#Charing Cross y Westminster.

[quehaylondres]

El Desfile y Festival del Día de Año Nuevo de Londres está de regreso

El Desfile y Festival del Día de Año Nuevo de Londres está de regreso

Uno de los mayores espectáculos de Londres es el Desfile del Día de Año Nuevo, que tuvo lugar por primera vez en 1987. Desde que comenzó, el desfile ha recaudado más de 2 millones de libras esterlinas para organizaciones benéficas locales y sigue siendo una importante contribución a la economía de la capital. Además de esto, el Desfile y Festival del Día de Año Nuevo de Londres se televisa en…

[ameliemaaaee]

The Silent Witness - Oneshot Series

(1) How you Meet the BAU Team.

Chapter Information Summary: Y/N finds herself enravelled in the depths of a puzzling case which can only be solved in conjunction with one infamous FBI unit. Content Warnings: Canon Violence/Gore, Awkward!Reader & Spencer, Platonic Hotel Room Sharing. Word Count: 7,986. Read on AO3

Story Masterlist - (1) -

The London Underground was not your favourite place. Yes, you were grateful for London’s fabulous public transport system, especially on the mornings where bumper-to-bumper traffic would only frustrate you more. However, the constant work-day rush of people in business attire, provided a stark contrast to all the tourists in their flamboyant outfits, both equally surmounting your dissociative annoyance.

Not to mention the germs. There was a study done on that. It proved that, when swabbed, The London Underground was the dirtiest place in the city, with ninety-five different strains of bacteria found. In fact, you happened to be friends with this researcher, who in confidence told you that even a one-hour trip on the Tube is enough to raise the long-term risk of heart attacks. And this was simply due to the air pollution. It made you shiver just thinking about it. It was a shame driving in the city was slower.

You were rushed to say the least, evading the rush hour was top priority when you weren’t on call, however an interesting case had come in and your expertise was required. It wasn’t uncommon for you to be in high demand, despite your age you were renowned in London for your competency as a forensic pathologist.

Your life for so many years had resolved around the dead, those whom you had to pry the clues out of. Work remained your whole life, the ability to gather evidence from the silent witness, and bring justice to many was beyond comforting to you. The feeling of winning a case against someone you had scientifically proven guilty, defeated the solemn, and gruesome nature of your job by ten-fold.

Now, you focused on the rattling train below your feet as you timidly clutched the railing above your head. The shuddering sound of the train drawing to a halt beneath your feet, rocking you back and forth. This was it.

The platform was abnormally busy as you made a beeline for the exit, barely noticing the busker who provided the soundtrack to the mornings of so many, for so cheap. Bounding up the steps you surfaced alongside block-red lettering screaming ‘Charing Cross’, The Embankment was just a short walk from here.

You weren’t too sure of the details of your newest case, quite simply that it was ‘a big one’ and that it was a rather public disposal. Public disposals were common in London, however public disposals in busy Underground stations weren’t. Especially with the Night Tube services. A public disposal site told you that this kill was a threat. Whoever it was wanted their attention, they wanted their case to be public, the wanted London to shudder with fear. But alas, the closed station required more walking.

Brushing shoulders with strangers, much like the rest, your gaze was dead set on where you were going. And as The Embankment station neared you sighed. This was tourist London, The Embankment opened out onto the Thames, and once you reached the Thames, Westminster, and Big Ben was in View, and the famed London Eye. But you didn’t have time to take in the part of the city you never dared to enter, you had work.

As you reached the station the Mounted Police immediately caught your eye. Sat astride their horses were people attempting to control and direct the crowds back to Charing Cross; no wonder it had been so abhorrently busy. Ducking under the police tape you were greeted by an uninterested officer who guiltlessly looked you up-and-down. Plastering a smile on face you removed your identification and shoved it politely into his face.

“Dr. Y/N L/N. Home-Office Pathologist.” The officer remains stoic, thumbing you towards a set of stairs where a familiar face stood, ever-stoic, patiently waiting.

“Where’s the body?” You omit the greeting. Angela knew you too well, and you both were past the ‘good morning’s’ and ‘hello’s’ that seemed the ever-so-polite thing to do.

You were a tight-knit pair, ever since school, and bonding over your preferred use of the Oxford comma, you had both shared a solid friendship. It wasn’t based off greetings or words, nor a physical display of affection. It was based off the reliability and trust you felt for each other. It was a simple, and honest friendship. That allowed you to occasionally let-loose on your days off. But today would not be one of those days, in fact you wouldn’t see one ever again.

“The top of the stairs, it’s a male. He’s probably in his 30’s. He has a series of interesting tattoos.” Angela’s candour filled your ears, her level tone forever reassuring you of the collective, daily, London anxiety, which seemed to radiate throughout the city.

“Interesting how?” You raised a brow in curiosity, a small chuckle escaping your lips as Angela rolled her eyes, pushing her teal-ish hair behind her ears, mixing it with her original black-ish strands.

“Interesting as in, you-need-to-see-this-and-contact-the-appropriate-people. That kind of interesting.” She said it so nonchalantly, ‘call the appropriate people.’ That didn’t sound interesting, that sounded like ‘this-guy-has-tattoos-relating-to-some-form-of-terrorism-plans-and-you-should-bring-in-counterterrorism’. And boy, were you right.

“This is bad.” You deadpanned, you had no adjectives for how bad it was, other than it was very, very bad. The police officer a great distance behind you bit his thumb anxiously as you stood buried in a white HazMat-style SOCO suit, Angela kneeling beside you, silently shaking her head.

“Angela, I don’t even know who to call about this.” You gestured to the male lay ahead of you, his body scrawled with descriptive instructions on ‘blowing up the D.C Capitol Building.’

And that’s how you ended up at a bar, drinking with the FBI’s distinguished Behavioural Analysis Unit.

-

The thrashing of bass pounded against your chest as you sauntered through the doorway, away from the cool night air and into the warmth of the bar. You weren’t expecting there to be any live music, but you were pleasantly surprised by the quality of the music, that soon would be drowned out by cheap liquor.

The rest of the BAU trailed into the establishment behind you, slight grins on their faces. All of you had changed, ditching the work clothes. The FBI’s plane would be grounded until tomorrow evening, so they were officially off-duty, and allowed to have fun.

And by the looks on the group’s faces you all needed this, the tensions had run high during your latest case and there had been weeks’ worth of sleepless nights, that the medical doctor deep down inside you didn’t approve of.

“Let’s find a booth!” Garcia practically yelled down your ear over the music. You nodded pointing to a room that sat off the main stage area, where it would undoubtedly be quieter.

Heaving a sigh of relief you slid into a booth, in between the males you had come to know as Dr. Spencer Reid, and Derek Morgan. The men all chuckled lightly as Agent Hotchner stands.

“First round is on me!” You laugh quietly, tucking a stray strand of hair away from your face before giving Hotch your order, double vodka and Diet Coke, your drink of choice.

“You know, I’d never been to London until now.” Derek chuckles, as he leans forward, his elbow resting on the table. His gaze connected with yours.

“It’s a nice city.” Spencer chimes as you shake your head laughing.

“You haven’t even seen it.” You smile, leaning back against the plush backing of the circular booth, your gaze finding Hotch who was carrying a tray of drinks, making a beeline for the table. You hadn’t had a night out in so long, you were practically buzzing at the concept of alcohol.

The band’s melody had faded to a distant hum, your heart synching with the echoing bass that still rumbled the ground beneath your feet.

“I must say, you scrub up nicely Dr. L/N.” You turn your head to Derek who takes in your frame. Derek was an attractive man, you couldn’t lie, and you knew he meant no harm by his comment, but you couldn’t help but feel scrutinised.

You offer him a polite laugh, before turning to Hotch who was dishing out the alcohol. Gratefully you took your drink from his hand, taking a long sip. If you wanted to be able to actually hold a conversation without being too uptight, you would need to be at least tipsy. Plus, the alcohol made you forget about… well, the alcohol that was terrible for your health.

“So, Y/N, I assume this has been an interesting week for you?” You chuckle at Rossi, who raises his glass, before sipping on what appeared to be whiskey.

-

Due to the commotion at the Police stations, and the high-risk of having FBI agents in London they had been assigned to a more discrete location; and lucky for you, that was your lab.

It wasn’t that you were opposed to having FBI agents in your jurisdiction, in fact it was the opposite. You were fascinated by their work, in law-enforcement they were truly celebrated for their research, and work. You just weren’t too chuffed by the idea of new people, of which there were now seven.

They all looked, strangely, just how you would imagine a team of FBI agents looking, all but one. The flamboyant one. She was dressed in a way you could only describe as eccentric, her blonde hair curled at the ends, sections held in place by red-rose clips to match her dress. She seemed friendly, despite the sombre circumstances, a half-smile chopping her features.

The rest seemed to blend in. There was another woman, her slender frame, and long blonde hair somewhat reminiscent of the mean girls at school. The rest were all male. We had, the obvious team leader, he stood tall, clad in a black suit. How would you chase bad guys in that? Next, was the cliché buff guy, who spent too much time at the gym. Finally, the skinny, sweater vest guy, and an Italian?

“You must be Dr. L/N.” The team leader spoke up, making his way towards you, his hand outstretched. You found yourself staring at it for a brief moment, as if the action were strange to you, before you realised, he wanted a handshake. You offered a slight smile as you reluctantly gripped his hand, shaking it.

“Supervisory Special Agent, Aaron Hotchner, but you may call me Hotch.” You nod, keeping your gaze on the floor. You were in a room with a bunch of criminal profilers. That was scary. Could they profile you? Would they? Were they profiling you right now? You weren’t exactly keen on the gazes boring into you.

“This is my team, we have Supervisory Special Agent, David Rossi.” You wave awkwardly as he gestures to the Italian guy, unsure of what social conduct was required to meet criminal profilers. David Rossi smiles at you, offering a brief salute that would have made you chuckle in better circumstances. Perhaps you would be better, in better circumstances.

“Supervisory Special Agent, Jennifer Jareau.” The pretty blonde leans forward hand outstretched, as you smile awkwardly. Her grip was firm, irking you less that Hotchner’s handshake. However, you already felt inferior to these individuals, no number of correct-introductions or doctorates could save you. They hunt criminals for a living. Yes, it may not need a doctorate, in fact, you weren’t sure any of them were doctors. But they certainly weren’t cowardly in a mere social situation, like you.

“Supervisory Special Agent, Derek Morgan.” You react quickly this time, lifting your hand in a quick, but still awkward wave to the incredibly muscular guy in front of you. Derek Morgan seemed like such a fitting name for him, in fact, you weren’t sure there was a name more suited for him in all the 5,163 first names, and 151,671 last names commonly used in the United States of America.

“We also have our Technical Analyst, Special Agent, Penelope Garcia.” The eccentric techie waves her hand cheerily, a wide smile breaking out on her face. She seemed sweet, and you were glad to see a female computer nerd. There certainly wasn’t enough of them in this universe. Her grin was infectious as you attempted to hide yours with the floor.

“Last but not least, we have our resident genius.” Your head snapped up at that. ‘Resident genius’? What rendered this guy a genius? You supposed, he looked smart. But you couldn’t quite decipher if it was just the sweater vest. In fact, he looked more jet-lagged that smart.

“Supervisory Special Agent, Doctor Spencer Reid.” Ah, a doctor.

You smile slightly, glad the introductions were over.

-

“Yeah, I have worked a fair few high-profile cases in my time, but this probably tops them.” You smile at the group, your gaze connecting with JJ and Garcia who both offer you sweet smiles. You can feel Spencer’s gaze on you as he clutches a glass of water in his right hand.

“It certainly tops ours.” JJ smiles, leaning towards you, a chuckle escaping her lips. “I never thought we would see an international case, never mind this.” You smile, bringing your drink to your lips, taking a refreshing sip.

“I- How do you do what you do? I mean- the chopping and the blood and guts and-“ Garcia frantically waves her hands in front of her, very nearly knocking over her martini as she rants.

“Garcia- she’s used to it, just like we are.” You nod in agreement with Hotch, your ears tuning in the set change happening with the band next door.

You scan the remainder of the room you were in, the bar was fairly quiet, most of the younger crows would have moved onto nightclubs by now. You could see various groups of people seated in their booths, most of them appearing as if they were celebrating, which felt fitting for your occasion.

“You know-“ You turn back to Rossi who was pointing a finger at you, a sly smile on his face.

“-I thought this week was going to be a drag when you asked us to surrender out firearms.” You watch as small chuckles erupt from the rest of the team, allowing yourself to join in with them.

-

You watch the team, stare at you expectantly, kicking yourself into gear.

“I have a room for you, a conference room.” You direct your statement towards Hotch who nods his head sharply, gesturing for you to lead the way. And you did. You guided them towards your conference room.

It was a large room with glass windows. On the back wall was a large TV screen designed for presenting, in the corner a safe. It was quite simple by design; a room, a TV, a table, and chairs that surrounded it. You weren’t sure it was FBI approved with its scratchy carpet and simplicity, but it would have to do.

“I hope it’s okay.” You try to say it with confidence, as you stand by the door the agents filing into the room, but your voice comes out as more of a squeak. Typically, this causes you to make unnecessary eye-contact with the Doctor.

“Uhm- You are going to have to surrender your firearms.” This certainly got a reaction from all but Aaron Hotchner, who likely, was aware of this.

“Why?” The doctor spoke up, as the rest of the team curiously gazed at me.

“Fire-arm residue. You are gonna be around bodies that haven’t had post-mortems, and you could contaminate them. So, I take the arms.” You watched as half of the team swallowed harshly, obviously not-to-sure about not having a weapon, which was such an odd reality of Americans.

“You’ll get them back, don’t worry. It’s just anywhere beyond this room would count as an unnecessary contamination. I think your Unit Chief was informed?” Your gaze turned to Hotchner who nodded.

“Guys, the weapons will be retrieved if we are leaving the building.” The team nod, clearly becoming more willing to surrender as they remove their holsters. You reach for a plastic box, holding it out as you walk around the group, being handed the various heavy weapons.

“I don’t carry.” You nod politely at the technical analyst, moving finally towards the male you now knew as Spencer Reid. He placed a revolver into the box, odd choice.

“Okay this is your safe, the code is 62282. Please remember it.” You quickly place the weapons, and the plastic box into the safe, locking the door with a loud beep. Before you walk to the door, watching everyone settle in.

You stand uncomfortably at the door as you watch them lay their belongings down on the table awaiting some sort of response, or a cue to leave.

-

“Yeah, I don’t have a good track record when I’m not carrying a firearm.” Spencer chuckles, pulling his glass back up to his lips.

“Boy wonder here doesn’t do well in close-combat situations.” You watch as Derek reaches over you, ruffling Spencer’s hair, his cheeks turning a bright shade of red.

“Awh, it’s okay. I don’t think close combat would be much use against someone with a bomb.” You offer Spencer a friendly smile, as his gaze connects with yours. He offers you a shy smile as you nod towards his glass.

“No alcohol? Very responsible.” Spencer shakes his head, still grinning.

“Someone’s got to be sober.” You nod, laughing as JJ and Garcia stand, walking towards you.

The pair grab you by the arms, attempting to pull you over Spencer, you chuckle awkwardly as Spencer stands, allowing them to drag you out of the booth. They wrap their arms under yours as you stumble on your heels, feeling the alcohol hit you.

“We are dancing.” Garcia gently taps your nose with her pointer finger as JJ supports you on your feet. She laughs as you feel your face pale slightly.

“I-I don’t dance. Plus, this is a bar, not a nightclub.” Your gaze falls on the rest of the team who seem extremely amused at the girl who couldn’t stand properly after only one drink. You sigh slightly.

“I’m a doctor, I know how bad alcohol is, so I don’t drink often, okay?” You watch as the remaining men laugh at your dramatic statement as JJ slowly releases you from her grasp, satisfied that you would be able to stand alone.

An idea pops into your head.

“People don’t dance in bars over here, but I do know my way around London.” You raise a brow, watching as the team look at you inquisitively.

“You lot hunt serial killers. How about Jack the Ripper? Spencer you could be the tour guide!” You laugh as their faces morph into one of understanding, a look of excitement settling on Spencer’s face.

-

“Alright, we have work to do. We need to start brainstorming.” Hotch’s voice rang out throughout the room as he gestured for you to make your way to the front of the room.

“Okay, so there has been no post-mortem done as of yet, but I can show you pictures from the crime scene yesterday, and the close-ups produced by my lab tech.” You stand in front of the team, all eyes trailed on you. You quickly turned the TV on with the remote, leaning over the table and logging into the laptop.

“So, the unidentified male is assumed to be around 27 years old, he was found in a very public London Underground station, lay on his back. As you can see, he was shirtless with an intricate tattoo scrawled over his body.”

The team nods, as you pull up the picture. The screen filing with the photos of a dead man shot point-blank in the head. You notice the team’s tech analyst wriggle uncomfortably in her seat and you chuckle.

“I’m so sorry, feel free to look away if you need.” You smile at the woman as she gives you a small grin, opening her laptop and beginning what you assumed was some sort of research.

“What Underground station was he found in?” You smile as Rossi speaks up, leaning forward to your laptop, laughing.

“I have a map for you, I figured it would be more use than just giving you a name.” You pull up a map of the London underground system against the landscape, turning to see it on the television screen.

