ONE WEEK Before My Master’s Graduation: The Countdown Has Officially Begun
Next week (Wednesday) is my graduation! After months of anticipation, planning, and preparation, the reality is finally here, and I couldn’t be more excited. Last October, I shared my journey of receiving my UK visa and the early stages of planning my travel from Germany to London. Today, I’m diving into the final touches and preparations for this long-awaited trip.
Planning the Journey: Flights, Accommodation, and Coordination
In my last post, I weighed the pros and cons of travelling by train or plane. After considering factors like time, convenience, cost, and reliability, my husband and I ultimately decided to fly to London. While the train’s scenic views were tempting, the efficiency and reliability of air travel won us over, especially with a tight schedule and important milestones ahead.
Unfortunately, my son couldn’t join us on this trip since he couldn’t afford to miss school days, but he’ll be cheering us on from home.
During the booking process, I also worked closely with my friend Christine, who will be traveling from Cyprus to London to celebrate this special occasion with us. Knowing she’ll be there adds an extra layer of excitement and comfort – it’s always wonderful to share these moments with people who matter most.
Booking early helped us secure great deals on both flights and accommodation, and I’ve planned all the logistics around them to ensure the trip goes as smoothly as possible. My tips for anyone planning something similar? Always double-check your flight and hotel details, pack according to airline regulations, and plan plenty of time for travel – especially when dealing with international airports!
Packing for a Special Occasion
Packing for a big event like graduation has its own set of challenges. Beyond the essentials like clothes, toiletries, and travel documents, I’ve had to think about:
Graduation etc.
The University of East London (UEL) has partnered with Marston Events to cater to everything for graduation day—gowns, photography, guest invitations, a cocktail celebration after the ceremony, and even optional add-ons. All I have to do is arrive two hours before the event, and they’ll assist me throughout the day.
As for my outfit, well, that was a bit of an adventure! I initially spotted a stunning black short dress displayed on a mannequin in an expensive shop. I hesitated because it seemed like too much to spend for just one night. Instead, I bought a long skirt, a blouse, and a coat—only to realize later that the total cost was similar to that of the dress! In the end, I decided to go back, buy the black dress, and return the other clothes.
One thing I truly appreciate about shopping here is the ease of returning items without any questions asked. Now, I’m thrilled to wear the dress I wanted and feel confident on this special day!
Our Travel Itinerary
So, here’s the plan: we’re not really going to see much of London. Why? Because we’re arriving midday on Tuesday, and by the time we settle into our apartment and pick up my friend from the airport, the day’s practically gone.
Wednesday is graduation day, and with the ceremony starting at 17:30, the entire day is basically dedicated to getting ready, making sure everything is in place, and, let’s be honest, probably panicking a little. That leaves Thursday—our one glorious day to maximize our stay in London!
Thursday Game Plan:
We’ll probably stick to nearby tourist spots. Big Ben? Sure. Tower of London? Why not. But let’s be real—I’m also on a mission to find some good Filipino food. I’ve already scoped out a few promising Filipino restaurants and might even indulge in some good ol’ Jollibee! (Because let’s face it, no matter where we are in the world, a Filipino will always find Jollibee.)
Getting Around
To navigate London, I’ve decided to use my contactless Mastercard for public transport. It’s simple and convenient: just tap and go on the London Underground, buses, and the DLR. No need to worry about Oyster cards or topping up.
Pros of Contactless Payment:
No need to carry lots of cash or pre-purchase travel cards.
It automatically calculates the cheapest daily fare, so you won’t overspend.
Widely accepted across all public transport in London.
Cons of Contactless Payment:
If your card charges foreign transaction fees, you might pay a bit more with every tap.
You’ll need a backup plan in case your card is declined or lost.
That’s why I’m also bringing some actual pound cash for smaller purchases – like street food, quick snacks, or, let’s be honest, more Jollibee!
Other Essentials
I’ve checked on mobile roaming plans to stay connected while navigating the city. It’s not just about maps and schedules; it’s also about sharing photos and keeping family updated in real-time.
Then there’s Friday – time to pack up, head to the airport, and fly back to Germany. It’s a short and sweet trip, but I’m sure it will be packed with memories, delicious food, and maybe even a few unexpected adventures.
Wrapping Up: The Countdown to London
With only a few days left before I leave for London, the excitement is definitely building. I’m feeling a whirlwind of emotions—excitement for what’s ahead, some nervous energy about the big event, and immense gratitude for everything that has led me to this point. From securing my visa to making all the final arrangements, it’s all coming together.
As I reflect on the journey so far, I can’t help but think about how much this trip means. Graduation, a milestone, and the start of a new chapter—I can’t wait to share this experience with my husband, my friend Christine, and all of you.
In my next post, I’ll update you on how everything went, from navigating London to celebrating this big moment. Stay tuned for photos, stories, and insights into my graduation adventure!
For anyone planning a similar journey, whether for graduation, a special occasion, or a life milestone, I hope the experiences and tips I’ve shared have helped guide you. Until next time – thanks for following along as I prepare for this exciting adventure!