day two: row row row your boat

My second day in London ended up being a rather long extension of my first day. Why? I didnt adjust to the time as easily as I thought I would and I'm basically sleeping on the hardest bed in all of Christendom. Seriously. I have a bruise on my ribcage from where the spring pokes it because the mattress won't give. I usually love sleeping (especially because I have the most amazing mattress at home), but I'm really starting to hate it here.

Sleep deprivation and grouchiness aside, I rallied to grab some food with Kate before heading over to Putney for the Oxford/Cambridge boat race. We headed down to Fulham Road, where we happened upon Hache, a gourmet burger place that really lived up to the name. They had all kinds of burgers there (including one that was topped with American chunky peanut butter) and some of the best chips (fries) I've ever had in my life. I had a simple burger topped with bacon and aged cheddar and it was magical. Well seasoned. Juicy. Cooked perfectly. It was the perfect remedy to my lack of sleep.

But, no time for a food coma, it was time to jump on a bus and head for the race! The university Race has taken place annually since 1856 (with the exception of the two world wars) and is THE thing to do in March (according to the travel books I read before my trip). Countless Londoners line the race route to enjoy about 3 mins of rowing. I honestly could have listened to "In the Hall of the Mountain King" during the race and it would have covered the same amount of time. Btw, Oxford won.

Right, on to the pub then...along with everyone else. Let the shoving commence!!

After some downtime at the Spencer Arms (because that race is soooo exhausting), we all headed out for some curry. Everything you've heard about English curry is true. They know how to do that here. I ordered the Chicken Tikka Masala (I know, not very adventurous) just to compare it against what I've had at home and it was so good, I would have licked my plate if it had been acceptable (thankfully naan prevented me from embarrassing myself). I can't completely explain what the difference is but it was pronounced. I might have ruined that dish for myself once I get back home. It was worth it.

I need some sleep...more later