Reliving history in London


We had a great day in London. There is so much, so much history to touch and to feel in London. We pretty much spent our entire day in the Parliament area. We first took a guided tour in the Westminister Abbey. It is a beautiful abbey, and it was such an experience at present with all the great people, kings and queens, who we read about... Now, we can actually touched their tombs, or walk on their burial ground. You felt so much connected to these very special historical figures, felt so much being part of history, and a living history rather than one you read from the books. It was such an experience.

After the memorable Westminister Abbey visit, we went across the street, and queued up for a tour at House of Commons. We waited in line for an hour and a half, then waited inside for another hour. Lo did not wear enough clothes. He was freezing waiting in the line. It was a long wait. But, it was really worthwhile. After a sitting at the House of Commons, we sat at the House of Lords. We got to understand how the parliament works. I should do the same in U.S. to figure out how the U.S. system works.

We strolled along WhiteHall afterward, then headed back to Oxford Circle. Bus drivers and people in London are as rude as those in H.K or China. Couple of times, we saw bus driver drove away even seeing passengers running to chase after the bus. Also, couple of buses drove away even after we waved for them to stop. Of course, we were waiting at the right bus stop. People do not line up here. They swamed to get on bus, rather than lining up neatly and nicely as folks in U.S. People also cut line. Oh well...

We had a nice dinner in a cozy restaurant. Not too expensive, but good food. After a quick hop back to the hotel, and unload our heavy bags (well I got a few books), we went out again, taking a bus tour (route N15) to tour to Blackwall. Along the way, we saw Royal Courts f Justice, St Paul's Cathedral (which seems to be understand renovation), Bank of England, Swiss RE Tower, Monument, and the grand Tower of London. I was really excited seeing the Tower of London. I can't wait for a visit there.

It was a long day. My back really hurt the entire day from all the walking and standing. But it was a great day. Lo and I decided that we should travel to a new place every year.

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