London: calling students abroad

By Alexandra Graff

LONDON-- It’s July in London and the students descend.

The metropolis of London, England, is not only a popular tourist destination, but also a top stop for international education programs.

London swells with students during the summer, said tour guide Nadia Jennings.

As a major study abroad destination, approximately 24 percent of all students in London are international students studying abroad, according to londoncouncils.gov.uk.

“Summer is particularly full,” Jennings said. “You have a lot of students coming over to study.”

Jennings, 25, a student tour guide for API, a study abroad program provider, said she suspects more students study abroad during a summer term because of fewer sports commitments and shorter, more financially viable programs.

Also, she said she has noticed more female students than male students tend to go on study abroad programs.

However, many students who choose summer programs find that London is especially full.

Last year, London attracted nearly 4.9 million visitors during the summer months of July through September, which was a 20 percent increase from the previous year, according to London Evening Standard.

The 2011 Census pegged the population of London at 8.17 million, and the projected population for 2021 is forecasted to exceed 9 million, according to londoncouncils.gov.

London's view from above. 

With more than 8 million people living in the city and almost 4.9 million visitors, places are bound to be crowded and busy, especially during hectic summer months.

Katy Taylor, 20, a student from the University of San Diego, said she is taking a communication class at Queen Mary University in London for three weeks as part of a study abroad program.

“I’ve always loved London, so I was excited to see there was a program,” Taylor said.

Professors from the University of San Diego teach using classrooms at Queen Mary University while the students stay in the dorms, Taylor said.

But with an influx of people in London during the summer, the city’s overcrowded nature can seem daunting.

“I don’t mind the people as much except for when I use public transportation,” Taylor said. “That’s the only place where I’m annoyed that it’s crowded.”

“There’s so many people, but you don’t really notice because London is so diverse, anyone could live here,” said Mackenzie Kroon, a student studying with Taylor.

Kroon and Taylor both said they see the most crowds at tourist locations such as the Harry Potter Studio Tour, Big Ben, and Kensington.

“In general, the feeling in London is that it’s over populated,” said Jennings, who despite being a tour guide is also a local.

The large number of historical, cultural and political attractions London has to offer is one draw for tourists.

Popular tourist destination, Stonehenge, which is about a two-hour drive from London, attracts 1.2 million visitors a year, said David Jones, an employee at the English Heritage site.

The circular stone structure at Stonehenge greets visitors. 

The site is especially busy during the summer when about 7,000 and as many as 9,000 people visit per day, Jones said.

With up to 9,000 people a day, some might find it difficult to soak in the history of the site.

However, some visitors attempted to break away from the common take-a-picture stereotype and experience Stonehenge differently. Through broken English a daughter in a group of tourists, MarieAnne, meditated in front of the ring of stones. She explained that meditating helps her get more out of the experience of visiting an ancient site.

“It’s a bit obvious that it’s big and was used for something important,” she said. Meditating helps her observe the stones in a different way, she added.

The student-tourist experience can also differ from just being a tourist, Taylor said.

“We’ve done a lot of tours as students,” Taylor said. “I don’t think I would have done as many. But I’ve gotten to do things as a student that I couldn’t as a tourist.”

Students can tour the Guardian newspaper offices in London. 

Taylor said her communications program included visits to The Guardian newspaper and BBC offices, places people don’t often visit when just on vacation.

Working for API, Jennings contributes to the process of setting up student itineraries for various programs.

“Surprisingly, the theatre is not popular, except for the Globe,” she said. ”When we do Harry Potter, it’s a hit. Almost everyone comes, its full.”

But no matter what the case, many reports point in the same direction: London tourism is on the rise.

VisitBritain projected the worth of the UK tourism economy in 2013 to be approximately £127 billion, which supports more than 3 million jobs. And in 2025, the tourism industry is predicted to reach £257 billion and support 3.8 million jobs, according to a report by visitbritain.org.

Apparently, it’s like The Clash said: London’s calling.

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The ultimate argument

By Colin Pearson

Today we ventured to Speaker's Corner within Hyde Park, a place designated for free speech. This park holds plenty of space for all sorts of speakers, as each brings their own chair to stand on. Each speaker has a different topic, and they seem to transition between individuals in a group every 10 minutes to keep the location running constantly. Swarms of people crowd around either to listen, or in most cases some push to the front to have an opposing statement that draws a response from the speaker. The conversations run rampant and the speaker can't seem to get enough of the attention. Most of the conversation is premature, as the speakers discuss issues that they have paid attention to recently, but their points aren't solid enough to have people consider them. Almost as if they are just shouting opinion rather than preaching a new mindset for others to chew on. This way of speech brought upon arguments that got nowhere, which isn't surprising from these religious folk.

