LONDON - I knew next to nothing about Londoners when I hit the ground here. I must say, I have been remarkably impressed with how cordial and helpful they've been since we've been here.
There have been numerous times when I have been treated warmly and it truly seems totally legitimate. Normally when covering Olympics for KARE 11, there is a certain amount of friendliness from the locals, but most of the time, it's as though, the only reason for the gracious behavior is because they're the host city. Sort of an Olympic front, that when they're not trying to put their best foot forward to foreigners because of the global stage they're on, you get a strong sense, that they'd happier once all the tourist types just go home.
Here, I feel as though that open arms mentality is actually quite genuine and sincere. They're just good people.
When it comes to the epitome of that warmth, nobody has been more exemplary that Barnabas the bus greeter. Every morning when loading the media shuttle, there he is, jolly as can be, helpful and kind. He makes everyone who passes by, feel as though they're someone special. It's a rare gift these days, and one that doesn't go unnoticed by this reporter.
So, here's a shout out to Barnabas, an unknowing ambassador, who will always leave me with a fond remembrance of this bustling European hub.