5:15 and we were looking up at the castle at 4:00... Thus our dillema.
Anyways, we end up walking around the castle and finding a parking garage with steps that said, "Castle Parking." In an Amazing Race sort of run, we end up on the Royal Mile right next to the Scotch Distillery Heritage Museum. The tour was amazing, 7 quid for enterance, a sample glass of scotch, and an hour long tour. We had a blast, and afterwards went to the scotch bar and I ordered a 21 year old Glenlivet. (Yes mom, I did drink a scotch that was older than me). It was amazing, tasty, and with over 500 different varieties of Scotch to choose from with my order I had definitely picked the best one for me. (I'm thinking that I may be teaching Dad about the ins-and outs of Scotch tasting when I get back).
After browsing the scotches for a half an hour Matt and I found this little Medievil warriors shop, where you could buy Roman Helmets, and swords.... That was a good idea, after a glass and a half of Scotch us deciding to get pictures of us in warrior stances and helmets. We're really just lucky to be alive, but it was amazing and a blast. Fran couldn't help from laughing at us and as she put it, "we were like kids in a toy shop."
Hunger was beginning to get the best of us at about 8PM, and we were thrown off by the light up in Scotland in the summer. The sun didn't set all weekend until 11:30 PM, so we hurried our way to the hotel and then went in search of food. We ended up finding a nice pub/restaurant and ordered some haggis and chicken. Fran and Matt were convinced that a bottle of red wine was in-order for us. So, I got to pick out the wine, which became a common theme for the rest of the trip. (Fran if you're reading this, I hope you are a vino now) Dinner was delicious, and the conversations even more palletable.
At about 10PM we ended up making our way back to the hotel to meet up with the group of Harlaxton students in the hotel. We made our way out to experience the Edinburgh night life, ending up at this pub called "The Establishment." I got Johhny Cougar to get played by the pub band and we ended up buying rounds of pints while enjoying the music. It was going well, 12AM and the pub was closing. We had met some 4 gentlemen who are in the Royal British Navy. The Welshman and 3 Englishmen were the most pro-US Brits I had ever met. They bought round after round and we all had ourselves some great times. After the pub, we went to this club that was a rennovated old Catholic Church called "Faith." Weird that a Satanist was in there trying to convert all of us to be dumb and worship Lucifer. So behind his back I gave him a little blessing and prayed for his conversion... (shh, he doesn't know that). We had a good time, I talked to a Canadian or as I now affectionately refer to them as (Kanucks), and an Indian guy. It was fun, until at about 3AM when I realized that I had a tee time at 8:00AM in the morning. Basically, I rushed back to the hotel, went to sleep and prayed to dear God that I would be ready to play in the morning. (I had a little too much fun in Scotland). The Scots are just a race of people who make you want to have more fun than you are supposed to. That was basically the lesson of the day. Oh well, golf tommorow I thought, time to live the dream.
Dead Week In Grantham
After my adventure to Ireland I decided to take a planned scheduled week off of the travel scene. I had always been interested in other cultures, but Grantham on the other hand was a small town that I hadn't really been able to explore since my plane landed in Heathrow. This post will really just be a brief sketch of what my week was like in Grantham. Tuesday was an amazing sunny day in town. We went in town on the 1:10PM shuttle and I had to grab some money from the cashpoint (ATM). After doing so, I decided to catch myself up on some of my reading for my class at Costa... "the British" version of starbucks. It was good, tasty, and fun to be in a social place that Brits of all ages frequent on a regular basis. Later that night after finishing my second paper for my class, I made my way down into the Bistro. I found myself after a pint or to heading up to the stage to sing karayoke. It was a good night, Bohemian Rhapsody, Eagles, and a bunch of other songs I helped contribute to made for an interesting night.
Wednesday was a planned field trip day by my professor affectionately called P. Scherm. We made our way 20 minutes north to check out a Castle called Beaver Castle where an Earl and his Duchess still live with their two children. We checked out the castle on a tour, and had a brilliant time. It was a relaxing end to a fun filled day when my professor and I decided to take a trip over to the pub and have ourselves a pint as the cab dropped us off in Grantham.
Thursday, all of my friends and I were getting sick of eating refectory food for an entire week and seeing everyone leaving for various destinations, Rome, Barcelona, Munich, etc. So we treated ourselves to a relaxing and fun night on Grantham's town. We started at the Goose and had a few pints. After that we went to an Italian restaurant called "Ask" and ordered a bottle of wine and some Italian food. It was delicious. We then went to a few other establishments and got a cab back to the manor in order to watch my favorite movie Caddyshack. It was good times, and a relaxing and inexpensive night.
Saturday, I took a long walk bymyself around the manor. It was beautiful looking at the clouds and the fields. I had a very spiritual and open minded day. I couldn't believe how amazingly lucky I was to have this exprerience in living in such a pretty country.
Well, if this doesn't give a good picture of dead week, I apologize. All I know was that two weeks of traveling and class leaves one tired. So many time zones and so little rest would have made me weary without this much needed break from being on the go. I finally learned how to relax that week, and I am ever grateful that I took some time for myself. I did come to the realization that my trip was about to end... for I was heading to Edinburgh and Paris and then back home to complete my summer. However, this feeling wasn't settling in my mind yet, because as far as I had seen it my trip was half way over and the other half was going to be glorious.
Wednesday was a planned field trip day by my professor affectionately called P. Scherm. We made our way 20 minutes north to check out a Castle called Beaver Castle where an Earl and his Duchess still live with their two children. We checked out the castle on a tour, and had a brilliant time. It was a relaxing end to a fun filled day when my professor and I decided to take a trip over to the pub and have ourselves a pint as the cab dropped us off in Grantham.
Thursday, all of my friends and I were getting sick of eating refectory food for an entire week and seeing everyone leaving for various destinations, Rome, Barcelona, Munich, etc. So we treated ourselves to a relaxing and fun night on Grantham's town. We started at the Goose and had a few pints. After that we went to an Italian restaurant called "Ask" and ordered a bottle of wine and some Italian food. It was delicious. We then went to a few other establishments and got a cab back to the manor in order to watch my favorite movie Caddyshack. It was good times, and a relaxing and inexpensive night.