A majority of the speakers were very intrusive, giving no leeway to others voices, and bothering those just passing by. Some people would walk up to others and start pushing topics and discussions. As I was taking photos, numerous others came up to me to tell me things and assure me that what they were discussing needed to be heard. The idea of throwing out speech for acceptance was lost, and it seemed as though others resorted to shouting, as some speakers offended and brought the form of discussion into a type of mockery, or insult. When opposition was confronted by a audience member, and the notion given was offensive to the speaker, they resulted bickering and disagreeing with one another, which brought down the credibility as a person of faith in my opinion. If I came to a place like this to hear someone and actually have a clean slate when listening to their evidence, I would expect them to hold themselves to a higher regard, which is expected by the figure they worship. I lost respect for those who held their beliefs and esteem to a higher level, when they lost all self control and acted ever so irrationally. The ability to maintain civil discourse, and communicate with credible or fact based evidence was lost, as most just bickered about what was felt emotionally.

This experience was ever so eye-opening, giving me insight as to what this environment is like. I found myself very bothered by the discussions, not because of what they were saying, but rather their behavior as a person of faith. If you truly want others to follow you or listen to your word, you have to behave in a way that is mutual between both parties; that means speaking in an calm voice, and truly having your statements backed up.

a clear mind to consider opposition.

Greenwich Indulgence

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Cruising down the banks of the Thames River we arrived by boat in Greenwich. We explored the historic sites of the Old Royal Observatory, the Prime Meridian, the Old Royal Naval College and the beautiful Chapel. However, the greatest part about Greenwich was the charming market.

The Greenwich market was established in 1737 and is London’s only historic market. With just a five minute walk from the Greenwich Pier, we entered through a crowded alley way that locals and tourists tunnel through to find new treasures or a bite to eat. The market is surrounded by independent boutique shops as well as established designers.

I absolutely adore markets because of the great variety, I can always find something new to see each time I go. I made sure to stroll through every aisle of beautiful handcrafted arts, crafts, and collectables. I loved the atmosphere and the old town feel of this world heritage site. Besides all of the endless scarves, photography, dishes, sweaters, trousers, or life-size pig statues; shoppers seemed relaxed and intrigued with every site to see. As gazing eyes fell upon each tiny trinket or hand sewn shirt, I couldn’t help but enjoy what was around me.

Because each shop is independent you are sure to find something different that no one else has. What caught my eye was a tiny treasure that my friend and I picked up. A young woman was selling stylish handmade leather wrist watches. These watches were classy with large faces and at a reasonable price, we knew we had to indulge in this purchase. We are very satisfied and still have not taken them off.

After shopping around, we discovered a wide range of take away food that was available in the market. Different aromas swirling around us had us spinning in circles trying to find the best possible choice for our individual tastes. They had every type of food you could imagine. Fresh Paella to authentic samosas, everywhere you turn a different delectable is being wrapped up and sold to a hungry customer.

Recently voted as London’s best loved market, Greenwich was not a disappointment.

St. Paul's Cathedral

By Brittany Cardoza 
LONDON - I felt it was my duty to embrace the tour of St. Paul's Cathedral. My grandmother would want details upon my return to the states. As a cradle Catholic I do always feel at home at a church. However, there are so many lively activities around me. Touring a church paled in comparison. I gave it a go and showed up for the tour. Boy, was I glad I did. As we stepped inside I was blown away by the elaborate but tasteful architecture. It was open and inviting but clearly stated it's importance. Around me were amazing stained glass windows letting just the right amount of light in. I sat in a chair with my audio guide an began listening to the history of this incredible place of worship. St Paul’s is the Cathedral of the Diocese of London. The cathedral is situated at the top of Ludgate Hill, the highest point in London. The wedding of Princess Diana and Prince Charles, funeral of Margaret Thatcher and Winston Churchill and the Golden and Diamond Jubilee for Queen Elizabeth II were held at St. Paul's. The church holds three or four services every day and open daily to tourists. 

As I sat on the floor of the church I couldn't help but look up. The dome was expansive and sat tall above the nave and aisles. It was elaborately decorated with gold and colorful paintings. I knew I had to go up there. So we prepared for the journey up the 259 stairs to the Whispering Gallery. The balcony spanned around the dome and overlooked the naive. It is called the Whispering Gallery because even a whisper can be heard through any wall around the dome. We sat and took in the silence while allowing our legs to recover before the next workout. The next 200 stairs were nothing like I have experienced before. An old winding staircase so steep it made you dizzy sat in front of us. We had no choice but to tackle it if we wanted to reach the top of the dome. So we ventured onward and up. Our hearts raced as we carefully stepped one after the other holding on to the handle with white knuckles. As we approached the top and stepped out the door to the balcony my breath was taken away. The gust of wind combined with the overwhelming view were worth every bead of sweat. As we stood on top of the world I began to appreciate the hugely important history of this city. Everywhere you looked there was bustling activity and traffic. Below me was a city of millions all from different backgrounds and history. It was a moment I will never forget.  

