H.H. Day 3

Fri Dec 10:

Another day of travel, complete with ringing ears and Arcade Fire playing in my head.

Back on the bus to London, only this time sans an offended bus driver and a slightly shorter travel time, but complete with another dreaded, too long, airless, and jerky ride on the London Underground.

It has been 10 years since I was last in London… the Underground is exactly the same, with the occasional newer swatch of fabric replacing worn out seats, but eternally crowded, delayed, jarring and depressing. It is not an exaggeration to say that the average Londoner spends half their day on the subway. Not to mention that you can easily spend half your earnings for the privilege of riding this intricate, concentric maze of a system.

The streets of London while also crowded and busy, was far more festive and lively and full of tourists and natives in a constant buzz of activity. A stroll though central London and a tour of the National Gallery, complete with choral singing and delicious Thai food at a restaurant called Rosa’s rounded out my final night in England!

 

While I am not a huge fan of London and find it too touristy and busy, I was impressed with Cardiff and its posh centre and cozy streets and alleys.

A thank-you to my friend Dave for his uncanny navigation skills and random direction seeking after relentless prodding. And an extra thanks for his tolerance and acceptance of luggage carrying, picture taking, place staying, and listening to tedious mind-numbing girl talk.