Off to a different world.

Stepping off of Paddington station located on the west end of London I was quickly assaulted by the smell of city life, one can't really explain the smell of it, but it was quite odd because once I had got a whiff of it I realized I was back in Europe again. I don't know what it is about major european cities and their smell, but it is definitely distinct. Now you may think that I am off my rocker talking about the smell of a city, but I know that its distinct essence will always trigger the memory of my European travels.

The roads here are even more weird! So far I can say that I have seen no sharp cornered intersections. There is really no edges to the roads, its all finely curved...and chaotic! When you cross a street you might have to do up to three separate crossings because they have a specific lane from turning. And of course if its not hard enough to keep track all the cars I have to the constantly remind myself that I have to look to my right first. Failure to do that really can result in bodily injury since it really seems that cars have the right of way here. One thing is certain. I would never bike on the streets of London!

Today I headed towards Liverpool Street and drank at The Stone Horse and the Paper Cow pub, it is definitely a mouthful to say, but it is a great local pub! Even with the England vs. Algeria FIFA world cup going on I was still able to stand and watch, as well as catch a glimpse the English' love for the sport of "Football" ( I have been warned that if you say the dreaded "S" word, you will have a verbal or physical beating). Watching the game with great intensity I really had to keep myself quite not to give away my nationality to a room full of welling, drinking, football loving English. However when asked by the man next to me how I thought the game was when the teams had ended in a tie I was quickly discovered. The mans face instantly changed into surprise before quickly turning to his drinking mates, clapping me on the shoulder and announcing "This girl here is American". His mated mocked insult, but quickly started to converse with Alex and me. It was really great to finally talk to locals and ask my favorite questions: "What comes to mind when you think American?" When asked, the group of men instantly and unanimously agreed that they liked/loved the Yanks, but really disliked Bush. Ah common ground is finally found. After a few brief talks about politics and the football game, the men wished us good luck on our studies and horrible, disasterous luck on our football team in the World cup. We both instantly replied, "And same to you."