Back in my Element: Briefly Back in Britain

Prior to my arrival in Iceland, I spent a few days back in London. My visit was a mix of seeing friends and former flat mates, completing touristy activities that I somehow didn't get to during my ten months there, and visiting all of my old stomping grounds. The above photo was taken from the steps of the National Gallery. I had always intended to visit there during my year abroad, but never got around to it so I made sure to visit this trip. I think it was good that I waited since I appreciate art more after working at an art gallery last semester.

After a few failed attempts last year, I finally made it to Harrod's Ice Cream Parlour! I also found one item I could afford in the store, a cat colouring book! What a great investment!

London is known for its West End musicals and I had never seen Wicked. It was a brilliant production! Coming in to the theatre, I had no idea about the plot so I found it all quite clever!

It wouldn't be a trip to London without a stop at the Lady Dinah's Cat Emporium! The normal bookings were full so we splurged on high tea.

I like modern Celtic culture and I took a Celtic art class last summer so I checked out the temporary Celtic art and identity exhibition at the British museum. It detailed Celts from continental pre-history through the present day and also featured some of the artwork I studied during my class.

I also visited some of my favourite markets like Brick Lane (which featured the sign below) and Spitalfields.

And, of course, Camden Town!

Some of my British friends and I went to the Wig Wag Bam at the Queen of Hoxton. The roof is decorated like Grimm fairy tales and is full of bonfires.

Those of you who followed my travels last year know how I inevitably have something go wrong in each country. Well, unfortunately this trip was no exception. I went to plug in my phone in my former flat mate's room and it caught fire, turned off all the electricity in the entire flat, and totally ruined my phone. Don't believe me? Just look at the charred photos below! It was the same charger I used all last year so I don't know why it decided to act up when it did!

Charger incident aside, I had a lovely time in London!