I suppose the blog title is slightly misleading because my first stop on the journey was actually Wales. Had a couple nights exploring within the country's capital of Cardiff. Two notable sights included the castle which came with an actual moat surrounding and a very touching tribute in the Bay Area. I walked by and caught a glimpse of the clearly still active memorial and read the words, "for what he did to save the children." Slightly confused I looked to read a little further into what had happened, only to realize that this very touching memorial (perhaps the built up in the city) where people were still putting up memories and notes was actually for a FICTIONAL tv character!! I'll put a picture in the gallery to help understand!

The next stop was Bath, a very beautiful picturesque city in which the Roman baths have been for thousands of years. I took a free walking tour around the city which for once was actually free, not the typical "free but then name your price and tip us that amount free," which was a nice change of pace. They were very informative and took us virtually around the whole city, which is quite small. Perhaps my favourite learned fact has to do with Bath Abbey, which has a very detailed architecture and many detailed statues on the front. One of these was dedicated to one of the men who started the church, which looked a little funny compared to its counterpart on the other side of the door. Turns out at some point down the line, the head of the sculpture fell off, and unable to afford to put a new one in place, the town decided that they would simple carve a new face into the pre-existing beard. Needless to say he looks slightly stubby now.

Newquay was next on the list where I fell in love... With surfing! There was a beautiful beach in the town that I was overlooking from my hostel. With the window open in the room I went to bed and woke up the the sounds of waves crashing. There was a surf school in the hostel which I took advantage of on my first morning. Despite a wet suit, it was absolutely freezing. I don't think my hands or feet actually warmed up until the following morning. Nonetheless it was so much fun and I wish that I could have done it everyday there, but it wasn't exactly in the budget. I guess I'll just have to find somewhere else to retake up the sport... Perhaps a much warmer place... In North America!

Had another relaxing time in the final stop before London which was Penzance. Spent the first day exploring the cliffs at Land's End and the second day was spent exploring the seaside town of St Ives. They were both very nice in their own rights.

And finally it's time to talk about the hardships of this past week... Nature!! I HATE seagulls, with a passion. I was attacked 3 times by seagulls in the past week, twice of which they stole food that I had just purchased right out of my hands. It was actually terrifying! They swooped out of the sky with no care for my feelings, stepped on my head and robbed me right in front of a crowed of people! I don't think I will ever be able to go to the beach with the same carefree attitude I've had in the past, this experience has changed me.

Ok I will stop the dramatics now .. Even though it was quite frightening! London is up next, time to see mommy!

Love,
Sara