“Okay so, the male was found at The Embankment station which-“

“-The Embankment has a huge, empty substation attached to it, that has actually been abandoned since 1957. It’s called ‘Pages Walk’ and is located behind a blast door in the station.” Dr. Reid cuts you off, as you chuckle. You smile politely at the rest of the team, the male introduced to you as SSA. Morgan held his head in his hands, shaking it slightly.

“Right, you are doctor. I was going to say that it was notoriously ‘Tourist London’, and opens out onto the Thames, with all the tourist attractions, but that works too.” You shrug, offering Spencer a slightly awkward thumb up.

-

You widen your eyes at the sound of your name, making eye contact with the lanky Dr. Reid who was now making his way over to you. Work talk, you could do that. Spencer stood beside you as you watched the team settle for a moment more, before following you out of the door.

“How many times do you reckon I will have to remind you lot of the safe code?” You chuckle to yourself, trying to make simple, light-hearted conversation. He was a doctor, maybe you could level with him?

“I have an eidetic memory.” His reply was so simple, so nonchalant. But it caused you to furrow your brow. He was a resident genius, and you were not going to be capable enough to level with him. You open your mouth as if to speak but decide against it. No need to incite more awkward interactions.

Instead, he decided to incite it.

“How long have you been a pathologist for?” His question was simple, the answer was simple. So why were you panicking? You knew that you felt inferior, but that wasn’t something that bothered you often. Spit. It. Out.

“Uhm, around four years.” You reply, trying to keep your voice level, and even. Anything to illude to your oh-so-confident demeanour.

“You seem young.” It was a statement, phrased like a question, one that needed answering. You weren’t young, you were 29. But by normal standards, you were too young to be a pathologist of five years.

“Yeah, I guess? What are you a doctor of?” You quickly deflect the question, but almost immediately regret it.

“I have, uhm, three PHDs.” You try not to hold your mouth agape, resident genius ringing in your ears. You were only slightly glad of his hesitation. Surely announcing you had three PHDs wasn’t easy. That required admitting that you were a superior being. But then again, with an eidetic memory it was no surprise he had 3 PHDs.

“They are in, uhm, chemistry, mathematics, and engineering.” You nod, humming along in affirmation as if this were a normal thing, and frankly you surprise yourself. Once you got over the initial shock it wasn’t so hard to act like you were in the presence of a regular person.

-

The team stand from their seats fairly quickly, accepting the concept of a drunken Jack the Ripper tour. Despite the lack of alcohol in his system Spencer’s got a massive grin on his face, and practically shaking with excitement.

Dragging them out into the chilly London air you stop suddenly, gasping.

“We should get alcohol, to-go!” You turn to face the team, your eyes wide with a sense of wonder at your marvellous idea. Only being egged on by Garcia, Morgan, and JJ who cheer loudly at your proposition.

“Isn’t that just a liquor store?” Spencer’s brow is furrowed in confusion, trying to work out what alcohol to-go was, and he wasn’t too far off.

“…and a bad idea?” Rossi follows, pointing an accusing finger towards you.

“…and illegal?” Hotch follows Rossi with a chuckle.

“No, it’s actually perfectly legal here, and liquor stores are expensive, we’re going to Tesco.” You clap your hands jumping on the spot excitedly, before making a beeline for the Tube station.

-

Whitechapel was shockingly quiet, for this time of night with only the distant humming of the main roads to remind you that you were in fact in one of Europe’s busiest cities.

You and the rest of the BAU team ambled through the narrow alleyways that once housed one of the world’s most prolific serial killers, Spencer occasionally pointing to various street-corners and naming one of his five canonical victims.

“You know, In the Victorian era the basal population of Whitechapel was swelled by immigrants from all over, particularly Irish and Jewish. This poverty drove many women to prostitution; The victim-pool of Jack the Ripper.” You turn to Spencer who’s walking closely by your side, something he had obscurely insisted on.

“Yeah, In October of 1888 the Metropolitan Police estimated that there were 1,200 prostitutes ‘of very low class living in Whitechapel and about 62 brothels.” You pipe up, a smug grin settling on your face as you gaze at Spencer, eyes narrowed.

“I know my facts doctor.” You slur. Spencer laughs, reaching out for the bottle of sweet beer in your hand, removing it from your grasp, as you gasp, attempting to grab back the bottle that he holds high over his head.

“Hey!” You pout as Spencer tosses the bottle into a nearby bin. You are quickly distracted by the way your trip over your own feet.

“Woah, woah! Confiscating the alcohol was a good move on my part.” Spencer mumbles as he grasps your shoulders, steadying you on the pavement. You both stop, turning to see Derek stood with Garcia, staring right at you and Spencer, a glimmer in his eye.

You look past him to see Hotch, Rossi, and JJ slowly walking towards you both. Hotch and Rossi had drunk nothing since the bar and were both practically sober. They had allowed you, JJ, and Garcia to drink despite their apprehensions, and likely remained sober to ensure you were safe. Derek had managed to leave the bar with his pint of beer, still clutching the empty glass.

You yawn slightly, swaying on your heels as you turn to the team. Furrowing your brows as you lean back against Spencer who stumbles slightly in surprise.

Your mind is foggy, but not foggy enough to ignore the impending hangover that would undoubtedly kick your ass the next morning.

“I should go home now.” You finally feel the fogginess settling in your brain, like a sickly-sweet haze. But alas, you were running out of energy. You missed Hotch’s stern look.

“You’re staying at the hotel with one of us, we can’t let you go home alone.” You roll your eyes slightly at the solemn male.

“No thanks dad! I’m excellent at navigating my way home.” You chuckle, at your own joke, JJ and Garcia joining in a drunken chorus.

“Y/N, you’re drunk, and it’s dangerous out here.” Spencer chimes, in. His arms are still holding tightly on your shoulders as you drunkenly giggle. Your forehead rests on his shoulder as you teeter on your heels.

“Fine.” You take the arm that Spencer offers you, watching as Hotch and Morgan do the same for JJ and Garcia, Rossi walking closely behind you. You were by far the most drunk, and the most likely to faceplant against concrete.

-

“Who wants her? Because I really don’t mind.” Derek points his finger, raising his eyebrows at Y/N as she sits on the floor of the hotel corridor. Her fingers trace the patterns on the carpet, as she hums along to a non-existent song.

The team let out a collective sigh at Derek’s implication.

The world is fairly fuzzy to Y/N, and she has resorted to paying absolutely no attention to what was going on around her, hyper-focusing on anything that would appeal to her senses. She knew that she would regret drinking in the morning.

“Fine! Personally, I feel as if Spencer should do it.” Derek nudges the lanky genius, who simply rolls his eyes, his cheeks dusting a light shade of pink.

“That’s a point, two of us have two beds in our rooms. That’s Spencer and Derek.” Rossi quips, turning to face the two men who now stood, eyes widened.

“For Y/N’s sake, I think we veer away from Morgan as a candidate.” Hotch says, a slight smile on his face as JJ and Garcia burst into a fit of giggles, leaning against one another.

“You’re up Spence-“ JJ smiles, as Hotch and Derek reach out for both her and Garcia, ushering then towards their respective rooms. Spencer watches as Rossi, offers him a humorous salute before he turns, walking down the corridor.

“Okay, Y/N.” Spencer tries to keep his voice down, so he doesn’t disturb other patrons of the hotel. He helps Y/N to her feet, cautiously gripping onto her as she sways into his chest.

“How are you so smart?” She practically whispers as Spencer guides her towards his room, scanning the key card.

“I’m not sure, perhaps it was good genetics?” Spencer quips, pushing her through the hotel room door, watching as she gasps, making a beeline for the empty bed. He can’t help but chuckle as she dramatically flops onto the bed, splaying her arms out wide across the plush surface.

“You know, twin studies of adults have found a heritability of IQ between 57% and 73%, with the most recent studies showing heritability for IQ as high as 80%.” Her words are slurred, but her facts are correct which makes Spencer smile.

“Did you have smart parents?” She props her body up on her elbows, connecting her gaze with Spencer who digs through his suitcases, pulling out a pair of sweatpants and a sweatshirt. Spencer’s head snaps up at the question as he offers her a solemn smile.

“I guess you could say that. What about you, were your parents smart?” She giggles slightly resting her back on the bed as Spencer walks towards her, fiddling with the straps of her heels in an attempt to undo them.

“My dad is really intelligent academically, and my mother was amazing at the arts and music. I got a combination of both I guess.” Y/N smiles to herself, allowing Spencer to take her uncomfortable shoes off, her mind distracted by the thoughts of her parents.

“You know, I never really considered myself smart.” She practically whispers, sitting back up as Spencer removes her first shoe, she reaches forwards, helping him remove her second.

“Why not? You’re a doctor.” She shrugs laughing lightly at Spencer’s straightforwardness.

“I never found school academically difficult in hindsight. I struggled to understand that it wasn’t the work that was difficult, it was all the social-emotional stuff. At that point, to me, school was just difficult.” Spencer nods, offering her a reassuring smile as he passes Y/N a pile of clothes.

“You can have these, or if you’d rather sleep in the dress, it’s up to you.” Y/N smiles, grabbing the sweatpants and shuffling them on underneath her dress, Spencer had turned away and was now fiddling with an Ice bucket.

“Y/N, I’m going to go get ice, I’ll be back in a minute, okay?” She nods, watching him walk out the door as Y/N unzips the dress fully, pulling Spencer’s clothes over herself as best she could in her sluggish state.

The sweatshirt was massive on her, the sleeves covered her hands, but the sweatpants were a different story. Spencer was practically a whole foot taller than she was and that left the bottom of the trousers to bunch up around her ankles.

She quickly rolled the cuffs of the sweatpants up to a reasonable length, before collapsing back onto the surface of the bed. Inhaling the scent of his clothes she groaned, the alcohol was surely leaving her system, but left in its wake, a pounding headache.

So much so that she didn’t notice the sound of the door opening.

“Ah yes, is the hangover setting in?” Y/N whimpers slightly at the unnecessary noise, rolling over in the bed, onto her stomach. Smashing her head against the pillow.

She feels a meek tap on her shoulder, and turns to see Spencer kneeling beside the bed, his hand outstretched, two pills in his palm.

“Take these, so you don’t wake up in the middle of the night.” Y/N groans, rolling back over in the bed, sitting upright. Spencer’s hand steadies her shoulder as she gratefully takes the pills with a glass of water she had clearly placed on the bedside table.

“Okay, good. Now, get some rest.” Spencer pulls up the sheets allowing her to climb under them. Y/N’s eyes stay closed as she listens to Spencer shuffling around the room and entering the bathroom before the room goes silent. And with the silence she slips into sleep.

-

You walk the short distance from the hotel foyer to the entrance of the Underground station. JJ and Garcia trail behind you whist Spencer, ever eager, walks by your side. Spencer is bright and awake, as his gaze takes in what seems to be every little detail of the street, meanwhile you are simply glad you took painkillers.

You were also down a few team members. Turns out that Derek had managed to get a girl’s number from the bar, leaving him unavailable. Meanwhile, Hotch and Rossi preferred a ‘quiet morning.’ You would meet up with them later.

“Wait, this is Aldgate Station?!” Your gaze trails along the bright red lettering marking the entrance of the station. Spencer, JJ, and Garcia laugh at your dramatic halt. Quickly you do a one-eighty, turning and walking away from the station entrance, realising that you had an interesting place in mind.

“Did you know that over 1,000 bodies lie beneath this station, which is built over a plague pit from 1665.” You can’t help but laugh at Spencer’s fact as you turn to face him, walking backwards and trusting the oncoming pedestrian traffic to dodge you.

“Interesting, but the place I have in mind for you may be the sight of even more horror, beginning with the fact that we are walking.” Your gaze fixates on Jennifer who sighs dramatically, but Garcia simply hums, shrugging her shoulders.

You can tell that JJ is hung over, a pair of dark sunglasses are sat on the bridge of her nose, her hair tied back in a messy ponytail. She seems content however, the pain likely avoided with a healthy dose of paracetamol.

Garcia, on the other hand is awake and bubbly as ever. She also dons her sunglasses, but you wouldn’t know she was hungover. Her flamboyant outfit radiates a happy energy, that seemingly rubs off on you.

The sound of traffic fills your ears as you bustle past various other pedestrians trying to go about their regular lives. Slowly but surely, you guide the team down streets, alleyways, and pedestrian walkways that you begin to recognise.

“You know, sometimes I shock myself with my ability to navigate this city.” You smile to yourself as you see a familiar structure off in the distance.

“There’s nothing of significance here Y/N.” You can’t help but furrow your brow at Spencer’s quip, he was wrong.

“Spencer, how many times in your life have you been wrong?” You watch as Spencer’s cheeks turn pink, him shrugging his shoulders.

“Well, I suggest you add one more to your tally, because if you are patient, you will see that there is in fact something significant in the distance.” This causes Garcia and JJ to laugh. He follows your instructions, and you watch as his eyes widen, before turning back to you, a grin crossing his previously embarrassed features.

-

“Oh my god! It’s a castle in a city. Is that where the Queen lives?” Garcia’s voice interrupts the comfortable silence. Her voice is high pitched, laced with a sense of extreme excitement.

“Originally, it was built by William the Conqueror to be a residence for the royal family, and a fortress. But they soon discovered that it was as good at keeping people in as it was out.” Spencer’s hands flail about wildly and you can’t help but smile at the excitement plastered across his face, your hangover was long forgotten.

“Officially it’s called Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress, The Tower of London.” Spencer finds himself impressed, as you smile brightly, eyes fixated on the tower that was coming closer into view.

You walk along the perimeter of the grounds, towards the visitor centre watching as your three tourists gaze in wonder across the lawn towards the large medieval building.

“Only 22 executions have ever taken place inside the Tower of London. They include the two famed executions of Henry VIII’s wives, Anne Boleyn, and Katherine Howard.” You guide the team towards the visitor centre, watching as all the crowds ahead of you gather.

You walk towards the turnstiles that provide entry to the castle, spotting a beefeater watching over the people entering into the tower grounds.

You slowly walk towards the male, pulling a slip of paper out of your pocket. As you hand him the paper to read, he simply nods, allowing JJ, Spencer, Garcia, and yourself through, politely thanking you all for your service.

“-For our service?” Garcia pipes up as you walk towards the tower gateway, a look of confusion plastered across her joyful features.

“Yeah, uhm, I spoke to a few people.” You state simply, not really wanting to draw out what may create too much of a scene. Garcia certainly struck you as the dramatic type.

“What kind of people?” JJ pulls a strand of hair behind her ear, peering over her sunglasses at you. You can feel Spencer and Garcia’s eyes boring into you with curiosity.

“Well, The Tower of London is owned by Her Majesty the Queen, so-“ Your gaze falls on Spencer who’s face twists into an almost smug look as his brain begins to put the pieces together.

“You asked-“ He begins.

“No, no- well, I mean… She offered?” You chuckle, trying to hide your flustered sate as a look of shock crossed Garcia’s face.

“The-the Queen?!” You can’t help but laugh at her reaction. Both Spencer and JJ join her, eyes widened with shock.

Before you have a moment to think, Garcia walks straight towards you, engulfing you in a surprising hug. You can’t help but tense in surprise.

“The Queen knows we exist?!” She whispers into your ear, allowing Spencer to pry her off you. You simply nod, humming in response.

-

Slowly, you begin to make your way around the walls of the ancient fortress. From the tower above Traitor’s Gate, you had an excellent view across the Thames, of Bloody Tower, and the impressive White Tower behind you, housing the notorious Crown Jewels.

“I always found this part of the castle to be so weird.” You can’t tell if you are talking to yourself or the rest of the team, but Spencer makes his way towards you, his gaze curiously set on you.

You turn towards him, watching as Garcia and JJ excitedly stand on the other side of the wall, inspecting the expansive gardens where twenty-two whole lives had been taken.

“How so?” Spencer says quietly as you fix your gaze back on him.

“So many doomed people made their final journey by boat beneath our feet. They wouldn’t even had known at that point if they were sentenced to death or not.” You sigh, turning your gaze to the ground staring at your feet.

“You know, they had a way of communicating their fate right in front of them without even knowing.” Spencer nods, urging you to continue.

“The jailor would be abord the boat to transport them through the gate and he would carry an axe. If the axe was facing forwards, they were lucky, and if the axe was facing backwards… well-“ You watch Spencer’s brows pinch together as he nods in understanding.

“…People spent the worst days of their lives here.” Spencer murmured as you simply nodded, allowing your gaze to trail onto JJ and Garcia who were taking photos.

“-And the best.” You smile, nodding towards JJ and Garcia as Spencer hums in agreement, a small smile on his face.

“Are those men actually called beefeaters?” You smile at Garcia’s question, turning to Spencer as he interrupts.

“From what I gather, it’s a sort of slang name for what are officially Yeoman Warders of the tower.” Garcia nods as Spencer offers a tight-lipped smile.

“Oh, we should do one of their tours!” JJ exclaims, pointing at a group crowding around for a tour due to start in just under 5 minutes.

“If you want- but those guys will slam you if they find out your American.” You smile, dragging the three agents towards the crowd, as confused looks crossed their face.

And boy, were you right.

-

The harsh, night air nipped at your skin, goosebumps crawling across your exposed skin, your dress from the previous night turned out to be a rather weather-inappropriate outfit. After The Tower of London, the heavens opened in a torrential downpour that caused our small group to sprint to a local bookstore café, where the missing team members caught up with you for lunch.

