Thanks to my mother I was packed and ready to drive down to Montreal to catch my plane. There were no mad dashes or frustrations like the last time I flew to Freddy and packed the day of.
Luckily my sim card arrived in the mail before we left. I had ordered it hoping to be able to activate it so I'd have cell service and access to data the day I arrived. Ordering the sim online is free, so I took the chance. I also had more good fortune, as I handed in some old lotto scratch cards. I previously had thought one was only $5, but when the lady scanned it, it came out to be $30.
When we reached Montreal I had my last meal in Canada: Wendy's chicken nuggets.
YUL, Montreal's airport, had self-service kiosks, which I knew from my extensive research at Heathrow, would be something I'd have to do myself. My mother was able to help me, as I did not want my luggage to get lost should I do anything wrong. Security was also amazingly easy to get through. I hope the Ottawa airport updates to this system as having 4 spots for people to load their stuff to be scanned is brilliant. Only downside is that your bins get mixed in with the other peoples, so you have to grab your expensive electronics quickly, as you will lose track of them (potential threat for theft). It then took me about 10-15minutes to walk to my gate. YUL has little shopping carts in the international section where the fancy duty free stores are, which are actually useful if you're carrying a heavy bag, like I myself was.
When I got on the plane I crossed my fingers that no one would sit beside me. I had kept changing my seat in hopes that no one would be. Even when the flight attendants were closing the bins, I still worried that I would have to share my row. It was not until I saw people from other seats get up and claim an empty 4 seater in the middle that I rejoiced in my loneliness. However, I didn't really lie down across it, I mostly used the extra seat to hold things. I also ended up with two pillows.
Tired from my jet lag prevention (I woke up at 5am est, which is 10am in the uk), I wanted to sleep right away. However I didn't want to miss dinner, so I stayed up for it. Took them two hours in to serve it. I had the pasta which was surprisingly delicious. The bread was, ciabatta, and not a hard rock like most reviews of airline foods claim. I slept for about 2/3 hours, but woke up when the flight crew turned on the lights again to prepare to serve breakfast. They then took longer than they should have to deliver the banana bread. Honestly, I would have preferred they had delivered the banana bread with the dinner so they didn't have to go and turn the lights on again and make a lot of noise delivering the food. If you were sleeping I did notice they put it in the chair pocket for you. Sort of wished I had tried to sleep more, but I really wanted my free banana bread. It was really good too, and now I want more.
Also, even though I'm known for my strong bladder, I did use the plane bathroom twice, once in the beginning and once when we were close to the airport (I didn't want to use the bathroom when I had all my luggage). The second time the bin was overflowing with trash.
We also got our security/border patrol cards on the plane so we could fill them out in advance. I had all the info I needed, except the address for the place I would be staying. After getting off the plane, I set up wifi and looked it up as I made my way. I didn't have time to load my neck pillow into the right bag as people from the rows behind came and blocked me from grabbing my stuff from the overhead bin. This lady was actually trying to move past people to get to the front. This resulted in the bag I was carrying in my hand to be overstuffed and hard to move. My right hand went numb from carrying it, it was that bad. Once at passport control, I waited in line for about an hour before moving through. It should have been less time, as there wasn't that many people in front of me, but the officers kept leaving to go grab coffee.
In line I blended in well, as I was not the only person with an Anello backpack (a very popular Japanese bag - around the same popularity as a Fjallraven bag). The two women in front of me were having trouble answering the border officer's questions. They were chinese, and obviously did not speak English that well. They were having to pull out papers and even use their computer to show proof of their confirmation with the University they were going to. However, it only took me less than a minute as I just handed my passport in. The officer asked if I'd booked a return ticket and I easily answered that I was waiting for my exam dates, as I wanted to leave as early as I could. Then my prints were scanned and I was through. They didn't even ask to see any of the papers I had in my bag. This is a great strategy my international advisor gave me. Basically go up to the desk, leave your papers that offer proof in your bag, and only present what is asked of you. I wonder if this is because you look like you might take time looking for your info from inside a bag, as opposed to presenting it and making the officer have to go through it all, when it may not be a necessity to your clearance. Also, I really hope it wasn't just because I was white.
