My London Work Trip

It’s been almost a week that I have moved to London for a project. I know, I did not tell you guys about this trip. The reason why I did that was whenever I tell people that I am travelling, it never works out. So, this time I kept mum even though it was killing me on the inside. I did not breathe a word to any one in my office until I got my Visa. It happened so fast! I got my Visa on Thursday and I was flying on Sunday. I dint even have time to think about packing. I just did three quick shopping trips just to cover the basics. Instead of vetting the clothing choices, I reamed in the expert. I did not have time to rethink my choices.

My first impressions of the city would be “too many Indians!” The last time I travelled to Europe I was in the middle of nowhere in France where I would be the only Indian in the 5 mile radius. But, here in London everywhere I turn I see a familiar face. I am in love with the city, which might be because I don’t have to live like a pauper (thanks per diem).I am trying new restaurants every day. Which is also the reason why I had a food allergy the second day (not so cool, but I guess I will just chalk it as a part of the London experience). I am walking around the city till I can’t walk any more. The hotel I live in is walking distance to everything that there is to see here. All I have to do is get my lazy ass out of the bed which is rather difficult.

I was a bit skeptical when I started working because it’s the first time I am actually in a corporate environment that is most definitely not like India. I had to re-haul my whole wardrobe moving from FabIndia-environmentalist to iBanker mode which I should say is not an easy thing to do on a budget. Apart from the changing sartorial choices, I like the people and the place. It’s more professional, much more serious people doing serious work. I no longer had tea breaks every hour and chit chat, but I was okay with that. For once I could say that I was actually busy.

I love the tube, it’s so convenient. I am obsessed with maximizing my tube usage; trying to figure out all the possible lines. Also, it is one of those settings where I discovered probably the most precious and interesting aspect London has to offer: multiculturalism. The cacophony of way too many languages spoken at any single instant feels so eerie.

I like rushing past the long queues at Pret a Manger, first thing (it’s so good that it’s always busy), wondering whether or not to have yet another pain au raisin in the morning and taking in the tangy aroma of French Cheese Shop right outside the tube. It’s all about food when you work near Liverpool Street; ambling through the road, trying a different stalls every day. Lunchtime has been revolutionized. There are just too many choices! The smoked salmon and grilled chicken from Street Kitchen are to die for and there’s a fabulous burritos from the Mexican place... my bank balance and my BMI both are at a serious risk of irreparable damage!

More about my weekend adventures in the next post..