Behind enemy lines

I feel obliged to make a quick post of my July 4th experience in here in the UK. Naturally, it's not a holiday here. And unlike the Canadians, I didn't hear anything about a party at the American embassy. Still, the US contingent of the summer law programme decided to throw a little bash.

It seems kind of strange to celebrate American independence in the country from which we broke away. It feels a bit like gloating, like visiting Japan on VJ day (though that would be worse, I think).

We had a small BBQ in the basement of the dorm, right next to the bar. (Yes, our dorm has a bar. It's the best thing about the place, really.) Everyone was invited, and some of the Australian students (and one of our professors) joined in the festivities. We dined on freshly grilled burgers and sausages, and I had a few pints of Guinness. Eventually the party headed out into the city. Initially the plan was to visit the Hard Rock Cafe, but the plan changed en route and we ended up at the All American Sports Cafe instead. I didn't stay out too late (8:30 am class and all), though some of the revelers partied until nearly 3 am.

It was definitely a different experience, a far departure from fireworks, sparklers, and American flag waving. But how many times does one get the chance to celebrate independence from behind enemy lines?