The day started off domestic and relaxed; grocery shopping, laundry, going for a jog. Then, I decided to venture beyond the small gates of Kensington, my "American ghetto" neighborhood. I met a few friends at Borough market, the open-air gigantic farmer's market. It's a farmers market on steroids; dare I say a genetically engineered market? It covered over an acre, there were segments for jams and marmalades, for fresh meat, for elegant cheeses,
for sangria - a whole isle for sangria! It was immense, reasonably priced, delicious, and colorful. Had my first venison burger and it was heaven (I was also famished when I finally got it!). Also bought fresh berries, some artisan cheese from Welsh cows, and felt properly British. Later, enjoyed said berries along the side of the Thames River and attended Evensong at St. Paul's (Anglican) Cathedral. The cathedral was impressive, as all 13th century buildings are known to be. Gold leaf covered arches, mystical imposing stain glass, and echoing choir music. The only awkward part was when we didn't put money in the basket as it was passed along. Always interesting to visit powerful religious institutions and recall when it is I'm missing/avoiding.
After dinner, I went with a friend to the dodgiest sounding event ever, called a fusion of world music with acclaimed pyrotechnics. And really, there is not a better way to explain the trippy Enya-esque music paired with fireworks, fire-breathing guns, and a bizarre light show. Enjoyed a late night Indian snack on Bricklane then, having missed the last train, and navigated the night buses back home. It took an hour and a half because we ended up driving around the city for a while, but we'll call it character-building. Also, London bus drivers maximize every ounce (scratch that, every millimetre) of space and sitting in the front can be terrifying.
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