Arrival

So the trip began with a lovely encounter with the American Airlines rep in Austin. As per standard airline baggage allowances, I had my two checked bags, a carryon, and my personal item (a backpack). Upon checking in, the lady informed me that I could only have one item total carried on when flying into London, so she made me check my carryon at a charge of $80, despite the fact that there was no mention of this on their website. Oh, and the fact that she was WRONG. AA, you owe me $80.

Other than that, the trip was pleasant. At the airport in Austin I ran into an old friend, and we happened to be one seat apart on the flight up to Chicago. The flight from Chicago to London was almost empty, and I had both the aisle and window seat to myself, which was quite pleasant. Thankfully, it also got in about 35 minutes early. Customs on the other hand was a bit of a hassle. My letter from the university indicated that I had been accepted to study for the 2007/08 class year, which was different than the semester I had indicated I would be studying here. About 15 minutes later I finally received my clearance and entered the UK. I would have taken a picture, but photographs are forbidden there. Security?

So far today I've just been wandering around the city stopping at various points to sit on park benches and peoplewatch. Upon arriving in France a few years ago for my first transatlantic trip, my first impression was how similar things are despite the language barrier. Well, my first impressions here are how different things are despite sharing a language. I've caught myself several times when initiating a conversation speaking slowly or haltingly, as if I wasn't sure if they would understand English.

Other observations:

• not having a cell phone, even for just a few days, is very weird.
• Finances could not be any easier. Picked up cash at the airport from the first ATM I saw, with no ATM surcharge -- good job Capital One.
• I'm hesitant to make purchases for fear of overpaying. Lack of familiarity with what is or is not a good deal applies even to regional differences in the states I suppose as well.
• I was a bit miffed that I couldn't get a drink after checking into my hostel. Their bar is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, and no other pubs are open that late. Lame.

The British version of Hyde Park, where I've been spending much of the day relaxing and watching people pass by. Amazing how many professionals have time for a midday jog.








Tomorrow I move into the dorms.