"Would you like a drink with that Miss America?"
Before our afternoon class one day, we all snuck off to explore the Camden Lock Market. It's a huge area with stalls after stalls of vendors selling clothing, jewelry, nick nacks, and DELICIOUS food. The countless music venues that line the streets give Camden an alternative feel.
Entrance to the stalls
I've never been one to turn down chocolate, fudge, or a kitchen.
We all grabbed variations of the food offerings (chicken masala for me), and parked it on the picnic tables in the shade.
"You girls over there, come and let me show you my kabobs!"
These lovely guys serenaded us back down into the Tube station as we rushed back to Bedford Square for class. I certainly plan on making a return trip when I have more time to roam.
Another night we ventured to a comedy show at a pub called The Phoenix. My suitemate Tess knew of the place, so we tagged along with her and her English boyfriend, Emmett.
Unfortunately we were caught in our first English rain along the way, resulting in a frizzy mess for me.
Soggy Amanda
However once our friendly host graced the stage, we all perked up and settled in with our pints.
But what's with the noose?
This comedy show happens every week, and allows local comedians to try out their new jokes on a smaller crowd before they take them to the big leagues. Hilarity ensued, drinks flowed, and songs were sung. The night ended with Bruce the bar owner taking the stage for his debut appearance.
On our third day of class we were taken on a field trip around our neighborhood to the Foundling Museum.
The former orphanage and hospital was a place for mothers who were not able to care for their children to leave their babies. The children would receive medical treatment and education until they reached a working age and were sent to a workhouse or other employment. It's tying in nicely with our discussion of Dickens' novel, Oliver Twist. (A tour of his museum and childhood home to come shortly.) Sorry, no pictures were allowed inside!
Coram's Fields gate
The whole afternoon of class was spent outdoors, and we soaked up every bit of the sunshine.
Looking down
For the most part London's weather has been glorious *knocks on wood*. Hope you're still with me! Lots more to come including my first ever West End show!
