Day 2 – Easing Into London Life: A Day to Settle In (29.06.1995 recollection)

After a restful night’s sleep, I awoke to the soft light of a London morning filtering through the hotel curtains. There’s something comforting about the quiet hum of a new city outside your window — the unfamiliar sounds of traffic, distant bells, and the occasional squawk of a pigeon perched on a windowsill. It reminded me: this isn’t just a vacation — it’s the beginning of an adventure across Europe.

Checking In and Getting Comfortable

This morning, we officially checked into our London hotel. It was a comfortable and welcoming place the shopping center of Oxford Street, complete with a cozy breakfast room, helpful staff, and a little map of nearby attractions tucked behind the front desk. The air was cool but not too cold — the kind of weather that makes a walk feel refreshing.

After breakfast, I took some time to unpack, hang up a few clothes, and organize my travel notes and itinerary. There’s something deeply satisfying about putting your things in place and claiming a little space as your own, even if just for a couple of days.

Exploring at Our Own Pace

There was no scheduled group activity today, which meant we could all spend the day adjusting to the time zone and exploring the neighborhood at our own pace. Some fellow travelers hopped on the Tube and went straight to shopping. Others ventured toward Kensington Gardens for a peaceful stroll.

A Stroll Down Oxford Street

No trip to London would be complete without a walk along the famous Oxford Street, one of the busiest and most iconic shopping streets in the world. Stretching over 1.5 miles, Oxford Street is lined with department stores, global brands, flagship boutiques, and historic shops that have been drawing crowds for over a century.

I joined the steady stream of locals and tourists, enjoying the hustle and bustle, vibrant window displays, and the endless variety — from high-end fashion to souvenirs. Some in our group popped into Selfridges, the grand old department store that’s been a London institution since 1909, while Julie and Alison explored Harrods, Marks & Spencer, John Lewis, or popular UK fashion retailers like Next, Zara, or Topshop.

There were also plenty of cafés and bakeries for those who preferred to relax with a hot tea and watch the world go by. The festive lights and creative displays (especially if it's near a holiday season) add to Oxford Street for ’s magnetic charm.

Even if you’re not a shopaholic, the energy of Oxford Street is something to experience — it’s where London’s modern pulse meets its retail tradition.

As for me, I opted for a leisurely walk around the local streets. The British architecture, with its mix of Victorian elegance and modern convenience, made even a simple outing feel special. I popped into a charming little bakery, where I enjoyed a flaky pastry and a proper English cup of tea — strong, milky, and absolutely comforting.

Anticipation in the Air

Back at the hotel in the late afternoon, I chatted with some of the group members in the lounge. There was a shared feeling of quiet excitement. Everyone was friendly, exchanging stories about where they were from and what they were looking forward to on this journey.

Tomorrow, our guided city tour of London begins — a full day of exploring legendary landmarks like the Tower of London, Windsor Castle, and even a boat ride along the River Thames. I can hardly wait!

Tonight, I’ll rest again, grateful for the chance to ease into the rhythm of travel. The sights, sounds, and spirit of London are already weaving their magic.

Coming Up: Day 3 – A Royal Encounter with London’s Landmarks

Join me as we explore the historic heart of London and take to the waters of the Thames for a different view of the city!