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International Marketing Study Program 2005
London
January 2005
London has been on its best behaviour for us. The weather has been fantastic helping to fuel spirits by day and recharge batteries for the social feast. Energy levels have certainly climbed since the Monash Synchronised Head Bobbing team at the Thursday evening performance of Les Miserable'. Although we were all able to snap to attention in a nano second Andrew K won gold. An exceptional performance from a man on the edge..........of consciousness!
The City of London is a rich tapestry of history that a four day visit will never do justice. However, all have suffered for the cause pursuing their own personal English nirvana. Some, well in fact many, have opted to tackle the hordes during January sales taking in all that Oxford Street and the various High Streets can offer. Even this wasn't enough with a trip to Portobello Rd markets a must for one dedicated soul. I would have though pots and pans were sold in Melbourne also. Just goes to show the charm of this place can do strange things. Another intrepid shopper (name withheld to protect the thrifty) endured 2 hours of travel to seize bargains (sources suggest these were numerous) at the Burberry factory outlet. What a brand loyal! Others have tramped their way along the well beaten sights from Tower of London , Buckinghuge Palace , Westminster Abbey and all manner of interests in between chronicling the births and fall of “The Empire”. We can all no safely assure the world the sun does set on the British Empire . Around 3.45pm on a January afternoon. The history of the place is mind boggling and a stark contrast to the relative youth of Australia .
There is no doubt London is a massive city with a lively pace. However, it is a distinct down shift from the frenetic pace of Hong Kong . There are noticeable differences between the two city's, beneath the obvious, and the team has done a fine job of diving into the cultural cup. Whilst this has been a challenge there certainly prevails a “coalition of the willing” who posses a fortitude which Lord's Mountbatten and Nelson would be proud of. Their combined expertise in hunting down opportunities for “cultural exchange” is synergy at its best. It has been a pilgrimage for some, a growth experience for others and a trip down memory lane for a few. Either way Australia 's cultural attaché, Sir Les Patterson is glowing with pride as the next generation carries the torch – adding a little fuel for good measure. This being said there is a hint the great man would have winced at the repeat visit to a “certain Salsa Bar” (nudge, nudge, wink, wink) but the troupe's commitment to expanding the academic cultural experience is a powerful thing. What ever your life style choice B Dog we are there for you..........Dude! However, I think George Michael is out of your league. Although I will say there is a certain bespectacled moustache sporting chap has a twinkle in his eye when you walk by, just stop knocking on my door fella. The truly committed have skilfully combined the best this city has to offer, day and night, whatever their pleasure.
The news from the “ Soho front” for London 's last night was confirmation of an intense esprit de core which germinated in Hong Kong , flowered in London and is standing by for the city of Paris . Bring it on!
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