7/7

Gloucester Road Station

One year ago, Kathryn and I were in London, and had to go to travel from our hotel in South Kensington to Heathrow Airport for our noon connecting flight to Rome. Just before we did, we stopped by the local Boots drug store to get a couple snacks. When we got into the Underground Station, there was the beginning of a small line up that wasn't moving. Signs were put up saying there was a temporary electrical problem, causing delays. After waiting a little while, the Station was declared closed and everyone was evacuated, after which the station locked down.

I thought the way the station was shut down really odd, but at the time was more concerned that we'll miss the plane. All the taxis were taken, but Kathryn had the idea of returning to the hotel to charter a shuttle car to the airport. In the hotel lobby, as the clerk was phoning for the shuttle, the TV was turned on CNN, giving live coverage of London, and the terrorist bombings.

London is a great city. Like Vancouver it seemed very multicultural and tolerant. I am still troubled by the events of that day last year.