I didn't forget...

Yo, I'm still here, just  in case anyone was wondering where I was- had a busy last two days. 

Friday was just a normal day in the office APART from, everyone turned up late and hungover to the office (from the 100th party the night before) and because of this I got to go early at 3:30- so a great start to the weekend. 

I started watching  'Modern Family' on Netflix and I found it hilarious, got addicted and ended up watching the whole of season one in the space of three days. (you can guess what I did when I got home early on Friday)

Then the night got unexpectedly better and it ended with three empty wine bottles- I say no more! 

Saturday I woke up really late and got ready within the space of 10 minutes with a terrible headache (obviously not the wine). 

I then proceeded to get lost trying to find the tube station but after 45 minutes: a journey that should only take 10, I eventually got to the o2 arena. There I met family friends and had a great catch up, coffee and lunch. 

We also went into the Nissan innovation centre in the arena and I got to drive a stimulator of an electric car-  it was quite hard seeing I had never drove before.

 The woman was like "right, foot on the brake to start the car, then foot on accelerator to go" 

I didn't move anywhere and was like it's definitely broken, only to realise I still had my foot on the brake, oops. 

the interactive screen

me driving

I then made the worst decision of my life (still having this terrible headache) and made my way to Oxford Street; possibly the busiest street on a Saturday afternoon. I made it to one shop (Topman) and I left with £120 less in my bank account. 

Today I had a 'lush' lie in and did the usual Sunday things: Lunch, Walk, Relax but I still seem to be knackered.

 I also got to walk these little rescue Jack Russell's which were cute but you had to walk them in a special way on the lead and I just couldn't grasp it. 

Only two days left in London, how the 3 weeks have gone so fast, but this means back to College and closer to exams. 

this really old tube train that reminded me of the 80's
or the devonshire country bus
- Jubilee Line 

*'Lush = such a lush word 

Day in the life-

A different kind of blog post today: a day in the life of me (minus the drama/ sleep/ and 'sassy' lifestyle'- a joke). 

But before that, today the 100th edition of FE Week was published- you could probably call this an exclusive as it doesn't actually launch until tomorrow, so let's hope I don't get in trouble for revealing it. 

new brand goodies

special edition

Articles I wrote 

Front page of 100th edition

special edition

100th Edition 

 My average day: 

9:00- Arrive at the office- Check emails and go through the days papers. 

10:00- Follow up on any press releases and ring press offices regarding more information (Coffee)

11:00- Type up articles with new information from press offices

12:00- Check twitter feed and news sites (Coffee)

13:00- Lunch 

14:00- Continue writing articles

15:00- Follow up on press releases (Coffee) 

16:00- Interviews; if required 

17:00-  Check emails for anymore press releases, round up the day/ finish bits and bobs off 

18:00- Home (well not my actual home) 

*I know that probably looks very boring and easy buts there a lot more to it than that and conducting interviews are always exciting but I still get nervous. 

Magazine/ Press

Click on the box to view the latest edition of Campus Round-Up, the magazine I was guest editing^

Short and concise

Yesterday was the deadline day for the magazine so I was very busy, hence why there was no blog post. You can see the magazine by clicking on the banner at the top of the page. 

Today, I went back to day 1, and created a news list for stories to feature in the next edition, however there was one problem, there wasn't many. So I was given the task to research the net and find some, this proved to be quite challenging but exciting. 

I was on the phone most of the day contacting press offices, especially Exeter College's Press office regarding stories to do with the college (I thought it be best, I get something from them) and the BBC regarding FE learners being on the recent BBC Three show; Hair. 

Hopefully tomorrow I will have telephone interviews with past contestants and then I'll be able to write up the story. 

It was also 'bakery' day today where the office treats us to a free bacon roll; I had a big breakfast like last time but couldn't refuse it. 

As the paper are about to release their 100th edition, there is celebration around the office, on the launch of their 'surprise'. I got free promo gifts which included of a free pen and who doesn't love free pens? 

I had a fabulous Facetime call with my best friend Jodi (pictured below), who I haven't seen in weeks and we had a great catch up. She tells me she "Hates facing the trains alone"- bless. 

