Lost in the Big City

Sun burnt and exhilarated I entered San Francisco International Airport (http://www.flysfo.com/web/page/index.jsp). The next four weeks would be the grandest adventure of my life. One night last Christmas my cousin, Haley and I had joked about how desperately we wanted to travel the world. Although we spoke of a fantasy vacation we were unaware of the thoughts passing through my Grandmother’s mind. Three months later the plane tickets were booked and the vacation was planned. We would leave for London in June. The adventure was devised! In just a few months my grandparents, my cousin and I would be embarking on an adventure none of us had expected.

London, one of the grandest cities in the world! Or as my cousin and I know it; the rainy city. For one straight week the rain refused to end. The cloudy grey sky always looming overhead, laughing at our expectations. But we would not let the rain stop us! We were determined to venture into the depths of London. One morning my Grandma, Haley, and I decided that we were going to see the Tower of London (http://www.aviewoncities.com/london/toweroflondon.htm) and the London Eye (http://www.londoneye.com/). Veronica, my grandmother’s friend whom we were staying with insisted upon going with us. Although my cousin and I were looking forward to a day with our Grandma we happily welcomed Veronica on our adventure.

My cousin and I were experiencing London for the first time and we were being the ultimate tourists. We purchased London sweatshirts and took pictures of everything! On this occasion “my tourism” separated me from my group. As I stopped to take a picture of Big Ben (http://www.visitlondon.com/attractions/culture/big-ben), a tour group of 50 people blocked the sidewalk. Lost in the commotion I was unable to make my way through the crowd. When I finally emerged I was in complete panic. I was lost in London, alone. My panic subsided when I noticed my cousin, Haley waiting for me. Until I came to the startling realization that we were now both lost in London. Haley had decided to wait for me, when she noticed I was not right behind her. Since I was little my parents have always told me that when I get lost I should stay put. Haley and I decided to get to the street corner where we could separate ourselves from the crowd. Making ourselves more visible and hopefully easier to spot. We wandered and waited for what felt like hours until we heard Veronica’s shrill voice.

One year later I look back on my trip and realize that London truly was the adventure of a lifetime. I can now look back and laugh as I realize how unique my experience was. I was lost and stranded yet I made it home in one piece. Although I am a bit scarred. London was only a taste of what the world has to offer and I want to see it all! Traveling the globe sounds amazing, and getting lost is no longer frightening, instead it is intriguing and exciting!