Saturday, I took a long walk bymyself around the manor. It was beautiful looking at the clouds and the fields. I had a very spiritual and open minded day. I couldn't believe how amazingly lucky I was to have this exprerience in living in such a pretty country.
Well, if this doesn't give a good picture of dead week, I apologize. All I know was that two weeks of traveling and class leaves one tired. So many time zones and so little rest would have made me weary without this much needed break from being on the go. I finally learned how to relax that week, and I am ever grateful that I took some time for myself. I did come to the realization that my trip was about to end... for I was heading to Edinburgh and Paris and then back home to complete my summer. However, this feeling wasn't settling in my mind yet, because as far as I had seen it my trip was half way over and the other half was going to be glorious.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
I may be only 25% Irish but its the best Ethnicity In me Part 4
I ended up having breakfast on the side of a road in Kilkenny with Beth and drank some weird orange drink.. Oh how I miss the breakfast brunches w/ Mom Dad and Katelyn.. Oh well, I'm in another country and I made due. We got onto the bus at about 10:30 and headed to the top tourist destination in Southern Ireland... Blarney Castle. I was really excited about this aspect of the trip. We ended up making it to Blarney at about 12PM noontime. I ran to the castle, walked up the terrifyingly narrow MacCarthy staircases to what seemed to be a 500 foot tall building. I stood in line and waited my turn and then dangled myself over the side of the castle to kiss the Blarney stone to get the gift of gab. The Aussies behind me were excited about the stone as well as my coalition of international mates who were right there with me to kiss the stone and laugh as well. I ended up getting a picture of myself kissing the stone and I hope to say that I have the gift of Blarney now. We ended up getting into the bus and heading to County Cork where Henry Ford was originally from. It was a beautiful city and the history behind it was magnificent. Our final and last stop was in the same county "El Capitan" was from called "The Rock." Unfortunately, due to rain no one really wanted to climb up to see the castle that had a huge entry fee. So I got on a wi-fi station, wrote home and talked to a few friends. It was pretty farmland, and I can't explain how much fun sitting in a bus seeing this country really was. I recommend it to anyone.
Eventually, around 5PM we made it back to Dublin. Our original plan was to sleep in the airport until our 2Pence flight got off at 8AM in the morning. Ironically, my South African mates had a similiar situation, but were going to stay in a hostel. We ended up going out and having some lamb shanks in a pub right off of the Temple Bar district, and polished off our dinner with some Guiness. Two of our international coalition had to run to catch a late plane into London and left me, Dinah, Beth, and Rory (South African) to ourselves in the city. Well, we were going to stay out as late as possible and not get to the airport until we had to. We ended up going to O'Sullivan's pub and listened to Irish folk music. The night got a little interesting after we made a beverage purchase at a STA convenience store at around 9. Lets just say that's a story I may not be telling mom, but will definitely be telling dad. Anyways, at around 3 AM we made our way into a cab and got to the Dublin airport for some relaxing sleep in a Starbucks booth. My trip to Ireland had ended the right way, tired, a bit tipsy, and extremely awestruck by the beauty of the country. I enjoyed every minute of it, made some awesome new friends, and saw really my homeland. I can't wait to share some more stories with all of you about the week after Ireland that I'm calling "Rest Week" and about my venture to Scotland tomorrow where I'll be completing one of the dreams that I've always had!!!
God Bless, Happy Dayz and Good Craic to all of you back in the States who are interested on Where in the World I am!!!
Eventually, around 5PM we made it back to Dublin. Our original plan was to sleep in the airport until our 2Pence flight got off at 8AM in the morning. Ironically, my South African mates had a similiar situation, but were going to stay in a hostel. We ended up going out and having some lamb shanks in a pub right off of the Temple Bar district, and polished off our dinner with some Guiness. Two of our international coalition had to run to catch a late plane into London and left me, Dinah, Beth, and Rory (South African) to ourselves in the city. Well, we were going to stay out as late as possible and not get to the airport until we had to. We ended up going to O'Sullivan's pub and listened to Irish folk music. The night got a little interesting after we made a beverage purchase at a STA convenience store at around 9. Lets just say that's a story I may not be telling mom, but will definitely be telling dad. Anyways, at around 3 AM we made our way into a cab and got to the Dublin airport for some relaxing sleep in a Starbucks booth. My trip to Ireland had ended the right way, tired, a bit tipsy, and extremely awestruck by the beauty of the country. I enjoyed every minute of it, made some awesome new friends, and saw really my homeland. I can't wait to share some more stories with all of you about the week after Ireland that I'm calling "Rest Week" and about my venture to Scotland tomorrow where I'll be completing one of the dreams that I've always had!!!
God Bless, Happy Dayz and Good Craic to all of you back in the States who are interested on Where in the World I am!!!
I may only be 25% Irish but its the best ethnicity in me Part 3
So, we wake up about 8:00 AM for another day of fun in Ireland. We get to breakfast which was hearty and Irish and I end up sharing my meal with a girl named Vanessa who is a "Kiwi" or as someone in the US would recognize her as a New Zealander. It was fun, I met a few of her friends who would come to be my own in a days time from South Africa, and we ended up enjoying our meal while the girls where back getting ready for the day. (You realize the maintenance American women have in comparison to the rest of the world when you meet other English speakers). We get into the bus and "EL CAPITAN" lets us know that this is one of the most exciting days that we will have during our tour. Boy, he sure turned out to be 100% right.
We end up driving past Galway into the country known as Carrantoohill. The highest mountain range in Ireland. I make a wish at the oldest wishing well in the country.... (I'm not telling you what it was). And then through some of the most scenic and beautiful countryside I've ever seen. Water, rocks, green grass all were stunning to me an Indiana boy w/ Irish ties. I took a great deal of pictures at some small cliffs that dove directly into the ocean, and sat there contemplating where I was in my life, who I was and who I missed back home, and excuse my French, "how the hell I could describe such a place to anyone." I was thinking, yes this is the most breathtaking view in Ireland, and was lucky to be sitting on the side of cliff looking out at the mist and crashing waves coming into the shore... but Ireland is an amazing place.
