The next day, I wanted to finish up the sights I missed the day before. Had an early start so I could maximize my time the next day.
First, finally got to visit the Tower of London. I've always wanted to visit there since I was younger after reading about it's turbulent, eccentric, and eerie history. Built in 1078 by William the Conqueror, it has fascinated, frightened, and intrigued visitors for centuries.
Tower of London Pictures:
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| Middle Tower Entrance |
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| Middle Tower Entrance |
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| Traitor's Gate |
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| Yeoman Warder |
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| King Henry VII's Armor |
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| Famous "White Tower" |
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| Famous "White Tower |
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| Waterloo Barracks |
Travel Tip: If you visit the Tower, you can get a free tour by one of the Yeoman warders (aka "Beefeaters"). They give tours and tell gory and funny tales of the Tower throughout the day. You can see the times when you enter the main gate. The tour was about 40 minutes or so and you are free to leave when you want, but it is fun and entertaining especially the ward we had. These Yeoman wards are actually retired former soldiers who served in the British army for 22+ years. They live within the Tower walls and maintain the security and tourism.
After a half day touring the Tower, took the tube to visit the world-renowned British Museum. It has been my dream to visit this archaeological and cultural paradise. The museum has one of the greatest collection of well-known and unique antiquities ever amassed. It was impressive and equals the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna that I visited last year.
Travel Tip: The British Museum is free and it is usually crowded so you should come early to avoid the droves. It is an also massive and confusing complex. There are a lot of famous artifacts (that you've probably seen in textbooks) so it's best to identify which specific ones you want to see beforehand because it can be overwhelming. Unless, you plan on spending a whole day there, I suggest you make a list so you can quickly see what you came for and can enjoy other sights throughout London.
London Meals:
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| Sunday Roast: Roast Beef, mashed potatoes, veggies, & Yorkshire Pudding |
Bangers & Mash
 
Fried Rice, Sweet & Sour Pork, Roasted Pork/Duck, Mooncake
@Four Seasons, Soho (Chinatown)
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| Colossal Burger (two thick patties, onion ring, swiss cheese, tomato, lettuce, bacon) |
Overall, my second trip to London was a success. I was able to see all the famous sights that I wanted to (except St. Paul's Cathedral). This time, I had more time to explore and fully immerse myself in British culture which was exciting. I became more comfortable in using the Tube (London Underground) which made it easier to navigate and plan each daily route. London is a mix of ancient and modern which makes it a great city to explore and get lost. I hope someday to return to London and find new dive pubs and restaurants during my travels.
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