You spent around three hours in the quaint café, both you and Spencer eyeing up the large bookshelves lined with various graphic covers as the rest of the team talked. They truly were a nice group, and you were glad you had the opportunity to work with them. But it hurt to think that you may never see them again.

But alas, they tided you over by regaling tales of sadistic killers, and various – and frankly, hilarious – anecdotes from their time together. You could tell they truly were a family, especially since they didn’t fail to mention the fact their job is so demanding that they practically live in the FBI Academy together.

~

“You know, law enforcement was always a job that interested me. I just wish that I could see a case through, you know; studying the bodies is fairly detached.” You chuckled, placing your glass to your lips, and taking a sip.

“You want to chase Unsubs?” Derek turned to you, a smile on his face.

“I guess so, I always enjoyed travelling for specialty help, I was a bit more involved in solving cases then. I just feel so helpless once all evidence is processed, I must wait and hope that the police can work it out themselves.” You smile, reaching your arm out to fiddle with the napkin in front of you.

~

“Y/N?” The sound of a voice pulls you out of your dissociative reverie, pulling you back into the here and now, where the team all gathered in front of you.

“Thank you for everything Y/N.” You smile at Rossi, gasping as Garcia pulls you into another surprise hug. The end of her blonde hair tickles your nose as you let out a small chuckle.

“I will miss you Garcia- I will miss all of you.” You whisper as Garcia pulls back and you acquaint your gaze with the hardened concrete below your feet. Trying to hide the embarrassment you felt for becoming so attached to the people in front of you in such a short time.

“You don’t fancy a trip to America, do you?” Derek chuckles, nudging your side with his elbow, you lift your hands to cover your mouth as you laugh. Your gaze fixating on Derek as he offers you a wide grin.

“I could do with a holiday-“ You smile shaking your head.

“-but I’m not so sure my boss would like it.” You watch as the team chuckle to themselves, their gazes flicking between each other as they slowly realised, they would be leaving very soon.

-

Hotch stands, deep in thought as the team gather together, Y/N included, on the runway. He couldn’t help but notice how well Y/N functioned with the team, and how quickly they were able to solve an extremely complicated case with her expertise.

A notification snaps him out of his daze, gazing down at his phone he sees a reminder popping up, telling him that the jet leaves in 15 minutes and that they should all be ready to board.

“Guys-“ He breaks the giggles and chatter between his teammates, watching Y/N’s expression falter at the implication of his words. He knew she had bonded well with the team in the short space of time, and he knew that the team would miss her also.

“-you should say your goodbyes, we have to be on the jet in five for take-off in fifteen. I’ll be back in a minute.” Hotch disappears onto the jet as Garcia sucks in a breath, her eyes saddening as they land on Y/N. A soft smile rests on her face.

“It’s been a pleasure working with you all. I had heard so much about you guys-“ Y/N chuckles, her cheeks heating up as she turns her gaze to the ground scuffing her feet on the concrete.

“-you certainly -uhm- lived up to those expectations ten-fold. This wouldn’t have been solved without you guys.” Y/N’s gaze scans over the group, lingering on Spencer, who gives her a soft smile, his cheeks reddening.

Rossi was the first to step forward, offering Y/N a silent pat on her shoulder, before walking towards the jet, and disappearing inside.

JJ and Garcia stood forward together, opening out their arms as they engulfed Y/N in a group hug. The whispers of thanks making the other members of the team smile at the sight. But soon they disappeared into the comfort of the jet.

“Stay safe, okay?” Was the simple sentiment Morgan left Y/N with his gaze switching between her and Spencer suggestively, an expression they both missed.

Finally, Spencer steps forward his eyes stuck on the ground as he fails to meet Y/N’s gaze.

The pair both remain silent, gazes alternating between each other and the ground as they both relish in the awkwardness of not knowing what to say.

“I enjoyed having someone smart to relate to.” He practically whispers as Y/N let’s out an embarrassed chuckle.

“Don’t be mean to your teammates, you’re a bright bunch.” The quip makes Spencer laugh shyly, as he raises his gaze to Y/N who stands in front of him.

“You’re a brilliant mind.” Spencer’s voice is practically a whisper as he takes a small step forward, outstretching his hand to Y/N. She gladly takes it and shakes it with a chuckle.

“Hey Reid, I thought you said it was safer to kiss?!” The pair jump at the sound of a voice coming from the small jet. Turning they see Derek stood at the top of the steps, a smug grin on his face.

Hotch walks past him, making his way towards the now extremely embarrassed, frozen pair of doctors. Spencer quickly offers Y/N a small smile before dropping your hand.

Y/N turns her focus to Hotch. He stops in front of her.

“Dr. L/N, we’re running late, but I just wanted to let you know that I will be in touch over the next couple of weeks, as regards the case.” Y/N nods, immediately going into business mode, she straightens up.

“That’s absolutely no problem, I will forward you any of the paperwork on our end for reference.”

“That would be great. Excellent work doctor. As I said, I’ll be in touch.”

And with that, they were gone.

-

Story Masterlist - (1) -

[armatofu]

Ana de Cléveris, fallecida en 1557, fue la cuarta de las seis esposas de Enrique VIII, pero las sobrevivió a todas.

Se casó joven y tenía tan solo cuarenta y un años cuando murió. Su breve matrimonio político con Enrique VIII fue anulado cuando él decidió que no podía cumplir sus deberes reales con una mujer que no le atraía en absoluto. Enrique la apodó «la yegua de Flandes», lo cual no fue nada atractivo para Ana. Sin embargo, a diferencia de las separaciones anteriores de Enrique, esta fue amistosa, y Ana recibió ingresos y una casa, asegurándose de que se fuera con la cabeza todavía sobre los hombros.

Ana vivió para ver a dos mujeres más casarse con Enrique, la muerte de él y la de su hijo Eduardo, mientras ella seguía siendo una noble acomodada. Para algunos, Ana de Cléveris fue la esposa más exitosa de Enrique, aunque se la ha considerado la menos importante. Tal vez por eso se ha escrito muy poco sobre su muerte. Su última aparición pública fue en la coronación de su ex hijastra María, pero su salud comenzaba a fallar. Se le permitió vivir sus últimos días en Chelsea Old Manor, donde murió en el verano de 1557 de una enfermedad que empeoraba, probablemente cáncer, como la primera esposa de Enrique, Catalina de Aragón.

Un historiador mencionó que Ana "muy probablemente murió de cáncer", y eso es todo lo que se encuentra en los relatos sobre la muerte de una ex reina de Inglaterra. Ana era recordada con cariño. Era una señora generosa y en su testamento pidió que la reina María y su hermana Isabel aceptaran a sus sirvientes para trabajar en sus casas. Como había sido amiga de María, la Reina se aseguró de que recibiera una despedida apropiada.

Con una tumba en el lado sur del altar, Ana de Cléveris es la única de las esposas de Enrique enterrada en la Abadía de Westminster. Por una vez, una de las esposas de Enrique no cayó en desgracia. En Chelsea Old Manor la embalsamaron y la colocaron en un ataúd adornado con hilos y telas de oro, bordados con sus escudos de armas. Se quemaron velas de cera día y noche mientras se decían misas, y se mantuvo una vigilia para que su cuerpo nunca fuera abandonado.

Un carro abierto llevó a Ana desde Chelsea a Charing Cross y luego a la Abadía de Westminster, donde pasó la noche antes de que los dolientes asistieran a su funeral al día siguiente.

[blackspoon99]

The Empty Hearse Pt. 6

Sherlock x Female! Reader 

TW: Swearing, Mentions of Death, Explosives, Terrorism, Spoilers if you haven’t seen Season 3

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

Tuesday 6:45 pm

“I certainly plan to,” Sherlock wandered over to the wall of clippings. “Remember, remember the 5th of November”

“The gunpowder, treason, and plot,” continued John.

“I guess we’re lucky terrorists enjoy historical irony,” you quipped.

Sherlock turned away from the wall and began rummaging through the piles of paper that littered the floor of the flat. He gathered heaps of papers and shoved them into your arms. “These are maps, blueprints, anything I have on the design of the tube stations.” You carried them over to the kitchen table. “Look through everything. We have to find out where Moran could have stashed the carriage.” John joined you at the table as you began to spread the documents over the surface of the table. Sherlock returned to his laptop and began to make a video call.

“Mr. Holmes?” You didn’t recognize the voice but assumed it had to be Sherlock’s “friend who likes trains”. Sherlock turned the laptop around to show a man wearing a bobble hat.

“Howard, I need to know where that carriage could have been let off. It’s urgent.”

“If I knew, I would have told you when I showed you the footage, Mr. Holmes.”

“It’s down there somewhere”

“There’s nothing down there, Mr. Holmes, I told you. No sidings, no ghost stations.”

“There has to be, check again” Sherlock turned to you and John. Maps covered every inch of the table. John was thumbing through a book while you were looking over a map of old tube stations. “John?”

“Look – this whole area is a big mess of old and new stuff. Charing Cross is made up of bits of older stations like Trafalgar Square, Strand ...”

“No, it’s none of those. We’ve accounted for those.” Sherlock looked to you “Y/n, what have you got?”

“Uhm, St Margaret’s Street, Bridge Street, Sumatra Road, Parliament Street ...”

Howard stopped you. “Hang on, hang on. Sumatra Road. You mentioned Sumatra Road. There is something. I knew it rang a bell."  Howard moved off-screen. "Where is it? There was a station down there."

“Well, why isn’t it on the maps?” John asked.

“Cause’ it was closed before it ever opened. They built the platforms, even the staircases, but it all got tied up in legal disputes, so they never built the station on the surface.” Howard popped back into the frame of the video call. He was holding up an open book. He pointed to a map.

“It’s right underneath the Palace of Westminster,” Sherlock said, his eyes narrowing slightly.

“Shit, Shit,” You cursed under your breath as you and Sherlock stood up and headed for the door.

“And so what’s down there? A bomb?” John asked, still looking at the laptop. He turned around and saw you and Sherlock racing for the door. “Oh.” He jumped up to follow you.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tuesday, 7:00 pm

You briskly walked behind Sherlock and John through the streets of London. Neither of you said a word, though it was clear where you were heading. Sherlock stood tall, coat collar lifted against the windchill. John looked just as serious with his hands tucked into his pockets, looking straight ahead of him. There was a distinct tension in the air. Questions swarmed in your head. You wondered if you would make it in time, what Sherlock’s plan was, and if the plan, whatever it was, would actually work. You never knew what you were getting yourself into. You had no choice but to trust your friends.

The three of you rounded the corner and silently approached Westminster Station. You followed John and Sherlock down the stairs and through the turnstiles. John was the first one to break the silence.

“So it’s a bomb, then? A Tube carriage is carrying a bomb.”

“Must be,” replied Sherlock.

“You two think you could lower your voices? You’ll cause a panic.” You seemed to be the only one aware you were surrounded by people. John took off his glove and reached into his pocket.

“What are you doing?” snapped Sherlock

“Calling the police,” John said, plainly.

“What? No!” Sherlock said stopping abruptly.

“Sherlock, we need to call the police.” You agreed with John.

“This isn’t a game. They need to evacuate Parliament.” John continued, dialing a number on his mobile.

“They’ll get in the way. They always do. This is cleaner, more efficient.”

John rolled his eyes and put his phone back. You shot him a look. “So, you’re just going to do what he says?” You whispered.

“I trust him, y/n. He’s mad, but I trust him”

“Alright,” you conceded. Two against one. You hoped you wouldn’t regret this. Sherlock walked a few feet ahead to a locked maintenance entrance. Sherlock walked right up to the door and discreetly pulled out a crowbar. You were starting to regret this already. “A crowbar?!” you mouthed to John. He shook his head as Sherlock popped off the lock. He opened the door and you started to follow. To your surprise, John held his arm out and blocked you from following.

“Slow down. Y/n isn’t coming,” he said to Sherlock, then turned to you. “You’re not coming.” You opened your mouth to protest but were interrupted. “You could still be in shock, you’re hurt, for god’s sake.” John really could be stubborn.

“Try and stop me, John, it won’t end well. I’m seeing this through with you both.”

“You heard her, John. It seems like she’s made up her mind.”

“You of all people, Sherlock, should want to keep her safe.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Sherlock asked

You turned to John and waited for him to answer with an inexplicable sense of urgency. Could he mean what you thought he meant?

“I- uh, just meant after what you saw last night that you’d think you would be more careful.” It was clear that John was lying. Well, to you, at least.

“What could happen? I’m here”

“Your over-confidence is truly unmatched, you know?”

“Enough!” You finally intervened. “Stop fighting! Don’t you remember why we’re here? I’m coming and not even Sherlock Holmes can stop me”

“I believe that,” retorted Sherlock with a sly smile.

“Shut it. Be serious, for once. All we’re doing is standing here wasting time. John, I won’t be left behind, not again.” You were thinking of the last time John and Sherlock left you out of something they deemed too dangerous. That ended with you seeing Sherlock jump off a building from a block away. John seemed to understand what you meant. He bowed his head and stepped reluctantly to the side.

The three of you entered the maintenance tunnel and began the descent down the steep metal stairs. You followed them, through the tunnels and down ladders. You paused for a moment, looking back to try and see how deep you had gone into the tunnels. Anxiety crept up your body and you pulled out your phone. No Service. Wonderful. No turning back now.

Finally, you came down the stairs into the abandoned station. To your shock, there was nothing there. “I don’t understand,” said Sherlock

“Well, that’s a first!” snapped John.

“Is there a chance it could be somewhere else?” you asked.

He shook his head. “There’s nowhere else it could be. I need a moment to think.” He closed his eyes and raised his fingertips to his temples. Anyone who knew Sherlock knew this meant he was going into his mind palace. You and John waited patiently for him to return. Well, you at least, waited patiently. John paced back and forth, clearly stewing. A moment later, Sherlock returned from wherever he just disappeared to.

“Oh!” He shouted and took off to the left. You followed him and watched as he jumped off the platform.

“Hang on. Sherlock? That’s ... Isn’t it live?” John asked hesitantly, looking down at the tracks

“Perfectly safe as long as we avoid touching the rails,” Sherlock replied, reaching his hand up to you. You took it and he helped you down off the platform, catching your waist as you landed between the tracks.

“ 'Course, yeah. Avoid the rails. Great!” John mumbled as he jumped down into the platform.

You and Sherlock walked side-by-side, using your flashlights to illuminate the way. It was so quiet you could hear him breathing. You didn’t have to walk far. You rounded a bend, and suddenly the car was in sight.

“There it is,” you said, softly.

“Wait, look” Sherlock grabbed your arm to stop you and shone his flashlight into the tunnel above you.

“Demolition charges,” John said from behind you. You swallowed hard. All at once, you realized how serious this was. John and Sherlock continued on, and you approached the car. John bent down to check underneath, and you and Sherlock checked either side. There was nothing there from what you could tell. You returned to the rear of the car. Sherlock pried open the door at the back and the three of you climbed inside. You immediately used your flashlight to scan for any evidence of explosives.

“It’s empty. There’s nothing,” John said after a moment.

“There can’t be nothing. You saw the demolition charges. And what would be the point of detaching the car in the first place?” You looked over at Sherlock. He was following two wires down to the seats that lined the car. He lifted under the seat cushion, and it came up with little resistance. 

“Isn’t there, John?” said Sherlock. You walked over to look. He pulled up the remaining seats on the bench. Underneath the seats, there was a large cavity, lined fully with explosives. “This is the bomb. It’s not carrying explosives. The whole compartment is the bomb.” 

With Sherlock’s words, your stomach dropped. You let out a shaky breath. Sherlock and John immediately removed more seats in the car. Each contained an identical demolition device. You stepped back and felt a loose panel beneath your feet. “Sherlock.” You said and pointed to the floor. Sherlock walked over to you and pulled the panel up from the ground. You, John, and Sherlock leaned over the revealed compartment. Laying inside the compartment was an enormous bomb that looked straight out of a vintage spy movie. There was a timer set for 2 minutes and 30 seconds

2:30

“We need bomb disposal,” said John standing up.

“There may not be time for that now,” Sherlock said seriously. You whipped your head to look at him.

“So what do we do?” John asked

Sherlock paused. “I have no idea”

“What do you mean Sherlock? I thought you had a plan” you said in disbelief.

“Sherlock, think of something,” John said sternly.

“How should I know what to do?”

“Because you’re Sherlock Holmes. You’re as clever as it gets.”

You wracked your brain for a solution. “What about the timer. Could we try taking it off?”

“That would set it off,” Sherlock replied.

“See, you know things!” John raised his voice.

“Sherlock, why didn’t you call the police? Why do you never call the police?” you asked, shaking your head.

“How could you go down here without a plan and not call the police?!” John yelled, furiously.

“Well, it’s no use now!”

You heard a faint whirring. “John? Sherlock?” you said hesitantly. Around you the lights of the car began to turn on. You looked down and the timer had started counting down.

“My GOD!” John yelled and turned away, putting his hands on his head. “So you can’t switch the bomb off. You can’t switch the bomb off and you didn’t call the police”

Sherlock turned to John. “John, you and y/n need to get out of here. Go. Now”

“Sherlock, there’s not enough time to get away,” you said. “And we’ve got to switch it off! Hundreds, no thousands of people will die if we don’t!” Now you were shouting too.

2:15

“Mind palace.” John said pointing at Sherlock. “Use your mind palace.”

“How will that help?”