On facetime with Jodi

Day 11- "Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem"

This post is going to be short and brief, so if you are getting bored of my London life, spare no more misery. 

As you all know it's Easter Monday, also a bank holiday Monday but I had to go into to work. I got up early today and embraced the walk over to Greenwich rather than catching the DLR. The walk was nice, the sun made a cheeky appearance and turned its temperature up and I got a brisk waft of a sea air smell as I walked through the Thames foot tunnel.

walk to work view (Greenwich over the river)

Isle of Dogs Park 

 I actually disturbed someone filming a music video (at 8:30 in the morning) and they rudely commented as I wandered past "We will just stop filming and wait for this boy to pass"- excuse me, it's a public footpath (well tunnel).

Thames Foot Tunnel (it goes under the river)

At the office, I had to sit on the steps of the doorway and wait 45 minutes for someone to let me in; I'm not allowed a Key pass so have to be manually let in, the only other person in the office today was late. Whilst sat on the steps a Jehovah Witness approached me and gave me a leaflet on "Why I shouldn't commit suicide"- as far as I am aware, I'm not at that stage, I may have looked rough and tired sat in a doorway but I didn't think I looked that bad. But it was an interesting and uplifting read. 

One line read: "Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem" which I thought was very true and along with this leaflet it also had an inspiration quote on criticism, which I should take on board. (see below). 

It was just an average day at the office- I already sound like a long term office worker . But I got to go early and yes, I walked back as well; I thought to myself I better do some exercise because all I do all day is sit at a desk, move my fingers and drink an unlimited supply of coffee. 

That's all I have to say today, but to everyone going back to College/ School/ Sixth Form tomorrow, have fun and if the thought of education makes you feel that low and puts you  in a deep dark place; find a Jehovah Witness and read this leaflet. 

Day 10: Back to the City (not Exeter).

(Weekend brief) 

The weekend has been pretty good but the non-stop lifestyle has paid off; Knackered. On Friday (as mentioned in Thursday's post) I got up and went straight to work; it was my first day on the tills which was exciting, apart from a man giving me abuse for something that wasnt even my fault- other staff said "welcome to retail". I also got my staff discount card (25% off) in which my photo on it looks like I want to murder someone. 

ID photo for staff discount

Friday Night 

Straight after work, I caught a train (yes more trains) and made my way up to Exeter where I went to a gathering, had a 'few' drinks, then returned home late afternoon on the Saturday. Still people on the train got excited over #Dawlish, i'm like please, this was so last month. 

Once home, I ironed and packed ready for my return to London today. 

(Today's post)

 "Making my way downtown,

Walking fast,

Faces pass,

And I'm home bound.

Making a way, 

Staring blankly ahead,

Just making my way,

Through the crowd. "

Just a little song to start off the post. Today I made the journey back to London, following the continued start of my work placement for the next week and a half. 

I had planned to complete loads of work on the train but saw someone I knew (Aaron Rahn) and ended up sitting with him for the journey... as you can probably guess, I got no work done as we just talked for the 3 hours. 

To my dislike the train was full of crying children all making their mark on the journey and making a real mark on my hearing. The train was non-stop from taunton to reading so went really quickly meaning a quick escape from all the noise. 

When arriving into Paddington I made my way to the tube which was busy as usual and reeking of 'Weed' (marijuana).* Stoners filled up the carriages along with their strong scent, rosey cheeks and squinted eyes. They were off all ages, old and young; Yes im pretty sure a granny was high. For most of my journey all I heard was "i'm so hungry", "I have the munchies" and "oh my dry mouth"- side effects of the drug. 

 Due to tube closures and I had to take a diversion which took longer than planned but luckily the rain had stopped once I arrive at my 'final destination'. When I arrived at my Uncles, him and his girlfriend were abit drunk due to being at an "All you can eat and drink, Japanese restaurant" all day, their excuse was that their wine glasses just kept getting topped up 'yeah, yeah'. (they asked me not to include this but I thought it would be for the best). 

I am now catching up on all my work and revision for the Easter Holidays- I promise I have done loads... 

To all you lucky people who get the day off tomorrow, please think of me whilst I slave away in the office; although I do enjoy it. 