             

The Freedom to Speak

By Heidi Harris
LONDON--

Today we travelled to Hyde Park for the spectacle that is Speakers' Corner. Traditionally, Speakers' Corner is an area where open debate is permitted at all times. Unlike the United States, in the United Kingdom speakers must get approval to demonstrate their opinions in a public place. After learning a little bit about what these "demonstrations" include I was very hesitant to engage myself.

My previous experience with public demonstrators has left a bad taste in my mouth. For instance it is not uncommon to hear on the campus of Washington State University yelling activists argue their unpopular or slightly different beliefs. This always makes me feel extremely uncomfortable because they typically exercise their first amendment right at the personal expense of those who don't think and believe like they do. Even with these impressions, I joined each of the circles not knowing exactly what to expect.

Speakers' Corner

Each of the demonstrators represented a different philosophical, geopolitical, and religious belief. People listening to these demonstrators were from every different belief system in the world, with varying opinions, and questions they hoped to have answered. The first presenter I listened to was discussing his Jewish faith and why he believed it to be the absolute truth. As my eyes began to glaze over, and I began to feel like a turtle going into my shell I heard a man in the audience yell "Jews killed Jesus, we should hate them for what they have done." For a split moment I thought about letting his comment go unnoticed, but I couldn't get past his hateful words and generalizations about all Jewish people.

 Hating an entire people group because of what you believe they did is what causes war and violence. After speaking with him for a while, I began to understand the importance of the corner. By tradition, Speakers' Corner began to see it's first debates in the mid eighteen hundreds, and thousands of debates have occurred since. and I was apart of this legacy. The right to gather, bring up tough questions, and share your opinion should never be taken lightly. I never came to an agreement with the man I was speaking with, and I don't believe that he truly listened to what I had to say, but I said it. I didn't let the fear of disagreement or heated discussion keep me from speaking

Other presenters 

Tea for Two: Traditional Afternoon Tea

By: Amanda Roley

LONDON--I came to London with a mission to enjoy traditional afternoon tea--and bring home tons of it. 

Monica and I stumbled upon a tea room just across the street from Harrod's shopping mall in Knightsbridge. 

The Richoux tearoom was the epitome of elegant.

As you enter, you're greeted by sweet and colorful treats. I was instantly mesmerized by the cheesecake covered in strawberries, macaroons, and white chocolate and dark chocolate pudding. So many choices!

We sat down under a twinkling chandelier that hung from the sky painted ceiling. Next to us on the wall, a picture of an amused and calm looking women peered at Monica and I as though she was welcoming us to our first tearoom experience.

Traditional english tea served at the Richoux is called Richoux breakfast blend. It's a strong black tea that typically pairs with milk and sugar. How much sugar and milk all depends on your preference Richoux Supervisor Enver Hodolli said.

"Me, I prefer black and strong," Hodolli said.

The tradition of afternoon tea came from the aristocrats because they could afford to enjoy fine tea and tasty treats everyday Hodolli said. 

The Richoux's afternoon "tea for two" is served with two tea pots, two cakes, four scones with creme, two strawberries, and two slices of fruit cake. 

Hodolli has worked at Richoux for 12 years, and he said his favorite part of afternoon tea is the scones.

"I really like the raisin scones," Holdolli said. "I'll eat those with a lot of creme on the side."

Continuing with the "tea for two" theme developing here, Hodolli said the Richoux offers their afternoon tea starting at 2 p.m. 

"Afternoon tea is good because it's light and wakes you up," Hodolli said. 

After letting the tea steep for a bit, I sipped at the hot blend before adding any milk or sugar to try it's original taste first. In fact, my inherent love for tea was blown away at how great it tasted. It was strong and most importantly didn't have a bitter aftertaste, which is what a lot of teas sold in the U.S. taste like.

I was hooked! Cup after cup, I just couldn't get enough of the tea I waited so long to enjoy here in London.

My mission was complete, and even have the tin of tea to show for it.  Now my next step is to find a traditional English tea cup and saucer to drink my authentic afternoon tea from.

Check Please

Rachael Trost

LONDON -- It always surprises me the cultural differences around the world, but especially between two places that are relatively similar in nearly every aspect. I live in New York City, where waiters scurry patrons out of restaurants. But while here in London, my experience has been the complete opposite, and last night three of my friends and I sat for nearly three hours waiting for our check.

A classic British lunch of "pie" and mash.