“I don’t know… You’ve salted away every fact under the sun!”

“Oh, and you think I’ve just got “How To Defuse A Bomb” tucked away in there somewhere?”

“Yes!” You and John shouted at the same time.

“Maybe,” Sherlock said, bringing his fingertips to his temples again. He closed his eyes.

“Come on, Sherlock. Think, please” You pleaded.

Sherlock lifted his head, turning it left and right, trying to find the information.

“Think!” yelled John desperately.

Sherlock audibly groaned, shaking his head. He finally let out a frustrated cry and opened his eyes. You looked at him desperately. He looked from you to John and shook his head.

1:35

“Oh my god,” John said, exasperated. You put your hand over your mouth and took a step back. John began to pace back and forth, muttering profanities. You looked down at Sherlock. He ripped off his scarf and dropped to his knees. He leaned over the compartment and started flailing his hands over the device. He finally looked up at you.

“I’m sorry. I just can’t do it this time”

With those words, you felt yourself drifting away. John started to say something, but your brain blocked it out. Sherlock and John’s frantic voices were blending together into background noise. Sherlock’s words echoed. I just can’t do it this time. Maybe it was foolish, but you never thought you’d hear him speak those words. The entire time you’d known him, you thought there wasn’t anything he couldn’t do. This belief was only strengthened when he literally came back from the dead. Maybe he was, after all, just human. You looked out the window of the carriage. This was it. Too late to run, no way to survive the blast. Maybe you only get to escape the fire and cheat death once. You supposed your luck had run out. Your eyes watered. You blinked hard, snapping out of it, and forcing yourself to return to reality. Sherlock and John’s arguing resumed.

“Please, both of you. Just stop.” You turned to look at Sherlock. “Sherlock? Is it true? There’s really no way out?”

“I’m afraid so.” His voice was quiet, yet it seemed to echo across the car. “John, y/n. I’m sorry.” His eyes watered. “I hope you can forgive me, for all the pain I have caused you”

“What?” You asked softly. Sherlock’s expression was scaring you.

“Please, forgive me,” he said, his voice breaking. You were frozen to the spot.

“Another one of your bloody tricks. You’re just trying to make me say something nice.” John said.

Sherlock let out an ironic chuckle. "Not this time.” You found yourself fighting tears. Sherlock turned to you. “If I hadn’t come back, you wouldn’t be standing there, and ...you’d still have a future.” You slowly shook your head. “And you, John, you’d get to be…with Mary”

“Yeah. I know.” John said forcefully. “Look, I find it difficult, this sort of thing.”

“I know,” said Sherlock gently.

“You were the best and the wisest man... that I have ever known. Yes, of course, I forgive you.”

Sherlock’s eyes teared up and he looked at you. You tensed slightly. “I never should have let you come. John was right, you shouldn’t even be here. I’m sorry”

Seeing him cry was shocking. Your breath hitched. “Don’t say that, Sherlock. I insisted. The truth is, I forgave you the moment I knew you were still alive. I’m sorry I only told you just now.” You turned to John. “John. You have been my dearest friend-” Your voice breaking didn’t allow you to finish the sentence. He reached down and held your hand. “I know.” He said simply and squeezed your hand. A very John-like goodbye. If you had to die, you were thankful it was with the people you loved most.

John crouched down and braced for the explosion. He pulled you with him and placed his arms over your head as if that could possibly shield you from the blast. You closed your eyes and braced yourself for the explosion.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Across the car, you heard what you thought was Sherlock crying. The crying turned into…laughter? You slowly opened your eyes as John let you go. You looked up and saw Sherlock hysterically laughing. Your face contorted in confusion. You looked down at the bomb. The timer was stuck between 1:29 and 1:28. Your mouth hung open in stunned silence.

“Would you look at your faces?” Sherlock said between bouts of laughter.

“Pardon?” you said as all the air left your lungs.

“Oh, I really got you”

“You utter cock! I knew it! I knew it! You f—” John yelled breathlessly. You tried to stand and braced yourself on the wall. You took in heaving breaths.

“Oh, those things you said – such sweet things! I-I never knew you cared!” Sherlock said, ironically placing his hand over his chest.

“Sherlock Holmes,” You started, as you stood upright. “I may have just said I forgive you for fake dying. But wait and see if I…if I ever forgive you for this! You knew! You knew how to turn it off!”

“There’s an off switch. There’s always an off switch. Terrorists can get into all sorts of problems unless there’s an off switch.” Sherlock rambled.

“You fucking bastard! Letting me and John go through that!”

“I didn’t lie altogether. I’ve absolutely no idea how to turn any of these silly little lights off.” Sherlock said, bursting into laughter and wiping tears from his cheeks. Outside the carriage, flashlight beams shone through the tunnel.

“So you did call the police?” John asked, exasperated.

“Of course, I called the police”

“I’m definitely going to kill you. For both of us,” John said.

“Oh, please! Killing me – that’s so two years ago.”

Your uneven, ragged breathing suddenly became hysterical laughter. You felt crazy, one moment you were seeing red and the next you were hysterically laughing. Could it be the relief sending you into a state of euphoria? Who knew? John joined in on your laughter and you dropped down into one of the seats. You placed your hands over your face as you laughed, tears forming in your eyes. John put his hand on your back in concern. You looked up and Sherlock was walking towards you.

“Sherlock, I’d- I’d stay back if I were you.” You warned. It had been so long that you’d forgotten. This is what it was like to spend time with Sherlock. This is who he really was. And who were you to be angry at someone for being who they were? It was almost your fault for choosing to stay with him. Truthfully, no one dragged you down here. In fact, you’d insisted on it. What the hell were you going to do?

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

When you returned to your flat that night, you didn’t even turn on the lights. You simply flung your coat on the kitchen table and flopped across your couch, letting your legs hang over one of the arms. You stared up at the ceiling. The only advantage you had against him, the only dignity that you thought was safe from Sherlock's piercing gaze and sharp intellect was taken from you that night. In truth, you weren’t really angry about the trick. You were angry that you were forced into showing your hand and admitting you’d already forgiven him. In your relationship with Sherlock, you rarely, if ever, felt like you had the upper hand. It had only taken Sherlock 3 days to get you to admit you weren’t angry at him anymore. 3 days. Damn him. You were only grateful the timer hadn’t allowed you to reveal more. You snatched a throw pillow from the sofa and pulled it over your face to muffle your frustrated scream.

It was probably easier to just let it go. You wanted to so badly, after all. John seemed to have no problem moving past it. On the way out, he and Sherlock were laughing and joking. You just tried to pretend you weren’t still seething. But you knew deep down you didn’t hate him. In actuality, you felt very much the opposite.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Wednesday, 10:23 am

The next morning, you received a text from John.

Are you alright? Sherlock can be an arse. I know you might not want to see him- hell, I barely do after last night- but he’s got something on this afternoon. He says its to make up for ruining my engagement. I hope you will come.

There it was. That creeping feeling of excitement thinking of seeing Sherlock again. How were you supposed to be angry with him when you were constantly being betrayed by your subconscious mind? You sighed deeply and texted back.

I’m fine and of course, I’ll be there. For you and Mary.

Later that afternoon, you headed over to 221B. When you walked into the apartment, you saw Mary, Greg Lestrade, and Mrs. Hudson in the living room. Mrs. Hudson immediately stood up to greet you.  

“Y/n dear, welcome,” she said, pulling you into a hug.

“Hello, Mrs. Hudson!”

“Oh, I’ve been so worried about you. How are you feeling?”

“I’m alright, I promise.” You said as Mrs. Hudson returned to the couch to talk to Mary.

“Have you set a date?” She asked Mary

“Er, well we thought May.”

“Oh! Spring wedding!”

Just then, Sherlock and John entered the room. Sherlock made brief eye contact with you, but you looked away and down at your hands.

“Well, I can’t wait,” Greg said.

Across the room, the door opened. Molly walked in.

“Hello, everyone,” Molly said, beaming.

“Hi Molly,” you said with a smile. “Lovely to see you.” You walked over and embraced her in a hug. Behind her was a man you presumed to be her fiancé John had told you about.

“This is Tom,” Molly said, pulling him forward and holding his hand.

You finally got a good look at the man as he emerged from behind her. It took all your concentration to keep your jaw from dropping. You absolutely could not believe what you were seeing. Tom looked exactly like Sherlock. Down to the curly dark hair and the light eyes. He even had on a long wool coat. You immediately looked to John who seemed just as shocked. You watched him not-so-subtly look Tom up and down. John eventually cleared his throat and reached out to shake Tom’s hand. He then turned to look at Sherlock.

“Erm well, shall we head down? The press will want to hear the story.”

“Just a moment,” he said and then wandered into the kitchen. The conversation resumed around you, and you decided to follow him.

You walked into the kitchen to find Sherlock taking champagne out of the fridge.

“You bought champagne?” you asked him, surprised.

“I interrupted the first attempt at a proposal. It was the least I could do.”

You smiled in his direction and raised your eyebrows.

“What?”

“Nothing. Just this party, you. You’re just being nice. I like it when you’re nice”

“Don’t get used to it”

You rolled your eyes. “So, Tom? You should ask him where he buys his coats.”

“I’m not saying a word”

“That’s definitely for the best.” You smiled affectionately at him then turned to the cupboards to get the champagne flutes.

“How are you feeling? You know, after everything? I realized I never asked.” Sherlock popped the cork and began filling the glasses.

“I’m okay, actually. I guess the trauma from one brush with death cancels out the other.” Your poor attempt at trying to laugh it off.

Sherlock put down the bottle and turned to look you in the eye. “Y/n, about last night. I hope you know I would never purposely put you in harm’s way. I would never be so reckless with something as important as your life.”

“Yes. You called the police; you had a plan. It was just a joke” The word ‘joke’ felt heavy on your tongue. You crossed your arms and leaned back into the cabinets, avoiding eye contact. You’d almost forgotten you were supposed to be cross with him.

“I assure you; it wasn’t just a joke. Not that it wasn’t enjoyable messing with John a bit.” You smiled and looked off to the side, concealing your amusement. Sherlock lowered his voice slightly and his tone changed to a sincere one. “I needed to hear you say you forgive me. You have no idea how much.” You turned to him abruptly and you felt a blush creep across your face.

“You and John, I mean.” he hastily corrected himself. “I know I can be a selfish man and that your forgiving nature isn’t without limits—"

For you, it is, you thought to yourself. “I promise never to do something like that again.”

Sherlock was saying everything you wanted to hear. In the moment, you barely cared if he planned on keeping that promise. It was funny how hearing the right words from the right person could heal the most painful of wounds; and Sherlock was quite the smooth talker. “Thank you, Sherlock.” You said plainly. “At least your acting was better this time.”

Sherlock smiled and a calmness washed over you. “Now, go. Your fans are waiting.” You brushed the tops of his shoulders, flicking imaginary dust off his suit. “Oh! I almost forgot.” you walked back into the living room and swiped his deerstalker hat from the bookshelf. You returned to the kitchen and handed it to him. “If you’re going to be Sherlock Holmes, you have to be The Sherlock Holmes. For the press, at least.”

Sherlock took the hat and pulled it down over his black curls. “How do I look?” He asked with a wink. Before you could answer, John peeked his head into the kitchen

“Sherlock, they’re outside. I’m sure they want to hear some answers. Nice hat by the way.”

“Coming?” Sherlock asked you.

“No, thanks. I’ll leave this one to you two.”

“So, I take it the domestic is over then?” asked John sarcastically.

“It wasn’t a domestic, but I guess I can let it go.” You turned to Sherlock. “This time.”

“Sherlock? You ready then?” asked John.

“Ready,” Sherlock replied. The two of them headed out the door and down the stairs. You decided to rejoin the party.

You walked over by the window. You looked down at the street, champagne glass in hand, watching your friend become The Sherlock Holmes in front of the press, amidst the camera flashes and microphones. Your mind drifted back to the other day in the Underground. Despite your initial conflict, your feelings about Sherlock were resolved that night in your apartment. You were thankful your compulsive need to hide your true feelings had stopped you from saying what you really wanted to in the train carriage. Which was that you didn’t regret following him down to your death. Not at all. Simply because you’d rather die than lose him again. Because you were in love with Sherlock Holmes. It seemed like you still had some secrets left to keep after all.

The End of Part 1

A/N: This chapter literally ended up being longer than the research paper I procrastinated on while writing this. If you made it this far, thank you for reading! This is only part 1 of this Season 3 reader-insert work. The Sign of Three is next! There are so many little scenes and quick POV changes in this episode, so I’ve got my work cut out for me. But there are also so many lovely stories and fun moments that I can’t wait to play with! I’m going to get started straight away, so stay tuned! It might take me a little bit to plan it out and write the first part. If you want to be added to the taglist, like the post I made about it a little while back!

The next part of this story is The Sign of Three

Taglist: @the-chaotic-cow @amoeebaa @sad-bitch-h0ur @scorpios-echos

[melodicfix]

>>> LONDON UNDERGROUND STOPS >>> BAKER STREET – Gerry Rafferty (United Artists) Goin’ to the BANK – The Commodores (Polydor) BARBICAN Heights – President Shorty (Pressure Sounds) Funky BAYSWATER – The Squires (MCA) BOND STREET Corner – Mikey Dread (Dread at the Contro CHANCERY LANE Rock – Gregory Isaacs (African Museum) CHARING CROSS Cowboys – Dick Damron (Condor) Chelsea EMBANKMENT – Nikki Sudden (Abstract Records) EUSTON – Valve (Pleasure Music) GREEN PARK Saturday – The Bevis Frond (Damaged Goods) HAMMERSMITH Odeons – Patrik Fitzgerald (Polydor) Absolument HYDE PARK – Johnny Hallyday and The Blackburds (Philips) KENSINGTON HIGH STREET – Dead Sea Fruit (A-Z Records) KING’S CROSS (pink vinyl) – Cinerama (Elefant Records) LADBROKE GROOVE – Sugarcane Band (Alpine Records) LEICESTER SQUARE – Rancid (Pirates Press Records) MILE END (pink vinyl) – Pulp (Island Records) MONUMENT – Ultravox (Chrysalis) NOTTING HILL GATE – Quintessence (Island Records) OLYMPIA – Sergio Mendes (A&M) OXFORD STREET – Everything But The Girl (Blanco y Negro) The PADDINGTON Frisk (green vinyl) – Enter Shikari (Ambush Reality) PICCADILLY CIRCUS – Pernilla Wahlgren (Glen Disc) RUSSELL SQUARE Gardens and You – The Kitchen Cynics (Magical Jack Records) ST JAMES Infirmary – Frankie Laine (Philips) SHEPHERD’S BUSH – The Soul 69 (Hip Club Records) Sunny SOUTH KENSINGTON – Donovan (Epic) TEMPLE Train – Luke Eargoggle (Heckengäu) TOTTENHAM COURT ROAD – The Cavaliers (One Fifteen Records) VICTORIA – The Kinks (PYE) The WESTMINSTER Waltz – Russ Conway (Columbia) WHITE CITY – The Pogues (Pogue Mahone Records) BY KEITH HAYNES

[sserpente]

A/N: I wonder where the inspiration for that one came from… have fun with this silly little thing!

Words: 1233 Warnings: fluff

“Welcome to London!” You grinned, approaching the brothers as the mist of the Bifrost magic slowly faded away and left behind two Asgardian princes—and, your best friends.

Ever since you had returned to England, Thor and especially Loki had promised to come and visit you at some point to explore the city and catch up.

When the aftermath of the shocks the Infinity War had caused now died down, peace finally spread across the realms again. For weeks, you had been dreading the worst, unable to sleep and worried that only one brother or even worse, none of them would return to hug you again.

But here they were now, both of them safe and sound and more cheerful than ever. Loki smiled when you pulled him into a hug, knowing that he didn’t receive enough of them. Your gaze lingered on him curiously a little longer than necessary before you embraced Thor as well and waved them inside your tiny flat in Central London.

“How are you guys doing? And the others? Are you all recovering?”

Thor nodded sternly. “Recovering from the losses and celebrating the victory.” He replied, patting his brother on the shoulder. He had only told you after Loki had come back that he had faked his death again—Thor knew that you would not have been able to cope with such an atrocious message.

“How long will you be here for?”

“We are yours for the entire weekend, dear.” Loki said with a smirk. His blue eyes bore into yours like tiny little daggers, sending pleasant shivers up and down your spine. You wondered if Thor had finally caught up on the fact there was more than just friendship between Loki and you. Neither of you had properly acted on it yet, apart from a shy kiss before Thanos had almost erased half of the universe.

“Then we shouldn’t waste any time, there is lots to see!” You said with a wink. “I’ll make us a cup of tea and then we’ll get going. Oh, by the way, here’s your travel cards. Don’t lose them, you’ll need them for the tube!”

You dropped the two tickets on the kitchen table before heading over to the counter to prepare some tea. Loki’s confused frown made you chuckle.

“We will be using the what? The tube?”

“It’s the public transport system here in London. You will love it.” Thor responded with a mocking grin, remembering how he had ended up at Charing Cross station when fighting Malekith a few years ago.

Loki hated it. There were too many people, it was too hot and the fact he was moving around underground made him, the God of Mischief, nervous. Reassuringly, you reached for his hand as the next station—Oxford Circus, your stop—was finally announced.

The Trickster was about to seriously injure the older man next to him who kept bumping into his side whenever the train took turns.