*Today is 420, the 20th day of the 4th month- also its Easter Sunday but that has no relevance. Here is the definition for those who do not know: 420, 4:20, or 4/20 (pronounced four-twenty) is a code-term that refers to the consumption of cannabis and by extension, as a way to identify oneself with cannabis subculture or simply cannabis itself. Observances based on the number 420 include smoking cannabis around the time 4:20 p.m. (with some sources also indicating 4:20 a.m.), on any given day, as well as smoking and celebrating cannabis on the date April 20 (4/20 in U.S. form).

Day 7- Home coming and Pros & Cons of London Life

Once again I was lazy and caught the DLR over to Greenwich for my placement. I arrive early per usual but was complimented on being punctual, which I suppose is good.

Work was really good today, I started writing the articles for the section I'm editing and even got treated to a free bacon sandwich on behalf of the company, I wasn't hungry but I couldn't refuse it.

I had to phone up different press offices today which was really scary, I had to put on a phone voice and speak really slowly; if you know me, I don’t speak slow.

“Hello, James Jefferson calling from FE week regarding the press release you sent” was what I had to say on each call. Luckily all these press releases were good so I didn’t have to grill anything bad or secretive out on anyone.

I then had to write up articles, although some I couldn’t complete due to not having all the information I need; lots of offices were shut today due to the forthcoming bank holiday weekend. It got pretty stressful because they press deadline is next Tuesday and many businesses/ education institutes may still not be open.Due to this I had to type ‘back-up’ stories encase we couldn’t complete the intended ones. 

The newspaper/ magazine I’m working for is coming up to their 100^th edition so everyone around the office was all excited as they are working on the edition which is set to be a ‘special’ filled with surprises. I can’t tell you the plan due to it all being secretive; imagine if I got the blame for the secret being leaked.  Wouldn’t fancy the legal bill!

The hardest part today was writing the captions for the images to go along with the article, you have to name them specifically in order for them to be found and used with the selected article. You also have to include so much in a short caption and you're limited with characters.

The chief executive was in the office today (the person who owns the company) so everyone was on their best behaviour even though there was still all the swearing- (must be the norm for working in an office).

FE Week 99th Edition

As the paper went to print last night, we had a delivery of all the papers ready for them to be sent out. It was so strange seeing what was being worked on yesterday (mostly unfinished when I had left; I overheard the other workers saying they were in the office until gone 9:00 the night before, don't quite fancy that yet) to a completed final piece.

 Papers apparently only have a shelf life of less than 5 years, but I think they would be missed if they all went digital due to the novelty of holding them in your hands and reading it.

My name was featured in the paper as ‘guest editor’ which was a good feeling, even though I didn't actually contribute anything to this one.

We all left early today due to the bank holiday weekend and the majority of the journalists get Friday – Monday off but I still have to go in on Easter Monday. #InternLife

I rushed home from work and packed my things as I’m coming back to Devon this weekend, but returning again on Monday. In fact, I’m on the train now from London back to Newton Abbot as I type this, munching away on a bag of ‘M&S Fruit Sherbets’.

I had to complete the dreadful walk from where I'm staying to the local DLR station with all my bags and to make it even worst it was rush hour. The trains were packed and I had to squish in the corner trying to stand up and not fall. As the tube goes really fast, if you don’t hold on, you’re all over the place: I was all over the place.

I got confused on when I had to change lines so I ended up getting off a stop early and to my embarrassment everyone on the platform noticed as I got off the train then boarded the next train going to the exact same place. They must have thought I was mad, or a tourist (oh no).

When arriving at London Paddington, I still had 40 minutes to spare so just watched the interesting departure screens waiting for my train to flag up. I  then remembered I have to take two passport photos into work tomorrow (Debenhams Torquay) in order to receive my staff discount card, so I spotted a passport photo machine and dragged all my baggage over to it. Once sat comfortable in the machine (surrounded by people as the station was so busy) I realised it wouldn’t accept notes so that was one big fail. I had to get out without any photos. Once again #embarrassing

It was then time to board my train and here I am now.

I won't be blogging for the next two days am I’m back in Devon and got far too much to do and lots of people to see.  Also I have work tomorrow in Torquay which means no lie in for ‘James’.

