Cheerio!

So we made it! Yeah! 1/2 day down in London. So far, this trip is rockin'. Everything is going very smoothly! Back up: we left Reno on Monday and rode the bus to San Francisco. After wandering around for a little bit, learning about Belgium beer, crashing at a friend's place, and wandering around a bit more, we made it to SFO. We figured navigating the Muni and BART gave us some practice. The plane ride over here was extremely fast and actually very enjoyable. It could have something to do with the free wine that was provided (and taken advantage of). Admittedly, 3 glasses of "French" wine was definitely enough. Thank you British Airways.

After a few hours of post-drinking, high-altitude sleep (more enjoyable than it sounds), we landed in London. We went through a rather quick (but much longer than average) passport screening session. The guy had a tough time understanding that we're going to be here for 3.5 months, but we only have 1 week worth of plans. Go figure.

Hostel update: Our hostel, Astor Kensington, is only a few blocks from the tube station. It's actually pretty nice (luckily). There are 2 bunk beds, a total of 4 beds. We got here earlier than expected so we dropped our bags and ran out for some fish and chips and beer (of course). Ok, have to admit had my first cultural shock. I've never walked into a pub and had no idea what to do. So here's a few things we learned: 1) you order at the pub (or bar) and pay. 2) you find your own seat and they will drop off your food. 3) you get your own water (there's a pitcher at the pub and a few glasses). I should warn you that when you ask for water you get a look like you asked for something they've never heard of (that or it's the most disgusting thing ever). 4) you don't tip the server at a pub. 5) fish and chips served at The Queen's Arms (a pub that our receptionist recommended) comes with mashed peas, big fries, and almost the entire fish fried. Yes, it was good, but I may be cured on fried items for awhile. The dark ale was good. So then back to our hostel for some good nap time. A desired "cat nap" turned into a 3-hour snore session. Apparently we have roommates, but we haven't met them. Nothing like waking up and seeing someone's stuff just chillin' there. Thank you British Airways for the eye masks! Our ear plugs also need to be credited.

Anyway, we're trying to get some internet catch up time (at about £1 for 40 mins., which I guess is a steal). Oh yeah, one other thing: I learned the not so tough way that my cards are being declined. Luckily, when I did call the c.c. companies (and yes, I did do that), they told me that withdrawal fees are waived at Barclay's. So far, we've found a Barclay's, the post office, the bus stop, the tube station, and The Queen's Arms. We're off to a good start.

Talk to you all soon!
-Justin