To be honest, even in casual clothes, Thor and Loki both looked completely out of place here. There was no denying that especially to Loki, travelling around like this was beneath his dignity. Perhaps you should take the bus next time.

His murderous glare made you giggle when you finally reached your destination and quickly left the station. Neither of the brothers even moved when the train came to a halt and sent a few passengers lurching like drunks.

“This was horrible,” Loki complained when you finally stepped into the surprisingly warm sunlight and found yourself in the middle of a busy street, with dozens of shops and blinking ads around you.

Thor rubbed his hands together. You could already see him buying all kinds of souvenirs.

“What about this one? Colourful London!” Loki rolled his eyes. You could tell that he liked the foreign place, for his blue eyes were darting around curiously, still, Thor’s enthusiasm didn’t quite infect him yet.

“Come on, Trickster. I got the feeling you’ll like this.”

Smiling tenderly, you dragged him with you and followed Thor into the massive souvenir shop on the other side of the street. The God of Thunder was trying on a cheesy “I <3 London” t-shirt when you entered, encouraged by the seller who handed him more and more variations of the cosy souvenir.

There was a hidden corner in the store where they sold pretty padlocks. Crossing the Westminster Bridge was on your To Do list for your sightseeing tour with the Asgardian brothers and you had just the right idea for your trip there later that day.

“Which one?” You asked, pointing at the colourful padlocks.

“The green one,” Loki said without hesitation. “What are they for?”

Grinning, you took it and marched towards the till to pay.

“You’ll see.”

The rest of the day was both exhausting and exciting. You introduced Thor and Loki to the pub culture, the traditional food (they both loved Fish and Chips) and the most interesting aspects of the city. Tomorrow, you would bring them to the London Dungeon—you had a funny feeling that they would enjoy that.

Last stop, right before you would end your tour with Sky Garden and a few delicious cocktails high up in the air, was Westminster.

Loki took a deep breath as he stared up at the massive Elizabeth Tower, heart and most typical characteristic of London. He was fascinated by the architecture and you had promised him to show him Shakespeare’s Globe tomorrow—he loved Midgardian literature as long as you enjoyed reading it too.

Grinning mischievously, you took the padlock you had purchased from your pocket and removed the packaging. Thor was already ahead again, enthusiastically crossing the bridge right towards another souvenir shop.

“This padlock is a promise.” You began calmly. “That I’ll always be with you, support you and trust you. I’ve never done this before, it’s… special.”

Loki’s lips parted. He tore his gaze away from the beautiful scenery offering itself up to his mesmerising blue eyes, looking at the green lock in your hands with such softness you feared your legs would cease to support you any longer.

“I love you, Loki. So much. And I was afraid that I might never get to tell you.” Never before had you seen him speechless. When you put the padlock on one of the pillars already full of other people’s metaphorical confessions of love, you handed him one of the two keys.

“I love you too.” He finally mumbled almost coyly—as if the tender words would harm his heart if he said them too loud.

Your heart was pounding fast when you both threw the keys of the lock into the Thames and watched how they disappeared in the brownish water.

It was then Loki smirked genuinely and leaned forward, kissing you gently and carefully, almost as if he feared he’d break you. Holding your chin with two fingers, his eyes closed as he moved his mouth against yours, eliciting a soft sigh from you.

“Hey (Y/N), can you actually go swimming in the Tham—is there something you two would like to tell me?” Thor’s mighty voice roared playfully.

Loki only rolled his eyes when he pulled away from you.

“No, brother, there is not.” In other words, he would have to spend the rest of the night telling him how Loki and you had become a couple.

 A/N: Guys, you can help me publish my first novel! It’s easy, it’s anonymous, you can do it from all over the world and it’s just 3€! Your help counts too, I’d appreciate it so much if you helped me fulfil my dream! ♥ ko-fi.com/sserpente

[guiaparaviajes]

Lugares para alojarse en Londres

Londres es una ciudad bastante cara y esto es algo que se nota especialmente al buscar alojamiento. Las mejores zonas para alojarse en Londres se encuentran en el radio que la red de transporte público

Covent Garden

Este barrio, ubicado en la parte sudoeste del centro de Londres, es uno de los más especiales y encantadores de la capital británica, pues está repleto de teatros, cafés, comercios y, sobre todo, de mercados y puestos de artesanías de todo tipo.

En nuestra opinión, es uno de los mejores lugares para hospedarse por varias razones:  Está céntrico y estratégicamente ubicado en pleno West End entre el Soho, Westminster, y la City, por lo que puedes ir caminando a todas partes, tienes opciones para ir de compras, ir al teatro, y propuestas para salir a cenar. Además también está muy bien situado para disfrutar de la noche londinense.

En Covent Garden se encuentra el museo de los Transportes de Londres y el Royal Opera House, uno de los teatros más célebres de la ciudad del Támesis. Como ventaja añadida, está próximo a la National Portrait Gallery, a Trafalgar Square y al Soho y Chinatown.

En cuanto a transporte público, este barrio está muy bien comunicado. A través de éste transcurre la línea de metro Piccadilly, que tiene varias paradas, como Holborn, Charing Cross o Leicester Square. También está conectado por varias líneas de autobús y por la estación de tren Charing Cross.

Una importante aclaración, es su precio elevado de alojamiento.  Difícilmente encontrarás algo por debajo de los 120 euros la noche.

Hoteles recomendados en Covent Garden: - Radisson Blu Edwardian, Mercer Street - St Martins Lane - Z Hotel Covent Garden

West End

El West End es una extensa área del Central London situada en la parte norte del Támesis al oeste de la City. Es una de las áreas más populares para alojarse en Londres ya que en ella se encuentran (o están muy cerca) muchas de las principales atracciones turísticas de Londres como Picadilly Circus, Hyde Park, Leicester Square,Trafalgar Square o Westminster.

El barrio casi podría definirse como el corazón de la ciudad, e incluye calles célebres, como Oxford Street, y algunos barrios y zonas tan populares, como el Soho, Chinatown, Mayfair o Covent Garden.

A la cercanía de todos estos atractivos turísticos y zonas tan populares hay que añadirle que está repleta de tiendas exclusivas, de galerías de arte, de cines, de teatros, de restaurantes, y mucha vida nocturna. Por lo tanto, esta zona neurálgica es una de las más animadas y transitadas de la ciudad.

El West End es la zona comercial y de ocio más importante de la ciudad. Se la compara a menudo con lo que sería el Midtown de Manhattan en Nueva York o el distrito 8 de París.

Así que, si lo que buscas es estar cercano a los lugares de interés más emblemáticos o sentir el bullicio y el palpitar del alma de la ciudad, esta es una buena zona para dormir en Londres.

Como imaginarás, la oferta de alojamientos es inmensa. Sin embargo los precios de los hoteles del West End son muy elevados, la gran mayoría de hoteles son de 4 y 5 estrellas y hay muy poca oferta de alojamiento barato.

Hoteles recomendados en el West End: - The Beaumont Hotel -The Savoy - Corinthia Hotel London

[joseandrestabarnia]

Título: Noche, desde las cuatro horas del día

1738

Artista: William Hogarth (Inglaterra, 10 de noviembre de 1697-25 o 26 de octubre de 1764)

Acerca de

En esta serie, Hogarth, el satírico itinerante, nos lleva en un recorrido a pie por el Londres contemporáneo, exponiendo la locura y el vicio de los habitantes de la ciudad mientras nos movemos por los distritos de Covent Garden, Soho, Islington y Charing Cross en el transcurso de un día. La serie cómica y caótica de Hogarth se relaciona con una tradición gráfica de larga data (aunque más convencional) de representar las horas del día, así como con la tradición pictórica de la topografía urbana, que presentaba vistas de la ciudad más decorosas que las bulliciosas escenas de Hogarth. Las pinturas en las que se basan los grabados de Hogarth probablemente fueron encargadas por Jonathan Tyers, propietario de Vauxhall Gardens, para exhibirlas en el moderno parque de atracciones.

'Night' presenta una escena cerca de Charing Cross con la estatua de Carlos I de Le Sueur al fondo. Las ramas de roble anuncian que es 29 de mayo, día en el que se celebró la restauración de Carlos II. Irónicamente, la escena carece de celebración. En primer plano, un francmasón borracho, que lleva un collar con un cuadrado, se tambalea hacia su casa sostenido por un sirviente. El francmasón se identifica tradicionalmente como Sir Thomas de Veil, un magistrado de Westminster famoso por su enjuiciamiento de vendedores de ginebra sin licencia. Empapado por el contenido de un orinal, no se da cuenta del caos que lo rodea. Un carruaje se ha estrellado al intentar evitar una hoguera en medio de la calle. En la peluquería, el barbero-cirujano afeita y aprieta la nariz de su cliente. La fila de platos en el alféizar de la peluquería muestra la sangre extraída de los pacientes del día.

Detalles:

Fecha: 1738

Categoría de medios: Impresión

Materiales usados: aguafuerte y grabado

Edición: ii de 2 estados

Dimensiones: Marca de placa de 48,5 x 40,4 cm; Hoja de 58,7 x 47,0 cm

Fecha de firma: No firmado. Sin fecha.

Crédito: Fondo de Benefactores de la Colección Europea de Arte 2015

Información del museo Art Gallery NSW.

[josempotter95]

Mi viaje a la meca de la Magia: mi primera vez en Londres

En este blog (¡SIN SPOILERS!) de obligada escritura para mí explayo profundos sentimientos que pueden resultar incomprensibles (e, incluso, intolerables) a lectores poco aperturistas por lo que, de ser tú uno de ellos, te invito amablemente a salir de la publicación.

Mi viaje a Londres, del 12 al 17 de julio de 2017, se configuró cuando el pasado agosto de 2016 conseguí una entrada para la nueva obra de teatro de Harry Potter, El Legado Maldito, tras once horas de cola online. La hazaña fue el impulso definitivo para un peldaño que me estaba negando a subir, pues siempre tuve la angustiosa sensación de no haber encontrado la compañía adecuada para visitar el museo o el parque temático de Harry Potter; sin embargo, una obra de teatro es algo que puede resultar finito, es un ahora o nunca, así que no quise perder la oportunidad.

Tras algún desplante y algún nuevo compromiso, conseguí que una amiga de baile, Mercedes, me acompañase en mi primera visita a la capital de Inglaterra. Ella tenía casa allí, una bonita planta baja con un jardín delantero transformado en huerto urbano, así que me ahorré el alojamiento. Ella también me acompañaría a todo lo que fuese gratuito (lo que no incluía ni el museo ni la obra de teatro), por lo que me configuré una ruta por todos los exteriores que habían servido de escenario durante los 8 filmes que componen Harry Potter. Me imprimí dichas escenas y, desde el primer día, me lancé a buscarlos. Allá vamos.

DÍA 1

Se dice que Cecil Court, la primera parada de mi itinerario, inspiró el Callejón Diagon. Me gustó pensar en una Rowling desconocida, caminando por aquella calle llena de letreros con encanto. Sus fachadas victorianas alojan tiendecitas anticuadas llenas de objetos curiosos, libros bellamente encuadernados y, como veréis, preciadas reliquias, como las firmas de Dan (Harry Potter), Emma (Hermione Granger) y Rupert (Ron Weasley). Me compré una postal allí para recordar siempre que había adquirido algo en el ‘verdadero’ Callejón Diagon, y allí se quedaron también dos libras de más que se me escurrieron bajo una cómoda, pues el tendero no hizo el menor amago de ayudarme a recuperarlas.

Cerca de allí está Charing Cross Road, la calle real donde se aloja el Caldero Chorreante en la historia. Estaba en obras, como casi todo en Londres. Me pareció que en una calle tan concurrida debía parecer algo curioso tal ir y venir de personas extravagantemente vestidas pero, bueno, tú y yo sabemos que los muggles, al final, no ven nada, aunque si les clavas un tenedor brincan.

Tras esta calle encontramos el Cine Odeon, donde se celebraron preestrenos de las películas. En El Prisionero de Azkaban, por ejemplo, se adornó el edificio con una enorme mano de dementor, como muestro abajo. Me habría encantado verlo. Ahora estaban promocionando Spiderman; mi sobrino se habría vuelto loco.

Piccadilly Circus, cómo no, también estaba en obras. Entre eso, y que habían quitado las barandas, me costó reconocer la calle en la que Harry, Ron y Hermione escapan tras una boda, donde esta última solía ir al teatro con sus padres. Estuvimos bastante tiempo tratando de captar el momento en el que un autobús pareciera que me atropellara, como a nuestros protas. Si bien no está muy conseguido, me conformo: la gente no dejaba de mirarnos extrañada, y los conductores de autobús, aún más.

Caminando de vuelta, mi sacro instinto Potterhead me indicó que estaba caminando por territorio divino, así que supuse que las columnas de aquella calle de Piccadilly debían ser las mismas de la escena donde a Hermione le ofrecen una visita guiada. Así era.

Para no variar, Trafalgar Square también estaba en obras. Entre eso, y que la imagen aérea en la que aparece la plaza en El Misterio del Príncipe no está muy clara, la foto acaba dejando bastante a la imaginación.

Uno de mis lugares favoritos por su fácil reconocimiento fue Great Scotland Yard, cerca de Whitehall, que apareció en los filmes como entrada al Ministerio de Magia. Por suerte, la cochera en la que Harry y sus amigos ocultan los cuerpos de tres empleados del Ministerio estaba abierta, así que pude echar un ojo al interior. Los espacios parecen haber sido reformados o editados digitalmente, por la ausencia/presencia de farolas y cabinas telefónicas, así como por algún que otro desplazamiento de los corredores que conectan los edificios a uno y otro lado de la calzada. En cualquier caso, los habitantes de esta zona céntrica parecen estar muy acostumbrados a los Potterheads fanáticos, pues solo viendo mi camiseta, sin haberles preguntado, me señalaron el lugar exacto que andaba buscando. Tampoco era muy difícil de encontrar, pues había hasta 3 tours distintos llenos de muggles (gente no mágica) en la zona, si bien yo estaba seguro de que ninguno de ellos visitaría tantos lugares como yo me había propuesto aquel día.

Cerca de allí, en la estación de Westminster, se rodó la escena en la que Arthur weasley tuvo problemas con los billetes del metro, camino de la vista del Ministerio. La gente caminaba tan atareada como en el filme. Ingeniosos estos muggles.

Al salir, tomamos un tentempié en esta zona céntrica. Allí nos echamos algunas fotos típicas, con el Palacio de Westminster, el Big Ben y el London Eye como telón de fondo. En la imagen que dejo a continuación no miro atrás como postureo, sino en verdadera alerta, pues en el preciso instante en el que me tomaron la fotografía un grito cruzó el cielo y paralizó el centro de Londres. No era más que una hija que había gritado a su madre para que no cruzase, pero las sensibilidades que el terrorismo ha levantado en el pueblo inglés inmovilizaron la zona de manera escalofriante. En el puente frente al Palacio, sobre el río Támesis, algunos han dejado sus despedidas y mensajes de paz anclados a las farolas, testigos del atentado del pasado 22 de marzo.

Desde este puente tomé la siguiente foto del Palacio de Westminster, que aparece en la quinta película, en un vuelo en escoba de la Orden del Fénix.

El London Eye también aparece de pasada en el séptima película, durante el vuelo de un dragón de Gringotts.

Más al sur está el Puente de Lambeth, en el que el Autobús Noctámbulo se estira para evitar colisionar con dos autobuses rojos londinenses. Yo también esperé a que pasara un autobús rojo para echar la fotografía. El puente está irreconocible, pues en la película aparece de noche y con unos farolillos que ahora no poseía, pero sus barandas y farolas de piedra son inconfundibles.

En la Embajada de Australia se rodó el interior de Gringotts. Si bien no se podía entrar, ni con visado de estudiante australiano en regla, sospecho, me eché la foto en su exterior, pues dicen que sirvió de modelo a los directores artísticos a la hora de crear el famoso banco de los magos, con sus columnas y su mármol reluciente. El edificio era sobrecogedor... ¿influencia colonial?

Lincoln’s Inn Fields es la plaza pública más grande de la ciudad. Mientras caminaba por ella no podía dejar de imaginarme a Rowling, buscándose a sí misma, con aquel mismo suelo bajo sus pies, pues se dice que esta plaza inspiró el número 12 de Grimmauld Place. En el parque había alumnos de rasgos asiáticos con largas túnicas oscuras, dignas de alguna escuela de magia. Sonreí.

Buscando la localización real utilizada en el rodaje del film me percaté de que había cuantiosos lugares que se parecían a Grimmauld Place y llegué a hacerme la foto en un lugar equivocado. No obstante, no paré hasta dar con el original: un rinconcito de Claremont Square. Por su relativa lejanía, lo visité el tercer día.

Cuando Harry es rescatado por la Orden del Fénix, también sobrevuelan este puente. Si bien al principio lo confundí con el de Lambeth, al fijarme bien en la imagen descubrí que se trataba del Puente Blackfriars.

