Edinburgh

...the city of brilliance and cleanliness. *I am so sorry that I did not upload pictures, yesterday! I got a little distracted with the beauty of Edinburgh... I wish I had booked more time here. I did not realize that a festival called the Fringe was happening during my stay. Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the largest arts festival in the world, and I believe it. The festival here is unlike any festival I have been to (which actually has not been many...). This is why my hostel was so expensive at $45 per night! But it has been so worth it. These are my people. Artsy fartsy. Let me show you:

Not a statue, but a street performer... hilarious and scared the bejeezus out of me!

A small band at an amazing pub called, "Lebowski's"

Here is a link to the festival: https://www.edfringe.com/about-us

Check it out and be inspired. 

I have so many more pictures on my other camera (better quality and shots). When I return to the States, I will post a link to a slideshow. I believe that I have a total of 1,200 photos! I am such a stinkin' American. Honestly, I purposefully chose not to take as many as I thought I would to savor the moments and sights. Also, I want to and will return so why see the UK through a bloody lens?! Haha, and if you object, then come with me, next time! I am hoping December or March. Think about it, readers. 

What should I talk about. Here is something that brought so many emotions. Yesterday morning, I got up at 7:15a and got ready to visit The Elephant House for breakfast. I was not sure if the place would be crowded. Thankfully, it was not, but when I walked by it in the afternoon, there was a queue about 50 feet outside the door! Win. This is where J.K. Rowling began to write the Harry Potter series. As an aspiring writer, I fully appreciated sitting in the corner and writing in my journal while enjoying the view of Edinburgh Castle and Stadium. I can totally see where she got her inspiration from. Not only from the Castle, but from this whole city. I am telling you, travel back here with me for the Fringe Festival, next year! Anyway, I ended up tearing up a bit as I sat in the corner (picture below).

Honestly, the place does not look like much. Just outside the large window, you can see the Hogwarts, I mean, the Castle. Spectacular. Here are a couple more shots:

Elephants everywhere! 

I am such a tourist... I regret taking this photo, haha

...and a bloody creeper for taking this photo but it was so cute!

After the touching moment at The Elephant House, I headed up to Edinburgh Castle. The cost was 16 pounds to enter but it was well worth it. This, folks, was a castle. Funny story... Before coming to Edinburgh, I had envisioned the city to be small, situated among tight hills, and crowded. I also thought that the castle would be dull, dark, and hidden behind other buildings and trees. When I got off the train and walked down the Main Street, I was enjoying looking at the shops and churches on my right and thought, "This is a pretty nice city!" Then, I looked to my left and noticed a lovely and long park paralleling the main street, larger cathedrals above the park, and castle-like buildings up top. Then, I saw it--Edinburgh Castle and about had a heart attack. The Castle is the main attraction and focal point in the city. Here are some shots:

William Wallace on the right (the original statue!)

Either tomorrow or the next day, I will post some pictures of the interior. I discovered some really interesting things about Scotland's role during times of war. Here's a small preview:

In my Media Studies seminar, we discussed the hidden meanings behind posters and how influential they are. I was actually shocked to see the light and airy content on the dozens of Scottish military recruiting posters... I would like to do more research on how they progressed throughout the years. More on that, later. 

After the castle, I decided to head back to the hostel for a lie down. Although the Caledonian Backpackers Hostel was not my favorite, I did appreciate the interior and clean facilities. Here are some shots:

Cheap drinks right in the hostel!

Damn bird would not shut up!

#ihateselfies

Lounge area

Lobby

Last night, I was trying to introduce myself to my fellow travelers in the hostel but had no luck with pleasant conversation because most of them were traveling in packs (solo travelers unite!) So I went back to my room (6-bed mixed dorm) and started rolling up my clothes to fit into my carry on. After succeeding and belting out Lady Gaga, in walks my roomie, Talia (another Australian!) We talked for a bit and decided to head down to the bar for a drink. I found out that she quit her job in Australia, applied for a 2-year visa, and moved to a wealthy area south of London to work at a pub. She is only 19. I truly admire her bravery! She got four days off and decided to head up to Edinburgh for the Fringe. I really enjoyed her company and after some convo, we met two more Australians! Finally, we decided to check out some more places. We had a blast. Here are some pictures:

Talia!

This guy at the pub we were at approached us and wrote this on our arms explaining that it would get us into a night club for free! We checked it out and actually had a grand time! However, come 1:30a, Talia and I decided to split because we were exhausted...

There you have it, readers. Edinburgh. Just kidding. Later, I will compose another post about two things: 1) the Castle's interior and some discussion about the military and 2) the hike up to Arthur's Seat (and the gorgeous views...!).