We stopped into another small town for lunch. It was too expensive so I ended up with a can of Pringles and some water and sat out by the road watching the cars go by. Our next stop was the Cliffs of Moher, and I had no idea what to expect. We rolled up in our lime green touring bus to the cliffs. And if you can image a 700 foot straight drop into the ocean that is basically what these rolling cliffs are. I walked aroud with my new South African "mates" Rory and Greg, and my Kiwi busmate Vanessa and watched as crazy people dangled their legs off of the cliff and took thousands of pictures. I really can't describe this view and the cliffs and seeing people over half a mile away enjoying the view that I had. This stop was one of the most exhilarating and beautiful places I have ever seen. We stayed there for an hour and half and then got back in the bus to keep on with our tour.
Eventually, we cut back towards the river and had to take Shannon Ferry across it in order to get to the tourist center of Killarney. We ended up stopping right outside of town to a beautiful lake region of Ireland, and with the stories "El Capitan" told and the pictures of the lake we had a brilliant time. A dog actually hopped aboard our bus, sat next to me, growled and refused to depart. Our driver then opened up the back and forced the local Irish dog out of the bus. Happy Days though. We got to Killarney and had ourselves an amazing dinner and then went to our first authentic Irish pub. I listened to the folk songs of my ancestors, dad they even sung, (You gotta know when to hold em', know when to fold em', know when to walk away.) So basically, it was awesome. I hung out w/ my South African mates all night and drank Guinness and Harp until the wee hours of the morning. Eventually, I ended up getting back to the hostel, falling asleep and waking up early in the morning around 8 to the sound of a horse carriage.
This is really only a brief account of my Saturday in Ireland... many amazing things happened and I can't wait to just tell stories over a pint with all of you back in the states. I wish words could do it justice, but I'm no poet or author... so pictures, stories, and a brief description is the best I can do for all of you. Happy Dayz, good craic.
We end up driving past Galway into the country known as Carrantoohill. The highest mountain range in Ireland. I make a wish at the oldest wishing well in the country.... (I'm not telling you what it was). And then through some of the most scenic and beautiful countryside I've ever seen. Water, rocks, green grass all were stunning to me an Indiana boy w/ Irish ties. I took a great deal of pictures at some small cliffs that dove directly into the ocean, and sat there contemplating where I was in my life, who I was and who I missed back home, and excuse my French, "how the hell I could describe such a place to anyone." I was thinking, yes this is the most breathtaking view in Ireland, and was lucky to be sitting on the side of cliff looking out at the mist and crashing waves coming into the shore... but Ireland is an amazing place.
We stopped into another small town for lunch. It was too expensive so I ended up with a can of Pringles and some water and sat out by the road watching the cars go by. Our next stop was the Cliffs of Moher, and I had no idea what to expect. We rolled up in our lime green touring bus to the cliffs. And if you can image a 700 foot straight drop into the ocean that is basically what these rolling cliffs are. I walked aroud with my new South African "mates" Rory and Greg, and my Kiwi busmate Vanessa and watched as crazy people dangled their legs off of the cliff and took thousands of pictures. I really can't describe this view and the cliffs and seeing people over half a mile away enjoying the view that I had. This stop was one of the most exhilarating and beautiful places I have ever seen. We stayed there for an hour and half and then got back in the bus to keep on with our tour.
Eventually, we cut back towards the river and had to take Shannon Ferry across it in order to get to the tourist center of Killarney. We ended up stopping right outside of town to a beautiful lake region of Ireland, and with the stories "El Capitan" told and the pictures of the lake we had a brilliant time. A dog actually hopped aboard our bus, sat next to me, growled and refused to depart. Our driver then opened up the back and forced the local Irish dog out of the bus. Happy Days though. We got to Killarney and had ourselves an amazing dinner and then went to our first authentic Irish pub. I listened to the folk songs of my ancestors, dad they even sung, (You gotta know when to hold em', know when to fold em', know when to walk away.) So basically, it was awesome. I hung out w/ my South African mates all night and drank Guinness and Harp until the wee hours of the morning. Eventually, I ended up getting back to the hostel, falling asleep and waking up early in the morning around 8 to the sound of a horse carriage.
This is really only a brief account of my Saturday in Ireland... many amazing things happened and I can't wait to just tell stories over a pint with all of you back in the states. I wish words could do it justice, but I'm no poet or author... so pictures, stories, and a brief description is the best I can do for all of you. Happy Dayz, good craic.
I may only be 25% Irish but its the best Ethnicity in me Part 2
The morning of the first full day in Ireland for me was one of sickness. It could have been the worst cold that I have ever had, and I hope I didn't keep all of my hostel friends up w/ my snoring.... as I was informed. Anyways, after a meager breakfast which I didn't participate in, we walked out to another hostel called Paddy's Palace. This was where our 3 day bus tour pick up spot was, called Paddywagon Tours. I recommend this tour to anyone under the age of 25, but I thought and you'll come to find out that it is one of the best ways to see Ireland in its entirity. Our bus driver Conrad, was pretty much straight out of the farmland country, and he knew about everything there was to know from the minute the tour started.
We drove through Dublin, saw the spire which apparantly most of the Dubliners hate, the house of Parliament, drove past the Guinness factory, and went into Pheonix park. This is apparantly the largest metropolitian park in the world. I got to see a cross constructed for Pope John Paul II when he had his huge mass in Dublin. It was crazy, 10 million apparantly celebrated with him at this mass. It made the Catholic in me very proud, and I knew that this Ireland trip was a good idea and off to a great start even though I was sick. We ended up driving through some of the most interesting farmland I've ever driven through. Sheep were herding everywhere eating grass not hay. Something to be aware of the differences between the States and the Irish. Meadows, hills, it was gorgeous. Eventually, I saw my first pog and was explained the art of the turf fire and the products of the bogs. Its extremely interesting stuff, and hard to explain in text, something you must see though. Our first stop was coming up and boy, was I about to be shocked
Celtic crosses, Clommacnoise is one of the greatest examples in Southern Ireland about monasticism in its Golden Age. I walked around this ruined monestary and saw the architecture, and scholarship that these monks had. I was astounded, it was beautiful and spiritual at the same time. I took some pictures of the river that splits the countr into two parts and admired the beauty of the Irish countryside. I felt at peace with the world in that tranquil hour of a stop. Something again that you must see before you leave the earth, words cannot describe it. After leaving Clommacnoise, we said goodbye and ended up heading to the birthtown of my BusDriver for lunch.
