Day two. no, three (?)

It continues. I have done so much exploring, getting lost, and learning (without even stepping into one classroom). London is a very interesting town. The Thames is impressive. The architecture is beautiful (both old and modern). So far I think I've explored only one tenth of London. It is all a little overwhelming. I've stuck only to the Thames and ventured up to The Strand and LSE (which is right off The Strand). I went to the store yesterday (got lost about eight times) and got the essentials.

I also go a mobile (which is essential). I signed up for a pay as you go (PAYG) plan. This is quite odd. PAYG is more popular here that in the States. You can "top-up" your balance at nearly every convenience store. You are supplied with a card similar to a credit card. After requesting how much you want, you present your card which is swiped. Your phone number is pulled off the card, the balance is added to the network, and you pay your money like normal. It's a very sophisticated system. The kicker, you ask? I didn't choose my service through vodaphone, virginMobile, or even Tmobile (or O2 or Orange, i could go on). I went with Tesco. You ask yourself, "Self, why does Tesco sound so familiar? Oh yeah, that's where I got my groceries from last night to cook my dinner." From what I can tell, the equivalent would be if Alberson's, Costco or Safeway were to offer cell phone service. Cah-razy!

As for the phone itself, it is exclusively available only in the UK. It is part of the joinRED  project. There is an effort right now encouraging retailers to design consumer good to raise awareness of global AIDS, specifically in Africa. Each portion on each item sold goes to AIDS relief and research. In addition, with every phone call I make, a portion of my tarriff is donated to the same fund. It is a rather groundbreaking and I can't wait to see what develops.

Comments

[JBelle]

Wait! They don't do these things in the US? Is that possible? I thought we were the most advanced, civilized nation in....the universe?! :)

And: what'd you have for dinner?

[BX_boy]

Crazy to think about.

I had pasta.

[JBelle]

You got the fresh cheese and had a green, red and gold salad, right?

:)

(don't want no lard ass landing back in the Bronx in one year)

:) :) :) :)

[toadman]

Can you get a pizza delivered in London yet? Douglas Adams (Hitchikers Guide to the Galaxy) swore that there was no way to have a pizza delivered. That was in the '80s though. Maybe things have changed?

I'll be waiting for your report.

[JBelle]

(laughing)
My money's on the boy; I'd say he's had pizza delivered a minimum of ... twice...by this time and that he's been ... unsuccessful ... in coaxing his Chinese roommates to try it. And say, how much does a pizza cost?

[BX_boy]

there's a pizza place right around the corner but sadly it does not deliver. :( i've tried it once (very good, tasty!) but the lack of being at my doorstep 20 minutes after i call is a major turnoff.

[pdxpup]

Man, i just tried to get one of those (Red) AmEx cards and it's only available to UK residents. What a load of bollocks!

[the psycho therapist]

The Hitchhiker couldn't get pizza because of his danged towel, Toad. He couldn't let go of it long enough to dial a number.

My golden nephew in the land of Thermal crazies won't have suhc dilemmas. He can do anything. He is chosen.

:)