I'll be back on Sunday evening after my trek back up to London, ready for a fresh week of work; I’m aiming not to take as much back with me, even though I'm staying for longer- not quite sure how I will figure that one out. Might have to cut down on my cosmetics- don't be silly.

Have a great weekend and happy Easter. (I wonder if I will have any chocolates eggs. Mum, you best take note!)

Pros of London life-

1. 1.       Amazing liberal city
2. 2.       Excellent cheap transport
3. 3.       It’s where everything is happening

Disadvantages of London life-

1. 1.       Tourists
2. 2.       Terrible skin (the pollution does me no favours)
3. 3.       Expensive living 

Day 6- Work Placement

07:00- my alarm went off. I could see the sun shining through the windows but had to drag myself out of bed (it was so cosy). I got up and just made it in time. 

When arriving at the offices I couldn't actually get in due to you needing a passkey. This was highly embarrassing once I realised, as I had been pushing the door for the last 5 minutes. I turned around to see all the passers by just staring at me as if I was trying to break in. Luckily I had the number of the office and rang it for them to let me in. 

The offices are an old converted house with a different office on each floor, the office for FE Week was on the 3rd floor with no lift. The room was office like but had all the features of the old house; the fireplace, high ceilings and huge windows. I was assigned to a desk and got asked to read all the papers (pretty simple). 

Next, I got taught how to use the system and explored that for an hour, then it was time to actually work. So being the intern I was given the job of checking all the press releases for the magazine and typing them up in a news list. All of the staff working for the magazine today were very busy as the magazine was going to press tonight (a day early) due to the bank holiday. I had over 100+ press releases to sift through but was constantly topped up with coffee- they made a comment on my coffee dosage and said usually the interns haven't hit the caffeine addiction yet, oops. 

A delivery woman came into the office and said she needed a few strong men to collect a parcel which was waiting in reception, immediately everyone looked at me...I had to break it to them that I wasn't strong. This was straight after them asking how I got to the office this morning and I told them I caught the DLR, even though it was within walking distant. They must think I'm so lazy. 

I then had lunch and took the worst decision ever by walking into the centre of Greenwich which was swamped by tourists, all walking slow and with me walking fast due not wanting to waste any of my lunch. They got in the way so much I decided to take a back route which thankfully did not get me lost. Returning back to office, once again I couldn't get in and the woman in reception thought I was a trespasser as she didn't recognise me from the morning, brilliant. 

I then continued to sift through all the press releases and completed a complete news list following next week's publication. I then had to go through and filter which stories would be used and any other information I needed on them. I also had to communicate with press offices in order to gain information further information, and if we needed a picture I would have to source the owner in order to gain the rights to use it. 

 As the day drew to a close all the other journalists and editor were getting frantic about getting all the stories in to meet the print deadline, luckily I had left before it got too flustered. I didn't get any pictures today due to there being nothing that I could photograph, apart from my desk, but the other staff probably would of given me funny looks. So here is just two pictures of me on the DLR- 

enjoying the rollercoaster experience

my view

Day 5: On the move and Drugs, lots of drugs. (Going it alone)

Today I moved location from the North the South (of London obviously)...

Right so we woke up very late again and everything was a bit of a rush, but I managed to pack in time and still go out for breakfast; kind of wish we didn't. 

We walked through a place called Alexandra Palace* and found a local cafe, went in and ordered...it all seemed normal until we realised the owner of the cafe was busy dealing drugs to many of his customers. 

What would happen:

1. The customer would come in,
2.  Sit down,
3.  The owner would then go over to them, place it on the table,
4.  Take the money,
5.  Then they would immediately get up and leave.

 Could you be any more obvious? We ate the greasy breakfast with caution and got out as quickly as possible. 

*Alexandra Palace is an astonishing place, it holds picturesque views of the whole city and the actual palace was where BBC first broadcasted. 