After hitting up the local pharmacy for some much needed Sutafed (sp), and flirting with the girl who was helping out the pharmacist.... (her Irish eyes were indeed smiling) Dinah and I decided to go to Barb's Bar in this little town. It was there where I ate my first curry fries and had my first pint of Dublin-based Guinness. Now, I've mentioned before that beer over here is different than the States.... I will go on the record saying that Irish Guinness and Stout is the best beer in the world. There is a different taste to it and they make it the right way. After lunch, Dinah and I went back onto the bus to take off to our stop of the evening in the city of Galway.
Galway is located off of the southern-westernly side of Ireland. There is a bay, and it is a port/fishing town right off the ocean. We got to our hostel and were explained the rules and regulations of the place and then took off to see what Galway had to offer. I ended up calling my credit card company for a good 45minutes, and then walking around the city's pedestrian boulevard, as well as checking out an Irish cemetery..... (I know weird) but it was cool exploring the names and the customs that the Irish have for burying their dead, plus like New Orleans it was above ground... which was cool to check out. I ended up looking at the highlight area district marked off by the Spanish Arch, and sat on a ledge overlooking the bay with Beth and Dinah for a good 20 to 30 minutes.
Our bus driver Conrad who we were now lovingly calling "EL CAPITAN" had arranged dinner for us at Buster and Harry's in the middle of town. I had a Guiness and an interesting dish called "Hamburger" that was basically seasoned hamburger meat placed on top of mashed potatoes w/o a bun or cheese. It was suprisingly good and filled my belly completely. The girls and I after dinner were free to check out Galway's night light... so we ended up at a pub called "The Kings Head" and since I never hang out with unattractive ladies, (cough cough) they were quick to talk to a few Irish men. I was buying a bottle of Merlot for Dinah because I owed her for last night's hostel when I sat down with three gentlemen who were just my age in Ireland. We had Aloiscious, Allen, and Daughtly. They were pretty interesting fellows who bought me a pint and then explained that they were affiliated with some interesting political views. We talked politics, sport, and everything under the sun all night. Eventually, culminating with Irish jigs, and them hitting on all of the girls that were Americans who I pointed out. Good times and as my tour guide/ bus driver would say, "good craic."
The girls and I got pretty happy at the pub and we ended up walking our way through Galway back to our hostel for some much needed rest. It was a good way to start off a day in the middle of Southern Ireland, and I was looking forward to what would be one of the most beautiful and perfect days of my life following my good sleep that I was about to have.
We drove through Dublin, saw the spire which apparantly most of the Dubliners hate, the house of Parliament, drove past the Guinness factory, and went into Pheonix park. This is apparantly the largest metropolitian park in the world. I got to see a cross constructed for Pope John Paul II when he had his huge mass in Dublin. It was crazy, 10 million apparantly celebrated with him at this mass. It made the Catholic in me very proud, and I knew that this Ireland trip was a good idea and off to a great start even though I was sick. We ended up driving through some of the most interesting farmland I've ever driven through. Sheep were herding everywhere eating grass not hay. Something to be aware of the differences between the States and the Irish. Meadows, hills, it was gorgeous. Eventually, I saw my first pog and was explained the art of the turf fire and the products of the bogs. Its extremely interesting stuff, and hard to explain in text, something you must see though. Our first stop was coming up and boy, was I about to be shocked
Celtic crosses, Clommacnoise is one of the greatest examples in Southern Ireland about monasticism in its Golden Age. I walked around this ruined monestary and saw the architecture, and scholarship that these monks had. I was astounded, it was beautiful and spiritual at the same time. I took some pictures of the river that splits the countr into two parts and admired the beauty of the Irish countryside. I felt at peace with the world in that tranquil hour of a stop. Something again that you must see before you leave the earth, words cannot describe it. After leaving Clommacnoise, we said goodbye and ended up heading to the birthtown of my BusDriver for lunch.
After hitting up the local pharmacy for some much needed Sutafed (sp), and flirting with the girl who was helping out the pharmacist.... (her Irish eyes were indeed smiling) Dinah and I decided to go to Barb's Bar in this little town. It was there where I ate my first curry fries and had my first pint of Dublin-based Guinness. Now, I've mentioned before that beer over here is different than the States.... I will go on the record saying that Irish Guinness and Stout is the best beer in the world. There is a different taste to it and they make it the right way. After lunch, Dinah and I went back onto the bus to take off to our stop of the evening in the city of Galway.
Galway is located off of the southern-westernly side of Ireland. There is a bay, and it is a port/fishing town right off the ocean. We got to our hostel and were explained the rules and regulations of the place and then took off to see what Galway had to offer. I ended up calling my credit card company for a good 45minutes, and then walking around the city's pedestrian boulevard, as well as checking out an Irish cemetery..... (I know weird) but it was cool exploring the names and the customs that the Irish have for burying their dead, plus like New Orleans it was above ground... which was cool to check out. I ended up looking at the highlight area district marked off by the Spanish Arch, and sat on a ledge overlooking the bay with Beth and Dinah for a good 20 to 30 minutes.
Our bus driver Conrad who we were now lovingly calling "EL CAPITAN" had arranged dinner for us at Buster and Harry's in the middle of town. I had a Guiness and an interesting dish called "Hamburger" that was basically seasoned hamburger meat placed on top of mashed potatoes w/o a bun or cheese. It was suprisingly good and filled my belly completely. The girls and I after dinner were free to check out Galway's night light... so we ended up at a pub called "The Kings Head" and since I never hang out with unattractive ladies, (cough cough) they were quick to talk to a few Irish men. I was buying a bottle of Merlot for Dinah because I owed her for last night's hostel when I sat down with three gentlemen who were just my age in Ireland. We had Aloiscious, Allen, and Daughtly. They were pretty interesting fellows who bought me a pint and then explained that they were affiliated with some interesting political views. We talked politics, sport, and everything under the sun all night. Eventually, culminating with Irish jigs, and them hitting on all of the girls that were Americans who I pointed out. Good times and as my tour guide/ bus driver would say, "good craic."
