Phili

City of London

3 September 2005

London is such a beautiful city. The capital combines shops, theatres, cinemas, restaurants, parks... you name it! You could spend a good weekend here. Transport is perfect! Alan and I arrived here on the 3rd September 2005, notably this is just after the London bombings so security was on high alert. We stayed at Alan's sister's flat at Barons Court (?). It was a lovely wee suburb on the outskirts of the city, lots of lovely bars and cafes beside the river. It was the end of summer time and the weather was still great for the mojority of our stay. One day, Alan and I took a walk (instead of the underground) around the city, to Covent Garden. We were amazed at the lovely small streets and statues and little squares. There was lots of foreign people giving it a real mix of culture. For food, we went to Matsuko, a Japanese restaurant that serves up large tasty portions at the best value in town! This was recommended this by my friend Mei. There is always a queue but its worth the 20 minute wait. I had Chicken Katsune Curry, Alan had Thai Beef Rice, both with great thumbs up! Now when night draws, all the fun was focused on Soho. The area full of pubs and seedy strip joints. We went there for a few drinks and even coffee. We got the chance to meet up with Mei and Fifi, we went to the Sports Cafe (where we had to pay to get in). Later that night, Alan and I strolled off to Trafalgar Square. We were drunk and I think we stayed there for quite abit. We also had takeaway there. London is full of buzz and has something for everyone. It's no wonder I visit every year!

This was my last week with Alan before he set his sights in China. Alan is teaching English with the British Council in Shanghai for a year.