Alexandra Palace 

After this it was time to get on the move, this is when I regret bringing the amount I did. I now had to go it alone on the tube and around the city. I hoped for it not to be busy but silly me, its London of course it will be. As I struggled through the long tube station tunnels to get to the platform I knocked people, I got in the way and I became one of them annoying tourist where I had to stop every minute to relax my arms from the strain of all my bags. I became what I complained about yesterday (oh dear). 

tube app

After 54 minutes, 20 stations and 2 changes, I made it probably with alot more muscle than I previously had. If you know me well that means none. The last change I made was onto the DLR- docklands lgiht  railway, which is an above ground train service (still ran through TfL). The trains have no driver and are automatic, I sat right at the front and oh my, it was scary. At the speed they go it was like a rollercoaster especially with all the hills and bends the line has. 

DLR 

Once I finally found where I was next staying, I took a walk over (well under) the river to Greenwich to find where my work placement was for the next two weeks. To get over the river there isn't a bridge, instead there is an underground tunnel...you could definitely tell you were underwater due to shiplike underground smell of fish and stale water. 

Over in Greenwich I quite easily found the building but (no it wasn't that simple), I was stopped by a pair of youths and asked ''do you want to buy'', obviously I presumed they meant drugs, I politely replied with "No thank you'' and their response was "Oh are you sure, you look that kind of guy", I was shocked, what did they mean...I don't look like a stoner?- so thats twice in one day I have had an incident with drugs. #sayNOtoDRUGS


I resisted the walk back and got the DLR, once again another rollercoaster experience. I then became independent and did my first ever lone shop in Asda and got all the essentials for my breakfast, lunch and dinner. 

Tomorrow I start my work placement at FE Week on the magazine Campus Weekly. It should hopefully be an exciting and valuable experience, so check back tomorrow for an update on my first day. 

(HOLIDAY OVER :( ) 

Day 4, Theatre, Bubble Tea and the Boris Bikes.

"Today we circled London on a lost and long adventure".

We took the long tube journey across several lines making it finally to Canary Wharf, in order to collect the keys for my place of stay following tomorrow for the next two weeks. The majority of  the district was classed as a smoke- free zone but the 'rebel' high financial business profiles did not seem to comply to this; #power. 

The amount of men and woman walking round in their tailored suits made me feel like an Eastender (stereotyping) and the sophisticated synced walk made me look like I needed Etiquette lessons. However the area was a stunning place surrounded with tall buildings (don't think they can be classed as skyscrapers when compared to New York). Even the tube station had some class about it. 

Moving back over to main London; as I like to call it, I attempted to shop on Oxford Street but the crowds got the best of me and I couldn't cope, I'll stick to Exeter next time, thats worse enough. Yes at the moment, I may still be a tourist but the slow walkers who just stop in the street right in front of you makes me lose the will to live. 

me on the Boris Bike

Over to a vaster area of the city 'Hyde Park' where the sun came out and I experienced a Boris Bike. Upon leaving 'Hyde Park Corner station; I thought I would be clever and walk through Hyde Park over to Knightsbridge to find Harvey Nichols and make my debut taste on the famous 'Bubbleology Tea'. After judging the long walk (what I thought was the right way), we decided to hire out the Boris Bikes and ride through Hyde park towards the other end which I just presumed was Knightsbridge. I couldn't of been more wrong! After the 15 minute cycle (I was breathless, my legs were aching and I wasn't in a fit state), we returned the bikes to one of the docking stations and I went to one of those 'YOU ARE HERE' maps to discover I had gone in the complete opposite direction and rode straight past Knightsbridge/ Harvey Nichols which was originally just a short walk from Hyde Park corner. Next it got worst as I dragged my feet through this busy street for about 20 mins until I finally got back into Knightsbridge and found Harvey Nichols; the tea was worth it though, if you ever get a chance try out the bubbleology: do it! It's a unique and replenishing taste. 

bubbleology tea

logo

palladium theatre

Next stop: Theatre. Seeing I only paid £20 for the tickets I presumed I would have back row, upper circle seats but we actually had decent seats in the stalls. I waited nervously for the show to start expecting someone rather tall to sit right in front of me, however the theatre was not  at all full, which was a bit embarrassing for the show. 

The direction of the show could have not been more obvious it was the work of Harry Hill but that made it brilliant. It started and finished with up beat loud catchy songs and the audience felt as part of an X-Factor audience. The comical spoof on the classic well known characters made it comical and relatable and the play on the sob stories just caught on with the audience. 