The girls and I got pretty happy at the pub and we ended up walking our way through Galway back to our hostel for some much needed rest. It was a good way to start off a day in the middle of Southern Ireland, and I was looking forward to what would be one of the most beautiful and perfect days of my life following my good sleep that I was about to have.
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
I may only be 25% Irish, but its the best ethnicity in me! (part 1)
So what can I say, going to Ireland was not something that I had planned on doing with this trip, but it was something that I couldn't resist when asked by a few of my friends to go with them. I then find myself booking a flight with Ryan Air for 55 pounds one way and 2 pence the other way. A great value indeed for a flight that only takes 1 hour. Anways, the flight leaves at 7:30 on Thursday night and I'm out of class at Harlaxton by about 10AM. I end up taking the 1:10 shuttle into Grantham and jump on a train with Justin and his girlfriend Natasha to Nottingham where my plane will be departing from East Middlands Airport. The three of us realize that our flights are not leaving for a few hours and make our way over to my favorite old English pub the Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, for a pre-flight pint. After about a half hour of conversation and people watching we make our way to the bus stop to get over to the airport. And for five pounds what a deal we got. It took us about 45 minutes to get to East Midlands and I got there around 4PM. My flight didn't start accepting check-in until 5PM so I spent an hour in the terminal waiting for my line to start moving. It was boring to say the least, and I kept sitting with my backpack waiting for the line to go. Eventually it did, and I had a rough time through screening, I was strip searched at a "random" check time and eventually was permitted in the terminal.
Waiting was relaxing, I went to a lot of stores, saw my first real night club in an airport, and eventually got on my flight to Ireland. Eventually, we land... and on request of a drunken Irish woman aboard, I kiss the ground of my great grandfather, which turned out to be the airport tarmack. We ended up getting through Irish customs... which was a treat and delight, and made out way out towards the check out area. The plan was to get about 10 euros, hop a bus into Dublin, check into our hostel, and then grab some dinner preferrably at a pub. Well, we ended up missing our bus that was only 2 euros, getting into Dublin around 11PM, checking into our hostel, and then realizing that the restaurants that serve hot food were closed, bought a cheap dinner at a supermarket. We ate outside, amongst all of the crazy Irish, (mom no worries I'm still alive)...((I'm still not sure why I let her know that she doesn't need to worry, but oh well)), and made our way back to the hostel because Beth Dinah and myself were completely tired.
Waiting was relaxing, I went to a lot of stores, saw my first real night club in an airport, and eventually got on my flight to Ireland. Eventually, we land... and on request of a drunken Irish woman aboard, I kiss the ground of my great grandfather, which turned out to be the airport tarmack. We ended up getting through Irish customs... which was a treat and delight, and made out way out towards the check out area. The plan was to get about 10 euros, hop a bus into Dublin, check into our hostel, and then grab some dinner preferrably at a pub. Well, we ended up missing our bus that was only 2 euros, getting into Dublin around 11PM, checking into our hostel, and then realizing that the restaurants that serve hot food were closed, bought a cheap dinner at a supermarket. We ate outside, amongst all of the crazy Irish, (mom no worries I'm still alive)...((I'm still not sure why I let her know that she doesn't need to worry, but oh well)), and made our way back to the hostel because Beth Dinah and myself were completely tired.
London What A Time (Part 3)
I ended up waking up around 9AM in order to check out of the hotel at 10AM. I put my bag in a luggage storage place for 50 pence, and found my friend Madison in order to see what the plan was until our bus left the hotel at 2PM. Madison said she was a brunch person and I know that I am one, so we took the tube to Picidily Circus and made our way to a small cafe that has been in existence since the early 1900's. We sat down ordered our meals and had tea and great conversation. I love that I have met some really awesome people on this trip so far who go to school at UE, as well as some who are as interested in travel as I am. After breakfast we decided that it would be fun to go to Harrods, which is like the most expensive store in the world. So we took The Tube into the shopping district of London and found Harrods.
When we walked in I couldn't believe it. The most expensive place I have ever been in. I felt like just walking in there that I was violating some sort of divinely expensive code. (being the brand name person I am.. cough cough Kohls... cough). Anyways, we walked through the Billionare section of the men's store where we found a coat that cost 24,000 pounds and a belt that was 900 pounds. (Multiply it by 2 and you get the US price). Anyways, that was a blast, we went through the food court, and the wine and cigar centers of the store and were blown away by the prices. We also saw an Italian pizzaria where the head chef sang Italian Opera while he threw his pizza in front of wealthy saps who were tending to their meals of authentic Italian pizza. We walked out of there feeling rather silly about ourselves, but still in shock that we got in and out without being forced to buy something. Apparantly, "browsing times" are only from 11:30-12:30AM, daily and we were definitely in there at 1:00PM. It was fun breaking the rules, and as we got back on the tube I started to say goodbye to London and all of the expensive grandeur that it was and has become. It was quite an experience in the city, and as I said goodbye, I remember all the wandering, awestruckeness, and people that I met. I hope one day to go back there with a little more money in my pocket, but until then I'll always remember it as a great experience in my life as a college student.
When we walked in I couldn't believe it. The most expensive place I have ever been in. I felt like just walking in there that I was violating some sort of divinely expensive code. (being the brand name person I am.. cough cough Kohls... cough). Anyways, we walked through the Billionare section of the men's store where we found a coat that cost 24,000 pounds and a belt that was 900 pounds. (Multiply it by 2 and you get the US price). Anyways, that was a blast, we went through the food court, and the wine and cigar centers of the store and were blown away by the prices. We also saw an Italian pizzaria where the head chef sang Italian Opera while he threw his pizza in front of wealthy saps who were tending to their meals of authentic Italian pizza. We walked out of there feeling rather silly about ourselves, but still in shock that we got in and out without being forced to buy something. Apparantly, "browsing times" are only from 11:30-12:30AM, daily and we were definitely in there at 1:00PM. It was fun breaking the rules, and as we got back on the tube I started to say goodbye to London and all of the expensive grandeur that it was and has become. It was quite an experience in the city, and as I said goodbye, I remember all the wandering, awestruckeness, and people that I met. I hope one day to go back there with a little more money in my pocket, but until then I'll always remember it as a great experience in my life as a college student.
