Day 9 - riding the tube

Our first ride on the London Underground.

After a great day at Oxford yesterday we were all looking forward to our second full day in London. First up was a visit to City University, 1 of 40 of London’s universities. They welcomed us there with some examples of the many subjects they have to offer. We had a chance to play the Gamelan, an Indonesian instrument used for ceremonies and story telling. We each had an important role to play in the Gamelan and Kyler and Chris W led us on the gong. After creating some interesting music we moved on to sample the next subject. The group got to visit a recording studio that students use to practice creating news reports. Brandon made a particularly good weather man and was a natural in front of the camera. Ava also enjoyed the chance of being a news reader, but couldn’t quite control her laughter whilst reading from the autocue. The session in London ended with the groups being challenged to a quiz to see how well they knew London. There was a bonus point up for grabs for the most creative team name, my personal favourite was Kat, Ava and Meagan’s group name ‘Rhys’s Pieces’. [Editor's Note: Rhys has failed to document that, after a gripping tie-breaker situation, the victors were Mike and Alice (Team John D'Allara) - hooray! The prize was conceded to Rhys's Pieces as it was felt that English Alice had a slightly unfair advantage.]

Then came the moment that many had been waiting for, a trip on the London Underground or ‘the tube’. We travelled from the University down to the Oval on the very warm underground rail system. Since arriving in London a few days ago this had been one of the most talked about events! After all the excitement of the tube we had a delicious dinner in Pizza Express and then made our way over to the Oval cricket ground to see Kent versus Surrey. This was the first ever cricket match for most of us but that didn’t hamper our excitement, once we all got the hang of the rules we cheered for the teams – some of us (Chloe) even waved our supporters flags very enthusiastically. After Kent won the match we made our way home once again on the underground. Another great day had by all.

- Rhys

More photos have been added to the London and Oxford collection, and to view our fab British Council photographer Frank's pictures, click here.