MUST SEE AND DO IN LONDON

 Hi Sharks! If you didn’t see my first blog post, go check it out for basic information and what to pack! I definitely recommend studying abroad for two semesters if you are able to, as the first semester flew by and I was not ready to leave! I stayed on campus and lived in a townhome with 11 other random roommates. My biggest suggestion is to be open-minded because I went and did not know a single person and made the most amazing friends. I truly had the most incredible experience especially in the United Kingdom as there are unlimited amounts of things to do, see, and explore. If you have any other questions do not hesitate to reach out to me :) 

Culture shocks: I loved being surrounded by other cultures and learned so much that I never knew existed. Here are some of the culture shocks that I wrote down while studying abroad: 

1. A power bank is a portable charger 

2. There is only an “open door” button in an elevator (no close door button) 

3. Health care is free 

4. Ice doesn’t exist 

5. A backpack is a rack sack 

6. THE FOOD (best food ever) 

Tips for traveling to other countries: While being in London for the year, I traveled to almost 10 other countries! I would suggest packing very light and making sure your luggage fits the required size. Each airline has a different size requirement, but there have been many times when they almost didn’t let me on my flight because my luggage was too big. Also, if you are bringing liquids while traveling to other countries, they make you take all of them out and fit into a clear plastic bag, BUT they only give you one plastic bag. Make sure you are not bringing a lot of liquids and if you are, definitely put them in a bag that you are checking. Always have your passport and boarding pass out. You usually use your boarding pass to get through TSA, and then they check your ticket at the gate. 

(Cheese Fondue in Switzerland)                                     (Milan, Italy)

(Barcelona, Spain)

(Paris, France)

(Avoriaz, France)

(Barcelona, Spain)

(Eiffel Tower, France)

Sites that are a must In the United Kingdom: 

1. St. Paul’s Cathedral: This was by far my favorite place to go see in London. I would get tickets to go all the way up into the whispering gallery (which is the dome-shaped part of the cathedral).  I would go visit St. Paul’s to just read a book, eat some lunch, etc. 

(St. Paul's)

2. Borough and Camden Market: You must get the chocolate-covered strawberries from Borough Market! Seriously everything in both markets is so yummy! Very fun to walk around and explore.

                                                                        (Borough Market) 

 3. Dishoom: My favorite restaurant in London! It is Indian food, but everything is so good on the menu. 

(Dishoom) 

4. British Museum: You could seriously spend days in this museum due to the massive amount of artifacts and historical items to look at! 

(British Museum)

5. Tower Bridge: I would recommend getting tickets to walk inside and through the Tower Bridge. It was super cool to see how the bridge was built and learn about its history. 

(Tower Bridge)

6. Afternoon Tea: Anywhere in London is amazing for afternoon tea! If you are going to be in London, afternoon tea is a MUST! 

(Peggy's Afternoon Tea)

(Tiffany & Co's Afternoon Tea)

7. London Eye: I would suggest getting tickets to go on the London Eye! It is very cool because you can see all of the Big Ben and other famous monuments from the top! 

(London Eye)

8. Big Ben: Seeing pictures of the Big Ben does not do it justice…You have to go in person!!

(Big Ben)

9. Winter Wonderland: If you are in London during Christmas, they have this Christmas carnival that you must go to! It is filled with rides, games, music, food, drinks, etc. 

(Winter Wonderland)

10. Football (Soccer) Game: If you are a big soccer fan like me, you have to go to a league game to fully experience the culture of this sport! 

11. Christmas Lights: Starting in November, London starts setting up the most beautiful Christmas lights! Roam the streets in downtown London…Trust me it is magical!