In the Tower of London, I am Anne Boleyn, awaiting...

In the Tower of London, I am Anne Boleyn, awaiting the day I become Henry VIII's second wife. Then I am Anne Boleyn again, awaiting my execution. In other occasions, I picture myself as a Victorian debutante, running and twirling through the castle, my Calico dress swishing against my calves as I lift my skirts above my ankles. This is my favorite London landmark. It's so full of history both good and bad that my imagination soars as aggressively as a kite on a windy day. So many important figures died in that tower: Sir Thomas More, Anne and Jane Boleyn, Catherine Howard, King Henry VI, just to name a few. (Fun fact: most of those people died during Henry VIII's reign.) I could almost feel their dark presence in the tower. Almost. Too many tourists. That's what cheapens the experience for me. So many beautiful landmarks ruined with ticket prices and on-the-nose entertainment. It ruins my fanciful mood. Haven't gone in a while, for that reason. My partner is amused by this, and he smiles indulgently as I complain about phone cameras and long lines. Still, if you love history, old buildings and gorgeous scenery, I recommend visiting it.