I feel like a weirdo for not liking London.

It’s too busy for my brain to function. Too noisy. No one says hi. No one smiles. Everyone gets in everyone’s way.

My two-hour train down here was so packed I couldn’t sit down (not London’s fault, I’ll admit, but still…).

The tubes aren’t working today, so my partner’s had to take four buses to get to work.

I’ve just been out to buy cereal and had to worm my way between people just to find the cereal aisle.

Going for a walk and…there are people everywhere, compared to the woods I walk through at home and grumble if I see anyone. I understand the concept of a city — there are people — but in practice, it’s really overwhelming.

My partner lives here — we’re bossing long-distance and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

I just wish I loved London more.

Notes on a postcard please:

What are the wonderful, redeeming qualities of the city for a country mouse like me?

Am I just a grumpy introvert?

Should I get cereal delivered (because THAT’S A THING!)?

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Yes, I have enormous privilege to be able to come visit, and to work from anywhere. Yes, this is all minor in the grand scheme of things. And yes, I still find it hard.