London What a Time (Part 2)
I woke up the next morning feeling great after a few hours of rest in my comfy bed that felt like it had a matress made out of sand... I awoke to my roomates exclaiming how excited they were to be on a Double Decker Bus tour all day for only the grand price of 22 pounds. I said I'd take the tube to Leischer Square with them, but not exactly go on the bus with them at 8:00AM in the morning. I was hoping to experience London in my own way that day, and I sure did as this story progresses. As we get to Leischer Square my friend Madison and I walked past the fountains to the monuments where there were lion statues all over the place. Apparantly, because the lion symbolizes GB. Anyways, after some funny pictures around the Lions, Madison lets me know that the bus doesn't leave until 10AM. Basically, we decided to walk down the road to go see if the Queen would give us a wave as she was having her morning tea.
We walked past some British guards early in the morning holding their bayonetted Semi Automatic machine rifles, and headed our way towards Buckingham palace. We ended up making it in about twenty minutes and had a lovely conversation about the Queen and rock music. Eventually, we got some pictures of the palace and decided it was time to get back to the square in order for all of the group to get onto the bus. We were successful and eventually found ourselves back at the square where the whole group pledged to meet me at 12:00PM at the Texas Embassy. Yes, I'm not lying Texas had an Embassy in London before they were officially accepted into the Union as a state way back then in US history. More on this amazing restaurant later.
So, I'm alone... in London walking the streets all bymyself. (Mom if you're out there I'm still alive). As I'm walking down towards Picidily Circus, I see a group of cop cars and a whole bunch of onlookers.... (yes I promise I'm still alive). Right next to the building which is like a marble sort of Roman elitist style type of building I see movie cameras. So, basically, I'm standing across the street of where a movie is being shot. The main character was a tall slender gentleman who looked a lot like Leonardo Decaprio.... I'm not sure if it was him exactly, but I'm going to put my money on it. Apparantly, it was a chase seen and the tall gentleman who looked like Leonardo was pulling a sniper pistol from his pocket in order to kill or threaten someone in the chase scene. It was good fun, and I stood there for a good half hour watching how a movie was made. After that non-sense I was hungry.... it had been way too long since I had eaten last.
I made my way down Picidily and was looking for a nice open aired coffee shop where I might get a muffin, coffee, and read a tabloid or newspaper. I found my place right across from the Barclay's Bank called EAT cafe. I went in, ordered my cup of coffee, and drew out my credit card when to my surprise I was told to draw money to purchase my mid morning snack. I went to the Barclays, got some "poundage" and went back to purchase my meal. However, I was sent over to another store to pick up a tabloid entitled The London Paper. I sat outside facing a perfect long range view of Big Ben and read the paper all about how Britian viewed America, their own economy, "holidays," genetics, and sport. It was so relaxing, not a care in the world at that point on my windy London day. I sat there in pure enjoyment for at least an hour and a half, I had two groups of people ask me where something was, to which my thrilled response was,"sorry I'm on holiday." It was now getting close to 12PM and I still had to make it back to the hotel room to get my camera.
I decided to take The Tube to get my camera. This was to be the first time for me on the Underground alone (Mom, I'm still alive don't worry please don't worry). I went in, put my ticket through the queue machine and made my way down the escalator to the Picidily Circus line. I stood in the train listening to Brits talk about all things, including AFL football, which apparantly is a huge deal over here. I got back to my hotel room picked up my camera, and made my way back into the underground to get to Leischer Square. At about 12PM I arrived from the tube in the square to the sound of Church bells. It was amazing, thousands of people all walking around on a beautiful and cloudless Saturday afternoon in the square. A rugby match was to go on in the heart of London today and hooligans from all over were singing the team songs together outside of the station. I felt invigorated, independent, and for the first time completely trusting in myself as I walked towards the square to visit my friends. Eventually I got to the Texas Embassy and had a wonderful small lunch with my student friends.
The Texas Embassy is the only TexMex restuarant in all of London... And we just so happened to have a Texan with us who was the perfect critique of all things Mexican and Tex Mex. I order a half-order of Quesadilla and a pint of Budweiser for lunch. It was decent, and our waiter had a British accent which made him saying the word Quesadilla all the more hilarious. Overpriced though, my meal cost me about 12 pounds and it was a small lunch. My group of friends kept telling me that they were going to tour England via bus tour some more, to which I explained that I would follow them via tube. Some people decided that my way may be the best way to see the city. So Madison and Dinah followed me out of the restaurant to the street in order to come on the underground to check out the Tower of London. And what an adventure we were about to have.
We decided what our route was to be on the Tube in our way over to the Tower. What we didn't know was going to shape the rest of our day completely. Apparantly on Bank Holidays, which parallel "Memorial Day" in the US, London shuts down a few of their Tube lines and parts of the city for maintenence. We get to where we were going to shift our journey to the Circle Line, only to find that the line is closed all weekend. So, Dinah, Madison, and I had a decision to make, either walk the river Tems (sp) walkway towards the tower which is like 4 miles long, or take a cab to the Tower of London. We decide to take the walkway. A great decision, we got a bunch of pictures of the river, bridges, and buildings, as well as have great conversation. We stopped at St. Pauls Cathedral to take pictures. A beautiful site it is and hard to phathom in all actuality. Eventually, we made it to the Tower, where the girls had their tickets. It was massive, and unreal to a point as well. I was not sure if I could cover all the ground I needed to cover in this world heritage site in London. So I paid my 14 pound ticket to get into the Tower and took off to explore myself.
This tower was amazing, royalty, criminals, and many others were kept in this immaculately huge. Being the historynut that I am I remembered some of the key figures who were kept in this building, and to finally step foot into where history was made, put something that was far away into my actual life experience. I can't explain the feeling, it is something that everyone I feel needs to have in order to understand the beauty of it all. I went into the White Tower and saw armor, embattlements, and the history of the Kings of England. It was unbelievable, I could have spent a day in there learning about everything. My only regret is getting to the Tower as late as I did, because I never got to see the Royal Jewels. That will have to be something to do when or "if" I ever get back to London. I ended up running into the girls again and then we had the mission of trying to get back to the tube, and not just the tube, but to a station that was actually running. So after talking with a few locals we found a closed station and ended up getting a free bus ride to Lincolnshire Station where we could connect at Piccidily Line in order to get back to the hotel to change for dinner.
