London left me with a good impression

My last day in London has finally come. With a bit of sadness, I got up and started packing. I had about 7 hours before my flight. So, I had to explore a little bit more. This time I didn’t have a plan. I just wanted to wander about.

Manson House Place in London photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

With my small suitcase, I got on the tube and stopped at a random station. It was near downtown and close to the London Bridge. This was on the Mansion House Place. Walking around felt so unreal. I know I have done this many times. Yet, I started thinking deeper on this very topic while wandering around. As I walked reality hit me. The thought of waking up in one country than falling asleep in another that is across an ocean is amazing. We usually take this for granted. However, humanity has gone far. A trip from New York City to London would take months before airplanes. Writing this now that we are in a pandemic, my thoughts that day have a bigger impact looking back. Humanity even in dark times always finds a way to adapt and improve. It would be interesting how the future of travel will look like in 50 years. Will a flight from New York to Sydney take 5 hours by then? Will we be able to travel to Mars and other planets? All this thinking and being lost in my head was suddenly put to a stop. A few drops of rain brought me back into the present. However, it’s crazy we still don’t have a direct commercial flight to Sydney from New York City.

Piccadilly Circus, London’s “Times Square” photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Got back on the tube and got off at the Piccadilly Circus. I was told by a friend to visit here. It wasn’t on my list of tourist attractions to see. However, the stop on the tube showed up and I got off. The reason why I wasn’t too excited to visit this landmark was the comparison to Times Square. I didn’t really want to see anything that reminds me of being back home. Yet, there I was. Seeing London’s “Times Square.” It was very small to it’s New York’s Counterpart. Also, there was a lot more traffic. Similar to when Times Square allowed cars to pass by. Now, you can only pass by on foot. Still felt very commercial-like. I wonder how much it would cost to put an ad up there.

The grey clouds of London photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

The clouds started to darken up. I know this happens all the time. Rain is unavoidable here. Yet, it was like the city of London felt the same about me leaving. London is really beautiful in a sophisticated way. Everything started to get grey and gloomy. Sadly, I can see why the U.K has a big problem with Suicide. It’s actually the biggest cause of death to Men under 45. This constant grey sky can really affect the mood of the locals. I’m glad the Usa has options in what type of weather you would like to live in. Sometimes you can take your own country for granted.

London eye on a cloudly day photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

On one of the stops I got off, a giant Ferris wheel was out in the distances. I made it my mission to see this Ferris wheel up close. Started asking the underground station workers how to reach this unmistakable landmark. Learned from the workers that this Ferris wheel is nicknamed The Eye Of London. After a quick tube ride and about a 15-minute walk, I was there. Being in front of this landmark, reminded me of my fear of heights. Still, the sight was beautiful. Only I wish I had more time to see it at night. Regardless, this trip to London was amazing and I can’t wait to go back.

Thank you so much for reading! Stay safe everyone! Wash your hands! Much Love! Sorry for not posting last week. I needed the time to sleep and relax. I wasn’t trying to burn out. Thank you so much for your support!!

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September 12, 2020 15

Seeing past the differences: having an understanding of the LGBT community

Im not here to start a political argument or to have some type of an agenda behind this post. Since, I know that the USA political party conventions are going on now. This post is just to show how much I grown as a person throughout my travels. From someone who was homophobic to someone who now has compassion towards this community’s struggles. I’m a straight guy so I know I will never fully understand what this community goes through but at least I have a small idea of the issues. Please read this post with an open mind.

The rainbow flags photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

After exploring London for a little bit more, nightfall came by quick. I wanted to explore the neighborhood my Airbnb was in a little bit more. The more I walked around, the more rainbow flags I saw. It was clear that this neighborhood, Soho had a theme of sexual freedom. From the restaurants that look like sex shops to the actually sex shops. I was definitely glad that I traveled without kids because that talk about the items at the stores would had been awkward.

A random person in Soho photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Back to the exploring, the music blasted loud from the buildings. People were enjoying their night. I was taking photos and this person in the photo above showed up. I still have no idea who they are. Either way, the place was really alive. It was as if, the sun never came down. The people acted like tomorrow was not monday.

