London Calling

A few years ago, I was given an opportunity to travel to London, England. It was my first time traveling to Europe and while I was excited beyond words, I was also anxious about the unknown. At least they spoke English!

So many friends and family were cheering me on and I wanted to share my experiences with them. To virtually bring them along. So, for the entire 10 days I was there, I wrote stories and shared photo essays. Since that trip, I've had so many people ask when I was traveling again because they came to enjoy the daily, afternoon stories from London.

You can read about the journey on my blog: http://randykepple.net/photoblog/london-day-7-mind-the-gap/ There are 10 daily essays posted there.

My advice to anyone traveling to London for the first time is to immerse yourself, smack in the heart of London. Stay at the Strand Hotel which gives you easy access to the Underground or any number of historic attractions, food and pubs. All within walking distance. Lose yourself in the city, exploring whatever interests you and when you're ready to return to the hotel, find the nearest Underground entrance and return to your hotel.

As in any city, the real stories are in the people. Spend time talking with the locals. You'll always find the best kept secrets that aren't in any travel guides. The week I was in London happened to be during the Royal Wedding. The day of the wedding, I had an early breakfast and stepped out into the streets of London to experience that day with the locals.

Before any crowds started to gather, the police were arriving and setting up security along the parade route. For every hour that passed, you could feel the energy and excitement growing. The waving of flags, the popping of champagne and singing. When the wedding ceremony began, a hush fell over the entire city. It was as if the walls of the cathedral were invisible and the entire city became the cathedral. When the ceremony ended, there were tears, cheers and celebration. There was no way to escape being swept up in the crowd as they walked to Buckingham Palace to celebrate together. It was a moment shared with millions of people I'll never forget. And exactly why our lives are better when we travel and experience the people and cultures of other countries.