My favourite character was the talented check out lady who worked on the till at 'TESDA' a pun on Tesco and Asda. The set was multifunctional and forever changing. Simon ( played by Nigel Harman) was ultimately fabulous; as said by himself and well Louie, was just Louie. The talent of the main girl; Chenice (played by Cynthia Erivo) was outstanding and led to the audience to a loud gasp and an endless applause.

 The musical wasnt your classic musical but that wasn't to be expected due to the figures on the production team and the plot the musical was following; a mick take on Simon Cowell and his success with his talent shows. On the other hand it does terribly mock many characters from the previous series and judges/ presenters (Cheryl Cole & Dermot O'Leary). It puts the X-Factor into reality and on my own personal opinion could destroy the success of the tv show, due to it putting all the rumours and speculations said about the show into truth. 

seat/ view

entrance to Chinatown 

After the theatre we got a glimpse of Soho nightlife and ate at a Chinatown restaurant. If you have been to Chinatown before then there is not much else to be said. (Expensive; adequate food, Chinese and busy). 

  

London Marathon

An early start and a late finish; the day of the 'Virgin Money London Marathon (2014)'. 

(SJA Uniform)

Today was the 34th annual world recognised London Marathon and I volunteered for the second year running as a First Aider on behalf of St John Ambulance; a volunteer-led, charitable non-governmental organisation dedicated to the teaching and practice of first aid. I have been a volunteer at the charity for over 5 years and since regionalisation of the charity in 2013, a member for the Youth Regional Advisory group. I have achieved my Grand Prior award and am now leading cadet at our Torquay Unit. I have competed in many competitions, took part in many training courses and attended the new training pilot courses for a service delivery cadet back in 2013. 

The day started off slow with us being placed at tent 7.5 (just up from the finish line), due to the nature of the 26 mile marathon we did not receive any casualties until gone 13:00 (bearing in mind we had been there since 8:30)- first came the elite runners then followed by the 'fun' runners. 

All area medical pass

I had my celebrity spotting eyes on top performance and saw Tom Daley, Jimmy Carr and Chris Chittell (who places Eric Pollard from Emmerdale), these celebrities were all spectators. We also saw Mo Farah who came 8th at his London Marathon debut. However due to us being 'back stage' I felt constrained not to ask for pictures, although I did fan girl for a few seconds (hours) over Tom. By this time we were also very busy and it was imperative to put your casualties first rather than gawping at the well known figures. 

'Eric Pollard- Emmerdale' 

At 13:00 we were flooded with people having all kinds of problems; cramp, sickness, dehydration, low blood sugar, cuts, blisters and the list is endless. I came across a few inspirational people which is the reason I love what I do, hearing their stories whilst treating them really does give you that wow factor. 

One man was 79, from Mexico and had travelled especially to London to complete his 46th Marathon, another man was 21 stone last year and whilst watching the 2013 marathon it gave him determination to lose weight and compete in this years. Both of these men completed the marathon in just over 5 hours. Many did the marathon as a race and for fun whilst overs did it for charity also to tick it off their 'bucket list'. 

backstage on the Mall

The event had high media coverage and our first aid station was right next to the media tent, I did try and poke my head through the gap a few times but I failed. I also tried my best to walk past the cameras though none of them seemed live at the time, claim to fame = unsuccessful. 

The day is always long and tiring but it is definitely worth it due to good you are doing and the satisfaction you get when helping to save lives. 

Well done to all the runners, race officials and the St John Ambulance volunteers, another successful marathon completed. One day I would really love to run (probably walk) the marathon due to the atmosphere I witness whilst volunteering; also the free goody bag you get at the end and of course the well deserved medal. However after viewing the pain and condition of a minority of runners at the end it does give you that doubt. When the casualty  first comes into your care the first most common thing they say (if they are conscious) is "why did I do this to myself?",  but they always leave on a high note after coming into realisation of what they have just achieved. 

SJA signage 

_____________________________________________

After the marathon I had a strong coffee to give me energy (no I had just not ran the 26 miles but I was drained) and then took a short tube journey over to Covent Garden where I enjoyed a lavish chicken salad at Co^te. We also got served Wine but shhh dont tell the Mother. 

Day 2- What a day!

