a day in London

A place where past and present coexist is London. The historical castles, victorian houses take us back to the colonial time. In central London, when one sees rickshaw and “merc” (mercedes-Benz)  on Leicester square they are reminded of the coexistence. My day in London began with the amazement of multiculturalism. One gets to see the diverse nationalities around. And as an Indian we somehow get excited to see a fellow Indian, we talk and connect with other Indians that we would never have done in India. Familiarity and depending on the familiarity in a foreign land becomes important norm and culture there. 

UK evokes emotions depending on the season. In a typical summer day, it is sunny, peppy, with the flowers around and of course with bustling people. There is something that London has, and no other place in UK has. That is crowds. People always flutter about the city, that an Indian who is used to noise and crowds feels home right away. The systematic conveyance to the entire city made me feel calm and composed. The culture in London is extremely friendly. When I could not make out a station platform, the station staff was patient enough to explain not just to me, to everyone who asked. Being polite to each other is not only customary rather mandatory behaviour in London. Another peculiar behaviour that should be appreciated is that London people mind their own business. They do not stare or make you feel out of the place, only thing is in public places, one needs maintain the silence.  

Without any doubt, the best part of London is central London with multiple, wonderful castles, road musical shows, abundant food outlets and of course people. I spent an entire day just roaming around and observing people around trafalgar square. London bridge is not only a sight to behold but a place to relax and lazy out the evening with food and music and dances. There is something about London streets with bustling people and magnificent buildings, I can spend time visiting streets alone. 

How can I forget London’s food! While I did miss Indian food, the British food was a treat to the eyes, tongue and nose by just walking through the streets. The kind of variety fruits and veggies like zucchini, eggplant, asparagus, plums, avocados and not to mention I saw lot of wide variety of berries’ tress in parks even apples. From the cakes to the simple breakfast London makes us fast paced even in eating. While the local veggie and fruit markets were a treat,  how can one forget the winery where mulled wine keeps one warm in winters.  

In one day, central London visit, I fell in love with London, it was peaceful, eventful and educational not just about the history but about their culture. One of the few cities where you do not feel parted from India but you will also appreciate its uniqueness is London. It is closer and yet distanced to us fellow Indians historically and culturally. It is a place one must visit atleast once in a lifetime.