August 29th, 2013

 

We were only given one day to site-see around London.  TAKE ADVANTAGE of every chance you get to see and experience as much as you can WHILE you can! Did you get all that!? Haha - But really, my team and I seized the opportunity and jumped on the nearest double-decker....they're everywhere soooo it wasn't a difficult task.  It was fun....Grace made sure to take advantage of the selfie opportunity! Hahaha! 

 

Grace and I decided to go on a guided night tour later that day - with an open-topped double-decker! That was SO much more fun! Feeling the late night London air! Seeing the beautiful lights and sites! I felt so invigorated !  

 

Sadly, It was cut short after our team leader told us to get back immediately; BEYOND irritated about that.  I am an independent and strong woman.  I protect myself (and others if necessary)!   To say it's not safe for us to be out there at that time was not only inaccurate (ok maybe a little....nothing more than any other big city in a developed, western culture.  I lived in Chicago for pete sake!), but also demeaning.   Double sadness on our double-decker adventure: I lost my phone due to being in such a rush to get off the bus.  I.RATE.

 

 

****Quick safety lessons for all you who might worry about travel safety:  1) Power in numbers - when possible, ALWAYS have a travel buddy who can cover your back.  2) Safety in crowds - not 100% accurate, but when in doubt, stay to more touristy, crowded places.  There will be more security and more eyes to watch out for suspicious behavior in those places.   3) Have a tight guard on your belongings.  Don't have a loose grip on a purse or bag.  Don't keep valuables in easily accessible pockets.  Outer pocket on your purse - don't put the credit card in there!  4) Appear as confident as possible, even if you're completely faking it.  You're gonna straight up beat someone's ass if they even think about breaking your 5 foot bubble.  Mentally dare everyone around you to try something.  DO IT! I FREAKING DARE YOU!!  5) All else fails,  start praying girl!