The Halfway Point

Ladies and gentlemen, I've come to a sad realization. This past Monday, March 4th, marked the official halfway point of my stay in London. Cue the world's tiniest violin.

It honestly feels like I've just gotten used to living in London rather than visiting. Here comes the cliche, but time really does fly. Regardless, I'm thankful spring break is finally here - we've been working hard, believe it or not. Anyway, I'll be spending most of the break in London, with an extended weekend trip to Paris next Thursday (...I know right?). Needless to say I'm thrilled.

That being said, having a solid week to meander through the parts of London I've yet to explore is equally exciting. Somehow in the seven weeks I've been here, I still haven't made it to most of the museums and parks, Buckingham Palace, or an official afternoon tea. Let's be honest though, I'm more of a coffee girl, and London's been revealing quite the hidden gems lately.

Most recently I discovered a wonderful little coffee shop just across the street from the building my classes are in. Actually, the shop, called Freestate Espresso, just opened last week and is quickly becoming my favorite spot to hideaway and get work done. With a beautiful glass facade, reclaimed wood floors and coffee bars, and the beauty that is the La Marzocco Strada espresso machine, how could you not just fall in love? Plus, they have mint green coffee cups. What did I say? Love.

Poor little cappuccino didn't even last long enough to get a shot of the latte art.

Interior of Freestate Espresso with wood reclaimed from 1920s railway car boards.

Me and Megan getting our caffeine fix.

Aside from discovering new avenues to fuel my coffee addiction, I've been exploring British pub culture. Somehow, I managed to make it the topic for a project in one of my classes which means I have to have plenty of first-hand experience. Convenient how that worked out if you ask me. So far I've been to a few of London's most historic and eclectic pubs. From The Princess Louise in Holborn to the Black Friar in St. Paul's, each pub has had a distinct atmosphere. 

The Princess Louise in Holborn is definitely one of my favorites so far. Built in 1872, The Princess Louise is an absolutely gorgeous example of a Victorian public house. Although there wasn't room to sit downstairs, there are these fantastic little booths around the bar on the first floor. Regardless, two of my good friends and I enjoyed a pint of cider and good conversation in the upstairs part of the pub. 

Fantastically restored Victorian interior at the Princess Louise.

One of the small stalls surrounding the downstairs bar.

There's something so wonderfully charming about pubs in London - especially the ones labelled as "historic." Layers upon layers of textures, furnishings, photographs and decorations reflect the type of thing you'd expect to see in a well-loved home. Considering pubs (aka public houses) were originally extensions of the owners homes, that makes a whole lotta sense. What I love more than the beautiful ornamentation of the pub itself is the intangible atmosphere you experience. Spending a few hours here creates stories, good times, and a sort of nostalgia - layers of memories and experiences. Plus, I'm finally learning to appreciate beer - Guinness is surprisingly one of my favorites so far.

Speaking of favorites, one of my favorite "local" spots is the Victoria in Westminster. It's only about a seven minute walk from my flat, and it definitely has the neighborhood vibe going for it. It's quite a bit smaller than the Princess Louise, but what it lacks in size it certainly makes up for in charm. The few times I've been, there's been a perfectly balanced mix of tourists, the casual pub-hopper, and a handful of regulars who are definitely starting to remember my face. Plus, the bartenders are fantastic (and not half-bad looking either ladies!) Anyway, I've had quite a few "you had to be there" moments here so far and am sure to have more in the next two months. Don't worry though, I'm not turning into a lush getting pissed* all the time! ;)

Until next time,

Cheers!

View of the bar at The Victoria.

Having a designgasm over the wallpaper.

Enjoying the classic pint.

*U.K. English Word of the Week: "Pissed" meaning drunk

Market Stalls & Castle Halls

Well ladies and gents, here we are. It's been three weeks since my last post, and honestly, I couldn't tell you why! Sometimes the time just gets away from you I guess. Regardless, I apologize for my lack of updates.

Looking back at these few weeks, I can hardly think of just everything I've been up to. Between classes and exploring the streets of London, I know I've been busy. Unfortunately, my whirlwind of a brain has trouble remembering specifically what I've been doing. Double unfortunately, I spent the past week largely in my flat. Let me tell you, the raging common cold doesn't care if you're in London or at home in Syracuse, NY - it'll come for you no matter where you exist. Anywho, a trip to the chemist later, I'm feeling much better.

Anyway, in my healthy moments, I've spent a lot of time exploring the Southwark area of London thanks, in part, to a class project taking place in that area. In my design class, we're looking at some of the local issues in Southwark, and eventually designing a space that will help to alleviate these problems within the abandoned railway arches. My particular area is interesting in that it is located in the direct center of a variety of cultural hubs. Theaters to the west, art galleries to the north, and the famous Borough Market to the east.

A fabulous installation piece hidden in Borough Market.

Speaking of Borough Market, I could honestly say this is one of my favorite places in London. Tons of local vendors set up here to sell there wares, and by wares I mean delicious delectables. Local produce, hand made meats and cheeses, tasty jams and chutneys, and every other food imaginable are for sale here. What's even better about this place? Free samples. You had me at Hello, Borough Market.

Fresh produce from Turnips @ Borough Market.

Monmouth Coffee Company.

Freshly roasted coffee beans @ Monmouth Coffee.

Rabot Estate: Home of the Best Mocha I've Ever Had.

Perhaps two of my favorite aspects of the market aren't actually part of the market - Monmouth Coffee Company and Rabot Estate. Ladies, let me translate - superb cappuccinos and lattes right down the street from the most delicious homemade chocolate I've ever had. I'll give you a moment. I had more than enough of a caffeiene fix between the two. Monmouth roasts its own coffee, much like where I work (Cafe Kubal Represent!) so the espresso drinks are rich and smooth. And Rabot Estate? They do a KILLER mocha (which isn't typically my favorite). The secret to their success? They use their own, handmade melted chocolate in their mochas and hot chocolates. Absolutely to DIE for!

In addition to exploring local wares, I took a day trip to Windsor Castle. Important news flash: Her Majesty the Queen arrived shortly after we'd left that day! To think I could have had afternoon tea with her...

...right.

Central Tower & Gardens

The Long Walk.

The Lower Part of Windsor Castle. 

The town of Windsor was such a refreshing sight compared to the bustling streets of London. This weekend retreat of the royal family sits atop a rolling green hill and comes complete with winding, cobblestone streets. Not to mention it was another one of those rare warm, sunny February days in London, making for some beautiful pictures of the castle (see below). All points of the castle hold beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and the gardens surrounding the central tower brought new life to the grey London I've come to love.

Megan & I with our New Guard Friend.

Oh, and did I mention I finally got to have some fun with the Royal Guard? Overall, a wonderful day trip and a wonderful past few weeks. Although, I'll let you in on a secret, the next few weeks will be full of even more excitement. I'll give you a hint, c'est magnifique!


U.K. English Word of the Week: "Chemist" meaning pharmacist