10.16.2021 – London, United Kingdom

On the way back to London from the airport after missing my flight out to NYC because of a stupid Portuguese COVID rule for transfer flights, I realized there was a far more inexpensive way back to the city than the original train I had taken. Anyway, I decided to make the best of my impromptu extended stay. I did not book a new flight right away. I chose to book a hostel instead. It was getting late, and I really needed some comfort.

Prime Backpackers Angel Hostel was really nice. The hostel had great connections for the underground, the buses, and the local economy was poplin’. But, I still went to Oxford Street to do some much needed shopping. The pair of shoes that I’d worn during most of my backpacking trip through Europe had been my hiking boots, so I decided to switch to more comfortable footwear.

My right ankle, which I injured during tennis practice in high school, was very appreciative. After the hikes at Pompeii, my ankle began to really complain. After watching The Lion King, I went to the nearest open Boots to get some topical ibuprofen for the pain. It’s always nice to have an actual pharmacist recommend something for your specific issue rather than spending ages debating on your own.

You guys won’t believe who I thought I saw riding a bike through London! Colin Firth! Omg, this was the first time I thought twice about running after someone. I was crossing over the Thames to get to The Queen’s Walk when he was riding the opposite way with what seemed like a few younger individuals. Maybe his children? Anyway, I had a Bridge Jones moment y’all!

As the pictures show, it was getting close to Halloween. There was a ONE climate awareness festival set up. It may have been the last day if I’m not mistaken, so I caught it just in time. The unfortunate part was that it was quite empty, but I never mind that since I get mildly to highly claustrophobic in crowds.

I ordered a bomb hot dog from one of the vendors. Unfortunately, I’m the worst customer because I can’t find the social media profile to link it. If I find it at some point, I’ll be sure to update this post. The owner and I had a wonder conversation in Spanish. He is from Latin America and his wife is English. He is a chef that chose to open his own food truck of unique hot dogs. After reading The Jungle by Upton Sinclair in high school, I ceased eating hot dogs for about 10 years. This was one rare instance when I made an exception. I washed it down with, my favorite, a cider.

This little corner of The Queen’s Walk was decorated so nicely for Halloween. There were so many vendors, long rows of tables, and some good music playing. Though it was getting cold, it was a cozy vibe. I did a lot of reminiscing this night to say the least. Walking through the London streets, gazing on the Thames, and catching the light show from the London Eye under the moonlight was giving me Anne Rice Vampire feels. Some dark Romance or #badromance alla Lady Gaga. I rested well that night.