All the best and many hugs.

*wipes away a tear at the thought of leaving Edinburgh...*

Today is Alive

*Feel free to comment with your grammar corrections... ;)

Scotland. William Wallace. A sense of pride throughout the city. J.K. Rowling. Adventure. Although I only have two days to wander, play, and gawk in Edinburgh, I know that I will enjoy every minute of it. I already am enjoying it! So far, my favorite thing about Edinburgh are the buildings. To me, it seems like each one has a personality backed by a story. If walls could talk, I would be interviewing every old shop, castle, church, and pub in this city.

Here is what I have planned today:

-The Elephant House for breakfast (this is where J.K. Rowling sat as she wrote some of Harry Potter)
-Edinburgh Castle (finally, a real castle!)
-Grab some lunch materials
-Hike up Arthur's Seat (an inactive volcano pretty much in Edinburgh)
-Take a thousand-word picture
-Bum around the city and shop
-???

Pictures later today. Cheers, and thanks for reading this blog, even though it can be a bit everywhere.

London flew by

Friday evening was loads of fun. I ended up stopping by a bar/lounge just around the corner from where I stayed. The people there were really nice and a group ended up approaching me for a chat. I am glad that they did! I had so much fun with them. Karen (just like from W & G) was one of my favorites... She is a 45-year-old woman with the spirit of a 22-year-old. She kept telling me to remind her to take a happy birthday video for her friend, Graham. Here's a picture of the group singing:

And here's Karen dancing to ABBA

Karen, again, dancing the night away... I kept threatening to bottle her up and keep it in my pocket

Jeremy (from NYC), Karen, and Paul on my left

I cannot believe that I am reaching the end of my stay in London. Currently, I'm sitting in the train at King's cross waiting to travel along the east coast to Edinburgh. I booked my train through Virgin about a week ago. During the booking process, I requested a quiet car. 

Dear people aboard the quite car,

I will never understand why you need to listen to music loud enough for the people around you to hear and continue to chat with your mates. Even if it were a song the rest of us liked, it still sounds annoying and although I do think that your auntie's pot roast sounds delicious, I do not care. 

Sincerely,

Trying to get some rest

Thanks for listening to me vent. Anyway, London was brilliant. Yesterday, I ended up walking along the river and made my way to the Globe Theatre. After several emotional moments and Shakespeare quotes running through my mind, I wondered into the building knowing I would not purchase an exhibition ticket. I am a little sad that I did not go through but reminded myself that this will not be my last trip to London. 

Notice the two ladies on the lower left

One of the riverfront museums... So expensive to enter!

Book fair! Should have bought a book for the train ride

Skateboard "park"--It was quite busy!

The Queen's Wide Window Gardens (booths with plants inside and information about them)

In my last post, I mentioned the film, My Fair Lady. During my walk back from the Globe Theatre, I stumbled upon St. Paul's Cathedral and nearly died. Mary Poppins was one of my favorites growing up so I had to stop, take a picture, and sing "Feed The Birds" to myself. 

Tuppence a bag

Obviously there is so much more to my trip but these are some of the better highlights. I really am having a grand time. I cannot stop and think about how my life is changing but I do know that it is in the process. Honestly, I am a bit afraid to return to America with the attitude of discontentment. Here, I am in my element, surrounded by so many cultures, languages, beauty, and diversity. Things will be fine once I start school, but I shall miss Europe and be bummed that I have to wait a while to return. Oh, small, rural areas, how you sometimes sadden me. Actually, I am thinking another small trip in March... 

Until next time from Edinburgh. Cheers.

Wouldn't It Be Loverly

Today has been a glorious day! First off, last night, I made a new friend! Mara, from Portugal. She has been living here in London for the past fifteen years and loves it. We had a really good discussion about how racism is tied to people's accents. For instance, Brazilians speak Portuguese and so do people from Portugal; however, they have different accents within the language. People who actually live in Portugal hate Brazilians... Such crap. Sounds like the States!

Mara!

She said she is the Wild Child in her family... Something we both share ;)

Additionally, last night, I was blessed with something special. A really kind doctor of philosophy bought me a ticket for the play, The 39 Steps. The 100-minute farce involves 1930s British comedy/drama/mystery about a gentleman who gets mixed up with a conspiracy involving the next world war and Scotland's involvement. The show only has four actors (3 men and 1 woman) who all play different characters throughout the show. It was marvelous. Thanks, Dr. ;)

I want to mention two more amazing things that occurred today. I stopped by the Victoria & Albert Museum. Readers, this has been THE highlight of London. I thoroughly enjoyed the exhibits, the art, the deco pieces, the dozens of collections and thousands of period pieces, and most importantly of them all, the theatre and music section. There, they had so many costume pieces from various performances, plays, musicals, concerts, etc. I loved it. 