After getting back to the hotel we got dressed, and decided to see what kind of food London had to offer on a Saturday night. The one word that could describe the city on this Bank Holiday weekend is "dismally empty." Most of the pubs were closed, most of the people had left the city, and at about 9PM there was no one serving food wherever we walked. So the group and I decided that we'd check all over the squares of town around our hotel, eventually we found a quaint and beautifully small Italian Restaurant. Since the six of us decided to go in without a reservation we got a few stares from the waitstaff. (I kept thinking that they were saying to each other in Italian, 'Stupid Americans'). Whatever the matter I ordered my traditional favorite Italian dish, Cavetelli con Quattro Formaggi and a glass of red wine to pair with it. Dinner was phenomal and our waiter ended up warming up to us all by the end after a few of the girls we were with ordered dessert. I ordered an after dinner Johnny Walker Black Label drink and we ended up staying and talking until 11 PM.
The walk back to the hotel was a long one, but we all ended up making it. The Grand National had a pub in the front of it called "The London Pub," so we ended up having a few drinks that night and as the Pub closed at 12:30 got a few snacks and went to bed. It was the end of a great adverturous day and we were all tired. My roomates and I swapped stories of the day and ended up asleep by 1AM, which is early for most of us.
We walked past some British guards early in the morning holding their bayonetted Semi Automatic machine rifles, and headed our way towards Buckingham palace. We ended up making it in about twenty minutes and had a lovely conversation about the Queen and rock music. Eventually, we got some pictures of the palace and decided it was time to get back to the square in order for all of the group to get onto the bus. We were successful and eventually found ourselves back at the square where the whole group pledged to meet me at 12:00PM at the Texas Embassy. Yes, I'm not lying Texas had an Embassy in London before they were officially accepted into the Union as a state way back then in US history. More on this amazing restaurant later.
So, I'm alone... in London walking the streets all bymyself. (Mom if you're out there I'm still alive). As I'm walking down towards Picidily Circus, I see a group of cop cars and a whole bunch of onlookers.... (yes I promise I'm still alive). Right next to the building which is like a marble sort of Roman elitist style type of building I see movie cameras. So, basically, I'm standing across the street of where a movie is being shot. The main character was a tall slender gentleman who looked a lot like Leonardo Decaprio.... I'm not sure if it was him exactly, but I'm going to put my money on it. Apparantly, it was a chase seen and the tall gentleman who looked like Leonardo was pulling a sniper pistol from his pocket in order to kill or threaten someone in the chase scene. It was good fun, and I stood there for a good half hour watching how a movie was made. After that non-sense I was hungry.... it had been way too long since I had eaten last.
I made my way down Picidily and was looking for a nice open aired coffee shop where I might get a muffin, coffee, and read a tabloid or newspaper. I found my place right across from the Barclay's Bank called EAT cafe. I went in, ordered my cup of coffee, and drew out my credit card when to my surprise I was told to draw money to purchase my mid morning snack. I went to the Barclays, got some "poundage" and went back to purchase my meal. However, I was sent over to another store to pick up a tabloid entitled The London Paper. I sat outside facing a perfect long range view of Big Ben and read the paper all about how Britian viewed America, their own economy, "holidays," genetics, and sport. It was so relaxing, not a care in the world at that point on my windy London day. I sat there in pure enjoyment for at least an hour and a half, I had two groups of people ask me where something was, to which my thrilled response was,"sorry I'm on holiday." It was now getting close to 12PM and I still had to make it back to the hotel room to get my camera.
I decided to take The Tube to get my camera. This was to be the first time for me on the Underground alone (Mom, I'm still alive don't worry please don't worry). I went in, put my ticket through the queue machine and made my way down the escalator to the Picidily Circus line. I stood in the train listening to Brits talk about all things, including AFL football, which apparantly is a huge deal over here. I got back to my hotel room picked up my camera, and made my way back into the underground to get to Leischer Square. At about 12PM I arrived from the tube in the square to the sound of Church bells. It was amazing, thousands of people all walking around on a beautiful and cloudless Saturday afternoon in the square. A rugby match was to go on in the heart of London today and hooligans from all over were singing the team songs together outside of the station. I felt invigorated, independent, and for the first time completely trusting in myself as I walked towards the square to visit my friends. Eventually I got to the Texas Embassy and had a wonderful small lunch with my student friends.
The Texas Embassy is the only TexMex restuarant in all of London... And we just so happened to have a Texan with us who was the perfect critique of all things Mexican and Tex Mex. I order a half-order of Quesadilla and a pint of Budweiser for lunch. It was decent, and our waiter had a British accent which made him saying the word Quesadilla all the more hilarious. Overpriced though, my meal cost me about 12 pounds and it was a small lunch. My group of friends kept telling me that they were going to tour England via bus tour some more, to which I explained that I would follow them via tube. Some people decided that my way may be the best way to see the city. So Madison and Dinah followed me out of the restaurant to the street in order to come on the underground to check out the Tower of London. And what an adventure we were about to have.
We decided what our route was to be on the Tube in our way over to the Tower. What we didn't know was going to shape the rest of our day completely. Apparantly on Bank Holidays, which parallel "Memorial Day" in the US, London shuts down a few of their Tube lines and parts of the city for maintenence. We get to where we were going to shift our journey to the Circle Line, only to find that the line is closed all weekend. So, Dinah, Madison, and I had a decision to make, either walk the river Tems (sp) walkway towards the tower which is like 4 miles long, or take a cab to the Tower of London. We decide to take the walkway. A great decision, we got a bunch of pictures of the river, bridges, and buildings, as well as have great conversation. We stopped at St. Pauls Cathedral to take pictures. A beautiful site it is and hard to phathom in all actuality. Eventually, we made it to the Tower, where the girls had their tickets. It was massive, and unreal to a point as well. I was not sure if I could cover all the ground I needed to cover in this world heritage site in London. So I paid my 14 pound ticket to get into the Tower and took off to explore myself.
