The End....

Today was my last full day in London. Bittersweet would be an appropriate description. It has been a joy being a "Londoner" the last few weeks, yet despite my "Londoner" status quo, home is where the heart is.

The cultural differences have been joyful, sad, surprising, rewarding, and at times overwhelming. There are those things I'll miss, such as public transportation, getting a good walk in every day, and of course sunny days without gnats. Yet, in my weeks here I've learned to appreciate the States more-for starters because of the dollar ratio-and to further embrace opportunities for cultural learning experiences, especially when it comes to the palette.

This was a trip that I'll share for years to come with the hope of returning one day.

McDonald's

Well, I made it to McDonald's. Not the one in in France, unfortunately, but I did make it to a McDonald's in London. It wasn't bad. There were a few differences, such as price and the lack of ice, but there were also some different menu options. For example, there is a 99 pence ($2 US) menu that includes a bacon cheeseburger and as for value meals, there is no 10 piece meal. Other than that, everything else looked liked McDonald's in the US. Now, these are the things that stood out, so there may be others that I overlooked.

One thing I have noticed about McDonald's is that they are crowded everywhere-London, the US, even France. I guess everyone wants a piece of the golden arch.

Pictures from Paris

Sacred Heart Cathedral






The City

Weekend in Paris

This past weekend was my opportunity to explore Paris. To say the least, it was a quick trip; however, a nice trip. Going with a tour guide for my first trip was ideal, as I'm unsure as to how I would have got around not knowing the language. I did attempt to learn a few key phrases prior to arrival, but mainly stuck with merci or thank you.

Normally, I would list the various places we visited but other than the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, the Louvre, and the Sacred Heart Cathedral, I really don't know the names. Despite the whirlwind weekend it was nice to see monuments that I've only seen in magazines or on television, until now.

I've heard Paris described as the place for love or romance and I can see that, yet I'm unsure if, for me, that would be an accurate description. Regardless, I've come to realize in all my travels that some things are the same wherever you visit, such as crime, graffiti, lots of tourist, and expense. Yet there are cultural differences that make you appreciate your native land. The one practice that I'd heard about, yet forgot, I'll affectionately call "pay to pee." This takes places around London as well, but not as frequently as in France. Subway, the restaurant, charged 50 euro cents ($1 US) to use their facilities, and I've never seen so many "port-a-potties" on streets either. Although I would think their street toilets are cleaner than most port-a-potties since they are stationary.

Although the weekend went quickly, I'm not sure how long I would survive in Paris on my own or with their "pay to pee" system, not to mention expense.

Daylight

Well, time is winding down and one thing I have yet to grow accustom to is the time the sun rises and sets. Every morning since the first, and I'm not exaggerating here, I get up with the sun only to lay down again. Unfortunately, that means between 4 and 5 a.m. EVERY MORNING. The room doesn't come with black out curtains, although I may make the suggestion.

As for the afternoon, well, you see the picture. No gimmicks, I didn't change the clock time. It is 9 p.m. and plenty of light for the late owl. I've come back late with colleagues from eating out or productions at 10 p.m. and one would think it was 8 o'clock.

London gives a new definition to the cliche "be home before the street lights come on." Especially since around here the lights don't come on till after 10 p.m.

Restaurants: Eat-in or Take Away

Depends. Not on how much time you have, but on how much money you want to spend. We've grown accustom to the fact that regardless of us dining in or getting or food to go the price will be the same. Not so in London. Here, you are encourage to get take away, as the price tends to be cheaper. How much cheaper you ask, again, depends. I've seen as low as a 30 pence ($.60) difference to as much as a little over a pound ($2 US).

Eating in is an enjoyable experience and if you have leftovers you can request a take away. That is free of charge. Yet also keep in mind that if you want free water you must request tap water, as just saying water will get you an almost $3 US bottle of Evian or the like. Yet, this tends to be your typical 20 ounces, although I have seen larger bottles.

If you do decide to take away instead of dining in, don't be surprised if you have to pay for the condiments. I've only seen condiments free in one place during my stay here. Most dining establishments (fast food that is, with the exception of global chains) charge 20 to 40 pence ($.40 to $.80) for one condiment packet.

So, again I ask, dine-in or take-away?

Harrods

As an advent shopper for just about anything, I've had the opportunity to familiarize myself with a few department stores and Harrods, is not a department store. Today I made it to Harrods. Of course I've heard about it like many others but it was definitely an adventure within itself.