After passport control I went to the baggage area where my two suitcases were literally going around the carousel just as i arrived. I rushed over and grabbed them and lugged them to a trolley. This eased any anxious thoughts of lost luggage as I did not have to stand around and wait for them to pop out.
The next step took me a while. There were three doors before me. The first said "EU passengers", the second "non-EU with nothing to claim" and the third was basically the door to claim your goods to customs. I thought I had to claim my luggage to customs because, but apparently not, as I just walked right out through the second door, which also opened up and lead down the same path as the first door. Weird right? Also if you did have stuff to claim, you could have easily avoided it, since there is nothing after going through the other doors.
Next, I followed the signs to the train to Terminal 5. It was fairly tricky as the trolley I had liked to veer on me. Once on the lift, this lovely British lady saw me eyeing the floor options and asked if I was heading to the train, and I said yes. So she told me which floor it was on. Then, once I got off, she reassured me I was heading in the right direction. She was also heading that way. Once at the train area I had to get a free ticket and leave my trolley behind. There was a train waiting when I got there and just as I was struggling to lift both suitcases on I realized it was going to a different terminal, and that they didn't stop at both. So I got off and waited. On got on near the front, as I noticed everyone crowded the middle area and I wanted access for storing my suitcases so I went where there were few. The seats were comfy and clean. Sadly, it was only a 4 minute journey. I wish I could have just passed the time riding the train. I then got off and grabbed a new trolley.
The waiting area before security at Heathrow did not have much to do. So I sat on a bench and tried setting up my sim card. I had a lot of trouble as I couldn't remember the password I had used for my account and ended up locking myself out for 30 minutes. Once I did get on, I got the cheapest plan, which is 5 pounds of month. With it I get 500 texts a month, 150 minutes for calls, and 500 MB. I hardly ever text or call, and this is more data then I share with my sister. There's literally wifi everywhere here, so I really did not need to pay more for unlimited etc. I also did not have to speak to a single person to set it up. I highly recommend it to anyone travelling to the UK. Completely worth it.
While waiting a pigeon kept me company. It was very hot to me and I had to remove my winter coat. It was also sunny and bright out.
When the time came up to check my bags, I hurried over and said goodbye to them. I also had the option to check my hand luggage for free, but as I did not want to risk losing those, I decided to risk it. My flight was to be packed. When I checked-in I had originally been assigned a middle seat, and hurriedly changed it to the last aisle seat available. I was very sad not to have a window seat, as I would have been able to take lovely photos of London from above.
Security also was very short. Before heading in I had trouble at this scanner thing, as it wouldn't work because of my glasses, so I had to remove those. Also, another brilliant thing is that they have plastic bags and a little station pre-security to put all your liquids into the liter size bags. One thing that I knew from my research, and what was advertised at the little area, was that they count powders as liquids. It kind of annoyed me as if I was travelling with just a carry-on, I would have to limit the amount of make-up I could bring.
Once through security I headed to get some food. My card got declined after I tried to pay for my sandwich, so I used cash and had my mom look in to see what was up as I didn't want to use cash if I didn't have to. I didn't eat much of my sandwich, as my anxiety and lack of sleep prevented me from feeling hungry. I did drink lots of water, and enjoyed my chai latte. I was unable to go wait at my gate as they don't announce where it is until 50minutes to, which is basically when you start boarding. I then hunted down a spot at one of the few desks that had outlets. I squished myself in and powered up my laptop. There were a lot of people around me, so I didn't feel comfortable watching any of my tv shows or doing anything that would grab my full attention, as I wanted to be able to see/hear if anyone was trying to steal from me. A lot of people kept brushing up right against my back as they walked by, so I was on high alert. If I were to get robbed, the airport is the most likely spot. It's so busy, with many distractions. You have no idea how many times the chance came to me to knack someone's wallet/goods. I didn't because I'm a good person, but it's literally a thief's dream there.
