Skip to content

Travel Diary

London in May

Select a date to view

  • May 01, 2018 - History
  • May 02, 2018 - From City to Plane
  • May 03, 2018 - From Plane to City
  • May 04, 2018 - Day at the Museum
  • May 05, 2018 - Parks and Dancing
  • May 06, 2018 - Kew Gardens and a Show
  • May 07, 2018 - Ballet and a Bar
  • May 08, 2018 - Walking Tours
  • May 09, 2018 - Double Show Day
  • May 10, 2018 - Coming Home
  • May 11, 2018 - Reflections and Tips
  • Friday, May 11, 2018

    Reflections and Tips

    • During the week in London, I had no soda or coffee and had no ill effects from the lack of caffeine. Guess I'm not too addicted.
    • It's easy to forget, but the Tube air is quite dirty. I felt particles (iron or something?) in my throat at times. It's odd to see virtually no masks on. For people who live in London, this may not be wise.
    • Traveling heavy is fine when not moving place to place. For just one flat for the week, it's okay to have large suitcases.
    • The weather even in May is risky, but risks are necessary for life. Just have to pack for both situations.
    • Brits can be VERY helpful. Even random women will offer to help with luggage. Men may help without even saying a word.
    • The Tube is awesome as it has short waits (mostly).
    • Expect to make mistakes on Tube or bus lines on occasion. This is fine. More random things to see.
    • Buses can be fun too. Enjoy the view from the front of the second level!
    • Oyster card rocks as it's fast and easy and works for Tube and busses.
    • Asking directions is essential. Easier than you think. And can have great results.
    • It's easy to see why people get season passes at Kew Gardens. It's a wonderful place.
    • Data plans are vital! Stop by Carphone Warehouse right after you land.
    • Sainsbury's is vital! Find the nearest one fast.
    • Never do two walking tours on same day.
    • Allow decent blocks of time to just rest and nap if necessary. Don't fill every minute of every day.
    • If possible, bring clothes to dress up a little. You also won't look so much like a tourist (not that there's anything wrong with that).
    • Evensongs are a nice free treat. They're filled with angelic music.
    • In London, there are SO many free things to see and do.
    • London theatre is outstanding. Second only to Broadway.
    • Brits cover American accents quite well. It's almost uncanny.
    • Theatres may upgrade your seats without you even having to ask. (Though perhaps one could ask even when they don't offer outright. Did not try. Next time.
    • Pro Secret: Buy standing tickets. Then sit.
    • Pro Secret: Airlines don't seem to care if you switch to a better seat.
    • Pro Secret: Ask about getting better seats.
    • Pro Tip: stay in one lodging as long as possible. Packing and moving is a time loss and quite tiring.
    • Always carry snacks and water.
    • Backpacks will almost always be searched at theatre and museums.
    • Leave the camera behind sometimes. (If you carry a DSLR.)
    • Wander down random streets (in safe neighborhoods of course)
    • London is very safe even late at night (in general)
    • There is way too much to do in a week--or even a full semester. Keep a: "this can be done next time" mindset. Balance between "invest in adventure and fun" versus "no need to throw away money" frames.
    • Airline prices are at historic lows. Waiting for a "better time" may be waiting for never.
    • Brexit can be a sad thing when meeting nice people from other countries making their livelihoods in London. Too bad this may change.
    • Once can never visit London too many times. Plus, it gets much easier to get around each new visit. I eagerly await my next trip.

    Last Entry