That was our motto today as we made our way to Buckingham Palace followed by Notting Hill. I've heard it before, but have never realized how absolutely fabulous the saying is because it's SO TRUE. Now we know that when you take the tube from Notting Hill back to South Kensington you aren't supposed to go eastbound... because it's a circle... and it doesn't go the same direction the whole time... whoops! And we know that creepy Russian men who stare at you and offer to take your picture when you aren't really looking for someone to do so... well... they should be avoided maybe. We also learned that Queen Elizabeth II's digs are absolutely, astonishingly gorgeous. The British royal family has it going on, beyond the fact that Prince William and Prince Harry (well, mostly Prince Harry now) are absolutely gorgeous. Buckingham Palace was one of the more incredible places I have ever been. I have randomly read a lot about the British royal system back in the 14th and 15th centuries because of the Philippa Gregory novels The Other Boleyn Girl and The White Queen, which I am working on now. So having some context as to what life was like back in the early days of palace culture gave me a little more imagination as I wandered from ball room to drawing room to marble hall. Kendall, Caroline, and I took the tour of the 19 state rooms that are closed off all year except for during the latter half of the summer. These are the rooms where the more public events are held at the palace from award ceremonies, to photographic opportunities, even to where the Prince of Wales is baptized. In fact, not only did I stand in the room where Queen Elizabeth II's wedding and coronation photos were taken, but I stood in the very room where Prince William was baptized, which in my opinion is pretty ridiculous. I also found the exhibit with all of the dresses Queen Elizabeth II wore and the gifts she received during the Royal Tour to be quite amazing. I'm pretty sure I found the dress that I want to get married in (if it ever happens, right mom?) I mean not the exact dress, but you know what I mean. They were all so ornate and SMALL. I can't believe someone who dons the title Queen could be so petite! It's precious, really... I loved seeing all of the different tapestries, paintings, woodworks, etc. that the Queen has received in touring the world as well, especially those from former President Nelson Mandela of South Africa, my personal favorite. Beyond that exhibit, the architectural detailing from floor to ceiling was incredible. John Nash was a genius... an expensive genius, but a genius nonetheless. I would let him break my budget ANY TIME if it meant that my home would exhibit a third of the beauty that I found at Buckingham Palace. From the exquisite gilded domes, brackets, and crown molding to the art displayed both on the walls and on the tables, everything about the palace had a certain character and grace that can be encapsulated by no other word other than 'regal'. Unfortunately I was not permitted to take any photographs of the interior of Buckingham Palace, but I have below some of the pictures from the outside. I also have below a picture of the Portobello Market in Notting Hill where the three of us wandered for a little while this afternoon. I definitely want to go back when I'm not as worn out, but it was a great sneak peek into the market and antique culture of London. Also, Kendall, Caroline and I are officially taking the train to Brighton (the New Barcelona, apparently) next weekend and I am SO excited. It is impossible to travel out of the country for very cheap when you only plan a week in advance, but I really want to see a little more of England outside of London any way so this will be a great escape from city life. Well, I'm off to make some dinner and possibly head out to the pubs. I will NOT be tuning into any college football games, especially the Wake Forest one. I love my deacs, but I know my emotional limits and watching MY team play in MY stadium with MY fellow dancers dancing on MY platform would probably be the worst possible thing for my overall happiness here in London. On that note, live a little, root for my deacs, and check back soon for more updates!
Standing in front of the gates of Buckingham Palace
View of Buckingham Palace from the Gardens in the back
Portobello Market in Notting Hill
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