Also, to ease all your worries. my card shouldn't have been declined. My mom thinks it's a scam by the company to make you pay twice. As I did not know I needed to keep the cancellation receipt, I wouldn't be able to stop it from being charged. However, it wasn't an expensive meal, so it was good I made this mistake, as I am now aware that should my card decline I have to take the cancellation receipt. A small expense to avoid a major expense.
I used the bathroom while wasting time. All the stalls were huge, making me wonder just how big the wheelchair ones were. I nearly took a picture. The toilets are also really small here; Chris would not need a stool for his feet as you're so low to the ground, you're already at the best position for a comfortable poo.
After, filling my water bottle - easy tip, all the water fountains are by restrooms, well at least all the airports I've been to - I then stood beside a pack of people waiting for our gate to appear. The board said it would be posted at 12:05, however it didn't appear until 12:08. There were a couple of people from my flight waiting too, as I saw them start heading just as I did, as it was the only one that was waiting to be posted. It was good too, because my gate was actually down some weird flight of stairs. In fact, we had to take buses to our plane, which is really strange. They started loading priority first, onto the bus, and then I was able to just squish on. A few people looked like they could have quite a load of money. This one man looked like someone very important. While I was waiting pre-security I had seen some people playing around with an expensive DSLR, making me think they were likely Youtubers, and since that platform is so extensive, they could have over a million followers and I wouldn't know who they are. Also, it was quite funny how the priority guests were first onto the bus, when they were not first off, as those who squished on after were the ones who got to board.
On the plane I sat beside an older gentleman, who had to stop the lady in front of him from pushing her seat back as he had is knees stuck behind her chair, so if she moved it, his legs had nowhere to go. Honestly, his actions have now given me something to do in the future should a scenario like that were to happen to me. Him pushing against her as she tried to move back did not result in an argument whatsoever. Part of me thinks the lady thought that was as far as her seat could lean back. It was quite the budget plane.
The flight attendants were very friendly, and the male one said Love over a hundred times. He was doing it as a joke. They also served tea and snacks, but snacks you had to pay for, and before getting on the plane we were told they weren't able to heat things up, so it would not have been very good tea.
They were unable to show a clip of the safety procedures as the screens were being wacky. One would come down, then give a "nope" and go back up every time they tried to lower it.
It was a very short flight, but the wait for it was so long. I don't think I'd take a plane for such a short journey.
When we were getting ready to get off, we were surprised that we were to be departing from the back and not the front of the plane. This meant I got off quite early and didn't have to wait in line to use the restroom.
My only issue was that the passengers crowded around the luggage carousel. Things would be a lot more convenient for everyone if you stood a step or two back. This way everyone can see and not have to squish past. I had to keep moving to spot my luggage as people not only stood in front, but some also paced around. I suggest they invent a system where one comes off, a worker presents it to the crowd, like an auction, to find its owner. May take longer, but would create more jobs and help prevent stolen luggage.
As an experienced traveller, I headed outside and straight to the taxi crew. I made eyecontact with a driver and he hopped out and loaded my suitcases in. When I told him where I was going he asked if it was near a certain Tesco. I had done my google maps research previously to prevent being scammed with a longer than necessary route, so I was able to confirm that yes, that was the Tesco it was near. To those who don't know, Tesco is a grocery store.
Once at my apartment, I checked in. The lady at the desk had just started that day, so that was a bit problematic. I sat and waited for a bit as she had someone more experienced come down. It was all a bit confusing, and I was very tired.
Thankfully there's a lift at my apartment, so we didn't have to lug my luggage up 4 flights of stairs. I'm on the third floor, but the UK does the same thing as Germany, and probably most of Europe, where ground floor is the first floor, and first floor is actually the second. I was actually quite pleased, as this meant I would have no upstairs neighbours.
