Today, we left NYC for London to explore Shakespeare's England. Before leaving, Jenny and I checked over the itinerary and double-checked that we had all of the cameras, books, tripods, and anything else we would need during our expedition. It's quite an ordeal to pack for an overseas adventure. Aside from necessary filming equipment, packing for a lengthy visit makes you evaluate what you really need in your day to day life.

Sarah, Christopher, Jenny and I headed to JFK airport. For those of you who have never had the unique experience and pleasure of riding with a NYC cab driver, let me tell you that it can sometimes be a little crazy. Our cab driver was particularly fond of his brakes and by the end of the trip we were all slightly carsick. Oh, well! We were just happy to finally be on our way. The plane was packed and slightly uncomfortable, so I found myself just half-asleep for the whole 7 hour flight.

11:00am the next day: London's Heathrow Airport is enormous! Everywhere I looked there were distinct yellow signs pointing me in one direction or another. Eventually the signs led me to immigration and passport control. I was asked several questions including: How long are you staying in London? What exactly is the purpose of your visit? What is ProjectExplorer?

I appreciate the thoroughness that they take in allowing people into their country, but I have to admit I was a bit nervous. I think I was struck with fear that they wouldn't let me in. My suggestion: be prepared to answer a couple questions when you enter another country.

Once my passport was stamped and I was approved to enter the country, everything was different. I was in a new country with the same language but a different sound and different mannerisms. We all piled into a cab and headed into the city.

We arrived at our hotel, the Mad Hatter Hotel. Located in Southwark, it was once a hat factory. Our hotel room was perfect for Sarah and I to share. Instead of one large bed it had two twin sized beds. I've stayed in many hotels in the U.S., but never have I seen one with two twin-sized beds. Our room also came with an electronic tea kettle! How quaint and terribly English. Tomorrow, when I wake up I am definitely going to start the day with a cup of tea.

I have never been to England before, so during the next few days I will probably be viewing the city like young children do when they point out seemingly obvious things like birds and planes.

Now I just need to cross my fingers that I quickly adjust to the time change so that I feel less jet lagged soon! Now it is bed-time!

Tomorrow we are Stratford bound.

For Extra Credit:
Learn about Sir Francis Drake, an explorer from Shakespeare's time.

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