I am so ridiculously happy to be back in London. The city is even more beautiful than I remembered and the Christmas lights only add to the appeal.
The city is full of Europeans and few Americans, which is the way I prefer it because it gives you some perspective and view into the lives of real Europeans.
Upon arrival, we got to our hotel yesterday and then went for a long walk around South Kensington and Knightsbridge. I love both of these areas, which feature couture shopping and elegant restaurants. Our first meal in London wasn't super elegant though as we ended up eating pub food, which of course means fish and chips with beer...or mulled wine if you happen to be me:)
Today, we started our first full day in London with the Victoria and Albert museum, which features a ton of cool art recreations, vintage fashion and rooms filled with ironworks, architecture and so much more.
I had never been there so it was nice to check something off of my London list. The rest of the afternoon featured a walk to Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square and the theatre district.
Naturally, it wouldn't be a trip to London without me venturing out on my own, so once my parents were ready to retire, I returned to Trafalgar Square and walked back to our hotel while browsing shops and theaters on Shaftsbury Avenue. The area is near Covent Garden and is absolutely divine.
Based on my time in London, here are some tips for travelers to this fair city.
1.) Utilize the Tube.
The London Tube is one of the best transportation systems in the whole world. It can take you from Heathrow Airport all the way through Central London and beyond. There are stops at every major location and stations are only a few blocks apart. It can truly be a great and easy way to see a lot of the city while fitting in with the locals!
2.) Don't be afraid to get "lost" in London.
London is incredibly hard to get lost in as the city is well directed and easy to navigate. With that being said, don't be afraid to wander without a map. There are no "bad" parts of London in my opinion and it can be super fun to be walking back to your hotel from some part of the city and stumble upon a totally new neighborhood. And if you do get truly lost, the numerous Tube stations will help you find your bearings.
3.) Dress up for museum, theatre outings and meals in London.
London is a very chic city with tremendous fashion. It makes for a better and classier experience to dress for each occasion appropriately.
4.) Do some local activities.
These might include things like riding the Tube on the afternoon commute, taking a walk in Hyde Park or mingling with locals at the neighborhood pub. One of the most fascinating things about traveling to a foreign country is seeing how locals live their daily life. Some of your best moments in London might not be touring Westminster Abbey or Buckingham Palace. It just might be a conversation with a local in a pub!
Here are some shots from today! Tomorrow, we are breaking from London for a day to visit Stonehenge and Bath. Having done neither, I am excited to see what they have to offer!
Until tomorrow!
AL
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