Yesterday, with the classic “The Clash” song ringing in my ears, I departed from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport at 9:50pm. Thankfully, the airport was not very busy and I made it through security in record time. Because of this I had lots of time to relax by gate G4 before boarding.
The eight-hour trip passed by very quickly with the help of 30 Rock episodes on the interactive touch screen on the back of the seat in front of me, an ample ipod music selection, and of course sleep. Before I knew it I was landing at London Heathrow airport. After passing through the UK Border Control station (which never hesitates to put a nervous pall over me) and customs, I found myself at baggage claim. I had no problems finding my suitcase and adding it to the free luggage trolley carts that are everywhere at the airport.
Slowly but surely I made my way to the taxi stand and hopped into one of the iconic black-London cabs. It wasn't nearly as unnerving as I thought it would be to ride in a car that was driving on the left side of the road. Of course, it helps that the taxi driver knew exactly where he was going as he navigated his way through roundabout after roundabout. During the ride I enjoyed taking in the rugged industrial landscape that stands between Heathrow and the more urban western neighborhoods of London. There is something beautiful about the harsh factories contrasting with the calm horses grazing in the fields directly surrounding the airport.
Before long my cab driver turned onto Queen's Gate road and we pulled up to The Crofton, where I will be living for the next four months. I checked into my room and unpacked all of my belongings. My two roommates are not here yet but should be checking in tomorrow morning.
My first official afternoon in London has been positvely wonderful and I can't wait to take in all that this city has to offer!
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