Visiting Mecca

Yesterday, I got a 3 month Travelcard/oyster card, allowing me to use any form of public transport in zones 1 & 2. Today, I ventured away from the tube stations and took the bus about 5 times. It was so much fun. I, of course didn't bring my camera, so I'll have to do it again. The UK double decker bus is such a smart design. I just hung around on the upper level and it was seriously an amazing view of the city. Also, those bus drivers can really maneuver those huge buses like it were a smart car. Other than the occasional tree branch, we only hopped one curb the whole day.

Anyways, the oyster card came in a holster sponsored by IKEA! On the back, it has a list of all the London IKEAs and the nearest station for each location:



So today, I went to my Mecca: IKEA! It was pretty exciting because there were actually lots of differences from an american IKEA. For instance:


It's basically a savings card. But they also sell bath products and business clothing! I didn't think IKEA could be more fun. I mostly went to get small stuff, like cheapo lamps because my room is fairly dark and some kitchen stuff. Obviously, I ended up with more than I went for (as is the way with IKEA) and had a fun time getting it back to the dorm.

Also, about going to France. I found out yesterday that the other risd girl whose passport was being held by the UK visa office is FINALLY getting her passport back and is flying over early next week. Therefore, I'm going to stay in town to help her settle in and celebrate her arrival. Maybe another time France. I'm really excited that Saera, that's her name, is finally coming over, so I'm not so bummed about sticking around.