Staying in the one place for any length of time and not really enjoying it, is the perfect recipe to motivate one to travel. The last week or so in Russell Square has been quite boring and lacklustre. I haven’t had any urge to do anything whatever. The highlight of my days have been the online chats with Leire. Ive spent many hours just chatting away with her and without doubt Ill spend many more. So why is it so boring in Russell Square?
I guess the hostel is the main source. Smart Russell Square has a lot of potential but it will never be met. The staff are friendly and helpful but that’s it. There are no characters here. There is no character to the hostel. There has been a small group of friends that I’ve been hanging out with, but with so many groups coming and going it’s been a bit bewildering. The common room gets swamped with a variety of different languages, the kitchen air filled with the aroma of many cultures, but the people all stay within their groups.
The common room is a room of boredom. They have two fancy LCD TV’s on opposite walls and to me this is a big mistake. TV’s turn people into zombies and can kill even the best of conversations. I think these TVs should be replaced with a thumping stereo system that I could hook my laptop into. I tried plugging into the TV’s but the AV channel has been disabled, dodgy!
Russell Square itself is a really nice area. It has a rich history and the old buildings really give the place a nice relaxed and welcoming vibe. When I first arrived here some two weeks ago I took a walk down the surrounding streets to explore what Russell Square is all about. Of the numerous small parks that litter the area it’s the one named Russell Square that is the nicest. A large water fountain sprouts out from the pavement where the paths meet in the centre of the square. Surrounding the water fountain are a few flower beds, then open grass with a small scattering of trees and bordering the square are shrubs and bushes.
I remember thinking this place is really nice. With a big smile on my face and with a sigh of relief I was content that I had found a place that suited me. Quiet, relaxed, close to the city and with all the shops I need. All that is missing is the perfect job, if such a thing exists.