Normally, I'm up for shopping despite the crowds or looking around. Sometimes it's just a nice outing and other times it's about the hunt. Well, today was no hunt. I went in with the mindset of surely there is something I can find here to purchase and I did, a Krispy Kreme Doughnut. Yes, you read that correctly, a Krispy Kreme Doughnut. Don't laugh, in US dollars it cost me $2.20 for one original glaze. Think if I would have bought a dozen. I'd be out $26 US.

There was everything imaginable in this store, except for cars. Although there were some rather nice ones outside waiting for their owners-Porsche, Rolls Royce, etc. The cheapest item I saw was some small jam jars on sale for 25 pence. The prices sky rocketed from there. I know I saw a sink worth one months pay check. Other items of interest in this so-called department store-that has five levels not including the ground and lower level floors-included several counter-top eating facilities, restaurants, clothes and accessories galore, home goods, bridal ware, etc., a statue in remembrance of the Diana crash, and even bell hops.

It was one interesting experience.

Fine Cuisines

In a place this large one would expect to find some exquisite dining places. Yet the enthusiasm in the hunt for a "good spot" can quickly fade once confronted with numerous choices. Despite the quest, I must admit that I've enjoyed my meals at numerous ethnic restaurants around London. Many of which were only frequented by myself or colleagues because of good deals or tiresome from walking.

Since being here I've had the opportunity to eat Thai, Indian, Lebanese, and Chinese (of course). Although I haven't seen any Mexican restaurants, I have been informed that they are present, but expensive. That might be one encounter not pursued. Despite, there are several other cuisines I intended to try prior to departure, such as Italian , Nigerian, double fried fries, and a crepe. One can't visit London without the infamous fish and chips, and once was enough.

Of course I will have to compare McDonald's while I'm here. The plan is to eat at a McDonald's in London and in Paris. They may not serve the sweet tea, but hopefully that will be the only significant change. This adventure will probably be a blog itself.

It's all free....

Despite the weak dollar, there are many perks to spending quality time in London, such as the numerous free activities. I mentioned in an earlier blog about free entrance to all Museums, unless one wants to visit a special exhibit. Well, as another weekend approaches now is a good time to elaborate on some other free venues.

The past two and half weeks have afforded the opportunity to listen to free music, celebrate American culture (July 4), and visit some well-known cathedrals. This week is no different. In various parks individuals will have the opportunity to participate in dance lessons, hear more music, and even do some cultural taste-testing, all at no charge. This weekend is the Big Dance in Trafalgar Square and the Rise Against Racism celebration in Finsbury park. Both events seem promising and with the number of people in London, not to mention tourist, will probably be crowded. The National Theatre has an area titled "Watch this Space" on a green turf that offers unique yet pleasurable event themes. There will also be a party behind the Tate Modern that will offer a break dancing exhibition, a Japanese drum exhibition, a fashion show, a doodle wall and more. Then of course there is people watching.

Despite cultural differences, free is one word where translation is universal.

Class meets "real life"

Every academician looks for a way to bring classroom work to life. With the study abroad program this is facilitated through scheduled field trips to various places in and around London. For my students, previous field trips and classroom discussions lead them to their meeting with "real life," at Abchurch Communications.

Briefly, as stated on their website, Abchurch is one of the UK's leading financial, investor and corporate communications consultancies, advising more than 85 clients, over 70 of which are quoted on the London Stock Exchange. The aggregate market capitalization of their client base is now approaching £4 billion ($8 billion US).

The first half of the day was, as one student put it, a crash course in financial public relations. Charlie Jack, an associate director, spoke with us for approximately two hours on how financial public relations works and where Abchurch fits in. It was interesting to see how UK papers significantly influence the London market. Charlie mentioned that a survey reported approximately 80% of readers who made a decision to invest or not within the market did so after reading various London papers and financial websites. Inadvertently, Charlie touched on several classroom topics such as objectives, target audiences, working with the media, understanding your clients industry, research, training, and more. Students were positively overwhelmed by the wealth of knowledge and various aspects of financial public relations. During our last few moments in the meeting, Justin Heath, a director, discussed the environmental aspect of the firm. Justin provided an overview of the clients and why environment is a such a hot commodity.

