I cannot believe how fast the time went. I was counting down the days after finals until I could finally say “We’re here in the UK!” The last 48 hours consisted of: a freezing cold dorm room in Litchfield Towers in Oakland, a Peaky Blinders movie that had me on the edge of my seat, an uncomfortable flight with mouthwatering Indian cuisine, and a nice nap on our two-hour ride to Birmingham, which was a much-needed rest after the chaos of exams. The flight had its challenges, as turbulence rocked us back and forth, but the lovely aroma of curry wafting through the cabin made it all worthwhile. I think that was the only time thus far that I was able to get adequate sleep, and I am hoping that will change tonight as I’m determined to get at least 8 hours of rest. We were finally able to drop our heavy luggage at our beautiful hotel, where he can hear the tram and cars go by, and take a brisk walk to a lovely pub called O’Neill’s, where residents go to drink a pint and cheer for their favorite football (soccer) team. One of the ladies at a table next to ours was super sweet and gave us advice on what to order and what deals the pub had. There was even a match going on while we were there. I learned a bit about football due to two of my friends that play soccer at Pitt-Greensburg. For lunch, I had duck gyoza with a sweet chili sauce that was just the right balance of spicy and sweet, paired with a cherry Pepsi that used real tart cherry juice instead of cherry grenadine like we do here in the States. It was the first time I had duck in a gyoza because most places back home only serve it with pork or chicken. I couldn’t resist stealing the last slice of pepperoni pizza because it looked absolutely delicious; despite, feeling nauseous before we arrived.

After getting our first taste of pub life, we took off to explore the hidden gems that surround the canals, enchanted by the charming architecture and the quaint shops that lined the streets. There was even a Lego store across the way that had a giant giraffe statue displayed out front. We learned how residents of Birmingham will live on boats to avoid paying property taxes that have skyrocketed over the past few years; it seems like a genius idea, offering them a unique lifestyle, and they can navigate the city like the Italians do with the gondolas. Then we walked down the yellow brick path like Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz to Black Sabbath Bridge, where we took pictures on a bench that celebrated the late Ozzy Osbourne. It was a heartfelt display for everything he had done for Birmingham, but also for the love he felt for his hometown. I am so excited to learn more about this beautiful city and get a taste of the cuisine from the cultures that surround it.