Day 1, London

I am finally able to log some internet time on a proper computer so that I can update the blog... Apparently the iphone browser won't let you edit or add posts to blogspot...

The flight over was great. I was able to bring my backpack on the plane as carry-on luggage, and didn't have to check it! It made it much easier getting off the plane, as I didnt have to wait in line for the baggage to come around. I was able to get some sleep on the flight, and they gave us 2 good meals - dinner and breakfast. When we landed, the captain let us know that we had the remains of a soldier onboard, and that to show respect, we would let the honor guard for the soldier depart the plane first. I was one of the last one off the plane and got to see them stand at attention as his remains were removed from the plane (where the baggage was kept).

After I got off the plane I checked in at Astor Hyde Park, my first hostel which was located near.... Hyde Park. :) I had a room with 11 other people. After I checked in I immediately struck off and headed to Buckingham Palace via Hyde Park in order to see the changing of the guards at 11:00am. On the way, I was able to take pictures of several other monuments and statues, including the Wellington Arch, and several monuments dedicated to countries who fought with Britian during the First and Second World Wars. Once I got to Buckinham Palace, I saw that sign that the changing of the guards wouldnt take place until the next day (April 28th). Unfazed, I set off continuing down St. James Park until I got to the Horse Guard's Building near Parliment. I walked around the block till I got to Big Ben, and Parliment and took a bunch of pictures. Up until then, I had known what I wanted to accomplish that day, but after that I didn't know what to do next!

Near Big Ben there is a Westminster dock, which has Thames river cruises during the day. I purchased a one-way ticket from the dock near Big Ben to St. Kathrine's dock, which was located near Tower Bridge and the London Tower. On the way there I saw many new sights that I would later revisit on foot, including Shakespear's Globe theater, St. Paul's Cathedral, and several others. Once I arrived at St. Kat's dock (which is right past the iconic Tower Bridge), I got off and checked out the Tower Bridge, and sat along the riverbank eating sugared peanuts from a local vendor.

Right next to Tower Bridge is the Tower of London, where many monarchs reigned, many prisoners kept, and many people beheaded (up on Tower Hill). I bought a ticket for the Tower of London, thinking that it was a bit expensive for the small-looking keep, but once I got inside it was HUGE. Needless to say, I had a great time. One of the Beefeaters was starting a tour with a separate group, so I tagged along and listened to him as well. There is a ton of history in that place, wow! I also saw the Crown Jewels, including the crowns and ornate sceptres the kings and queens wore.

After the London Tower tour, I headed off to the nearby St. Paul's Cathedral. By this time it was around 5:30pm, and by the time I got there the tours were closed. It was impressive from the outside, to say the least! From there I walked south across the Millinium Bridge, which is a pedestrian-only footbridge across the Thames River... very striking architecture. The bridge ends at the Tate Museum, which is a free modern art museum. It was closed as well, so I decided to come check it out the next day.

After taking the tube back to the hostel, I went out for a pint with a few others from my room, and then called it a night. What a busy first day!