After our discussions with Charlie and Justin, we were lead on a 5-10 minute walk by a few new hires to attend a lunch-time meeting where we listened to Julian Bailey, the multi-media news editor for the BBC. This meeting was sponsored by the CIPR, which is the equivalent of PRSA in the U.S. After a few moments of eating and socializing, we listened to Mr. Bailey discuss how PR fits into the media and why we should care. This 30 minute conversation was followed by 30 minutes of Q&A.

Overall, this was a great opportunity for students to see the inner workings of a firm. This was an ideal merger between classroom discussion and the "real world."

Speakers Corner

Although the U.S. prides itself on freedom of speech, I cannot think of one place where people come together once a week to debate various issues. At least not beyond the floors of Congress, where even then you have to be a member. I mean a place where a permit is not necessary to gather, there is little to no concern about violence, and after such discussions people leave on a peaceful note. I'll be the first to admit that I have not traveled to every state, so I could be missing something.

Today, I experienced such a place at Speakers Corner. Every Sunday, like clock work, individuals from various walks of life come out to spark conversations with others that eventually becomes a debate. The forum is not organized and other than being civilized, peacefully, and not discussing the overthrow of the government or the Queen, anything is up for discussion.

Despite the cold temperatures there were several people gathered to partake or just listen in the various debates. There are approximately three step ladders in the park and one can stand on the ladder to voice his or her opinion. Or, if you don't prefer the ladder as one man showed today, you could use the lamp post as a way to elevate yourself above the crowd. Technically, you don't need either as many small groups showed with their debates here and there. The ladder, more or least, helps to draw an audience to your issue.

Although this was my first trip to Speakers Corner, I've been told that there are typically more people and a larger variations of topics. The theme for tonight was religion, although there were a few short lived debates on democracy, slavery, and South Africa. I was informed that earlier in the day there were debates on black supremacy and "who is the real Muslim." The only problem I endured trying to listen to these conversations was that some individuals did not project as loud as others, while yet other individuals choose to speak in their native language. Regardless, the crowds were peaceful and in the end many shook hands or hugged as a sign of understanding and respecting the opponents position without accepting it. However, rumor has it that last Sunday there was a tomato thrown and one or two spits here and there.

I understand why many take part in it and others come to "debate" watch. Where else could you find such a phenomenon?

Previous field trips

As with any trip it is difficult to determine what one should visit, especially if their trip is new territory. I had some help from various colleagues, allowing myself and students to see some rather interesting things. I noticed that I haven't mentioned much about the various field trips I've taken with my classes, so now may be a good time to play catch up. I've discussed the first field trip in an early blog, so I'll just pick up from there. Over the course of the last two weeks my classes have visited the British Broadcasting Centre (BBC), have taken separate london walks, and been to the Science Museum.

Some of the interesting features about the BBC include the fact that they employee 1300 journalist, the building is designed like a question mark, literally, and all their journalist are trained as such. During our tour we were able to visit two studios, participate in a game show, see the weather studio and more. It was well worth the trip.

The two London walks the students participated in included Old Keningston and Royal London. If you get the opportunity to participate in a London walk, you should. The wealth of knowledge by the tour guides is magnificent and makes the walks well worth it. Just be aware that the tours are two hours, so water, good walking shoes, and an umbrella are advised. On our tours we heard stories from an intruder entering the Queen's bedroom in Buckingham Palace to why there are no flowers in Green Park. We also saw quaint places in London that one would never visit, unless they lived in the area. On this trip we past the home of T.S. Eliot. The home is still occupied by residents, as are many homes in London where well-known individuals once lived. It was nice to say the least.

The Science Museum could be a day long experience. I already have plans to return. Almost all the museums in London are free, unless you want to see a special exhibition. One of the highlights in this museum is an exhibit called "The Listening Post." The device captures chat room conversations in real time, which is why there is a sign stating it may be unsuitable for young children. During the 15-20 minutes my students and I watched and read the "posts" there were several pieces of conversation that flashed through that I won't put on this website. It was interesting none the less.

Some upcoming field trips include a visit to a PR firm, the Imperial War Museum, a talk with a practitioner, the Sept. 11 memorial, and Tate Modern.

London Theatre

London is well known for several icons, the palaces, gardens, guards, pubs, the big red buses, and of course theatre. As a self proclaimed lover of the arts, I have had the opportunity to attend two musicals and a comedy thus far. Also, as a self-proclaimed bargain hunter, I've had the joys of watching the plays from great seats for a low cost.