De todos los puentes que aparecen, sin embargo, siempre había sentido especial debilidad por el Puente Millenium. No solo porque me encanta la escena en la que aparece, en El Misterio del Príncipe, sino también porque, como amante de la arquitectura, me maravilla, pues combina una gran sensación de estabilidad con cierta ligereza. Su carácter peatonal, además, lo hace encantador, así como el paisaje que lo rodea, con la vista de la cúpula de la Catedral de San Pablo erigiéndose sobre él. Cuando fui, un artista callejero estaba pintando pequeños mensajes en el suelo. Además de Harry Potter, el Puente Millenium también aparece en una de mis series favoritas: Black Mirror. En uno de los bancos que lo flanquean, una pareja contemplaba el Támesis, y les robé una foto. Luego me acerqué y me ofrecí a mandársela por correo, cosa que hice al volver. Me dijeron que les había encantado, que la imprimirían y la colgarían en su salón.

A aquella hora de la tarde, Borough Market estaba tan abarrotado de gente, empresarios bebiendo sus primeros tragos de la jornada, que me costó reconocer el lugar donde se había rodado la entrada alternativa del Caldero Chorreante, justo donde aparca el Autobús Noctámbulo en El Prisionero de Azkaban. Según Internet, la puerta exacta era ahora una floristería, pero esta debía haberse trasladado pues, cuando entré, a sabiendas ya de que no era el lugar que buscaba, la dependienta hizo una mueca, mezcla de irritación y simpatía, y me indicó que la puerta del Caldero Chorreante era ahora un bar de tacos. Había pasado delante de él, pero estaba tan lleno de gente que lo había ignorado. Nuevamente, muggles...

En otro mercado abarrotado de londinenses enchaquetados y ebrios, esta vez en el famoso y elegante Leadenhall Market, rodeado de edificios victorianos, encontramos otro de los lugares que aparecieron en La Piedra Filosofal, donde Harry lee por primera vez la lista de utensilios que necesitará para la escuela. Guiados por una camarera que, curiosamente, también parecía ebria, encontramos cerca de allí la puerta principal al Caldero Chorreante, ahora pintada de azul. Estaba cerrada.

Camino de vuelta al río pasamos por una zona de rascacielos, algunos de los cuales, como el famoso 30 St Mary Axe (“El Pepinillo”), sirvieron de telón de fondo para carteles promocionales de los últimos filmes.

El choque de la convivencia entre la arquitectura clásica y la contemporánea no se me antojó desagradable en la zona; es más, jugué con la cámara para transformar los rascacielos en un cielo azul ante el que se interponía una inmensa rejilla de metal. Interesante, ¿no?

El Támesis y el famoso Tower Bridge también aparecen en la saga, en un frenético vuelo de La Orden del Fénix. El HMS Belfast, famoso barco de la II Guerra Mundial que permanece anclado en Southbank y que también se vio en el filme, está detrás del gran yate de la fotografía.

Cerca de él está el Ayuntamiento de Londres, un edificio ovalado cuya cristalera y oficina hacen presencia al inicio de El Misterio del Príncipe. Tras 25 kilómetros con un pie lastimado, esfuerzo que se refleja en mi cara llena de orgullo, dimos por concluida la travesía del primer día y dejamos paso a un poquito de postureo en el Tower Bridge. Nos lo merecimos.

DÍA 2

El segundo día por la mañana decidí vestir la camiseta de la organización que dirige JK Rowling, Lumos (cuya web puedes visitar aquí), la cual trata de cerrar los orfanatos y ofrecer alternativas más seguras y saludables a los niños y sus familias, para así hacerle un poquito de publicidad. Sorprendentemente, una chica la reconoció, algo que no me había sucedido nunca aquí en España. Acerca de la otra fotografía, no es que la avenida frente al Palacio de Buckingham se tiñera de rojo y amarillo por mi llegada, lo cual habría molado, sino que mi viaje, del 12 al 17 de julio, coincidió curiosamente con la primera visita oficial de los nuevos reyes de España a Reino Unido. ¡Gibraltar es inglés!

Aquella mañana también vi las amapolas rojas de la Commonwealth con las que se homenajea a los soldados ingleses caídos en la guerra, así como el impresionante centro comercial Harrods, un verdadero museo.

En él había firmas de Daniel, Emma, Rupert y Ralph Fiennes (Voldemort). Valían en torno a dos mil libras, así que pensé en cuán rico podría hacerme con las mías, si bien antes muerto que vendiéndolas.

Por la tarde acudí solo a los Estudios Warner Bros, el museo de Harry Potter, donde se exponen sets, objetos y diversas piezas artísticas del rodaje de los filmes. Si bien tengo una grandiosa geolocalización natural soy nefasto a la hora de tomar transportes, por lo que me pasé de estación. Un amable chico de la compañía de trenes me indicó cómo regresar, y la verdad, de haber vivido allí, le habría pedido el número. Cuando llegué a Watford, donde están los estudios, un autobús maravilloso, en el que ya empecé a llorar, me recogió para llevarme hasta la misma puerta.

Apenas dejaré unas 5 fotos no reveladoras (soy maniático de los números impares) para no dar spoilers a aquellos que queráis conocerlos algún día. Es VISITA OBLIGADA para fans y no fans.

En un arrebato de sinceridad para con la pantalla de mi ordenador admito que, si bien era la visita que más ganas tenía de realizar, no lo pasé bien. Sí, sí, como lo oís. No me lo pasé del todo bien. No fue por el lugar, que es maravilloso, sino por mí. Es difícil de explicar. Yo sé que para gente que le gusta Harry Potter al nivel que a mí me gusta, por ejemplo, The Walking Dead, el lugar solo suma, lleno de detalles curiosos y mágicos. No obstante, mi relación con Harry Potter es, aunque pueda parecer extraño a un lector que no me conoce de forma cercana, algo espiritual. Me sentí sobrepasado, bombardeado por tal cantidad de información que era incapaz de absorber en un tiempo tan limitado. Me sentí solo. Tan solo, que acabé conociendo a las malayas de arriba porque les pedí que me echaran más de una foto. En innumerables ocasiones he acudido a eventos y lugares relacionados con Harry Potter en aparente soledad física y nunca había sido un problema, pues siempre había podido encontrar su compañía dentro de mí; sin embargo, allí, tan sofocado por mi incapacidad para digerirlo y disfrutarlo todo como yo habría querido, me veía abocado a vivirlo de forma efímera y superficial, lo que acabó por distanciarme del momento. No obstante, cuando llegué a la maqueta de Hogwarts, que era la atracción final, pude concederme 15 minutos antes de la partida del último autobús, así que me senté y pude conectar, al fin, con el mundo al que pertenezco. Prometí que, sabiendo ahora cómo está organizado, algún día volvería para vivirlo como quiero. Aunque haga falta ir dos veces el mismo día. Esta que dejo abajo es, así, la única foto de aquel lugar que me retrata en plenitud. La única en la que sentí verdadera magia.

Falto de tiempo, cogí de la tienda 4 cosas guiado por mi corazón, sin mirar el precio: una pluma que me ayudase, como ya lo hizo este mundo, en mi cruzada por ser escritor; un sello de mi casa, Ravenclaw, pues, ahora que me voy lejos, será precioso vestir mis cartas a mis más queridos con lo mejor de mi esencia; una lechuza, Hedwig, para mi madre, quien siempre la quiso y quien siempre me respetó, con quien nunca me habría sentido solo; y una rana de chocolate, elegida al azar, tercera fila, pues me sentía mal y, como en Harry Potter dicen, el chocolate siempre ayuda a sentirnos mejor.

A la salida tuve que luchar para evitar el vómito producto de las emociones que me embargaban, y tomé aprisa el último autobús. Me monté, llorando, sintiéndome mal por no haberlo vivido como debía, y abrí mi rana de chocolate. Estas siempre traen un cromo sorpresa de un mago o bruja famoso. Me sentí sobrepasado cuando vi que me había tocado Rowena Ravenclaw, fundadora de mi casa, lo que validaba mi pertenencia a ella y constituía un guiño mágico: Harry había estado conmigo, me entendía y me había perdonado. Una madre latinoamericana me preguntó entonces si podía sentarse a mi lado en el autobús con su bebé, como si estuviéramos en el Expreso de Hogwarts, y asentí. Partí mi rana a la mitad y les di un generoso trozo de chocolate, pues Potter me enseñó que la vida compartida siempre sabe mejor. Volví a casa sonriendo; esta vez no me perdí.

DÍA 3

El tercer día empezó con la visita a la Estación de St. Pancras, cuyo exterior apareció en las películas como si fuera la fachada de la Estación de King’s Cross, algo más sencilla. Sobre ella se alzó el coche volador de los Weasleys. Las fotos de este día tienen mucha menos calidad porque me olvidé, como acostumbro, la batería de la cámara en el cargador; supuse que Harry quería que fuese menos quisquilloso con las fotos definitivas y disfrutase más el momento, por lo que acepté el golpe.

Justo al lado de St. Pancras está King’s Cross. Si bien su exterior no aparece en la saga, sí sus interiores. Aquí fue donde se conocieron los padres de Rowling, y donde hoy hay un carrito medio oculto en la pared a donde peregrinan personas de todo el mundo. Me gusta imaginar qué debe de sentir ella cada vez que pasa delante de él, cuando ve ese carrito que ideó cuando nadie conocía su nombre. De aquí parte el Expreso de Hogwarts cada 1 de septiembre, en el Andén 9 y 3/4, entre los andenes 9 y 10.

Aquí fue también donde Harry tiene su encuentro con Dumbledore en la última película, aunque estuviese teñida de blanco.

Para hacerme la foto oficial en el carrito del Andén 9 y 3/4 tuvimos que esperar cola. Cuando llegué me preguntaron de qué casa era para darme una bufanda, pero yo quise conservar la mía propia, de Ravenclaw, como si de verdad fuese a Hogwarts y no fuese un deprimente muggle. Me dijeron también que, si la quería saltando, debía ser sin varita, para no arañar el letrero. Salté tanto que le propiné un generoso golpe con la rodilla al carrito, y toda la cola se rió de mí. Salió bien a la primera, la misma fotógrafa me felicitó por el resultado. Me compré, además, el billete del Expreso de Hogwarts en la tiendecita que hay dentro, pues no veía mejor lugar para comprarlo que en la propia King’s Cross. Querría comentar aquí, también, lo curioso que debe ser poder decir que trabajas levantando bufandas a la gente, o lo extraño que debe resultar a aquellos pocos desconocedores de la saga que lleguen a la estación y vean a un grupo de gente vestida de forma extraña esperando para hacerse una foto con medio carro pegado a la pared. Esto, querido lector, es magia de la de verdad.

Aquella tarde fuimos a una obra de teatro llamada Disco Pigs. Yo, en otro arrebato de magia real, había visto en un periódico abandonado en el metro que Evanna Lynch, que interpreta a Luna Lovegood en las películas, estaba protagonizando una obra de teatro en Trafalgar Studios. Miré en la web y descubrí, para mi sorpresa, que había un par de entradas disponibles para el único día que tenía libre, así que en agradecimiento por acogerme en su casa y por soportar la insufrible caminata del día 1, invité a Mercedes a venir conmigo.

El deseo de conocer a alguien más del universo Potter tras Emma Watson (Hermione Granger), Timothy Spall (Colagusano), Axel Amigo (voz española de Harry Potter) y Laura Pastor (voz española de Hermione Granger) se iba, al fin, a cumplir. Y no era de extrañar, pues lo pido cada vez que veo estrellas fugaces, cada vez que soplo las velas de una tarta, cuando tiro una moneda a una fuente o cuando coloco una piedra sobre el monumento de la Virgen del Monte, aun siendo agnóstico. Y realidad se hizo, porque Evanna salió e interpretó su papel durante 75 minutos mágicos en una sala no más grande que mi casa, en la cual yo estaba en primera fila. Sin tener ni idea de qué estaba diciendo en cada momento, permanecí inmóvil en mi asiento, a veces a 40 centímetros de ella, y en un par de ocasiones me encontré en la trayectoria de su mirada azul. Me hizo llorar y reír a pesar de las limitaciones de mi inglés, que sin embargo sí me permitió descubrir que su personaje era, como ella, una protectora de los felinos. Cuando se fue, me acordé de que no le había tomado ni una sola foto: tuve que aceptar que me iría de allí sin pruebas de haberla conocido, pero eso, por supuesto, era lo de menos. Honraba el momento.

A la salida, tuve una corazonada y le pedí a mi amiga que acudiéramos al callejón trasero, por si salían a descansar. Allí estuvimos una media hora, comiendo galletas Oreo. Cuando el ánimo decayó, Mercedes me dijo: “Mira, ha salido él”. El actor, Colin Campbell, que escupía bastante durante la obra, había salido por la puerta trasera, que se mantuvo abierta. Y entonces salió ella.

Corrí calle abajo y esperé paciente ante un par de fanáticos que le estaban hablando. Ella parecía cansada, pero no paraba de sonreír, gesticulando con tranquilidad y dedicando bastante tiempo a cada persona. Cuando llegó mi turno, le di el folleto con su foto para que lo firmara con un bonito rotulador dorado que me dejó prestado un desconocido, pues yo no llevaba nada encima. Le costó escribir mi nombre, el cual, con los nervios, deletreé mal, pronunciando la ‘e’ como ‘a’, pero por suerte su instinto la llevó por buen camino. Entonces, para mi sorpresa, me descubrí hablándole de forma inteligible. Pensé que después de años rodeada de fanáticos de Potter agradecería más que alguien se refiriese a sus nuevos proyectos, por lo que alabé sus dotes interpretativas en la obra, aludiendo a mi escaso nivel de inglés y a todos los sentimientos que había captado en contrapartida gracias a sus dotes interpretativas. También le comenté que estaba consumiendo menos leche desde que había visto su video sobre la industria láctea para IgualdadAnimal (el cual puedes ver aquí), y me dijo que muchísimas gracias por haberlo visto. Además, me preguntó que si estaba allí de vacaciones, que si iría a ver la obra de Harry Potter y el Legado Maldito, y me comentó que había sido un placer conocerme. ¡Vaya, si el placer fue mío, hija! La amé. Amé la paz que desprendía al hablar, la luz que irradiaba su piel y la franqueza de sus ojos azules. Transmitía confianza y dulzura; fortaleza y elegancia. Luego firmó a mi amiga Mercedes que, aun sin ser tan fan como yo, acabó temblando. Para que escribiese bien su nombre le indicó que se deletreaba como la marca de coches, ¡buen punto! Tras ello, fui a vomitar aprisa. Sí, literalmente. Y ambos nos sentamos entonces a contemplar aquel bello ser lleno de magia, piel y corazón de Luna Lovegood, que tras unos minutos volvió a perderse por la puerta trasera del teatro, sobre unas bonitas sandalias de motivos florales. Aquí dejo algunas fotos, donde puedes apreciar en mi rostro verdadera felicidad, náuseas y un principio de llanto. Como un libro abierto.

Sin creernos nuestra suerte, ambos fuimos a un pub de Leicester Square, Zoo Bar, y allí me propasé con el alcohol. No me culpo, la ocasión lo merecía. Mi mochila negra, destacable aquí, hizo cundir el pánico cuando la abandoné momentáneamente en un taburete, movilizando a la seguridad del local. Un mal despiste en un momento inoportuno, ¡ups!

DÍA 4

El último día, el día que acudía a ver la obra de teatro, la octava historia, la razón por la que me había decidido a hacer el viaje, coincidía con mi cumpleaños: 16 de julio. Juro que fue absoluta casualidad pues, cuando me tocó comprar las entradas tras aquella larga cola online, hacía casi un año, habían resultado ser las siguientes disponibles: lo consideré una señal. Aquella mañana empezó con un desayuno inglés vegeratiano como Rowling manda que, por supuesto, no pude acabarme. Era una bomba para mi estómago.

La obra, Harry Potter y el Legado Maldito (¡SIN SPOILERS!), se alargaría durante todo el día, pues me vería las dos partes de las que consta seguidas. Cada parte dura más de dos horas y media, separadas por un descanso de duración similar. En esta ocasión también acudí solo, pero la zona ya me la conocía. El elegante edificio, el Palace Theatre, tiene 1400 localidades y posee una larga historia de obras nacionales e internacionales entre sus muros. Actualmente está completamente redecorado para la obra del Mundo Mágico, como podéis ver en el detalle de abajo que resume sus buenas críticas, lo que va de la mano del récord histórico que batió al llevarse 9 prestigiosos premios Olivier.

Durante la cola, alumnos de Hogwarts se paseaban entre los asistentes y viandantes para que se fotografiasen con los estandartes de sus casas. Yo, cómo no, sosteniendo orgulloso los colores de la mía.

Es cierto que hablo desde cierto desconocimiento del mundo del teatro, pero la obra me pareció sublime. No solo porque, quizás a causa de haberme leído el guion, entendía la gran mayoría de lo que decían, sino porque la magia en directo (literal y metafórica) que exhibía cada escena me impidió apartar los ojos un solo segundo del escenario. Shippeé como nunca a Albus y Scorpius, y me admití que no sería feliz al lado de una persona diferente a este último. Decir que reí y lloré sería reducir enormemente el abanico de sensaciones que viví en la buena butaca que me había tocado, y en ningún momento me sentí solo. Estaba relajado y dispuesto a disfrutar, sabiendo que no me quedaría nada por ver. Me comprendí en la última frase, a mí mismo, al yo joven y al yo niño...pero eso es otra historia. Viví la magia. Otra vez. Y hasta aquí digo, por si el lector desea alguna vez vivirla también.

Cuando salí, fotografié por última vez aquel edificio, resquicio final de un viaje a través de un mundo al que había acudido desde tan lejos. Cerca de él, un poste de luz se alzaba con un rollo de cable que, a mis ojos, se transformó en el nido que simboliza la obra, El Legado Maldito. Al fin y al cabo, la magia está ahí, delante de nuestros ojos, para quien la quiera ver.