Beatrix Potter's original work....!

So much money into these artifacts...! Dear church, I don't think gold works in heaven... Let's pawn the gold and enhance the poor's livelihood! Sincerely, I don't really understand...

The other wonderful thing I would like to mention is my all-time favorite movie musical, My Fair Lady. As I was walking back from Hyde Park (BEAUTIFUL), I stumbled upon Wimpole St. Below is a picture:

Although I did not see 27A Wimpole St., I did see 27 Wimpole St.!!! *sigh* Glorious moment...

Another post tomorrow, readers! Cheers! 

I <3 LONDON

Cheers, mate! I only have a few minutes because the day is just about to get even BETTER... London is everything I hoped it would be and so much more... Check out some photos below!

British Museum painter...!

I hear Mr. Big Ben off in the distance everywhere I go! 

Aye, matey!

Stumbled across this place and bought a ticket... where?

I've been DYING to see this show! 

There you have it, for now! I'm off like a prom dress to see a great musical! Ciao! 

Well, if I flunk out of school or can't find a teaching position, I can always go back to modeling!? 

Today is Lazy...

*My last blog post didn't upload, last night! Please read that one, first, and then this one! Sketchy wi-fi...

But that is a very good (and needed) thing. Readers, although I am in one of the most enchanting and bustling cities in the UK, I must be wise and rest. I have only left my dorm room to do laundry... Other than that, I have been sleeping, booking an overnight stay in Chicago for when I arrive, booking a train from Chicago back to Wisconsin, begging my friends to pick me up from the train station, and writing post cards to loved ones. In a few minutes, I will be on the prowl for a coffee shop with a comfy chair and do some reading. Remember, not only am I exploring the world and myself, I am rejuvenating and preparing for the busy and hair-pulling year ahead of me. I have loads to do when I return:

-pack and change apartments

-find and purchase a new car

-type like a madman (late-life divorce study)

-type like a madwoman (finishing touches of my thesis literature review)

-sit through IA training...

-prep for my teaching

-sign up for my fall classes

-work

-finally start the semester!

Back to London. Yesterday was filled with walking, jaw-dropping monuments and buildings, and my new favorite show, Once. After a grand sleep, I had a full English breakfast provided by the University of London. May I highly recommend staying at the University during the summer!? The school dorms are nestled in a quiet part of London (Russell Sq.) and are close to the tube. The facilities are great for students and young travelers and include a large single-room with closet space, shared bathrooms (yet, private), and free wi-fi! I will definitely remember this place for future travels.

I walked. And walked, and walked. London is huge and full of winding roads, curving brick paths, and areas begging to be explored. I chose to spend my time at free museums such as the British Museum and the National Gallery. Two really interesting things occurred during my visits...

First, at the British Museum, I saw one of my all-time favorite discoveries, The Rosetta Stone (pictured below). 

Readers, I had no idea that this would be within my reach until I entered the building. Here's why this stone means a lot to me. For those of you who do not know, I was homeschooled throughout K-12 and during my 5th grad history class, I learned about this stone during the Ancient Egypt chapters and marveled at its importance in history. I learned about the many different people who tried to bridge the languages to crack Hieroglyph meanings. At that time, I was also smuggling sneak peaks of Indiana Jones and The Mummy movies so I was so into the topic, and this stone. 

After viewing the stone, I wondered the museum for about three hours. I only scraped the surface of this place! Please sir, I want some more. I refused to take pictures of everything like most of the other visitors... I still feel guilty for taking pictures of some of my favorite pieces but se la vie. 

The National Gallery refused to let anyone take pictures, which was a treat! There, I saw Monet, Manet, Renoir, and many other famous works. This, I think, was a great part of the day. Haha, but I must tell you... Outside of the Gallery were hundreds, if not, several thousand Scottish people gathered for something... I have yet to discover. Below are some pictures:

When I arrived to the National Gallery, I was like, "Oh! Hello people!" I secretly wanted to belong. Readers, although I am proud to be an American, I would like to mention that my view is deepening. I have met and discussed with about a dozen people from different countries about the US and what they think about Americans. My mind is still being blown away and torn in many different directions. I guess we all will have differences and different views but what I am learning is making me rather frustrated, mostly over my naivety. I must continue to educate myself. 

