Over the months, the British lifestyle started to sink in. Gloomy weather, not-so-tasty food, tea at 4:00 pm and people standing at the pub was what GB was all about. Like all foreigners, had to see the changing of the guards, walk along the River Thames, view the London Bridge and of course meet Big Ben. The big clock tower that stands tall in the city had remained the landmark that I associate London with.
Whilst somethings have changed, such as newer buildings, clearner Subway Stations, lots of security cameras, modern buses and travelling with the Oyster Card system .... some things are still the same ... The weather for one. (Quite hard to image London with good weather ... always wet and gloomy). The crowd is just as "plentiful" and the queue for anything remains l-o-n-g !!!!. Oh yes .... there's more British Pounds to the Singapore Dollar now compare to my first trip. It used to be £1.00 : S$5.20, now, its £1.00 to S$2.23. The usual Black London Cab has turned colour too. Took a pink one from the airport to the hotel. 
Was informed that the Mayor of London recently opened a brand new mall, known as the "WESTFIELD" Mall (off Shepherd Bush Station, Central Line). It's about 5-6 times of VivoCity. It's a much welcomed, brand new shopping experience. Enjoyed the space (not necessary lesser crowd) and the cold 2-6 degree C temperature. Whilst recalling things, had to do some reality checks from time to time that the primary purpose of the trip was to attend the IMO 85th MSC Meeting. Had to mixed business with some "walking around aimlessly, pleasure !!". It was a "nice to be back" feeling... but not for too long. especially when it threatened to rain, every other hour.
