“THUD THUD THUD”, the resounding sound of my luggage hitting against each tile stair echoed throughout the underground tunnels. We had just completed our 9 hour plane ride and left the London airport. At baggage claim we then debated on whether taking a coach to take us to the hotel or on taking the tube. In actuality, I had never taken the tube before and felt intimidated at the idea of taking it without my professors. Therefore, I sided with wanting to order a coach yet when we compared the prices side by side, the right choice became extremely clear. Coach= 60 euros Tube= 6 euros
The fast spaced environment was exciting yet a bit stressful at first. However, although I didn’t expect to ride the tube with my suitcases, looking back, I don’t regret it in the slightest. I sat down and prepared for our 45 minute ride to the Royal National Hotel in Bloomsbury. Then, it took off. As I heard the screeching of the pained, corroded rails underneath us, I got my first glimpse of London as we exited the tunnel.
It exceeded all my expectations. All my exhaustion quickly vanished when I saw the vibrant, historic narrow streets and town houses. The utter character, charm, and cultural diversity of London struck me completely. That first ride through the tube has left an everlasting impression engraved in my mind ever since. It made me feel excited and motivated to get to know more about the city’s distinct boroughs’ and their unique history.
Once we walked through a tube system demonstration with everyone, I felt more comfortable and at ease having a slight bit of previous experience with the tube. Learning that the colored stripes on the underground tunnels’ walls represent the direction of different railways was fascinating. Overall, the tube is an effective, quick, and affordable method for transport. I feel extremely lucky to have such a great system to relay on for comfortably while exploring London.
Theatre in London U of A 