This was my second journey to the magnificent city of London, and although it was my first official study abroad experience, it felt like a homecoming. I was familiar with London’s charm, but somehow it also felt fresh and exhilarating, offering new discoveries around every corner.
Exploring London’s Iconic Landmarks and Hidden Gems
My college friends and I, always ready for an adventure, set out to explore London’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems. We landed at Stansted Airport and took a bus to Victoria Station. A short walk from the bustling station led us to our temporary home for the weekend, the Blades Hotel. Its cozy boutique style and welcoming atmosphere immediately charmed us.
The weather in London was chilly and gray, but this only enhanced the vibrant turquoise of the Tower Bridge. Pre-booking tickets online saved us time, and we were whisked straight up to the glass walkway. Stepping onto the transparent surface, I peered down at the bustling Thames River and the steady flow of traffic below, a thrilling sensation!
A small museum at the foot of the bridge, included in the ticket price, provided a glimpse into the bridge’s engineering marvels and history. However, a humorous anecdote about a goose landing on the bridge during its construction stole the show. We couldn’t help but laugh picturing the improbable scene.
While Big Ben, a true London icon, was covered in scaffolding, it was comforting to know that the city was committed to preserving its history for future generations. The landmark has been undergoing renovations since 2017, and it will likely remain shrouded until 2020-2021.
Museums, Parks, and Royal Residences
During my first London adventure, I had the opportunity to ride the London Eye. This time, I opted for the stunning views from the Shard, London’s tallest skyscraper, which I’ll detail later.
London’s rich history and culture are readily accessible thanks to its free museums. I spent time exploring the National Gallery near Trafalgar Square and the British Museum. The latter boasts the renowned Rosetta Stone, alongside ancient Greek and Roman ruins and even a vintage Tiffany & Co. cash register.
London’s Vibrant Heart
Trafalgar Square, the beating heart of London, buzzes with energy. The square teems with traffic, shoppers, and tourists, creating a vibrant atmosphere where you can easily spend hours simply observing the world around you.
Kensington Palace, nestled near Hyde Park, is a breathtaking architectural marvel. It’s easy to imagine the royal history within its stately walls, and guided tours are available for those who wish to explore further.
Buckingham Palace, in the heart of the city, is a stark contrast to Kensington Palace. While typically surrounded by a throng of tourists, we were lucky enough to see it in the evening rain, allowing us to enjoy its grandeur in peace.
A Journey through J.K. Rowling’s London
One of the highlights of our trip was a free Strawberry Tours walking tour focused on the magical world of Harry Potter. I, a devoted fan, was completely engrossed in the tour, walking past locations that inspired J.K. Rowling’s creative genius. From the Hardy’s Original Sweetshop, which inspired Honeydukes, to the South African Embassy, the model for Gringotts Bank, it was a truly magical experience.
London’s Artistic Soul
Carnaby Street is a haven for unique shops and restaurants. The street is a kaleidoscope of artistic displays, with vibrant colors and unexpected creations around every corner.
Panoramic Views and Cocktails
The Shard, a towering skyscraper, offers breathtaking views of the city. While we couldn’t afford a lavish meal at one of its elegant restaurants, we found a fantastic alternative: enjoying artfully crafted cocktails at one of the restaurant bars.
A Sweet Indulgence: Afternoon Tea
London’s afternoon tea tradition was a delightful experience. We chose Cafe Concerto, a charming establishment known for its elegant atmosphere and reasonable prices. The selection of beautifully decorated pastries and chocolates was heavenly, and I fell in love with this relaxing ritual.
Pub Culture and Diverse Cuisine
London’s pub culture is as iconic as its landmarks. We enjoyed a couple of traditional pub meals, experiencing the warmth and comfort that these historic establishments offer. However, London’s culinary scene extends far beyond pubs.
A visit to Carnaby Street introduced us to a unique and interactive tapas restaurant. Dishes were displayed at the front, each with a price-coded stick, allowing us to personalize our meal and sample a variety of flavors.
Mishaps and Triumphs
While our trip was mostly smooth sailing, we encountered a couple of amusing mishaps. The first was when we got locked out of our hotel room. Our frantic efforts to get back in led to laughter and a hilarious ordeal.
The second misadventure happened on our way back to Rome. We had planned to take an express train to Stansted Airport, but it turned out that the train didn’t run on Sundays. The panic of potentially missing our flight led to a sprint through the airport, reminiscent of the McCallister family’s iconic escape in “Home Alone.”
A Lasting Impression
London will always hold a special place in my heart. It’s a city that feels both familiar and different, a perfect blend of American and British culture. Its slower pace of life allows you to savor the little things and create lasting memories. I know I’ll be back.
