Journeys for Knowledge

Normally a ten hour flight to London is something to balk at, but after traveling to Okinawa during school, and giving up a whole semester to make that 18 hour flight to Australia, this flight seemed rather mundane. In an almost poetic fashion, my Hindu meal was Chicken Tikka Masala, a national favorite in the UK, with a side of Channa (chickpeas). Most of the flight was spent listening to music on my new massive headphones and attempting to sleep in cramped conditions. Amazingly I was successful for 3-4 hours.

Upon landing I went through immigration and customs quite smoothly. I found out later that the customs process involves you walking past one way windows with agents analyzing you for any anomalies. Once outside I was making my way to the Underground to meet my family friend Sanjay, when he offered to call an airport limo for me. Thus I left Heathrow in a stylish Mercedes instead of a tube.

Forty five minutes later I was at my new home, Sanjay’s flat in downtown London. Not only did he graciously offer me a place to stay, but he gave me a key so I’m free to come in and out as I please. Of course I do have family in London that I intend to visit, but having the option to explore London autonomously is exciting. But that’s a story for tomorrow, I need to rest for the remainder of the day so I don’t succumb to jet lag too soon.