London continued...

I finally decided checking my email was worth 2 pounds (The UK still uses pounds instead of using the euro), so I have slightly more time to update the blog. Hooray!

Yesterday, after we arrived and secured our belongings and lodging, Sam and I visited Hyde Park (it rivals Central Park in size and beauty!), Buckingham Palace, and, most importantly, Harrod's department store.

Hyde Park was absolutely gorgeous, and if we have time today, we will definitely try to picnic there and enjoy the scenery. Very tranquil!

Buckingham Palace was just as big as I thought it would be, but I was intrigued to learn that it is no longer the official residence of the Queen. Apparently they just use it to host events. However, they still have the 'Changing of the Guard' everyday at 11:30, so if Sam and I are in that area today, we plan on checking it out.

We also thought the Buckingham Palace gardens were open to the public, and only after we had walked around the whole Palace did we realize they weren't. They have that place locked up tighter than a prison!!

Finally, we visited Harrod's department store, one of the most expensive malls in the country (if not the most???) Believe me, we didn't even want to TOUCH the items in that store, they were so expensive.

Anyway, today we're off to do an epic tour of London, including Westminster Abbey, St. Paul's Cathedral, the London Eye, The Tower of London, Big Ben, etc. We also hope to go on a Jack the Ripper tour tonight around 9:30 PM.... aka when it's dark and scary outside. :)