As we awoke (much later than planned) we made our way over to Stratford to check out the new Queen Elizabeth Olympic park which had only just re-opened at the start of the month. I had been to the Olympic Park before the Olympics for the Schools Games and taking into account it was still unfinished, I thought it was a fantastic place, however this time my opinion had dropped, it was a disappointment- what happened to building a legacy? 

I was given the impression that 'Stratford City' had once again been forgotten about...the area looked a mess and was just once again large areas of undeveloped land. The Olympic Stadium had lost its glory and the Aquatics centre was just like any other swimming pool. The park was bare and the staff seemed unmotivated- all the excitement and success was lost and it just looked like it had just been scraped back together in order to gain some money from the tourists. 

The areas where the temporary structures for the Olympic games once lay were just mud pits and all fancy signage and imagery was desperately in need of an uplifting marketing boost. I had to make the visit a bit more interesting, so decided to pay the horrific price of £14, just to go up the 'Orbit'- the crazy infrastructure that was iconic during the 2012 games. Upon entering the 'Orbit' we were giving a 30 second tour guide who accompanied us up the lift and told us what we could do. If you put two and two together, not much can be said in 30 seconds, and the amount we were told that we could do, im surprised it even lasted 30 seconds! Yes, up the top there were astonishing views of the city (minus the destroyed park below) and to make it a bit more interesting warped mirrors were added so you could view yourself in a warped way- I had no idea on the relevance of them? Then to top it off you had to plummet  down over 400 steps just to get out. 

The Orbit 

Destroyed Stadium 

View from Orbit 

We then made our way over to the 'Emirates Air line' (the cable cart across the Thames). Coming out of North Greenwich station (the one for the O2) It was interesting how different the arena looked so close up and how it was a village within itself, lined with restaurants, bars and cafe's. The 'Airline' was given a airpot style system with the use of boarding passes and the Emirates fancy red uniform but we were unsure on whether this mode of transport was in conjunction with TfL (Transport for London) or a separate system; although you could use your Oyster Card*. The 'Airline' gave you great views of Greenwich and Canary Wharf but if you wanted pictures you had to be speedy (it was over very quick). 

View from the Airline

After wondering where we ended up, we found the next tube station and aimed to get to Tower Bridge, but with my wonderful London knowledge we ended up at London Bridge which has no link with Tower Bridge at all; similar names got the best of me I think. When exiting this station you were brought right out by the Shard, which is a unique and tall building but still vastly empty and not much use, unless you're rich and want to eat at the restaurants on top or pay to view the top- no thank you. 

The Shard

By this time I was flagging and needed to 'Eat, Drink & Sleep'. A quick Coffee fix did the trick. Next we ended up at Tate Modern and it just reminded me of any other free art gallery with lots of vast empty space (there was no exhibition on which is usually the exciting part). We then went across the bridge over to St Pauls Cathedral which was absolutely massive, I had another coffee fix whilst sitting on the steps of the cathedral; with the sun setting and blinding my eyes. 

We then decided to make our way back into the 'City of Westminster' so made a spontaneous jump on a bus and luckily it took us to Oxford Street- if you are no rush, the bus is brilliant. For starters its cheap and you get to see so much more than you would on the tube (obviously as you are not underground). We made a quick walk up to Soho where I took some snaps for my Photojournalism project and then headed over to Knightsbridge and got some further photos. 

Chaos at Knightsbridge Station

Getting back from Knightsbridge= Disaster. - The station is undergoing improvements and the inward escalators are under maintenance so the only option was the stairs. Due to the amount of people, they were only letting a few people through at a time to ensure no safety breaches whilst getting down. This caused a large backlog of people which caused everyone to change and go into 'lets all push until we get somewhere mode' 

One man said to another woman "alright no need to push, you aren't going to get there any quicker". Her reply "in some situations you just need to push", he was told! 

Today made me realise that the Olympic Park has well and truly been downgraded since its glory in the Olympic days and the tube isn't always the best mode of transport when exploring the city. 

*DONT use your Oyster on the 'Emirates Airline' it messed up our travel cards and made us go into debt with TfL. It took more money off that it should of done and made us pay more as we did not return using the line. The easiest and cheapest way would be to just buy a 'boarding pass' from the Emirates station.