Love Being a Londoner

People have asked me what my favorite part of London has been. Looking back on these past four months, there are too many things I’ve experienced to pinpoint one specific thing that made me love London.

I fell in love with London because of walks in Kensington Gardens surrounded by blooming flowers. Getting stuck without my umbrella in the ever changing weather. The annoyingly persistent rain that clears for a short patch of sunshine. Boat cruises up and down the Thames River.

I fell in love with London because of Big Ben. Parliament. The London Eye. Tower of London. Endless museums and art galleries. Years and years of history.

I fell in love with London during ciders at a pub with friends. Thai food in the back of Churchill Arms. Eating way too many Cadbury caramel chocolate bars and digestives. Haribo sour cherries from Waitrose. Triangle sandwiches, yogurt “yo-go” breaks, and sticky peanut butter.

I fell in love with London through frustration at trying to figure out the night bus at 2am and finally just hailing a cab home. That cab driver laughing when we tell him we’re college students who live next to the Dutch embassy and Dubai royalty. Frustration at walking to Kensington High Station and seeing that, yet again, the circle line is closed for maintenance. I fell in love with London during stressed out days on Oxford Street. Getting annoyed with “tourists” reading maps. Wishing loud Americans knew you don’t talk on the tube.

I fell in love with London through numerous plays in the West End. Day trips to Windsor, Brighton, Oxford, and Greenwich. Britt telling us to “cuddle up” and “little ones to the front.” Browsing through Camden Market and Portobello Road. Having class with British professors and coordinators who made us feel comfortable in a new country.

I fell in love with London because it’s a huge city that’s intimidating, but can feel small. Because of the comfort of my “Kensington bubble.” Because you can jump on the Tube and step out into a different neighborhood. I fell in love with London because of the cobblestone streets and wrought iron fences. Waking up to the quiet sound of my neighbor playing the piano. The kids in their school uniforms riding their scooters down the sidewalk. Walking to get groceries and realizing London is home.

I fell in love with London because of its diversity. Because of four months of moments and memories that changed me. London was expensive. London drained my bank account. But still, I fell in love with London and it was worth every penny.