Driving Round About on the Other Side

One thing I miss quite a bit is driving. I have been driving since I was 16 years old, and have always been dependent on having the flexibility and comfort of hopping in a car and going where I want/need to. I would have to say though for now, it's a good thing I don't drive yet. First, driving on the left side of the road and sitting on the right is strange. I am sure it's just as weird for the English when they visit America in the same exact way. Even as a pedestrian, I get confused by which way I should be looking for cars. I guess looking both ways is the safest bet.

There are roundabouts everywhere! They come in all shapes and sizes, big ones and small ones... some with pork pie.

 

So without having a car, I have been carpooling or "car sharing" for the past few work days. It turns out that everyone in the car is from Spain. And a side note, I think they have really nice accents. Deep down I feel a little guilty for tagging along, because my presence prohibits them from speaking in their native tongue to each other. I guess I'll just have to learn more Spanish! Regardless, I have found them to be the most friendly and welcoming people I have encountered as of yet. The ladies offered to take me around town and even invited me to work out with them at the gym. I've also noticed that they are really open and honest people, which makes it very easy to talk to them. That is certainly something I really appreciate. The English tend to be quite reserved, which I understand and relate to also. No doubt they are friendly too, but the ice is a little harder to break.

Seabass con Gamberetti

The week finished off quite well overall as I get a better understanding of the office and make more connections with colleagues. I got moved to another flat in the building, which was an improvement but I am still trying to move out to a different one in a safer area/building. Still waiting on the relocation agency, and bags aren't unpacked yet. Fingers crossed!

Cherry Panna Cotta

Tonight's dinner was at an Italian restaurant a couple blocks away called Altro Mondo. It was a small quaint place with a homey feel. The waiter was very friendly and the owner offered for me to stay for Friday night karaoke. A small dish of black and green olives with onions were provided as a little appetizer. I had the Seabass con Gamberetti, which was seabass fish cooked with prawns, garlic, white wine and served in a creamy tomato sauce. I paired it with a glass of white house wine (only house wines were sold by the glass) that was very mild and complimented well. The fish was extremely tender and melted in the mouth, however the prawns were a bit overcooked and soggy. The tomato base seemed quite fresh, although was indeed very tomato. I had hoped that there would some cream to cut the acid as described, but I am pretty sure it was mostly just tomato sauce. I would give it a B+ overall with it being quite tasty but didn't blow me away. The place was quite affordable at 21£ that included the main course, wine and a dessert. I'll be back again for sure!

 Cheers!