There is no lock preventing anyone from entering the main section of the flat, which is where the kitchen is. So, if I was very hungry, and I peaked into one of my neighbouring flats windows and saw no one was in, I could steal from them. There is, however, a very good lock on my bedroom door. Also, to enter the building, you have to pass through the lobby. So don't worry!
When doing the inventory check, I had to look at the kitchen, however I could not do a good review of the quality of things as it looked like chaos, not scary messy, it was actually a very scenic/movie mess. There were beer bottles at the table with cards all over the place. I assume someone was not happy with the outcome of the card game. The kitchen counter had food stains and bits of tomato all over the stove top. At least I won't have to worry about cleaning up after myself as these roomies aren't that nitpicky.
While I forced myself to unpack completely I heard the neighbour beside me playing music. She had very good taste, so I didn't mind. It was also a small comfort, as Sarah would play music all the time. I think that helped me with the culture shock, as that was like a piece of home. It also let me know that I at least had something in common with my flatmate.
There are supposedly 6 of us living there. I've only heard one female and one male (heard him cough and enter the room beside mine). I have yet to hear/see the others. I don't really mind, as right now I just want to relax. I'll worry about the kitchen stuff later. Plus right now they're writing exams, so I don't want to go knocking on all their doors in case they're studying. I don't want a negative first impression.
After a couple hours, I successfully unloaded everything so I could stow my suitcases in the under-bed storage. This was a really hard task to do as I had to first get the heavy mattress of the bed, but there was no where for the mattress to go because the room wasn't big enough. Then I had to lift and move the heavy bed board up. I ended up only being able to move it so there was enough space to squish my luggage in.
I really like my room. The only downside is that the drawers on my desk and wardrobe stick a bit, so they're loud when I open/close them.
Another downer, there's no outlet in my bathroom, so I have to straighten my bangs with a different mirror. There was also no toilet paper, so I had to rush to Tesco's to grab some. I needed hand soap too, but they didn't have any. I made do with my body soap. It was a very quick trip, although there's not a lot in it, as it's an express store. Basically it was the size of a gas station.
I then made myself stay up until 10, before going to bed. That way it would be easier to get over my jet lag. In the morning I was very tired, I actually ended up leaving the place later than I would have liked to, because I was sleepy.
I was one of the few not wearing a winter jacket. I did blend in with my sneakers though. There were the odd ones out in shorts, but they're a whole other class of people. It was actually very sunny out too. If I hadn't been in such a rush, I would have stopped to take pictures.
I arrived just as the first presentation was starting and said the classic Canadian, "sorry" before heading to grab a seat. This girl made eye contact with me, smiled and then moved her stuff, so I took that as "please sit beside me" and did.
Funny story, when she first told me where she was from I thought she said Greenland. This made me very excited as this is a very different country, where I know little other than it had been named such to make people come. However after some awkwardness of one girl much later trying to figure something out, and asking if she could say it in Finnish, and her being like sure, and then speaking fluent Finnish back, did I begin to question my previous judgement. Also, the way she looked when I was like "Oh you speak Finnish" may have also been a really good hint. Turns out I met three Fins that day, one goes to the University of Turku, so I was able to be like - "oh I went there to play ringette." So yeah.
I also met a girl from Austria. They all were asking me about this english test you have to take and were like "don't you think it's weird" but I never got info on it. Then I was like, oh right, english is my native language, so I don't need to take one.
They got their module meeting today so I had to go to some of the other presentations alone. This allowed me to meet an Italian girl and a Norwegian guy. Everyone I've met so far recognizes Ottawa, not a single "is that near Toronto." The Norwegian guy did think I said Kenya, but Ottawa cleared that all up.
They both had chosen the University accommodation. Apparently the only options were the more expensive 138 pounds a week ones (I pay 101 at my private sector one). They also said their flat mates ignore them, as they had already become close-friends. The guy told me that he was stuck with a bunch of first years and the girl told me that when she goes to the kitchen they've got headphones in and basically just ignore her. I hope my flatmates aren't that terrible. I avoided first-years by picking off-campus at least. Nothing wrong with first years, it's just awkward because the age difference really does matter.
