Exploring Two Sides of the UK: London Eye & York Wheel
From the London Eye, she experienced the thrill of modern London’s skyline—fast-paced, global, and full of energy. In contrast, the York Wheel revealed a calmer perspective, surrounded by history, medieval charm, and community spirit.
Together, these moments gave Sofonie a deeper sense of connection—between past and present, heritage and innovation, reminding us that sustainability is also about how we see and value the world around us.
✨ British Airways London Eye – The Most Famous Ferris Wheel in the World ✨
A Tale of Discovery, Confusion, and Celebration Above the Thames ✨
She carried those words like a compass. To Sofonie, it would have been almost a sin to leave the country without flying high on the London Eye—that magical wheel that every year draws thousands of visitors to watch the New Year’s Eve fireworks burst above the Thames.
But behind the magic of the London Eye lies a little-known and rather mysterious history. Did you know…?
🔹 The London Eye has not always been called The London Eye. Since its opening in March 2000, it has been known by many names: The Millennium Wheel, British Airways London Eye, Merlin Entertainments London Eye, EDF Energy London Eye, and even Coca-Cola London Eye.
🔹 The title British Airways London Eye once caused a great deal of confusion. Many tourists—and even some British citizens—mistakenly believed it had something to do with airplanes. Imagine their shock when they discovered that the “British Airways London Eye” wasn’t an airport flight, but a Ferris wheel above the River Thames!
One story tells of a tourist who was living in the UK temporarily with a restricted visa. Because of the conditions attached to his stay, he was denied permission to exit beyond the UK, since his visa would not allow him to re-enter. Later, the restrictions began to affect his BRP (Biometric Residence Permit) as well, and he was suddenly unable to travel beyond the very city he was residing in—including even taking a ride on the London Eye.
Authorities, misled by the name British Airways London Eye, assumed that the tourist was attempting to board an international flight rather than simply enjoy a Ferris wheel above the Thames. This misunderstanding spiraled into endless bureaucracy, creating severe consequences for the poor man. He began to feel like a prisoner trapped in plain sight, even though he had done nothing wrong. In truth, a single mistake, born of confusion, had caused irreparable damage to his life.
The misunderstanding ended only when he posted a smiling photo on social media—inside the capsule of the London Eye. That picture traveled faster than any flight, and the confusion dissolved at last.
But the question remains:
- 🌍 Did you know the London Eye once carried the name of an airline?
- ✈️ Can you imagine how a simple sponsorship could cause such chaos?
- 💡 Isn’t it curious how language, branding, and tourism can collide in such unexpected ways?
The London Eye today stands not only as a symbol of modern Britain but also as a reminder of the power of communication and cultural understanding.
Link to the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals):
- SDG 4 (Quality Education): Encouraging people to learn about cultures, histories, and even the quirks of international branding.
- SDG 8 (Decent Work & Economic Growth): Tourism in the UK, supported by attractions like the London Eye, contributes to jobs and local economies.
- SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities): Highlighting the importance of avoiding misunderstandings that could unfairly affect migrants or tourists with visa restrictions.
- SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities): The London Eye has become a model of how modern infrastructure can transform a city’s landscape, promote inclusivity, and create cultural experiences for millions.
- SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals): Sponsorship collaborations (like British Airways, Coca-Cola, EDF) show how partnerships can shape iconic experiences.
And so, Sofonie’s New Year’s Eve at the London Eye wasn’t just a night of fireworks—it was a moment woven with stories of discovery, mystery, and the lesson that even a wheel in the sky can teach us about the world.
From Skyline to Storyline: Sofonie Dala’s Journey Between London’s Pulse and York’s Heritage
Hello everyone! 🌸
York had opened its eyes in the city centre for just a short while between May and June 2025, and luckily, Sofonie Dala was there to witness it. Towering above St Sampson’s Square, the 33-metre Ferris wheel offered breathtaking views of the historic city.
With joy, Sofonie treated herself to some fried caramelized cakes before stepping onto the wheel. As it slowly rose above the rooftops, she felt as though she were on the London Eye — but with the unique charm of York unfolding beneath her. The Minster stood proudly in the distance, the streets wound like ancient ribbons, and the city revealed itself from a whole new perspective.
For Sofonie, it wasn’t just a ride. It was an unforgettable experience — a rare, fleeting chance to see York in a way very few get to. A memory to treasure forever.
Sofonie Dala’s magical ride on the York Ferris Wheel — May to June 2025
York had opened its eyes in the city centre for just a very short while – and fortunately, Sofonie Dala was lucky enough to appear there while it still stood tall. A giant Ferris wheel rose gracefully above St Sampson’s Square, offering breathtaking views across the ancient city.
With a joyful heart, Sofonie stepped into the moment, enjoying her life to the fullest. She treated herself to some delicious fried caramelized cakes, the sweet aroma filling the air as she wandered around the lively square. Rising into the sky on the Ferris wheel, she felt as though she had been transported to the magic of the London Eye — yet this time, the charm belonged to York, with its cobbled streets, historic rooftops, and the stunning Minster in view.
For Sofonie, it wasn’t just a ride — it was an unforgettable memory of seeing York from above, a rare opportunity that captured the city’s beauty from a whole new perspective. ✨
Conclusion
From Skyline to Storyline: Sofonie Dala’s Journey Between London’s Pulse and York’s Heritage
In today’s program, we learned about Sofonie Dala’s unique journey that captured two different sides of the UK through culture, architecture, and personal reflection. While studying in the UK, she not only embraced academic and volunteering experiences but also explored iconic landmarks that symbolize innovation, history, and community spirit.
Her adventure first took her to London, where the majestic London Eye stands tall over the Thames—an emblem of modernity, global connection, and the fast-paced rhythm of the capital. From above, Sofonie felt the thrill of London’s skyline, reflecting on resilience and change etched into each landmark.
Shifting north to York, the more intimate York Wheel offered a gentler but equally captivating view. Surrounded by medieval walls and historic streets, Sofonie discovered a different wonder—one of heritage, community, and timeless calm.
Through her eyes, we didn’t just see two cities—we experienced two ways of understanding the UK: one vibrant and global, the other historic and grounding. Both journeys left her with deep impressions and gratitude, reminding us that sustainability is not only about the future, but also about cherishing and connecting with the past.
Gallery
Two Wheels, Two Worlds: Discovering the Heart and Soul of the UK
 |
 |
.jpeg)
