from the horizon

When I initially left New Zealand, over 2 years ago, I had the vague plan of traveling around Asia a bit, before gradually making my way to the UK, to follow the path of most New Zealanders my age, and get a job in London. Needless to say, this didn’t quite happen (occupying myself instead with work in Indonesia, Pakistan and Uganda). However on my way to the UN Symposium in Geneva I managed to take some time off to spend some time in London, catching up with the friends of mine who actually made it there, and taking in the sights.

Having friends there did make it slightly easy - a special thanks to Lisa, Adam and Beth for letting me crash on their couches!

I was only there for a week, and that was not nearly enough time. I know understand the attraction of London, and think that I will definitely be back at some point – there is just so much to do! It really does put Banda Aceh to shame. It was great catching up with my friends there, and I’m sorry that I didn’t have enough time to see everyone. Some of the highlights include:

• Visiting the Tower of London

• Seeing the Tate Modern
• The subway system - sorry “The Tube”! Initially I found it rather confusing, but I gradually got the hang of it, even if I did start to feel like an ant in an ant trail. It was a very efficient people moving system, even if it was very expensive. I found it interesting that no one talks on the tube, lest they get knifed (or so the rumour goes). I figured that it was all a royal conspiracy to prevent the commoners from discussing rebellion. I didn’t let it stop me from talking to the 2 pirates on the Tube (only in London?)
• Going to a Salsa bar that was packed out on a Thursday night
• Going to Hamleys (the toy store), where I’m sure all the sales people were on drugs - no one over the age of 8 should be that excited about toys.

• Walking to Buckingham Palace with my friend, to see if the Queen would serve us Tea and Scones. (She didn’t – I am now a Republican)
• Racing through the British Museum – Oh to have had more time!
• Visiting a Wine Museum – with Wine Tastings!
• Going to see Minuit – my favourite band from New Zealand play!
• Walking along the South Bank on a Sunny Day. It was great.