Screw the Plan

So, I didn't end up going to the London Eye. Because of the time change it now gets dark around 5:30 and as it turns out, the attraction closes at six anyway. Well no bother, I thoroughly enjoyed the slide, which was a mix of adrenaline, exhilaration, and terror (the fun kind.) Now, that doesn't mean my adventure for the day was over, not by a long shot. I hung out at the hostel chatting with a few other occupants for a while, and then I headed to Brick Lane. There's all sorts of history behind this notable street, but it's best known for the many curry restaurants all along it. After stepping off the tube, and somehow misreading the map on my new phone (only £25, and it came with a charger and 6GB of data!), I finally found my way to what could be the most delicious smelling street in London. What I didn't expect was the people outside these establishments trying to lure you inside their restaurant with all sorts of deals. After just trying to look at a few menus without any added pressure, I decided it was time for some Google magic. I found a highly rated place, only a few steps away, and wouldn't it figure it was one of the places trying to get me to come in. Silly guy out front must have thought it was his doing. But once I was inside I couldn't have been happier, and my stomach was in agreement. I started with Onion Bhajee, a delicious fried onion stack, and then for the main course. I decided on a simple lamb curry, which wasn't spicy for me, but others might disagree, and some garlic naan. Of course I had a mango lassie to go along with the meal. This food was fantastic, rich and creamy, the sauce bursting with flavor but not overwhelming the meat. Trying to eat in moderation was a difficult task here because even after you've had your fill you find your hands moving to put another bite in your mouth. A battle with my tastebuds later, and I was having the rest of my meal boxed up. As if I already didn't like them enough for their food, they also sent me on my way with a free pen. Talk about a souvenir win, and certainly my only free one. Arriving back at the hostel, I knew I had an easy day ahead of me tomorrow, I mean, the London Eye doesn't open until 11, and my tour wasn't till 3:30. I spend the evening chatting and laughing with the people in the lobby well past my bedtime. Thank goodness for new technology too, because now I don't have to lose touch with them. Not the day I had thought I'd have, and that does seem to happen more often now, but certainly unforgettable.Read more