A gay sex shop photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

I took a picture of a sex shop like it was normal. Before being around this type of environment would had made me very uncomfortable. It’s crazy how much I changed. Growing up in the San Francisco Bay Area, most people would think we would not be homophobic. However, it’s the opposite. Homophobia runs deep in the Bay Area. Especially within the Hispanic and Black communities. We used to avoid going to the Castro district in San Francisco. We would jokingly say don’t pick up money in the streets of the Castro district. Even mocking the community with offensive slurs. It wasn’t until I traveled to the Middle East that my eyes opened up. I mentioned it before in another post. One of my friends in Dubai was gay. He was one of the people that showed me around dubai. After sitting down and have a conversation, I learned the issues the LGBT community goes through. In the Middle East, being gay can get you killed if you are caught. In the west, it’s not that extreme. However, I had heard stories from people being jumped just for being LGBT. So, the issue is still there.

The neon bikes photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

I know there’s not much I can do to change the minds of grown adults. However, at least I can change the minds of the people around me. One conversation at a time. Being comfortable in this neighborhood was a reflection of my personal growth. People are people regardless of who they are and what they are into. Hopefully, one day everybody can live in peace and without fear.

Thank you so much for reading! Stay safe everyone! Wash your hands! Much Love!

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August 29, 2020 13

Passing through Tower Bridge

It was a dark and gloomy day. A normal occurrence in this part of the world. However, it was a lot more cloudy than usual. To my surprise and ignorance, it started to rain hard. Like being hit with a garden hose, I was soaked. I had to find a store that sold ponchos and umbrellas. I was warned by my hosts that it rains unpredictably over here. Being the hardheaded person that was I, that warning went from one ear to the other without being processed in the middle. Regardless, this wasn’t going to stop me from having a good time.

Looking at Tower Bridge from afar photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

After getting a poncho and an umbrella, I was ready to explore more of London. I keep hearing from friends and family about this famous Tower bridge. I was even told that you haven’t been to London unless you have seen the Tower Bridge. Growing in the San Francisco bay, I had to see the hype behind this bridge and compare it to the Golden Gate.

One of the towers of Tower Bridge photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Once I got near Tower Bridge, I was approached by a local that was selling tour bus tickets. Might as well get a view of the Tower Bridge on a bus. Got on the bus and my inner tourist came out. Keep in mind, I was in a poncho the whole time. I always try to not look like a tourist. However, sometimes you just have to go with the flow. With my poncho and I love London hat, I was ready to see this Bridge.

A better view of the first tower photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Passing by Tower Bridge, it was an interesting experience. I learned from the tour guide that this bridge helped put a dent into the traffic problem in London. The cool thing about this bridge is that it still lifts when boats pass by. In the usa, lifting bridges are not the norm. I don’t think I ever saw one during my trips throughout the Usa. I saw people walking above us. It was a clear sign that I have to go back and see this bridge again.

Passing through the second tower photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

The Golden Gate Bridge compared to the Tower Bridge is like old world meets the new world. The Tower Bridge has the medieval feel/look to it. While the Golden Gate looks a lot more modern. However, the bridges were only built about 40 years apart. The Golden Gate (1937) and Tower Bridge (1894) look like they were built 100’s of years apart. These two bridges might as well come from two different eras. This is what I love about traveling outside of the Usa. Even with the newer structures, there is a hint of deeper history in the designs.

Thank you so much for reading! Stay safe everyone! Wash your hands! Much Love!

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August 15, 2020 34

Accidentally finding London’s Chinatown

Imagine accidentally walking into a place with beautiful Chinese arches. It was as If, I walked into another country and continent. I almost second-guessed myself. For a few seconds, I thought my trip to London was nothing but an old memory. I was snapped back into reality when I saw signs in English.

The entrance to London’s Chinatown with a paifang photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

It was dark and full of energy. Although, the pictures I took everything looks closed. Two turns away, the streets were full of life. The whole place was interesting. The colors and light they put on the Chinese arches made everything pop out. It is clear that London’s Chinatown is very proud of its heritage.