We sat down at an Italian eatery about a 15 minute walk from our hotel. The menu stuffed with so many mouth watering options, I think it took us nearly a half-hour to order. In the states, our group would be questioned several times, asking when we would be ready to order. Across the pond here, that was definitely not the case.

Flash forward to just about three hours later. Our group was finished eating, order and devoured some desert, and peered around to find out waiter. He wasn't anywhere in sight, so we just kept talking about life after graduation. The four of us are all recent graduates, just thrown into the real world and our first jobs, so that topic of our conversation filled the excess time. Still, it became a bit excessive.

Life moves a bit slower here in London in so many aspects. There are those who are in a rush to get around, but it seems that the majority of Londoners move at a softer pace. I've been told that's just how it is in Europe.

Dipped

Rachael Trost

LONDON -- Well, it happened. After hearing story after story from my friends who have studied abroad, advice from countless others, and thoughts about how careful I was being, I was pick pocketed, or as the Brits say, "dipped".

Brittany and I were traveling on the tube home from filming a few tea shops Saturday morning in Covent Gardens. My card holder with my oyster tube card, Visa Debit card, and US Drivers License was stuffed into what I thought was an inaccessible pocket of my camera bag. I have traveled all over the world with never one problem. This time, I was clearly out maneuvered. Reaching for the holder as we tried to exit the station proved the fact that anyone, and I really do mean anyone, can be "dipped".

According to Gary Wilment, Zone 1 Station Supervisor for the London Underground, there were more than 40 other incidents of theft Saturday morning at Russell Square Station. "There is a group of maybe 5 or 6 men who usually are involved in all the thefts, especially at Russell Square and Covent Gardens stations," Wilment said. "The lifts are usually where it happens."

When I arrived back at our dorm room, there had already been one fraudulent charge before I had a chance to cancel my card. My parents back in the states scrambled to wire me money, as without my card I had maybe 10 pounds to my name. I was only thankful that my passport had been safely tucked away in my room and not in the same bag.

The most absurd part about the experience was I never thought it would be me. I am extremely careful about where I place my important belongings and money, and have traveled to many more places where I would expect to be targeted more than I was here in London (I traveled to Chengdu, China in December 2013 where I was the only blonde). Just one moment of not paying close enough attention to my surroundings left me vulnerable.

Art galleries galore

By Alexandra Graff

LONDON-- 

After being in London for almost a week, I realized I couldn’t leave without addressing art.

Viewing art is one of my favorite pastimes, and I make a point to visit an art gallery or museum in every city I visit. London was no exception.

However, when I think of art cities, for some reason London doesn’t really come to mind. Instead, I think about the overwhelmingly grand galleries at the Louvre or the impressive impressionist collection at the Musée D’Orsay in Paris. I even think of New York City’s Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art before I consider what London has to offer.

Though relatively well known, I was unfamiliar with the contents of London’s National Gallery. In fact, before opening my London guidebook I never knew the National Gallery even existed, let alone the paintings it contained.

What I saw, however, shocked me. The paintings in the National Gallery are true masterpieces.

One of the Gallery’s prized possessions is Vincent Van Gogh’s “Sunflowers,” the famous yellow still life of a vase with sunflowers spilling out. Although I had studied the painting in various art classes, I never realized its home was in London.

Seeing it in person as opposed to reproductions truly makes a difference. For one thing, the painting is relatively small and easily missed if you walk through the room without so much as a glance. My experience seeing it, however, was improved when a museum tour guide started lecturing to 20 elementary school-aged children about Van Gogh and his famous renditions of sunflowers. I couldn’t even imagine being that young and viewing so many beautiful paintings up close as part of a field trip.

Other collections completely awed me: the Degas room with “Miss La La at the Cirque Fernando” and Turner’s breathtakingly subtle “The Fighting Temeraire,” not to mention the Rembrandts, Seurats and Monets.

But the greatest bonus of the museum is the free admission. That’s right, unlike those famous museums and galleries in Paris and New York, and in numerous other cities, the British Department for Culture, Media and Sport decided in 2001 to scrap entrance fees to national galleries and museums, according to the BBC. Museums like the British Museum the Victoria and Albert Museum and Tate Modern, among others, do not require any entrance fee to the main exhibits. Instead, there is a suggested donation of about £5.

The brilliance behind the idea is simple: anyone, locals and tourists alike, can visit the National Gallery and see artwork up close for free. I could actually feel the difference in the atmosphere. While some people just came in to escape the sudden burst of rain outside, others joined the crowded rooms to enter another time or to spend some time sketching. In any case, the artwork clearly belongs not just to the museum but also to the people. 

After seeing so many famous portraits, landscapes, seascapes, and religious scenes in the National Gallery alone, I am excited to venture further into the art scene with a visit to Tate Modern.