University of Wisconsin–Madison

England: Lillian (Lilly) Marto (A Home Away from Home in London)

A Home Away from Home in London

A storefront with red trim and a large glass window, with a sign at the top saying "Pret A Manger".
The Gloucester Road Pret A Manger location

One experience that has become a part of my everyday life in London is going to Pret A Manger, a cafe that has many locations around London. Many of my fellow students and I have gotten Pret memberships which allow us to get up to five drinks each day with a single fixed price for the entire month. My most visited location is on Gloucester Road which is across the street from my nearest tube station and about a three-minute walk from Foundation House where I take my classes. Since I go there so often I have gotten to know the staff and they are always extremely kind, friendly, and helpful.

A hand holds out a paper coffee cup with a red lid over a tile floor.
An English Breakfast Tea with milk

One of my favorite things to do in London is take long walks as well as explore different neighborhoods and museums. Since there are so many Prets in London I’m almost always able to stop by and grab a coffee while I explore the city and it is also always fast and convenient which allows me to explore London as much as possible. The wide selection of items on their menu has also encouraged me to try many things that I wouldn’t usually order at home and as a result the classic British tea with milk has become one of my favorite beverages. When I return home I will definitely miss the convenience, affordability, and kind staff that Pret has to offer which has become a major part of my everyday routine.

Lilly smiles in front of an iron gate with "1860" written in golden lettering.

Lilly Marto

Major: Political Science

Hometown: Green Bay, Wisconsin