UK: Pomp and Pageantry in London

One of the places in London I always have to go to is Horse Guards Parade.

It is a historic parade ground where the annual Trooping the Colour ceremony is held.

As the official entrance to St James’s Palace and Buckingham Palace it is guarded by the Household Cavalry.

What makes it extra special is that most people head to Buckingham Palace to see the changing of the guards, which leaves the lesser-known Horse Guards Parade very accessible

So that means you can get really close to all the action without the throngs of annoying tourists and selfie sticks.

GREECE: Changing of the Guards in Athens

Changing of the guard ceremonies in Athens take place at both the Presidential Mansion and at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The guards are on duty around the clock and change every hour.

On Sundays they raise the Greek flag at the Acropolis at sunrise and lower it at sundown.

The Presidential Guards are ceremonial and were originally founded in 1868 as a part of the Greek army. 

LONDON: It Never Gets Old For Me

I love Horse Guards Parade. 

Whenever I come to London my footsteps always lead me there.

Everyone knows about the changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace. 

Hence, the crowds of tourists flock there every morning to catch a glimpse of the pomp and pageantry. And "catch a glimpse" is pretty much all you get with all the people. (Tourists can be so annoying!)

But, a much lesser known place to view the changing of the guards is at Horse Guards Parade.