Another picture of a Paifang photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

I learned that the gateway’arches are called paifang. They were introduced to China from India when Buddhism spread to East Aisa. In the Indian subcontinent, it is called Torana. Throughout East and Southeast Aisa it has a different name. I noticed these patterns and colors on my trips throughout that part of the world. Never knew it was because of the spread of Buddhism via the silk road. That’s what I love learning about history because it helps you connect the dots.

A Chinese restaurant in London’s Chinatown photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Found a few restaurants opened nearby. Never had much of an interest in Chinese food outside of China. I always found it super oily. I heard from friends that the food is very different in China. Sadly, I didn’t get to explore that during my time in Wuhan. I ate at burger king like a true American. From what I read, different parts of China have different styles of cuisines. I learned that Sichuan cuisine is spicey and they flavor their food with Chilli peppers. Which was brought to China from Mexico via the Portuguese in Macao or from the Portuguese colonies in India. Sichuan cuisine comes from the Sichuan province in China. Which is in the middle of china two provinces away from Wuhan. Close to the border with Myanmar. Also, I learned from friends that Cantonese cuisine is sweet. Cantonese cuisine comes from Hong Kong and it’s surrounding areas. I really have to try it one day! However, Chinese food in Chinatowns from any parts of the world, I would probably reject the offer. Unless they were really authentic!

A street in London’s China Town photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

The night was coming to a close. I felt my body could not keep up with all the time changes. I felt like just taking a nap and relaxing. My night time adventures were coming to an end. The reminder that I had another day and a half to explore London made me smile. I couldn’t wait to see what else London had to offer.

Thank you so much for reading! Stay safe everyone! Wash your hands! Much Love!

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August 8, 2020 7

My Nighttime Adventures In Soho, London

Nighttime came by quick, after my wonderful meal of eating chipotle for dinner. Yeah, I know I’m supposed to eat British food. However, I never knew what was it exactly that the English ate. So, I picked what was the most familiar. Regardless, it was time to explore London at night. The neighborhood where I was staying at on this trip was Soho. To not be so reckless, I only explored Soho. Well, at least that was the plan.

An Alley in Soho photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Soho in London reminded me like the one in New York City. The one in Nyc is a lot more spacious. Both have a party atmosphere. Where all the singles in their 20’s and 30’s hangout. Usually, looking like hipsters. The music was loud and each building felt like it’s own party. Passing by them was similar to when you have cars blasting music drive past you. It was clear this was one of London’s nightlife hubs. Everybody was enjoying life.

Walking into Soho’s nightlife photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Kept walking back and forth without care. The lights and music were beautiful. I saw restaurants from all different types of cuisines. From Japanese to Mexican, this was the spot. The one thing that stood out and kept popping up was the theme of sex. This area is very sexualized. I actually didn’t do much research on the neighborhood. I just saw it was near restaurants that were open late.

A sex shop in Soho photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

The further I went, it became more clear what this neighborhood was about. There were a lot of sex shops. I’m so glad I came here without my little cousins. That conversation would have been awkward for me. There was a restaurant that I mistook as a Mexican sex club. It had two Mexican styled skeletons out front taking off their clothes. It is called La bodega Negra. It wasn’t until I googled it afterward I found out what it was.

Shaftesbury Avenue photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Eventually, I ended up on Shaftesbury Avenue. At the time, I didn’t know it was a famous street in London. As shown in the picture, this is home to London’s longest-running musical, Les Misérables. Taking all this in, it was definitely an experience. It was exciting and eye-opening. My adventures in London were just starting. I couldn’t wait for what this city had in store.

Stay safe everyone and remember to wash your hands!

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August 1, 2020 9

The London Bridge Is Standing Strong

Yeah, as the corny title suggests The London bridge is still standing. Really makes you think twice about that nursery rhyme. The one that claims this bridge is falling down. Either way, I had to see it for myself while I was here.

The view outside of the tube station photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

I got off at the monument station. I was surprised by how the weather changed so quickly. I was warned by my host that it can rain here out of nowhere. However, I thought they were exaggerating. Here I am with only a small umbrella. At that moment, I was reminded of that Rihanna song. It kept playing in my head, while I walked blissfully.

