A breakfast under the typical drizzling Londoner atmosphere

Thoughts and reflections of a non-local tourist English speaker

London. I am sitting here, in this small but very typical bar closes to Onslow Gardens street. I hang, on my right hand, a big cup of English Cappuccino (probably among the worst ones I have ever tried in my entire life). On the other hand, from a sip to the other, I try to write down some of the emotions and thoughts which come into my mind, in this semi-raining morning day. One of those typical ones which characterise the UK weeks.

The environment is calm and relaxed. The boss of the bar constantly checks that everything is aligned and perfect. I can breath a very informal atmosphere which makes me feel very comfortable. The only bad side of the medal is the smell of the fried eggs, sausages and bacons. I already know that, once I will be out from here, my tries of being a decent, good smelling person, will vanish. I cannot complain, I accepted this before deciding to get into this place.

The waiter, who is dressing a simple red jumper and a pair of jeans, seems very focused on his job and he tries to answer positively to all the customers’ needs. That’s what, at the moment, makes him happy.

I am observing people who come and go. Someone is rushing, by eating their breakfast as they run into some kind of competitions. Some others look very tired and, from their expressions I would say they are not really willing to start their new week of work. It is Monday, indeed. It is the day of the week where people start to count the days left for the upcoming weekend.

I remember when, for the first time I came to UK (it was 13 years ago). I felt a stranger here. I could not understand one single word which was spoken by locals. I remember how challenging was my first solo travel experience, when I came to Gran Britain to study English. At the age of 17. Everything was so difficult: from integrating with people with a different culture from mine, till learning that new language.

The funny fact now is: I am a still stranger in a land far from mine but I can now understand any single word spoken by people around myself. How amazing is this?!

My breakfast is almost over now. It is time to stop the flow of thoughts and focusing on what I am going to do in this rainy day. I have already an idea, which I will probably make into practice.

There is an undiscovered gem, a bit outside from London, which deserves to be visited. It is called Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, a stunning and impressive Hindu Template which recalls the history of this antique discipline.

Let’s take a look!