London!! Part One

The most difficult thing about attending a university across the ocean is missing the everyday nonsense of friendship. You miss those moments that are seemingly purposeless, but make the best memories. My closest friend from uni was getting married this past weekend in London and it was without a second's hesitation the ticket was booked and I was on my way.

I used to live in London and I miss it everyday. People can moan and bitch about the weather but just ignore them and pack your bags. It's a fascinating city that I maintain a relatively successful love affair with and wouldn't hesitate in encouraging anyone to travel to or better yet, move to.

Now you understand my euphoria and the journey hadn't yet begun. 

I got to the airport on a beautiful sunny day (thank God as I have a little turbulence paranoia) to find out my coach ticket had been upgraded to business class. Even though I travel a lot for work, a free upgrade across the ocean was unexpected and THRILLING. I was totally casual when they escort me to the first class lounge, cool as a cucumber when the flight attendant handed me that first glass of champagne while asking for my dinner order-

I mean, come on.

After my journey in luxury, I landed at the godforsaken early hour of 6am. We had to circle a bit because Heathrow has a 6am sound curfew, no plane can land before then, and apparently we'd traveled at the speed of sound and gotten there an hour early.

In a perfect example of efficiency, I was off the plane, through passport control, got my bag and through customs in 25 minutes. Dear Atlanta airport, you could learn a few lessons here.

Heathrow Express bound and to Paddington in 20 minutes.

I dragged my suitcase to the Hotel Indigo, where my friend was letting me crash for a few nights, and after a quick unpack, I began my London Day One ritual: a run in Hyde Park. I love running in Hyde Park. It's so beautiful and the fresh air kicks the shit out of my jet lag. 

Hello swanies

Hyde Park horse riding

That evening I met a friend for dinner at Wahaca in Soho. 

Wahaca is a Mexican market restaurant with seven locations around London and delicious, fresh food that arrives at your table as soon as it's made. It's not like the typical, heavy Mexican places you eat at in the States, it's light and easy and fresh. 

The space is as impressive as the food. The design is fun; it feels creative and well thought out without any pretension. The tequila bar downstairs is a gem and has some pretty amazing knock-you-on-your-ass margaritas. A very informative sign directs you:

I made it all the way to 11pm before the jet-lag started, and I have to say, I was pretty impressed with myself. I waved hello to my friend then face-planted onto the bed. The London adventure had officially begun.