A photo of the monument photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

As I was walking to the Bridge, I met some friendly locals. They told me which side to get a better view of the bridge. Also, to make sure I check this monument out. This was built to remember the great fire of London. I heard about it as a kid from history books. For those who don’t know, the fire destroyed about 90% of the homes in London. Leaving about 70,000 people without a home. This was during the time when London only had around 80,000 people. It’s hard to imagine how people must have felt like after losing their homes. This is truly a city that has rebuilt itself from ashes to great heights. It should be nicked as the phoenix city.

A beautiful view from the London bridge photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Finally got on the bridge and I was surprised to see the view. The grey clouds with a view of London’s downtown, I felt like I was in a harry potter movie. I read that London averages about 1600 hours of sunlight yearly. No wonder why my British friends love going to the Caribbean.

A view of the London bridge tower photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

I walked further down the bridge and I saw the tallest building in all of the UK. It is sometimes called the London Bridge Tower. This is the sixth-largest building in Europe. I can see why the friendly people I asked earlier told me to walk on this side of the bridge. It truly looked beautiful up close. The picture doesn’t really do it justice. The grey clouds mixed with the color of the building’s windows looked awesome to me. Truly enjoyed my time on this bridge that is clearly standing tall and strong.

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July 25, 2020 10

The oldest underground passenger railway

If you been following us for a while, you should know that I’m a subway geek/nerd. Being in London, do you really think I wouldn’t want to see where subways originally started. Of course, I’m going to geek out while taking the London tube. I probably looked very off to locals. Imagine seeing an overly excited person trying so hard to not look like a tourist but clearly is super excited like one.

The entrance to the underground photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Entering into the subway, you notice the difference. The subway carts were a lot smaller compared to the USA. I truly felt like a sardine in a can. It was small but somehow there was enough space to fit a lot of people. I understand why my British and European friends always say that everything is a lot bigger in the USA. I felt claustrophobic. That saying something because I live in NYC and enjoy taking subway rides. I can see where the stereotype of Americans being fat comes from. We like fast food and space. Truthfully, London’s tube is actually the smallest I have seen on my trips. Not sure if it is because countries now started to model their subway systems like the ones in New York and Washington D.C or the world likes their space as well.

Waiting for the train photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

One thing that really stood out to me was not seeing panhandlers and street performers on the tube/ underground. I tend to take that for granted while in New York and San Francisco. I mention SF and NYC because those are probably the two weirdest cities with the most activity on the subways in the USA. London’s underground almost felt like it lacked character. I know that probably sounded like something a hipster would say but it is true. Most places around the world don’t have handlers and street performers on the train carts. However, I was somewhat expecting this in London. Regardless, it was still a very surreal moment to be in London’s underground. I have seen it in movies and video games. However, seeing it in person is another experience.

A picture telling the history of London’s tube photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

The history of the underground is very interesting to fellow subway geeks like me. It started in 1863, the trains were run by steam. It reminded me of one of those old Disney cartoons where mickey mouse was on a steam train. The trains moved to electrified railways in 1890. New York City’s subway was modeled after London’s. It’s awesome to be able to see where the underground subways started. I can see why a lot of people really enjoy London.

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July 18, 2020 8

Feeding Ducks at the serpentine River

Walking deeper into Hyde Park, I noticed a body of water. Started walking towards it. When I came next to the river, there were kids and their parents throwing pieces of bread. Of course, they were doing this to attract ducks and geese.

Ducks eating and looking for bread photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

The kids were having so much fun. This reminded me of my childhood. The times I spent with my parents at the local park. Instead of feeding the ducks and geese, my childhood friends and I used to annoy the feathered animals. We used to chase them while screaming at them. After some time, they would start chasing us back. The tables were flipped and we were the ones running away.

A duck looking where to go photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Seeing this warmed my heart. Sometimes, I can’t believe how much of a trouble maker I was. Nothing like these kids at the park. All this made me think of how would life be like as a father. I just hope my children are not like how I was. If they are, I will not have a fun time.

Ducks about to swim photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

After getting lost in my thoughts, I was snapped back into reality. A bunch of ducks started grouping around me. The pieces of bread were being thrown near me. Got out of the way like a deer running from headlights.