I've not had much trouble with the British accent, just some of the terms they use. However, the accents of the other exchange students is what throws me. In contrast, they use me to find out the right terms for things.
In terms of school stuff, did not learn too much, as just was just all the introductory reassurance stuff. I did find out some really cool stuff that I have access to as a student. For example, to all of you worried about me going around alone at night etc. I have two things I can do. The first is an app, and by the press of a button I can have security come to me, or check on me via the cameras on campus. I'm going to suggest my home University look into getting one, as it is a really comforting thing to have. Those call buttons we have on the odd lamppost won't help you if you're not right beside it. It's easy to just pull out your phone and use it. The second resource is a taxi service that will pick you up and won't charge you right away. You still have to pay later, but at least you'll be taken safely out of where you are. Also another really good resource more Universities should have.
There is also the Language centre which is free to use, and is basically Duolingo on steroids. I'm going to take full advantage and better my French. We also have an international TV and Film database, where I can watch more Korean dramas. Other foreign shows too, but you know what I'll be mostly doing.
I don't have my module meeting until tomorrow, but my friends told me it was pretty easy and the people were very friendly. They also haven't heard from their buddy system partner, who was supposed to contact us beforehand so we could ask questions before coming, but never did.
The Library presentation included a Kahoot, where I got a prize of "free rubbish", as quoted by the lady handing me a pen, pencil, and pad of paper, for being in the lead at one point.
I still haven't gotten my id card as I need my passport to do it, and I didn't want to bring it with me and risk losing it, so I'll have to do that tomorrow.
I ate lunch alone at the mall, because my friends were at their module meetings at that time. I ate at an arguably better than Starbucks cafe, called Cafe Nero. It was at the mall, which I didn't get the chance to explore, but plan to. It was really nice inside, a little expensive (had Starbucks fees), but my food was good so well worth risking it. I was debating just getting McDonalds, but I'm glad I didn't.
After the final presentation, I went to Sainsbury's with my friends (another small grocery store) and grabbed myself a sandwich for dinner and yoghurt for breakfast. We talked for a bit in the city centre. One of the Fins went to ikea and rated it 2/5 stars. Emily really should have visited an ikea when she was in Finland - they're apparently amazing. I'm actually planning on going to ikea for kitchen stuff, as they'd have cheap stuff I could use. Also, the food there is cheap and "still delicious, but no free coffee."
We split up when they headed back to their accommodations and I left to get some more things for my apartment. One of them actually lives near me, but she was tired as she missed lunch and had a lot to prepare for tomorrow. I went and bought hand soap at Boots (just like Rexall) and then headed to Primark. I bought a a bath mat, as the when I had a shower last night, it was hard to dry myself off in the shower area, so I needed one. I also bought two throw pillows for my bed, so I can lay comfortable to work on my computer. Then I got a lint roller for my clothes, that way I can look good in pictures. There were a lot of things I liked, but if I couldn't find more than one use/reason to but, I put them down.
On my way back from my apartment, I got a new look at the church I pass by. Its lovely clock reminded me of a little friend under construction.
I also saw many a place to take Instagram photos in the future, but I'll need a friend to do it for me. Look forward to those.
Back at my apartment, I went to put my yoghurt in the fridge with my name on it (still haven't met anyone), when I discovered I have not personal shelf. Also it's tiny, smaller than the one I share with Sarah, and we struggle with space. Plus, six of us share that tiny thing (it's only slightly larger than the mini fridge I had at Uni. I don't need a lot of space, with the way I eat (sandwiches for the win), but I do need some. I'm also waiting to buy anything major yet in case we'd share those things.
I'm exhausted right now, but I'm looking forward to going to one of the free massage clinics we have on campus. It's set up like the ones I've seen at ringette tournaments, where it's in a public space and you lie on a yoga mat for a a back massage, or sit for shoulders/neck. No removing of clothes.
There's a lot more I could say but I'll leave that for later. I will do a room tour for those interested, but it's still messy, but look forward to that.
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