London, my dear friend, never fails to enchant me. This was my second visit to this exquisite city, and even though I had vivid memories from my first trip, it felt like a brand new adventure. My trusty companions, my three closest friends/roommates, were with me every step of the way, making this journey even more memorable.
Stepping Into the Blades Hotel
Our arrival at Stansted Airport was smooth, and we quickly hopped on a bus that whisked us to Victoria Station. After a short walk, we reached our weekend haven: the charming Blades Hotel. It was a perfect fit for our group, small and cozy, with a touch of grandeur. The lobby, adorned with rich purple carpets, offered a welcoming embrace. The friendly owner greeted us warmly and led us to our room. We quickly unpacked and were ready to dive headfirst into the heart of London.
Towering Views and Engineering Wonders
Despite the chilly air and gray skies, the turquoise blue of the Tower Bridge stood out, radiating a vibrant charm. I had wisely purchased tickets online to walk across the glass walkway, bypassing the long queues and whisked up by a swift elevator. As I cautiously took the first step onto the glass, my heart skipped a beat. The Thames River flowed beneath my feet, while cars zipped by in a blur of motion. It was a mesmerizing experience!
The bridge also housed a small museum, included in the ticket price. It offered fascinating insights into the engineering and history of this architectural marvel. A particular tidbit caught my eye – a photo of a scene so bizarre and hilarious that it left me and my friends in stitches.
Big Ben’s Makeover and Free Museums
No trip to London is complete without a glimpse of Big Ben, but this time, it was shrouded in scaffolding! Signs proclaimed that this iconic landmark has been undergoing a meticulous renovation since 2017, a process expected to last until 2020-2021. Although I had missed this detail in my pre-trip research, I was glad to see London taking the time to preserve this precious piece of history for future generations.
London is a treasure trove for museum lovers, especially budget-conscious ones like myself! Most museums are free to the public, a delightful surprise. The National Gallery near Trafalgar Square and the British Museum were on my list, and they did not disappoint.
Immersed in History and Culture
The British Museum truly stole the show, housing the legendary Rosetta Stone. I was mesmerized by its collection of ancient Greek and Roman ruins, even a cash register from the original Tiffany & Co.! I could have spent hours exploring its depths, but with a limited time in London, I had to move on.
Trafalgar Square: The Heart of London
Trafalgar Square, considered the heart of London, was a whirlwind of energy. The air was thick with the buzz of traffic, shoppers, and excited tourists. Every corner offered a new sight, a new face to observe. The vibrant energy was contagious!
Royal Splendor: Kensington and Buckingham Palace
Kensington Palace, perched beside Hyde Park, was a sight to behold. Its stately gates hinted at a world of grandeur and intrigue within. I could only imagine the stories that unfolded within those walls. Guided tours are available, and I’m determined to explore its secrets if I ever return.
Buckingham Palace, situated in the heart of the city, presented a contrasting experience. Normally, throngs of tourists jostle for a picture in front of its iconic gates, but we were lucky enough to catch it late at night, under a veil of rain. We had the palace all to ourselves, a moment of solitude amidst the bustling city.
A Magical Walk Through J.K. Rowling’s London
One of my favorite experiences was a free walking tour with Strawberry Tours. The theme? J.K. Rowling’s London! I’m a huge fan, so you can imagine my excitement. We walked past places that inspired Rowling while she lived in London, like Hardy’s Original Sweetshop (the inspiration for Honeydukes) and the South African Embassy, which became the model for Gringotts Bank. The tour was a fantastic way to get to know the city, revealing hidden gems I would have otherwise missed, like Benjamin Franklin’s house.
Shopping, Dining, and Artistic Expressions
Carnaby Street is a haven for shoppers and foodies. The shops are filled with charming finds, and the restaurants offer a delightful array of cuisines. But it’s the artistic displays that truly steal the show. They are a kaleidoscope of colors, textures, and ideas, constantly evolving and captivating the eye.
Scaling the Shard: Cocktails with a View
The Shard, London’s tallest skyscraper, is a breathtaking sight, a shard of glass piercing the sky. Inside, elegant restaurants offer some of the best views of the city. We, being budget-conscious students, opted for a cocktail at one of the bars, enjoying the view while savoring artfully crafted drinks. My cocktail, with its hints of hibiscus and fruit and a rim of bright pink salt, was almost too pretty to drink.
Afternoon Tea: An Exquisite Indulgence
My London adventure wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the quintessential afternoon tea. I was initially hesitant, but I quickly fell in love with the concept. The beautifully decorated chocolate and fruit pastries were a delight for my sweet tooth. We chose Cafe Concerto for its elegant atmosphere and reasonable prices.
The Warm Embrace of London Pubs
Pubs are a ubiquitous presence in London, and there’s a comforting charm to them. They are especially inviting on chilly, rainy days, offering a warm embrace. I savored a couple of pub meals, but unfortunately, I can’t recall the name of the second pub. It seems my love for London’s culinary delights overshadows my memory sometimes!
A Culinary Adventure: Interactive Tapas
London’s food scene is a melting pot of flavors and experiences. The interactive tapas restaurant on Carnaby Street was a culinary highlight. Dishes were showcased at the front, and you chose your favorites based on the size of the stick signifying the price. It was a fun and delicious way to try a variety of flavors. It’s the perfect spot for lunch, as the tapas are best enjoyed as a shared experience.
Unexpected Adventures: From Locked Out to Running Through Airports
There were moments of chaos and laughter, too. The small size of our hotel meant that the doors were not open 24/7, and we found ourselves locked out one night, a situation that ended with a lot of laughter and a thin piece of paper acting as a temporary doorstop.
And then there was the near disaster at Stansted Airport, where we almost missed our flight due to a Sunday-only train cancellation. We had to sprint through the airport, reminiscent of the McCallister family in Home Alone, making it just in time.
London: A City of Charm and Comfort
London is a city that has captured my heart. It feels familiar yet unique, offering a comfortable pace of life that allows me to appreciate the little things. I know I’ll be back, ready to explore its hidden corners and relive the magic of this enchanting city.
