Arrived safely (with luggage)

We arrived in London around 11:30am local time today after taking the redeye across the Atlantic from Chicago. I just about lost my cookies overnight due to some insane turbulence over the Atlantic, many thanks to the person who recommended sea bands for motion sickness! We're all so tired that I'm afraid I don't have too many first impressions to share, we haven't done much but haul our heavy suitcases up 4 flights of stairs (I packed light at 55 lbs), cash travelers checks, and find familiar Subway for dinner. The exchange rate is HORRIBLE, the best I could find is £1.91 to $1, so basically everything costs twice as much. The people are definitely not as friendly as in the States and I'm feeling a bit like a fish out of water. The hostel is, well... homey. At least there's hot water, and it's literally just steps from Hyde Park. 'Classes' don't start until Monday so I think we'll investigate the Tube tomorrow and head into the city center. Hopefully a good night sleep will help. I'm wishing I'd brought more than one sweater but I tried to pack as lightly and efficiently as possible!

Two roommates and I went in an on Orange Phone, basically a prepaid mobile phone that receives free incoming calls from wherever. If you have a second, you might call - from the US, dial 011 44 07980370938. (You might not need to dial the first 0.) We are 6 hours ahead of Central Standard Time.

Hallmark friends, I already found a Hallmark really close to where we live! It's everywhere.
More to come. Cheers!