Hello! My name is Cynthia Pajuelo. My interest in hospitality started when I was introduced to the hospitality program back in high school. Since then, I started working in the field, such as a front desk agent at a hotel and a condominium, and I have also worked on multiple events regarding hospitality and food, and beverage. I had decided to do the London study abroad program back in the fall when I was in Professor Dodge’s class, and he had advertised it. I had also decided to do the London program since I was also going to do the Hospitality at Sea, and the cruise had ended in London, so I had figured it would be a 2 in 1. I am quite curious about the different cultural aspects in hospitality, it is in London vs the United States. I believe that the service won’t be as “needing customer/guest approval” as it is in the States, since the waiters in Europe don’t have to rely on tips, unlike in America. When I went to Europe last year, I remember that the waiters would not approach your table unless you called for them. I believe it will be like that in London as well. I am also expected to pay for water in a restaurant since in Europe, the tap water is not drinkable, so you can only buy bottled water in a restaurant rather than having tap water for free. On this trip, I would like to expand on my curiosity about trying different foods and beverages. I have never been a fan of cooked fish; however, on this trip, I would like to try their signature fish and chips since it will be something that is a staple in London, and to try something new. I would also like to try a Guinness since I’ve heard that the flavors are different from the States vs in Europe. In the following blogs/vlogs, I will be showcasing my experience in trying new things. I hope to learn more about England’s history and culture since I have never had an interest in it before. I am also very excited to see all of the different castles and to see the Bombay Sapphire distillery and learn about their history.I would also like to see the different markets that we have listed in our program course and see how they differ from the states.