One obvious adjustment to moving to London is not having a car. Part of my criteria for finding a flat was that it should be close to the train. Wimbledon has a great station with lots of train services and is also on a tube line and tramlink. It takes me a little longer to get everywhere and I have a little less control over what time I arrive places, but I don’t think I really need a car (that much). In fact, I don't really think a car would be much quicker with all the traffic.
It’s about a 10-15 minute walk to the station, depending on how fast I feel like walking. To get to Central London it’s about 15 minutes on the train to Waterloo, then I have to switch to a tube line depending where I want to go. Similarly, it’s about 15 minutes on the train to Weybridge for work. There is a shuttle bus there that can take me to the office, or I can walk about 15-20 minutes. It’s not a bad walk as long as it’s nice weather (not too hot, not freezing and not raining- that means I should have a solid 3-4 weeks out of the year!) Since it’s such a big city it just takes longer to get places than in Cincinnati but I’m getting used to it. Plus all the walking is good exercise and I’m hoping it saves me from having to join a gym. I enjoy all the time on the train (unless someone decides to squeeze into a space next to me that isn't quite big enough for them), I can listen to my iPod and read a book. If you have any good books to recommend feel free. I just finished Atonement by Ian McEwan and am starting The Shell Seekers by Rosamunde Pilcher.
This weekend I’m going to get a few items to fix up my bike then explore Wimbledon some more by bike. I haven’t gotten off of the main strip from my flat to the store to the station much, so I think it’s time to see what else is around.
2 comments:
I think that would take some getting used to planning ahead to take more time to get places. But I would enjoy reading. I don't have any recommendations right now. (I don't have time to read anymore -- how sad!) I hope you have fun exploring this weekend.
Cars have their plusses and minuses in England. Plus side - they allow you to go WHERE you want to go when YOU want to go. They also make it easier to haul a lot more stuff. Using a car, you could stock up on groceries or easily take a large package to the Post Office. They also make it easier if you and your friends want to go together to an event. Eveyone piles in the car and you go. Negative side - gas is more expensive in England. Parking can be a major problem. A lot of beautiful towns and some city areas were clearly NOT designed for car traffic. Parking can also be expensive. Traffic can be a major headache especially in London where they may close off roads for special events or roadwork.
I would definitely recommend cycling in England. The drivers are respectful of cyclists. I never had any honk at me just for fun. Cycling can be a very easy and fun way to explore various areas and lastly, it is very good exercise.
Also, you shouldn't have any problem getting your bike repaired or serviced. There are no shortage of bicycle shops in England since a number of people there participate in the sport. On weekends, you'll see cyclists looking like those in the Tour de France doing club time trials.
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