This tower was amazing, royalty, criminals, and many others were kept in this immaculately huge. Being the historynut that I am I remembered some of the key figures who were kept in this building, and to finally step foot into where history was made, put something that was far away into my actual life experience. I can't explain the feeling, it is something that everyone I feel needs to have in order to understand the beauty of it all. I went into the White Tower and saw armor, embattlements, and the history of the Kings of England. It was unbelievable, I could have spent a day in there learning about everything. My only regret is getting to the Tower as late as I did, because I never got to see the Royal Jewels. That will have to be something to do when or "if" I ever get back to London. I ended up running into the girls again and then we had the mission of trying to get back to the tube, and not just the tube, but to a station that was actually running. So after talking with a few locals we found a closed station and ended up getting a free bus ride to Lincolnshire Station where we could connect at Piccidily Line in order to get back to the hotel to change for dinner.
After getting back to the hotel we got dressed, and decided to see what kind of food London had to offer on a Saturday night. The one word that could describe the city on this Bank Holiday weekend is "dismally empty." Most of the pubs were closed, most of the people had left the city, and at about 9PM there was no one serving food wherever we walked. So the group and I decided that we'd check all over the squares of town around our hotel, eventually we found a quaint and beautifully small Italian Restaurant. Since the six of us decided to go in without a reservation we got a few stares from the waitstaff. (I kept thinking that they were saying to each other in Italian, 'Stupid Americans'). Whatever the matter I ordered my traditional favorite Italian dish, Cavetelli con Quattro Formaggi and a glass of red wine to pair with it. Dinner was phenomal and our waiter ended up warming up to us all by the end after a few of the girls we were with ordered dessert. I ordered an after dinner Johnny Walker Black Label drink and we ended up staying and talking until 11 PM.
The walk back to the hotel was a long one, but we all ended up making it. The Grand National had a pub in the front of it called "The London Pub," so we ended up having a few drinks that night and as the Pub closed at 12:30 got a few snacks and went to bed. It was the end of a great adverturous day and we were all tired. My roomates and I swapped stories of the day and ended up asleep by 1AM, which is early for most of us.
London What A Time (Part 1)
So we end up going to London. What a trip, a crazy town, and a crazy bunch of students we are indeed. On Friday we get down into the city around twelve in the afternoon, only to discover that we weren't allowed to put our bags in the Grand National Hotel until 2PM. So our busdriver decides that since he used to work on public transportation that he would tour us around the city in the bus. This huge coach bus goes around Buckingham Palace, Picidily Circus, Houses of Parliment, the Tower Bridge, and every other touristy stop for the next two hours. All of us students just wanted to get off the bus and explore ourselves, though we all got some great pictures of the river and the tower of London.
Eventually, we are finally let off the bus and make our way to our rooms. I end up rooming with two guys from UE named Josh and Sid. They're good guys, more on the theatre side of things though than myself. After things were settled at the hotel it was time to go exploring. Our latin american student David ended up seeing one of his friends who lived in the Dominican Republic for awhile in London named Philip. So Jessica, Lissa and myself tagged along as Philip guided us along the city as the resident Londoner. We saw almost everyone you would want to see on our walk, The British Mueseum, Buckingham Palace, Picidily Circus, and Hyde Park. It was amazing, getting this Swiss's perspective on London and American culture as well as discovering a few underground places in Chinatown.
We end up getting back to our hotel around 6PM and proceed to go out to dinner with some other students in our group because they were going to go see Phantom of the Opera around 7PM. I ended up just getting a drink with the girls, who were all dressed up to go see the show. We took the "tube" the Underground back to our hotel and waited for most of them to get back, while I frequented another pub in order to grab myself some authentic fish n' chips for dinner. Delicious they were, and I'm starting to realize that the "peas" that come with the dish is a standard procedure in all of England. Though the meal cost me around 12 pounds plus the cost of my pint. Expensive city I was thinking, but I would realize that this city is the number 2 most expensive city in the world for a reason.
Later that night when the "drama" students got back from their show a bunch of us decided to go to SO HO the famous night club destination in London for some good times. We ended up a club called ANANON, which got us in with a five pound cover. Drinks were expensive, we were spotted as Americans from far away and really no European's came within voices reach of us. It was perculiar, but these sort of things are common I guess in London. After about four hours of hanging out with our group and paying way to much money for horribly small quanties of drinks, we ended up taking a taxi back to the hotel. No one bothered to explain to us that "The Tube" closed at 12:30AM in the city.
Eventually, we are finally let off the bus and make our way to our rooms. I end up rooming with two guys from UE named Josh and Sid. They're good guys, more on the theatre side of things though than myself. After things were settled at the hotel it was time to go exploring. Our latin american student David ended up seeing one of his friends who lived in the Dominican Republic for awhile in London named Philip. So Jessica, Lissa and myself tagged along as Philip guided us along the city as the resident Londoner. We saw almost everyone you would want to see on our walk, The British Mueseum, Buckingham Palace, Picidily Circus, and Hyde Park. It was amazing, getting this Swiss's perspective on London and American culture as well as discovering a few underground places in Chinatown.
We end up getting back to our hotel around 6PM and proceed to go out to dinner with some other students in our group because they were going to go see Phantom of the Opera around 7PM. I ended up just getting a drink with the girls, who were all dressed up to go see the show. We took the "tube" the Underground back to our hotel and waited for most of them to get back, while I frequented another pub in order to grab myself some authentic fish n' chips for dinner. Delicious they were, and I'm starting to realize that the "peas" that come with the dish is a standard procedure in all of England. Though the meal cost me around 12 pounds plus the cost of my pint. Expensive city I was thinking, but I would realize that this city is the number 2 most expensive city in the world for a reason.
Later that night when the "drama" students got back from their show a bunch of us decided to go to SO HO the famous night club destination in London for some good times. We ended up a club called ANANON, which got us in with a five pound cover. Drinks were expensive, we were spotted as Americans from far away and really no European's came within voices reach of us. It was perculiar, but these sort of things are common I guess in London. After about four hours of hanging out with our group and paying way to much money for horribly small quanties of drinks, we ended up taking a taxi back to the hotel. No one bothered to explain to us that "The Tube" closed at 12:30AM in the city.
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