[ancientoriginses]

Tal día como hoy

El 7 de febrero del año 1812 nació en Portsmouth, Reino Unido, Charles Dickens, quien con el paso de los años se convertirá en afamado escritor inglés de novelas de ácida denuncia social, combinada con humor, tragedia e ironía.

Hijo de John Dickens, oficinista de la Pagaduría de la Armada en el arsenal del puerto de Portsmouth, y de Elizabeth Barrow, pasó la mayor parte de su infancia en Londres y Kent. Comenzó a asistir a la escuela a los nueve años, pero sus estudios quedaron interrumpidos cuando su padre, fue encarcelado, en 1824 por no pagar sus deudas. Con once años tuvo que ponerse a trabajar en la empresa londinense Warren's boot-blacking factory, una fábrica de betún para calzado, ubicada cerca de la estación ferroviaria Charing Cross. Esta experiencia, que más tarde describiría en su novela David Copperfield (1849-50), le produjo una sensación de humillación y abandono que le acompañó durante el resto de su vida. Entre 1824 y 1826 asistió de nuevo a la escuela, aunque la mayor parte de su educación fue autodidacta.

En 1827 consiguió trabajo como secretario legal y, tras estudiar durante un breve periodo de tiempo el oficio, se convirtió en periodista en el Parlamento. En esa época conoció a María Beadnell, pero su familia lo rechazó como pretendiente por lo que tras cuatro años de relaciones, se separaron. Para entonces ya estaba trabajando como reportero en una publicación de su tío, The Mirror of Parliament, y para el periódico liberal The Morning Chronicle. En diciembre de 1833, publicó, bajo el seudónimo de Boz, la primera de una serie de originales descripciones de la vida cotidiana de Londres. Tras ello, un editor de la ciudad le encargó un volumen de nuevas notas en este estilo, que debían acompañar a las ilustraciones del famoso artista George Cruikshank. El éxito de este libro, titulado Los apuntes de Boz (1836), le permitió casarse con Catherine Hogarth en ese mismo año, y le animó a preparar una colaboración similar, esta vez con el artista Robert Seymour. Cuando Seymour se suicidó, otro artista, H. K. Browne, apodado Phiz, que realizaría más tarde muchas de las ilustraciones de los últimos trabajos de Dickens, ocupó su lugar. El resultado de esta colaboración fue Papeles póstumos del club Pickwick (1836-1837) cuyo éxito consolidó la fama del novelista, e influyó en la industria editorial de su país, pues su innovador formato, el de una publicación mensual muy poco costosa, marcó una línea que siguieron otras editoriales.

Entre sus obras más representativas se encuentran Casa desolada (1852-1853), La pequeña Dorritt (1855-1857), Grandes esperanzas (1860-1861) y Nuestro amigo común (1864-1865). Otras obras destacadas son Oliver Twist (1837-1839), La tienda de antigüedades (1840-1841), Barnaby Rudge (1841), Martin Chuzzlewit (1843-1844), Dombey e hijo (1846-1848), Tiempos difíciles (1854), Historia de dos ciudades (1859) y El misterio de Edwin Drood, que quedó incompleta. En 1842, impartió seminarios en los Estados Unidos en favor de un acuerdo internacional sobre propiedad intelectual y en contra de la esclavitud. En 1843 publicó Canción de Navidad, que se convirtió rápidamente en un clásico de la narrativa infantil.

La incompatibilidad de caracteres y la relación del autor con la joven actriz Ellen Ternan, llevaron a la disolución de su matrimonio, en 1858, fruto del cual habían nacido diez hijos. El 9 de junio de 1865 sufrió el famoso choque ferroviario de Staplehurst, en el cual los siete primeros vagones del tren cayeron de un puente que estaba siendo reparado. El único vagón de primera clase que no cayó fue en el que se encontraba Dickens. Charles Dickens murió en Gad's Hill Place, Higham, Kent, Inglaterra, el 9 de junio de 1870 tras sufrir una apoplejía y fue enterrado cinco días más tarde en la abadía de Westminster.

[aleroig]

Llegó el último trimestre del año y las temperaturas comenzaron a bajar,  así que decidimos ir a la capital europea por excelencia. Aquel sitio donde convergen diferentes estilos, moda, lujo, música, gastronomía, cine, teatro, arquitectura, cultura y arte en un ambiente cosmopolita. Londres, Inglaterra.

Debo decir que he tenido el privilegio de ser educada con justicia, donde me enseñaron que todos somos humanos y que sin importar si eres Brad Pitt o el señor de la basura todos comemos, todos dormimos, todos reímos o lloramos y quizá por eso, aunquecrecí alrededor de gente famosa o conocida, nunca he sido fan o groupie de casi nadie. Eso sí,  me declaro fan de la gente culta, admiro la inteligencia, debo aceptar que a la única persona a la que le he pedido una foto fue a Mario Molina, con quien coincidí en una conferencia sobre la partícula de dios, el bosón de higgs… En fin expongo este contexto porque hay otra cosa de la que si soy fan de hueso colorado, de esos que se viste, habla, vive enamorada, sabe la fecha de nacimiento, la de fallecimiento y le encanta… chan chan chan Freddie Mercury…

Y claro de la música en general, pero tengo una debilidad por el rock de los 80 y el progresivo de los 70, Emerson Lake and Palmer, The Alan Parsons Project, The Police, The Beatles,  U2, obviamente Queen, uff no acabo nunca. Paso mis jueves escuchando música que me alimenta las ventas, junto con un whisky y el amor de mi vida. A veces creo que me equivoque de época y en realidad soy un señor canoso de mediana edad en el cuerpo de una escuincla. Pero mi Freddie; Freddie mi amor por su versatilidad de voz y su irreverencia, por su necedad romper esquemas y su enfoque a convertirse en la leyenda que es, me fascina!

Y así, escribiendo y hablando de la música como lo he hecho, con ese sentimiento de emoción y sorpresa, esa emoción de asombrarse por cada cosa que vez. Eso sentí en Londres.

Nada más llegar, sabes que estas en un sitio diferente, si es así como sale en las películas, los coches si se manejan del otro lado y los taxis son una mezcla entre nuevos y lujosos y amplios coches negros de época.

Llegamos a un hotelito que recomiendo bastante esta muy cool, bueno bonito y barato, pestana chelsea bridge, aunque esta un poquito lejos del meollo del asunto pero caminando esta la parada de autobus y esta muy bien conectado todo es muy fácil llegar a cualquier sitio.

Si es la primera vez que van a Londres, les recomiendo el siguiente itinerario para 4 días, aunque la verdad hay millones de cosas que hacer, si por mi fuera y fuese así de fácil y sencillo me quedo a vivir ahí aunque sea un par de años.

Depende de donde se encuentren alojados, pero les recomiendo empezar desde arriba, nosotros llegamos al aeropuerto de Gatwick y pensamos que irnos la hotel en metro sería lo más sencillo, el problema es que llegamos muy tarde y no fue nada barato y fue muco más tardado, así que al final tomamos un taxi no sin antes haber pagado 35 libras solo por un trayecto del metro. En fin después de

Día uno: Conseguir la Oyster Card con 5 Libras adquieres esta tarjeta y viene super bien para subirte al sistema de transporte, es muy cómoda y fácil de usar. 

…Ahora si a subirnos al autobús doble, si de esos de las películas, también son reales.

El primer día, nos acercamos a la zona céntrica, comenzamos desde el barrio de Westminster, continuamos nuestro paseo hacia arriba pasando por el Buckinham Palace, The Queen’s Gallery  y subimos un poco  el Green Park hacia Piccadilly, llegamos a Piccadilly Circus, (Parada Obligatoria)  y es un sitio super ameno, lleno de gente de tiendas, de jugueterías de 4 plantas llenas de juguetes y dulces y juegos; los empleados te hacen bromas, cruzamos la zona del Soho, donde llegamos a la puerta del Chinatown, literal todo lleno de chinos y comida china, y pues se me antojó. Cruzamos el Soho en dirección a Tottenham court road london pues yo iba muy motivada en la búsqueda de la estatua de mi Freddie Mercury que se encontraba en el pasado en la entrada del Dominion Theatre  y cuando al fin llegué ya no estaba 😦 pero aprovechamos para bajar por una de las calles comerciales “Oxford Street” e hicimos shopping londinese. Sobre todo de zapatos cómodos porque esta ruta es de caminarle y yo traía unas botitas que mejor cambie por unos Adidas superstar.. en fin de ahí tomamos otra autobús que nos devolvió al hotel.

Día dos:  Este día lo elegimos para cumplir otro de mis sueños… Cruzar el paso de cebra, la marimba (las rayas blancas de paso de peatones) más famosas del mundo.. día de empezar por Abbey Road. Nos quedaba algo lejos, de hecho tuvimos que tomar dos autobuses, pero muy temprano por la mañana subimos hacia el emblemático estudio musical, les recomiendo ir temprano porque hay mucha gente esperando para cruzar y los pobres coches yo creo que deben evitar esa calle a toda costa porque se atasca de gente. Luego bajamos y a la altura de Hide Park, y tuvimos un pícnic en HidePark de verdad precioso.  Continuamos hacia la zona del Royal Albert Hall, pasando por el Royal College of Music, un edificio divino, en donde llegamos a toda la parte educativa de la ciudad, rodeada de escuelas y universidades entramos al museo de ciencias.  Una de las mejores cosas que hay es que los museos son gratuitos, me fascina que promuevan la ciencia y la cultura para todos, piden donaciones, sin embargo; cualquiera puede perderse entre los pasillos de los museos que son una verdadera belleza. 100% Recomendable el museo de ciencias y si les queda energía el museo de Historia, pasillo y pasillos de cultura una verdadera obra de arte por dentro y por fuera.

Al salir, nos dirigimos nuevamente como hacia Brompton Road para llegar a la mundialmente conocida Harrods. Esta tienda departamental por excelencia, se encuentra brilla desde lejos, son plantas y plantas llenas de productos de marcas de lujo, de comida, de joyas, un sitio que visitar para aquellos fashionistas como yo, digo para fashionistas profesionales o wanna be fashionista como yo jaja…

Día 3: Este día nos acercamos a St. Paul’s Cathedral, edificio impresionante, aunque decidimos no entrar porque cobran la entrada y después de estar en 21 mil iglesias en Roma gratis pues no nos apetecía pagar por una, sobre todo cuando los museos son gratuitos y si que nos encantan los museos.. En fin, nos dirigimos hacia el Millennium Bridge (me encantó) lo cruce una y otra y otra vez… Después entramos al Tate Modern (museo de arte contemporáneo)  increíble también lleno de arte fascinante y divertido.

Al salir dimos un paseo a orillas del Tamesis hacia Waterloo, para llegar al London Eye, No sin antes disfrutar muchos shows en vivo y venta de libros durante todo ese camino acompañados por el Río Tamesis. Recuerdo que vimos un chico que hacia magia y nos junto a todos sus espectadores a aplaudir y gritar mirando al cielo para ver que hacia la gente jajaja todo el mundo se acercaba a ver que pasaba y literal nadad mas una bola de locos gritando a la nada…

Continuamos caminando hasta el puente de Westmisnter donde comienza a derjarse ver El Big Ben, con su parada y foto obligatoria, Subimos hacia Trafalgar Square por la estación de metro Charing Cross, para también ver La galería Nacional, después continuamos hacia Covent Garden para una serie de descubrimientos, primero, debéis probar si o si El Flat Iron en la calle London Acre (aunque hay varios) es un sitio bueno, bonito y barato, solo te sirven el mismo corte de carne y esta bueeeenisiiimo! Después Al terminar para bajar la comida, podéis acercaros a alguno de los teatros que presentan las diferentes puestas en escena, aquí otro grandioso descubrimiento…

Buscando una obra que ver nos acercamos al Lyceum Theatre, donde se presenta The Lion King, para la que ya no había tickets, fuimos de teatro en teatro y todo lleno excepto The Woman in Black, compramos un par de tickets para la obra pero empezaba en 3 horas, así que pensamos que sería bueno buscar un bar cercano y beber una cerveza, buscando bares llegamos a uno de cocktails que esta en la calle Exeter (a lado del teatro Lyceum) cuya hora feliz comenzaba, hay que decir que la hora feliz duro como 3 horas y ha sido una de las mejores experiencias, el equipo super divertido, era como estar en una película, cuentan con una carta de miles de cócteles de diferentes alcoholes, y los bartenders tenían una energía indescriptible; de verdad is a “Be at One” es 100% recomendable.

Ahora bien, de la obra de teatro no les puedo decir mucho porque ya entramos de noche, aunque es buenísima la había visto antes y es 100% recomendable también hay momentos en que te hacen saltar de tu asiento del susto.

Día 4: Este último día primero nos acercamos a la estación del metro King’s Cross, porque había que ver a ver si nos recibían en Howards, lo malo es que hay mucha gente esperando para intentarlo, así que mejor entramos a la tienda para comprar jelly beans de todos los sabores. Después partimos hacia Russell Square Estation para entrar al British Museum a ver la piedra Rosetta y las miles de colecciones de todo el mundo. Merece totalmente la pena, debe ser una visita obligada. Como este era el último día, Decidimos andar por las calles de Londres para cerrar con broche de Oro y ver The London Bridge y The London Tower, tan bonitos como en las fotos, les sugiero después comer en algún puestecillo, nosotros probamos unas hamburguesas, deli deli literalmente debajo del puente, enfrente de un starbucks.

De ahí salimos ya a la estación de autobús que nos llevo al aeropuerto de Luton, debo decir que dejamos la maleta en una consigna en la estación así que pudimos ir cómodos, les sugiero que lo intenten por 5 libras es mucho más sencillo.

Sin dudas Londres es una ciudad mágica, llena de vida, de comida rica, de cultura, la fama mundial que posee, esta por completo justificada y verdaderamente les sugiero ir al menos una vez en la vida.

Espero que este itinerario les venga bien, sino lo bueno es que en Londres siempre hay algo que ver o hacer y jamás aburrirse..

Hasta aquí mi reporte.

                    4 días en Londres.. London my love Llegó el último trimestre del año y las temperaturas comenzaron a bajar,  así que decidimos ir a la capital europea por excelencia.

[absolutviajes]

Qué ver en Londres

Nuevo artículo publicado en https://www.absolutviajes.com/ver-en-londres/

Qué ver en Londres

Londres es una de las ciudades que cuenta con más turismo. Quizás sea por esos rincones imprescindibles, por los museos o por los monumentos. Además, nos ofrece una gran variedad de lugares que serán una buena oferta para toda la familia. Si te estás preguntando qué ver en Londres, entonces hoy te proporcionamos la mejor de las respuestas.

Es cierto que nos quedaríamos en Londres una semana tras otra. Más que nada porque siempre es mejor ir con tiempo. De este modo, podrás disfrutar más a fondo de todo lo que te ofrece. Claro que si no dispones de tanto tiempo, no te preocupes. Aquí te dejamos una guía de todos los lugares que ver en Londres.

Índice

1 Qué ver en Londres, los monumentos que visitar

1.1 Palacio Westminster

1.2 Big Ben

1.3 Abadía Westminster

1.4 La Torre de Londres

1.5 Tower Bridge

1.6 Catedral de San Pablo

1.7 Palacio de Kensington

1.8 Palacio de Buckingham

2 Los principales museos de Londres

2.1 National Gallery

2.2 Museo Británico

2.3 Museo de Historia Natural

3 Parques, jardines y atracciones londinenses

3.1 Hyde Park

3.2 Kensington Gardens

3.3 St. James Park

3.4 Piccadilly Circus

3.5 London Eye

3.6 Trafalgar Square

Qué ver en Londres, los monumentos que visitar

Palacio Westminster

Una de las primeras paradas obligatorias que debes hacer es ésta. Se trata del Palacio de Westminster. Debido a un incendio, poco queda de lo que era el antiguo palacio. Sin embargo, ahora podremos disfrutar de más de 1200 habitaciones, así como más de tres kilómetros de pasillos, entre unas y otras. Un lugar emblemático que puedes visitar y no solo quedarte con su impresionante fachada. Los sábados comienzan las visitas a las 9:15 hasta las 16:30. En el mes de Agosto, podrás disfrutar tanto por la mañana como por la tarde. El precio va desde las 18 libras hasta las 28. Ya que esto dependerá de si llevas guía o no. Las líneas de metro que puedes tomar para llegar a este lugar son Circle, Jubilee y District.

Big Ben

Con estilo gótico y unos 106 metros de altura, nos encontramos con el Big Ben. Es la torre del reloj que se encuentra en el Parlamento de Londres. Se puso en marcha en el año 1859 y siempre se ha dicho que es uno de los relojes que cuentan con esa puntualidad precisa que necesitamos. Para llegar a él, tendrás que tomar la misma línea de metro anterior. ¡No te puedes ir de la ciudad sin una imagen en este lugar!.

