Getting to Know London!

It's been a while since my last post, but I have been writing! I found it easier to keep a small journal for my day-to-day adventures around London. It has also come in handy on my trips outside of London (more on those to come!) when I don't bring my computer with me or don't have access to the internet.

I thought I'd fill you in on some fun experiences I have had in and around London!

In February, I settled into my new home, just up from one of the major train stations in London-- King's Cross. It may be familiar to those Harry Potter fans out there. This is where the famous platform 9 3/4 is located! But don't get your hopes up, its not too impressive-- just a luggage cart sticking out from a brick wall with a small sign above it. It's also not located between platforms 9 and 10. This popular photo stop has moved around the train station quite a bit. Construction and renovation to the building in preparation for the Olympics has made Platform 9 3/4 jump around the building. Just ask an attendant or security guard and they should be able to point you in the right direction.

After getting to know my neighborhood, I took advantage of a free bus tour offer through my study abroad program. This bus tour helped me get familiar with the rest of the city! If your program doesn't offer a tour like this, I would highly suggest paying a little extra for a city bus tour. I was able to get my bearings of the city and take not of sites, museums and neighborhoods I wanted to explore. I also got some great shots of the city-- just turn off your flash and snapping a picture from the bus window is no problem!

 Also, buying a travel guidebook was extremely helpful. It mapped out whole days worth of site seeing activities and provided easy to follow maps and directions. My Frommer's guidebook has also come in handy when searching for cheap places to eat or drink. Another helpful guide has been TimeOut.com. This website and magazine provide information on upcoming events and have very accurate and helpful reviews on restaurants, pubs and bars. Check to see if TimeOut has reviews in the city you are staying! Also, signing up for TimeOut, Living Social or Groupon deals can help you see the city on a student's budget!

However, the most important part in getting to know London was getting to know the people I live with. Studying abroad is a once in a lifetime opportunity and it is important to be outgoing and meet new people! Every weekend I wake up and plan something new to see in and around London. It's been great exploring the city but its been even more wonderful doing it with great friends!