A Board explain the ducks photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Eventually, I started throwing bread at the ducks. Following the lead of a young couple that kindly let have some bread. I felt like a kid again. On my face was the brightest smile. It was as if, my inner-child came to know peace. Who would had thought a simple act of bread feeding animals by a river could be so reflective and healing.

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July 11, 2020 12

Going further into Hyde Park and reflecting about living in the USA

After my time of exploring the flower garden, I decided to walk towards this statue. It looked super important and I had to take a picture of it. The statue represents the British Empire and its strength. With everything that is going on now, I wonder if this statue will still be up. This was last summer, it’s crazy how things can change so quickly. Never even thought twice about statues like these. Which, I’m glad to be more aware of these issues.

Started going towards where the people were being people. I love people watching. Everybody was acting so genuine. Laughter with friends, you can tell Londoners live a nice life. When I say nice, I mean a life full of calmness. Although, in certain areas, there are parts of London that are busy just like any major city in the USA.

People sitting at the park photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Kept walking around to feel the moment. The differences in attitudes from New York City and London are very noticeable. I mentioned this before in another post. However, New Yorkers are very rude compared to the locals of this British city. It’s weird how living in new york has changed me. People say Londoners are rude and unfriendly. Try living in New York for a while. Nothing compares to the rudeness of the big apple. Afterward everywhere else, rude people seem mild.

Another view of the park photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

I felt so at peace here. I always feel this way when I’m out of the USA. In the USA, lately there always some stressful event going. During the time I went here, there was a record high shooting in Chicago. Also, the feeling of not worrying about being shot by police or some crazy person. That calm vibe and feeling are expressed in the faces of the locals here. There are violent crimes in London that involve a gun. However compared to the USA, the numbers are a lot lower. According to the number of violent crimes per population.

Street lamp photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

It started to get a little dark. Saw this street lamp. It reminded me of all the videos I have seen about London. The lamp had a spooky and classic charm. Here in England, it rains a lot. A little too much for my liking. However, that feeling of being safe is worthwhile. I almost wish I could live here. Until I saw the prices of the apartments.

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June 27, 2020 40

Wandering through Hyde Park

My first stop after visiting the palace was going to Hyde Park. I have been told by friends and family to make sure to visit this place. Luckily, it was about a ten-minute ride on the underground from where I was staying. So afterward, I can have a friendly chat with the Air BnB host for a little bit. I took the train and got out of the nearest station to the park.

entrance to hyde park photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Hyde Park’s entrance was interesting. It reminded me of Prospect Park in Brooklyn. Just with an artistic image of a unicorn and a lion. I have no idea what they are supposed to mean. It just looks different than all the parks I have been too. So, I had to appreciate the uniqueness. I mean just look at it. It’s as if, the unicorn and the lion are dancing.

A path leading outside of the park photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Once inside, I was shocked at how similar it was to Central Park in Manhattan. A big park in the middle of the city. It almost makes you forget you are in one of the world’s biggest metropolis. I started walking around, I kept looking at how people were interacting. Everybody was relaxed and enjoying their time. It felt like Central Park without all the stress. Also, without the horse droppings. No need to watch your step here. The locals at this park look like they were genuinely enjoying their time.

the entrance to the garden photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

I stumbled across a little garden near the entrance. I went inside to have a look. I took out my camera to take photos for you all. To my annoyance, the moment I was seen with my camera was the moment I became a photographer for random strangers. They asked me to take pictures of them with their phones. Me being the nice guy I was raised to be, I couldn’t reject the requests. I ended taking pictures for two different couples in that part of the park. I just couldn’t say no at the moment. They asked so nicely. Of course, none of it was with my camera. I charge for that. I’m not that nice.

The beautiful purple flowers photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

After about 10 mins, I got back to my mission of taking photos for you all. The beauty of the flowers really made me appreciate nature. Sometimes you tend to forget, how prefect nature can at times. Even though I was alone, my smile and face exhaling any negativity. Parks just have this effect on you. It’s almost like time slows down and you are able to enjoy being in the moment to the fullest.

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