runintherain

After cruising up from Seattle, through the Inside Passage and up to Kodiak, I definitely recommend going to Seward to see wildlife. I went on other formal excursions and the one organized by Kenai Fjords Tours, in Seward was by far the best. We saw about 30 killer whales (some of which came up close to investigate the boat, many of whom were young and jumping out of the water), 4 or 5 humpbacks (generally mother and child) which also came close, a group of Dall’s Porpoise which were bow riding for about 10 minutes, both types of puffins, a colony of about 40 sea lions, a handful of seals, a LOT of common murre and of course several glaciers. I highly recommend the company!

I live in Westminster and this is definitely my favorite park. It’s smaller but less crowded and has a nicer feel than places like Hyde Park. The small lake is exactly the right size to reflect the trees and famous buildings around it.

The tube is quite expensive (although cheaper than cabs or tour buses) but if you are traveling around London a lot in a day, definitely buy a day travel card. If you’re in London for longer, get an ‘oyster card’, which you then just have to top up on a machine – much faster than waiting in long lines to buy tickets each day!

If you’re in a hurry and are able.. avoid the Circle/District line. They are the only ones that are really known among locals to always experience delays. They also have a knack for giving people who usually don’t get motion sick problems.

Also, if it does snow… just try to stick to the Victoria Line. It’s the only one completely underground and the underground experiences severe delays (or cancellations) on all other lines.

I’ve only been once, quite a while ago but it is definitely worth it. Try to research what time sunset is and plan it so that you’re at the top of the Eye when it happens. You watch as the sun sets over London – it’s pretty remarkable.

I live very close to Parliament and have seen it at pretty much every angle and time of day. For people who’re only in London for a short time – go REALLY late at night (2am or so). No one’s around and it’s beautifully lit up. As a general rule in fact: 2am is the best time to see London. You get it all to yourself and can really be submersed in its feel and history.

I definitely think this museum is worth visiting for tourists but also recommend it to locals. I often just go in for half an hour or so when I need a break. It’s a really great place to get relaxed and be inspired.

I live in Westminster, quite close to Hyde Park and I definitely think that the other main parks are nicer. Smaller but also less crowded and with a better atmosphere. Try St. James Park or Green Park instead! Also, while the summer is nice, I recommend the early autumn more. And if you like friendly squirrels.. I d definitely recommend St James the most. They get (a little) less attention and often walk right up to you, even if you don’t have food (especially in times of the year when it’s not so crowded).

The basement definitely makes it worth it. There are more clothes than many branches I’ve been to and everything is on sale, for very reasonable prices.

Definitely recommend a short visit.

I was born in Hamburg and had forgotten how beautiful it can be. I was there this week and it’s only gotten nicer. Great place to live, party, shop, eat and anything else.