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The Tower of London
The Tower of London was written as an article for a tourist magazine. It was written more for
me than publication and is a way to remember a fun experience I had in London.
In May of 2004, I took my first trip to Europe, deciding that London was the best place to start.
In talking with friends who had visited London, I kept hearing, "make sure you visit the Tower of London."
I was reluctant to visit since it is a top attraction and was convinced it would just be another "tourist trap."
How surprised I was to find out what a wondrous site it actually was.
Our arrival at the tower was met with a steady rain. As we stood in line, an enormous black cloud closed in on the
tower. Surrounded by a monstrous roar of thunder, the sky opened up and pounded us with hail. Women screamed and
people ran for cover. I was covered by my umbrella and hooded rain coat but could feel the pelting against my pant
legs. The weather only added to the ambience and mystery of the tower.
As we entered the tower, our guide announced that “Old Henry was having a bit of fun with us” and the tone was set
for a fun experience. The rain finally ended and a bit of sun appeared. The beefeaters took off their rain slicks
and continued standing at their assigned stations.
The buildings that comprise the tower offer many surprises and of course, the magnificent Crown Jewelers are
not to be missed. The tower grounds also offer a magnificent view of the Tower Bridge and the surrounding buildings
help you realize how far back in time you’ve gone with your visit to the tower.
Strolling through the gift shop, I found a felt Ann Bolean doll to purchase for a friend. As I put Ann on the
counter, the young girl behind the counter said, “You’re buying Ann. She’s a bit of trouble. Always messing up
the shelves. I’ll straighten things up and not an hour later I’ll walk back and Ann will be on the floor or on
the shelf and she’s moved everything around again.” I smiled at the girl and she answered. “I’m not lying.
That one’s nothing but trouble. Be careful where you put her.”
As I strolled back to the tour bus, I turned back for one last look and envisioned Henry laughing as he watched
another bunch of Yanks head back to their bus.
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The Tower of London
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