Vignette on my summer abroad in London

Living in London for a month helped immerse me into a new culture and learn how to thrive. I had an absolute blast studying abroad in London and felt like I understood what being a Londoner is like by the end of it. There are many things that people in England do that is different than Americans, other than the obvious driving on the other side of the road. Just because. I am grateful to have been able to experience living with a culture differant than the one I know. The English way of life has always intrigued me and it was something spectacular to get to see.

First things first, Londoners walk everywhere. London is also huge so they walk to the Tube (Subway system) sometimes if it can help them get to their destination faster. But everyone is walking, and London is a busy city with lots of people. Some people also bike or drive and if at first it was scary to cross the street for someone who is used to looking left first. I remember my friend Peyton on the first day almost got hit by a biker and I often was getting yelled at by bikers I was in the way of. When you are crossing the street, you need to be cautious because bikers and cars will not stop for you most the time, you could get hit.

Second thing to know it that things are going to be expensive because the exchange rate and the fact that London just happens to be a costly city. Going out to eat all the time can add up and it is worth going to the grocery store or McDonalds every now and then. They make really good microwavable mac and cheese in the M&S Market which happened to be conveniently close to where I was staying. Getting used to the food there will also take a bit for some reason, you might be like me and go to Five Guys when you get the chance for a familair meal. Also, if you miss ranch as much as I did you can find it at this place called Slim Chickens, they have delicious chicken tenders there too.

Lastly, London has a variety of hot spots and I wanted to share a few of my favorites. Borough Market is worth it, but it is a busy market full of a lot of people so be ready for that. I liked this place called The Black Pig that is in the back where all the hot food is and then I loved the chocolate covered strawberries in a cup that everyone goes there for. Covent Garden is a great place to shop with your usual Urban Outfitters and Brandy Melville, but you also can thrift at a place called PickNWeight. I bought a leather jacket that I wore every day of the rest of my trip because London can still be cold in early summer months. There are also some markets there and one of them makes a really yummy crepe. Leicester Square has China Town which has good food and is fun to walk through. Camden Market is great for fake designer brands, and you can bargain with them sometimes too.

London is a classy city that I loved living in for only a short amount of time. Even though they speak the same language as me doesn’t mean that it is the same there as America. If you get the opportunity to go abroad or even visit London, I hope you take some of my advice into account. Getting to broaden your horizons and adapt to something you aren’t used to can help you grow as a person. Just use google maps and look at the signs when using the underground and you will be fine. London is a terrific city with so much to do and see!