UK, England, London - Streets of London

How often do we take everyday sights and sounds for granted when we travel?

An impressive building and architectural structure I saw and photographed while travelling on foot from Harrods to the London Natural History Museum, South Kensington, London, UK (2017)

A mundane road, a bus ferrying passengers going about its daily routine, people sitting around chatting or resting and pedestrians passing by with shopping bags. Surely, these are sights and sounds that can be found in every country, city, town or neighbourhood. 

Not exactly true. Because every place has its own unique sights and sounds. Yes, the flow of people and public transport or the grind of everyday life are structured to achieve the same aims; daily living. But the way each place achieves this is different. There is something unique about every place, even within the same neighbourhood, town, city or country. It is this uniqueness which gives every place an identity of its own. 

As an example, London's Piccadilly Circus is very different during the day and at night. The sights and sounds change as the clock ticks away. I have always enjoyed taking a short break here during my visits to London. Not just to rest my tired legs from all the walkings and shoppings. But also to immerse myself in the life of the place. To appreciate the everyday stuffs which so often passed us by without us even noticing them.

Daytime bustle, Piccadilly Circus, City of Westminster, London, UK (2017)

Night life, Piccadilly Circus, City of Westminster, London, England, UK (2017)

The next time when you travel, slow down and enjoy the sights and sounds. Live the moment of the place. Put that mobile phone away for a while. That email or social media post can wait.