What We Did in London: Day 1

Well, we officially made it to London. We were out of commission yesterday because: jet lag. 

I made the very wrong assumption that jet lag was a made-up thing that wouldn't affect me. Apparently not. Once we were finally able to get into our hotel room, we crashed and didn't go to dinner until around 8 PM. So our afternoon itinerary was nixed, and Typically London Tourists we were not. 

I was charged to find places to eat for dinner, and let me just tell you: finding a place to accommodate a gluten-free diner and Kalie (whose palate is limited to literally seven things) is very difficult. We ended up eating at a place called Bill's, and it was fantastic. Seriously, if you're ever in London, you need to go. 

Just the ambiance alone is worth it. 

Also, if you go, get the honeycomb ice cream. It's the most amazing thing I've ever tasted, and I will be looking for a recipe to replicate it at home. 

Day 2 on our itinerary was titled: "Keep Calm and Act Like Kate (Middleton, That Is)." Once we managed to actually wake up, we made our way over to Buckingham Palace - which was quite challenging for someone as directionally challenged as me. Add to that the fact that street names are posted on the sides of buildings (not stoplights) or sometimes not at all, and you've got a very confused Alexis. Thankfully, though, the scenery was pretty so even if you're lost, it's ok. There are pretty buildings all around you. 

We eventually made it to Buckingham Palace for Changing of the Guard. We watched from across the street since the front of the palace gates were packed, so we didn't get to see the ceremony, but we saw them walk in, so it was good enough. 

Then Kalie decided it would be a good idea to almost pass out in front of Buckingham Palace. I told her that wasn't the way to get the Queen's attention. Lesson learned: feed the child breakfast before doing anything. Even if you're running late. 

We managed to find a street vendor that sold waffles in the St. James park, so I didn't have to request the help of the police. Which is a good thing because they kind of scare me - except for the one on the horse who gives children high-fives. I would have sought him out. 

So with Kalie full of Nutella-covered waffle, we made our way over to Chelsea for our hair appointments at Richard Ward (Kate Middleton's choice salon). I warned Kalie not to tell them about our Kate day for fear they would kick us out and call the police with Kate-stalking charges. 

After some stylin' and head massages (which Kalie was very intrigued with), lunch was at a French bakery we found in Chelsea called Paul's. It didn't sound very French, but it was delicious. Kalie had a bretzel (which she said was pretty much a croissant and pretzel mix), and I had my first Croque Monsieur. 

Oh. My. Goodness. 

I've found my food. 

We decided to take the Tube over to Kensington Palace because hello - Kate Middleton. I was a little nervous about figuring out the Tube by myself (remember - directionally challenged). It was actually fairly easy to understand and with the exception of Kalie holding up the exit line because her Oyster card wouldn't take, fairly eventless. 

Although, if we're being honest, I would like to make an official request to London to put some air conditioning on the Tube. Because it's hot. 

Kensington Palace was awesome. While we couldn't go find Prince William & The Duchess of Cambridge's apartment, we were able to tour a part of the palace. Walking through there and hearing about the history of each room was pretty cool. My favorite section, though, would have to be this room. 

Josh - if you're reading this - I want a room like this in our future palace. 

There was also some children's playrooms that are the stuff of dreams. Check out these outfits (they're real, not dress up). They're so cute they almost make me want to have children. But these people had nannies, and I would not. So there you have it. 

Queen Victoria (or Mary... I can't remember which) had a drawing room where she spent her time reading and relaxing. The view from the room was spectacular. 

We also found a random cubbyhole that may or may not have been a secret passageway at one point in time. We're not sure, but it did make for a good photo-op.

And we kind of saw Kate. If you count gazing upon her picture in wonder as seeing her. Then, yes, we saw her. 

We hopped back on the Tube and headed to the hotel after that because it was getting late and our feet were hurting (which wouldn't have happened if we actually were Kate because she has chauffeurs). 

Dinner was a Five Guys because again - complicated diners. We all came to the mutual agreement, however, that Five Guys in London is much better than Five Guys in America. Plus, it's the only place we've found that had Dr. Pepper, so Kalie was happy. 

Until tomorrow. 

Peace out - The Americans Who Won't Be Coming Home