After the museums and sightseeing, I headed back to my dorm room for a lie down before I headed to see Once. Let me tell you. That show really encouraged me to make more time for composing on the piano. I am also thinking about picking up my ukulele, again! Jamming session at David's apartment! I must make more musician friends in Point... Where are the drama-free ones?

More pictures:

Part of Chinatown. Not what I expected! I barely saw any Chinese people! 

I was starving and opted for a buffet... Just like the Hong Kong Buffet :( You get what you pay for!

The Phoenix Theatre where Once played... be still, my heart

'Ello!

That's it for now! 

Speaking with scouse

*Again, sorry for the large photos!

People in Liverpool speak with a "scouse" accent. It is kind of like the Boston accent of the US. Where it really originated from, I have no idea. Regardless, people here speak with a lot of "scouse." Ha, I cannot tell the difference. Liverpool is like the Chicago of the US. The buildings, although not dark, intimidating, and towering skyscrapers, do have a certain style much like in Chicago. In fact, I went to the Liverpool Museum and sure enough, it had an architecture exhibit that mentioned similar styles to Chicago buildings. I knew it! 

The outside of Lime St Station, Liverpool. Beautiful.

My time in Liverpool felt a bit rushed but I enjoyed it immensely. I arrived at 10p and had the whole hostel room (4 bed, mixed dorm) to myself. I had considered hunting for the source of club music beating right outside my window but decided against it and opted for a good sleep. I was so tired from the long trip from Scotland that I fell immediately crashed... Literally. I fell off the top bunk. Thankfully, I managed to swing myself halfway onto the bottom bunk but still have a bruise on my rump. The show must go on!

HOAX Hostel... Honestly, I half expected the hostel to be fake...! 

Clean-cut and bright rooms

The lobby area ... :D

The hostel I stayed at was amazing. It had recently opened three weeks prior to my arrival. The staff were extra friendly and very helpful. At breakfast, a Liverpool local and HOAX Hostel employee, Emelia, and I talked about politics and views on Americans... More about that in another post. Anyway, once more people discover HOAX Hostel, I have a feeling that the extremely clean and new interior will be faded and dirty within a decade. Why? The hostel is so clean cut and blunt that one does not have to worry about being charged 3 pounds to use a towel and the wi-fi is throughout the building with strong signals. And you cannot beat the location! In Liverpool, apart from exploring the 8+ miles worth of docks, the shopping district is outstanding. Envision the Magnificent Mile and State Street in Chicago combined but without the cars. Yep, the shopping district is off-limits to traffic which makes it very easy for street performers, families, and people stumbling around after having several and cheap pints of great beer from JD Wetherspoon. Don't know what JD Wetherspoon is? Let me explain. 

JD Wetherspoon was explained to me by a gentleman I met at breakfast in the Castle Hotel back in Dublin. This well-traveled high school wood shop teacher from South Bend, IN advised me that when traveling in the UK on a budget, stop by JD Wetherspoon for cheap beer and inexpensive good food. JD Wetherspoon is a British pub chain founded by Tim Martin. Martin named the chain after one of his college business professors who claimed that Tim would never be successful. Now, the chain boasts over 800 locations and almost $2 billion in revenue in 2012. Martin wanted to create a cheap place for travelers (or locals) to have a pint or six and affordable pub food. I tip my hat off to Martin. Cheers, mate.

The picture above is a meal I had at JD Wetherspoon (I love saying the name of this place...). For a huge slab of lasagne, a hefty garden salad, bread, AND a pint of great beer, I only paid 7 pounds (around $11, I think...). This will be my dinner in London, where I hear that everything is expensive. Yep.  Call it McDonald's drunk cousin from Britain. And the food is served until 11p! I do love me some JD Wetherspoon.

Back to Liverpool. Below are some shots of my favorite buildings from the city:

Not sure what these buildings are but they look grand

This was the view from my hostel room

Well, right now I am waiting for the train to take me to London. *smiles broadly at the thought*... In London, I hope to meet my friend, Domenique. I met her in NYC at work about three years ago. We have been besties ever since. She currently resides in her home country, Romania. Originally, she was going to take me all around Eastern European countries such as Italy, Germany, and then hit up France. However, due to her job transitions, plans fell through and we decided on London. I cannot wait to see her! We talked about staying with her friends but I booked a dorm room at the University of London. I decided to do this to have a break from the hostel life and because things with Dom were still up in the air. The single room with a shared bathroom cost about $60 per night. But it comes with a full, hot English breakfast! Most of the hostels only come with a cheap continental breakfast. Until next time, readers. Cheers, luv!