Day 3 Wednesday London May 23, 2012

This morning I was able to enjoy my English Breakfast and it was really good. I think I finally adjusted to the time zone here and I am sooo glad. London is too beautiful to feel tired. This realization hit me when we arrived at Westminster for our meeting at the House of Parliament. I was completely speechless as I stepped out of the tube station. Right in front of me was the iconic Big Ben and the House of Parliament. It was at that moment I finally felt like I had arrived in London. We all gathered for our group photo in the park by the House of Parliment. We had a great view of the London Eye, the Thames River, and all of Southbank. Sir Peter Viggers (retired member of Parliament) gave us a great presentation on the English constitution. It was extremely interesting to hear about political life in London, it's very different from the written American constitution. Afterwards, we made our way to Westminster Abbey. I had no idea what a treat it would be! It's beauty was absolutely mind blowing. The church was filled with incredible old English architecture, colorful stain glass windows, and famous tombs/memorials. I was unaware of all of the different writers and scientists that shared the same burial space as the Kings and Queens of England. Our tour guide was a sweet older woman who definitely knew how to tell a great story. The Fat Tire Bike Tour was one of my favorite events of the day. It was the perfect way to see Kensington Palace, Buckingham Palace, and Hyde Park. Hyde Park was probable one of the most relaxing places I have been. I wish there was a place like that in college station, studying would be much easier to study under a big tree by the pond. The day ended with drinks at Oxo Tower. We had the best view of Southbank and the city lights. The classy atmosphere was definitely worth the price. It was a great way to have a taste of London night life.