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We Travel With A Purpose

Christmas Holiday Season is Magical in London

December 18, 2014 by Sonia Marsh 4 Comments

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Christmas lights Oxford Street
Christmas lights Oxford Street

I am spending the Christmas holidays in Europe with my 20-year-old son, Jordan.

In order to make this trip more youth friendly for Jordan, I decided to book youth hostels for our stay. This was my first experience in a youth hostel, and although the bed was comfortable, I felt like I had to “obey the house rules,” like breakfast ends at 10 a.m. I showed up at 9:59 for a cup of coffee, and was told, “It’s too late. Sorry.”

Little did I know how cramped the rooms would be, despite being “upgraded” to a larger room.

Private room at the youth hostel called Equity House.
Private room at the youth hostel called Equity House.

 

Our desk.
Our desk.

I had forgotten how “magical” the Christmas season can be in Europe. California has beautiful weather, but I am bombarded with the commercial side of Christmas in the U.S.

What I miss is the Christmas spirit I feel in London. For example the warm, cosy pubs, where friends gather to chat and have a drink. The tasteful Christmas decorations on Oxford Street and Picadilly Circus. The shops, and the Christmas carolers and live music on the streets.

Christmas Bagpiper
Christmas Bagpiper

 

Jordan in London
Jordan in London

Next stop is Stowmarket, Suffolk where I’m staying with Sallyann, my friend from boarding school days.

Filed Under: Travel & Adventure

Comments

  1. Shirley Hershey Showalter says

    December 18, 2014 at 2:14 pm

    What fun, Sonia! I feel like I’m there with you. I’ve never been to London at this season of the year. I’ll see it through your eyes.
    Shirley Hershey Showalter recently posted..Do You Say, “Have a Nice Day”? If Not, Why Not?My Profile

    Reply
    • Sonia Marsh says

      December 18, 2014 at 2:22 pm

      Shirley,

      Yes, there is something so special about Christmas in Europe. Perhaps because it reminds me of my youth when I lived there. I also think the east coast of the US has a special “feel” that I cannot seem to get in southern California, even after 30 years there.
      Sonia Marsh recently posted..Christmas Holiday Season is Magical in LondonMy Profile

      Reply
  2. Flora Morris Brown says

    December 18, 2014 at 3:06 pm

    Hi Sonia,

    What a wonderful time you’re having! You’re right about Christmas being special in the “old countries.” Continue to have fun and make note of impressions you can share in your writing when you return.
    Flora Morris Brown recently posted..7 Smart Reasons to Start Your Business Before You Quit Your Day JobMy Profile

    Reply
  3. Penelope James says

    December 19, 2014 at 6:47 am

    You’re making me homesick! You’re right about the Christmas spirit vs. here in US where it’s all about marketing and profits. Or maybe that’s just California and New York is very different. Also, I hate to say this, but what did you expect in a hostel? That room is probably as good as it gets – or better – than anywhere in Europe.

    Reply

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