In mid July, I packed my bags, hopped in my grandma’s Avalon, and drove to the Airport. England awaited. While Texas may have been hot as ever, my brother, grandma and I were enjoying the cool 70°F weather across the large pond otherwise known as the Atlantic Ocean.

This summer I had the privilege of flying 10 hours to London, England. A select trio of Young family members enjoyed 7 blissful days in England: 5 in London, and the last 2 in Bath. I have been to Europe once before, but England was completely different than the coastline, tourist cities in France and Italy I had previously visited. Downtown London was loud and crowded. It wasalso…depressing. Not to sound negative, but skies were covered by gray clouds, streets dark and dirty, and the buildings were the color of thick smoke you assumed came from large factories.

I loved London though. England has an extensive history, a lot of it found inside London. England is so different than America. America’s history books are like a few drops of rain compared to the thunderstorm that is English history. My absolute favorite historical site was Westminster Abbey. The Abbey is a large part of the London experience. It contains many elements of English history inside it’s monumental past. The Abbey was one of my favorite experiences because it left me this memorable quote: “Imprint in thy mind, that young and old leave this world: and therefore fail not to fecure the next.” A special thanks to Mrs. Mary Beaufoy for having that quote on her tombstone. It has truly shown me that life is short, so make sure you make the most of it and always know where you are headed.

My second favorite attraction was the London Tower. Firstly, I ate some ice cream which was very enjoyable. Secondly, we saw the crown jewels –very rich in history. And thirdly, it had a beautiful view of Tower Bridge–very beautiful.

If there is anything greater than 5 days in London, it has to be 2 days in Bath. Green countrysides and orange tinted buildings made the country a real piece of eye candy. We visited Bath Spa University and Bath University for my brother. This will be his senior year, and he was thinking of college in England, but he has since changed his mind. Too much rain, too many clouds, too much depression.

England was gorgeous–I would say I’m glad to be home, but I’m not. England was an amazing trip and it made my summer great. I would love to go back to England, but I want to return with a group of my friends instead of my family.