When I returned from my first trip to Europe in 2010, everyone asked me what my favorite place was, and the answer was always the same: Florence was my favorite city to visit, but London was a city I could imagine myself living in.

Looking back at my photos, it makes sense: All I have pictures of is St. Paul’s Cathedral and Buckingham Palace. Lest you think I was only there for a day, I actually spent a week and a half in the city, and spent most of it living as a local – visiting coffee shops, exploring lesser-visited neighborhoods, and, well, working. It was study abroad, after all. I missed many touristy things I’d love to go back and see someday, including the London Eye and the British Museum. But for now, here the photos I do have from that first trip.

London will always hold a special place in my heart. Can’t wait to go back – and take some higher-quality photos!