My colleagues are theatre-goers who have visited London on several occasions, thus they have been instrumental in finding discount tickets. One popular site here is the day of half price ticket booth in Leicester Square affectionately known as TKTS. One can visit TKTS on the day they wish to see a show to see if there are any seats still available for the show of their choosing and at a discount rate. The only downside to this is there is a booking fee for each ticket, which could be a substantial amount of additional money if the group is large. However, the alternative is to simply visit the theatre of the shows performance to determine what tickets are still available. I've used both options.

As for the theatre, one thing that caught my eye is the intermission. This could be my lack of attending plays at large theatres, but even those I have attended at the Fox several years back did not sell ice cream. Every production I've attended thus far, sells various ice cream flavors during intermission. Imagine, a production goes to intermission and instead of having to file out of the theatre to get treats, you just walk a few steps to an employee selling ice cream. There are other treat options as well, but ice cream seems the most popular, unless your idea of a treat is something from the bar. The ice creams are individual sizes, thus just enough for one to finish in the 15-20 minute intermission. How grand.

I'm highly enjoying the theatre offered in London. It's nice to know that many others are as well, as all the shows I've attended have performed to a pack house. My goal is to see at least one, if not two, more acts prior to departure.

Happy Fourth of July

Picnics, hot dogs, friends, fireworks, etc. is the American norm when it comes to fourth of July celebrations. Today was a little different, yet a celebration all the same. There were several spots where one could celebrate fourth of July in London, if desired. Rather ironic, but nice. I choose to celebrate the fourth of July at the British Museum, where they offered various American delicacy's from polish sausage, to cotton candy and of course American beer tasting. Also included in the festival was a jazz band, a line dance group, a Charleston swingers group, and a guided lecture through "The American Scene: Prints from Hopper to Pollock." There was also an opportunity for one to learn about quilts and to participate in a drawing exhibit. Of course I showed my appreciation by participating in both activities. I even received a canvas bag from the quilt table for diligently sowing together three pre-cut patterns. On my exit I saw American football being taught to visitors, along with some basketball. Although not the fourth of July one's accustom to, still a nice celebration all the same.

Knowing the Language

One of the reasons I was adamant about applying to teach on the London program was because I know the language, or so I thought. Prior to our departure, and since my arrival, I have referred to my guide book, along with additional references to ease the transition. Here are a few British words with the American translation.

"Chips" means french fries (There are several places to get fish and chips here.)
"Biscuits" means cookies
"Crisps" means potato chips
"Loo or Toilet" means a toilet (Some places charge to use the toilet)
"Lift" means elevator
"Let" means to rent
"Pants" means underwear
"Tights" mean pantyhose
"Knickers" mean ladies' underwear
"Pissed" means drunk
"Holiday" means vacation

Who will win?

As I was walking with colleagues to the classroom I saw an ambulance and several EMT's. Needless to say we witnessed the end result of what happens when a car driver and bike rider collide. Thankfully, only one of the man's legs was injured; however, the driver of the car was no longer around. One would think this incident would deter individuals from crossing the street while the "cross or don't cross" man is red, NOT.

When getting on the tube, there is a constant reminder to "mind the gap." In essence, the transportation system wants you to be aware of the space between the train and the platform. Yet, since I've been here-twice to be exact-trains on various lines have been down due to "people under the train." This reasoning was literally provided on the white board under "train delays."

Riding the elevator in the building is an interesting experience. Unlike those I'm accustom to at home, here, when the door closes, it closes. I've seen, and have myself at one time, the doors close on people as they enter or exit the lift (elevator). Other than screams, and probably a few bruises, no one has been injured.

I understand the cliche "When in Rome, do as the Romans," but if that means injuries or even death, I think I'd rather not be a Roman. The only problem then is that I would truly stick out as a foreigner. Oh the dilemmas.

Time flys....

The old cliche "time flys" has never been so true, at least in this case. I've come to realize that I'm in week two of classes, which means not many more to go. One of the stressors of study abroad and visiting any place in general is trying to see and do it all. Of course this concept is impossible, yet I'm trying desperately to beat the odds.

The places to visit are numerous, along with the tourist, and thus the wait time. Oddly, it's easy to become a "Londoner" and overlook the beauty of the area as I and others hurry to various destinations as swiftly as possible. Good thing I have a camera.