My flight left from Dulles International in Northern Virginia at 6pm, and I arrived in London at 7am their time (2am my time). I was fortunate enough to have a window seat and an empty seat next to me. When planning for my trip I completely intended to sleep the entire 7 hour flight, especially since I was arriving here in the early morning with a full day/night ahead of me. However, shortly after take off I turned on my Nook to begin reading the first Hunger Games novel... to my surprise... 6 hours later we I finished the book and we were about 45 minutes from landing. I must have been more excited/anxious than I realized, because typically I am asleep before the flight even takes off- especially if I start reading. The dinner they served on the flight was actually quite good. I had the choice of beef or chicken; I chose the chicken. It was Chinese style- rice, mushrooms, broccoli, carrots and chicken in some sort of gravy type sauce. There was also a small side salad w/ Asian sesame dressing, a honey wheat roll, and a chocolate granola bar for dessert. I had a cup of white tea shortly thereafter, which may have contributed to my restlessness. I have never had white tea before, only green tea and sweet tea; I was pleasantly surprised to find that I really enjoyed it. Midway through the flight the man at the aisle seat of my row got up to use the "lavatory" so I happily got up and did the same. I also used that time to stretch my legs. I ran a 5k with my mom 2 days ago and my calves are KILLING ME. The long period of sitting still coupled with the pressure of the altitude change did not help. So I did a few yoga poses, used the bathroom and settled back down with my Nook. The man on the end and I exchanged a few words and then he proceeded to put on his headphones. At one point, I found him looking on the floor for something but it was so dark there was no way he could see. So I lent him my book light- being a nerd pays off sometimes :P Later in the flight it was evident that he was trying to sleep. Most of the plane was dark, but I had my LED book light on and I began to wonder if it was inhibiting him from falling asleep, so I handed him my eye mask. He was so appreciative and I was happy to see that a few short minutes later he was soundly asleep. When the pilot came on the intercom to say good morning and advise that we would be landing soon, we struck up a thorough conversation about London. He hails from the city but had been in the states for work. By the end of our talk I had learned of several interesting places to go see and great/cheap places to eat. He also emailed me about 8 different emails with links and great information. As we exitted the plane he told me that he also needed to take a train to get to his home so he would help me by my Oyster card and ensure I headed toward the right train. Now that I've gone through it, I'm certain I would have done just fine, but it was really nice to have someone's help and just a companion to walk through the massive desserted airport with. We parted ways at the Tube. I have since emailed him thanking him and will email him again once I have actually visited a few of the places he recommended.
While on the Tube I met 2 men from Australia who were beginning their 3 month backpacking trip in London. It was some great conversation and it helped to pass the time on my long ride. I soon arrived at my stop. I exitted the Tube to find signs leading me straight to the museum which is right next to my hostel. So I made it there no problem and was able to drop off my luggage even though check-in isn't until 2pm. I went downstairs and had some cocoa krispies and chatted with a couple visiting from Ohio.
I now sit at Cafe Nero using their free wi-fi. I am waiting to hear from Zahrah, or for a shop to open where I can buy a phone so I can call her. :) We shall see what the day has in store.
As far as the weather... it is really cold. I have on jeans, sperrys, a shirt, a hoodie, and a thin rain jacket.. and as I type.. I can feel my fingers getting a little numb. Hopefully my body will acclimate to the temperature difference. If not, I will be buying gloves and scarves! lol.
No comments:
Post a Comment