Abadía Westminster

Se puede decir que es el monumento más antiguo de Londres. Aunque se construyó con estilo romántico, fue reconstruida en gótico. En el siglo XVIII, se le añadieron dos torres más. Desde la coronación de Guillermo el Conquistador que sucedió en el 1066, el resto de los monarcas que le sucedieron, se coronaron en este lugar. Además, también tuvieron lugar otros momentos como el funeral de Lady Di. En su interior, podrás disfrutar de Lady Chapel o el rincón de los poetas. Como indica su nombre están las tumbas de los grandes de la literatura. Eso sí, la entrada a este lugar es un poco más cara que en otros lugares, pero sin duda, va a merecer la pena. Pagarás 23,50 euros. Aunque para los estudiantes y jubilados serán 20 euros y los niños hasta los 16 solo 10,50 euros. Podrás visitarla todos los días, menos los festivos o domingos.

La Torre de Londres

La Torre de Londres también se le conocía con otro nombre menos amistoso. Para muchos era la torre del terror, ya que en ella se encerraban a los que contaban con opiniones contrarias al monarca. Es por ello que en este lugar fueron ejecutados tanto Tomás Moro como Ana Bolena. Así que, se trata de un lugar misterioso y con muchas leyendas. En él podrás disfrutar de las joyas de la corona. Tanto coronas como espadas y hasta cetros podrás encontrar. El Palacio Medieval y la Capilla Real de San Pedro son otro de los rincones que tienes que visitar. Allí verás muchos restos que se conservan y te transportarán a otra época. Los adultos pagarán 29 euros. Aunque puedes comprar el bono familiar que incluye dos adultos y tres niños por 73,50 euros. Para ir en metro podrás tomar las líneas: Circle, District y DLR. Mientras que en bus: 8,11,15,15B, 22B.

Tower Bridge

El puente levadizo, Tower Bridge, es otro de los monumentos que ver en Londres. Después de un total de ocho años de construcción, se hizo este puente. Una manera perfecta de unir las dos orillas del Támesis pero sin que esto perjudicara al puerto. Está al lado de la Torre de Londres y desde luego, es otro de los puntos principales para los turistas. Eso sí, también podrás adentrarte y conocer la exposición en su interior a un precio de 9 libras. Para llegar a él, se puede usar las mismas líneas de metro que hemos comentado antes.

Catedral de San Pablo

La Catedral de San Pablo es la segunda más grande del mundo. Así que, ya conociendo este dato, se hace a priori otro de los sitios que debemos visitar. Fue reconstruida a lo largo de los años para poder ser el escenario de otros grandes momentos. La boda de Carlos y Diana se celebró en este lugar. Lo mejor en este caso, es una visita guiada. De este modo te darán todos los detalles de la cúpula así como de la Galería de los Susurros que se encuentra a 30 metros. Eso sí, para acceder a ella tendrás que subir unas 257 escaleras. Si vas en metro, tomarás la línea central. Para ir en autobús te servirán las líneas: 4, 11, 15, 23, 25, 26. ¿Su precio?. 18 libras.

Palacio de Kensington

También en el Palacio de Kensington ha sido el hogar de familias reales. La Reina Victoria vivió aquí, al igual que Lady Di. Su ladrillo rojo y la gran verja con acabados dorados, lo delatan. Un lugar único y mágico. Puedes acceder a él por 17,50 libras. De este modo verás las habitaciones privadas, así como ciertos rincones de joyas y diversas exposiciones. Desde las 10:00 de la mañana hasta las 18:00 tienes tiempo para poder aprovechar este lugar.

Palacio de Buckingham

La residencia de la familia real inglesa es el Palacio de Buckingham. Fue construido en el año 1703. Solo podrás acceder al interior en épocas concretas, desde Julio hasta Septiembre. Su precio es de 21,50 libras. Eso sí, imprescindible ver el cambio de guardia que se realiza justo delante del palacio.

Los principales museos de Londres

National Gallery

El museo National Gallery lo encontrarás en Trafalgar Square. Es uno de los más famosos y como tal, otro de los puntos importantes que ver en Londres. Cuenta con obras desde el año 1250. Allí podrás deleitarte con las grandes obras de Van Gogh o Velázquez, entre otros. Está abierto todos los días desde las 10:00 hasta las 18:00 h. Su entrada es gratuita.

Museo Británico

Es uno de los más antiguos de todo el mundo. Cuenta con grandes reliquias como algunas piezas de origen romano así como griego. Una gran colección de antigüedades que también podrás apreciar gracias a su entrada totalmente gratuita.

Museo de Historia Natural

Otro de los museos que tiene entrada gratuita es éste. Se trata del conocido Museo de Historia Natural. En él, podrás ver un gran esqueleto diplodocus así como un mastodonte que te darán la bienvenida. Te llevará a revivir la época de los dinosaurios y hasta una experiencia interactiva sobre volcanes y terremotos. Será un lugar perfecto para acudir con niños. Abrirá desde las 10:00 hasta cerca de las 18:00.

Parques, jardines y atracciones londinenses

Hyde Park

El parque más grande de Londres es el Hyde Park. Pertenecía a la Abadía de Westminster, aunque en el S.XVII se abrió al público. Te adentrarás en una zona de relax, de gran belleza y donde podrás tomar el sol o pasear en bicicleta.

Kensington Gardens

Otra de las zonas que también se abrieron al público son los llamados Kensington Gardens. De nuevo, una zona que visitar, dando un sencillo paseo y disfrutando de un ambiente tranquilo que nos lleva a relajar la mente y el cuerpo.

St. James Park

También por su belleza y porque están muy cerca del Palacio de Buckingham, se hace imprescindible la parada en este lugar. St. James Park cuenta con un lago precioso lleno de aves. Además, no faltarán las flores, los arbustos y como no, los cipreses.

Piccadilly Circus

Luces y numerosos carteles se dan cita en Piccadilly Circus. A su alrededor, podrás encontrar los mejores cines así como teatros y tiendas muy variadas. Es una de las grandes zonas de fiesta y ocio que te encontrarás en el corazón de Londres.

London Eye

No nos podíamos olvidar de London Eye, aunque quisiéramos. Es uno de los puntos más visibles de Londres. Se trata de una noria que se tardó cerca de siete años en terminarse. En el año 2000 fue su inauguración. Cuenta con unas 32 cabinas que son de cristal. En cada una de ellas se pueden introducir 25 personas. Las vistas que se pueden divisar desde ella son más que impresionantes. Se sitúa junto al Puente de Westminster. La entrada a la misma cuesta 24,95 libras.

Trafalgar Square

Otra de las plazas más importantes. En el centro de la misma se encuentra la Columna de Nelson, de casi 50 metros de altura. Es un lugar que siempre está bastante lleno de gente. ¿Quieres llegar hasta allí?. Puedes tomar el metro Charing Cross, líneas Northern, Bakerloo.

Como bien hemos comentado en un primer momento, son muchos los rincones y lugares principales que ver en Londres. Pero como tampoco solemos tener unas vacaciones eternas, siempre es mejor centrarnos en esos sitios que son altamente recomendables. De este modo, vendrás lleno de recuerdos gracias a haber pisado los lugares básicos de una gran ciudad como ésta. ¡Disfruta con esas alternativas en Londres!.

[simongrushenko-blog]

Chia Sẻ Về Kem Trị Thâm Mụn Hiệu Quả Webtretho

Chia Sẻ Về Kem Trị Thâm Mụn Hiệu Quả Webtretho

Với hiệu quả làm đẹp da cho gương mặt trẻ lại 10 tuổi chỉ sau 1 lần thực hiện nhanh chóng, duy trì lên tới 8 - 15 năm, công nghệ căng da bằng chỉ vàng 24k 99,9% được cho là đã thực sự chinh phục được phái đẹp toàn cầu. LPP cung cấp 1 loạt các chất chống oxy hoá, Vitamin và chất khoáng điển hình bị thiếu trong khẩu phần ăn uống của người lớn trung bình, theo công thức ăn toàn và đã được kiểm nghiệm để các bà mẹ có thể cảm thấy tự tin khi sử dụn mỗi ngày. Chỉ là nếu dùng oil không thì lại khó thấm vào da nên 1 list các thành phần hỗ trợ khác được thêm vào tạo ra hộp kem dưỡng ẩm ^^ Nói thì nói vậy, không phải oil chỉ cần biết nhiêu đó. Tại TMV Kiều Phương, trị viêm nang lông được thực hiện theo đúng quy trình kỹ thuật khoa học đảm bảo chất lượng tốt nhất cho khách hàng. Trong trường hợp có thể thai nhi đã bị dị tật (từ trước khi bạn ốm) thì có thể phát hiện được dị tật sau khi thăm khám và được làm các xét nghiệm sàng lọc trước sinh như: siêu âm, xét nghiệm máu hoặc là chỉ định chọc ối (nếu có). Công nghệ nâng cơ tái tạo da cổ này thực hiện nâng cơ tái tạo da, xóa nếp nhăn bằng bước sóng laser tác động tận sâu tới từng lớp tế bào, tái tạo làn da nhăn từ sâu bên trong mà không cần xâm lấn, không gây tổn thương cho làn da và đặc biệt không để lại sẹo. Nếu bạn bị sốt thường và uống thuốc Spiramycin (Rovamycin) là nhóm thuốc có thể sử dụng cho phụ nữ mang thai nên có thể yên tâm. Bạn nào sinh dặn người nhà chuẩn bị mấy cái bỉm người lớn, 2 chai nước lọc, bánh hoặc xôi, cuộn giấy vệ sinh, điện thoại cầm theo để liên lạc. Không nên ra ngoài lúc nắng gắt (từ 10h - 17h) trong 3 -7 ngày đầu sau khi tắm trắng.

Sinh mổ cũng sẽ gây áp lực rất lớn cho bạn đấy vì cứ thử nghĩ xem, chỉ cần một vết thương nhỏ ở ngón tay thôi đã thấy đau rồi, huống chi đây là cả một vết rạch lớn ở phần bụng. Trong thời đại thông tin rộng mở như hiện nay, không khó để mỗi người tìm hiểu kiến thức chăm sóc cho làn da của chính mình. Trong 1988 Imperial sáp nhập với Trường Y khoa Bệnh viện St Mary, trở thành The Imperial College of Science, Công nghệ và Y. Trong 1995 Imperial tung ra nhà xuất bản học thuật riêng của mình, Imperial College Press, hợp tác với World Scientific.Imperial sáp nhập với quốc gia về tim và phổi Institutein 1995 và Charing Cross và Trường Y Westminster, Trường Y khoa Hoàng gia sau đại học (RPMS) và Viện Khoa sản và phụ khoa tại 1997. Đến tháng thứ 4, mình có bôi kèm kem rạn da của Đức cho đến khi sinh bé. Có lẽ do vậy nên dù lên 18kg nhưng mình không bị rạn da chút nào. Khác với các loại kem trộn rẻ tiền có các thành phần hóa học gây tổn hại cho da, Tinh chất thay da sinh học siêu trắng sẽ giúp bạn sở hữu một làn da trắng mịn khỏe khoắn và rất an toàn khi sử dụng. Đây là thời điểm lý tưởng để thực hiện dịch vụ, chuẩn bị cho mùa hè thơm tho, gợi cảm và tự tin. Do công việc bận rộn với lịch diễn, lịch quay, lịch chụp ảnh dày đặc nên Andrea Aybar không có nhiều thời gian chăm sóc cho làn da của mình. Còn một chị vào phòng sinh cùng mình, sinh đứa thứ 2, đứa đầu chị ấy sinh mổ mà đứa này sinh thường đấy. UVA luôn hiện diện bất kể mùa nào trong năm, cho dù trời nắng hay không, vì thế khi trời râm mát thì tia UVA vẫn làm tổn hại đến da (mà các chị không biết).

Nếu bị mụn, hãy dùng miếng bông nhỏ thấm giấm và đắp lên vết mụn 10 phút, sau đó bỏ miếng bông đi và để nguyên mặt, không rửa lại, nếu đi ngủ để qua đêm luôn. Thứ hai: Do tăng tiết chất bã nhờn: do nội tiết thay đổi khiến các chất bã tiết ra nhiều hơn. Từ trước đến nay bệnh viện chúng tôi đã đón trên 1000 trẻ sơ sinh ra đời bằng phương pháp thụ tinh trong ống nghiệm. Những nguyên liệu đơn giản như chanh, cà chua, nha đam, mật ong… sẽ góp phần làm cho làn da của bạn thêm khoẻ mạnh, tràn đầy năng lượng. Tuy nhiên, hiện nay chúng tôi vẫn khuyến cáo tất cả các thai phụ có nguy cơ bị dị tật bẩm sinh cao nên làm xét nghiệm triple test ở tuổi thai từ 15 đến 19 tuần 6 ngày để sàng lọc các bệnh lý liên quan tới hội chứng Down, 3 nhiễm sắc thể 18 và các dị tật ống thần kinh. Thành công vui vẻ và gợi cảm hơn trước mọi ánh nhìn với những bộ cánh thời trang hiện đạị khoác lên cơ thể chuẩn với làn da rạng rỡ khỏe mạnh. Vừa chăm con vừa kiếm tiền giúp tôi thoát khỏi bức bách khi sống chung với mẹ chồng! Ngoài tác dụng triệt tiêu những nang lông sâu nhất (6mm), sóng RF lưỡng cực còn có chức năng củng cố và tái tạo màu sắc, tăng cường chuỗi liên kết collagen và elastin cho làn da săn chắc và mịn màng. LPP là chất bổ trợ dinh dưỡng với hàm lượng tối ưu các vi dinh dưỡng cần thiết được lập công thức khoa học để hỗ trợ những nhu cầu dinh dưỡng thêm của phụ nữ mang thai hoặc đang cho con bú. Bản thân Oxy già ở nồng độ 3% có tác dụng cầm máu và diệt vi khuẩn, đó là lý do vì sao nó vẫn thường được dùng để sát trùng vết thương. Tuy nhiên, có thể vì trứng gà rất giàu dưỡng chất nên mẹ bầu ăn sẽ tốt cho sự tạo thành tế bào da của thai nhi.

Đây là công nghệ tiên tiến nhất để giải phóng theo thời gian các hạt siêu nhỏ được bảo hòa bởi độ ẩm và các sợi collagen, tạo điều kiện lý tưởng để chuyển tải và đưa các chất hoạt động vào bên trong màng bào tương và nhân của tế bào, do đó khiến bạn cảm nhận được làn da đang thực sự được nuôi dưỡng đồng thời cải thiện và bảo vệ tình trạng da bị khô nứt nẻ, nhanh chóng lấy lại làn da mịn màng đầy sức sống. Màng sinh học Polyesteramide là một thành tựu của y học hiện đại trong lĩnh vực chăm sóc vết thương, kết hợp với tinh nghệ Nano Curcumin và tinh chất trà xanh giúp chăm sóc vết thương toàn diện. Sự tồn tại của chúng tôi dựa vào sự tin tưởng của quý khách hàng trong những năm qua, chúng tôi rất biết ơn về điều đó và xem đó là thành công trong công việc chăm sóc sắc đẹp. Sau khi sinh là thời điểm lượng hooc môn của cơ thể đang bị mất cân bằng dẫn tới tình trạng rụng tóc sau khi sinh, có tới hơn 40% phụ nữ sau sinh gặp phải tình trạng rụng tóc này. Tối 29/1, Focus Travel Cam Ranh đã tổ chức lễ khai trương Cam Ranh Riviera Beach Resort & Spa tại Khu du lịch Bắc bán đảo Cam Ranh, huyện Cam Lâm, tỉnh Khánh Hòa. Do vậy, mình chắc chắn, nếu siêng năng, chăm chỉ làm đẹp bằng công thức dưới đây thì làn da của bạn sẽ được cải thiện hơn rất nhiều. Chị đó ghi giấy và kêu mình đi đóng tạm ứng 5 triệu (Tổng cộng tạm ứng tới thời điểm này là 8tr). Qua thực tế ứng dụng cho thấy, công nghệ này có thể áp dụng điều trị mụn cho mọi làn da, không gây kích ứng. Vừa qua Hoa Hậu Huỳnh Thuý Anh cùng đông đảo bạn bè trong giới showbiz tham dự khai trương Diamond Clinic & Spa của cô.

Bên cạnh đó, đầu tư học nghề thẩm mỹ vừa tiết kiệm thời gian, tiền bạc, học lý thuyết luôn đi đôi với thực hành giúp học viên có kỹ năng nghề tốt nhất, thành thạo kỹ năng chuyên môn, có thể thích ứng với guồng công việc ngay sau khi ra trường. Thay da sinh học toàn thân bằng công nghệ I-Peel là phương pháp làm đẹp da một cách toàn diện, đặc biệt giúp các dưỡng chất được đưa vào da một cách dễ dàng hơn giúp da khỏe mạnh từ sâu bên trong. Công nghệ căng da bằng chỉ vàng 24k hội tụ đầy đủ các ưu điểm của các phương pháp căng da hiện đại nhất hiện nay cho hiệu quả trẻ lại 10 tuổi chỉ sau 1 lần thực hiện duy nhất, vẻ đẹp duy trì lên tới 8-15 năm, đảm bảo được mong muốn sở hữu vẻ đẹp căng trẻ tự nhiên nhanh chóng, an toàn, không đau, và không phải trải qua bất kỳ phương pháp phẫu thuật nào. Duy trì bôi kem của Calla Spa hướng dẫn từ 1 đến 2 tháng liên tục để da hấp thụ, tái tạo lớp da mới trắng hồng tự nhiên. Đây là công nghệ từ HQ và được đánh giá cao từ khi nó xuất hiện, đến nay chưa có bất kỳ báo cáo nào về tác dụng phụ không mong muốn.