London, England
London is my absolute favorite city in the entire world. Now I may be biased because it the was the very first city I ever visited outside of the country but, since then I have managed at least three times a year and it never seems to disappoint.
London is a metropolis that seamlessly blends rich history with a vibrant, modern atmosphere. Steeped in tradition and brimming with contemporary energy, London is a city that captivates visitors from around the globe.
No first time visit to London is complete without marveling at its iconic landmarks. The majestic Big Ben, standing tall beside the Houses of Parliament, symbolizes the city's historic grandeur. Across the River Thames, the London Eye offers breathtaking panoramic views of the sprawling cityscape. Venture to Buckingham Palace to witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Stroll along the historic Tower Bridge, an engineering marvel that spans the River Thames, connecting the past to the present. If this is your first time to London I personally recommend waking up early and hitting all of the spots in one day. However, if you have traveled to London before I wouldn’t repeat this at all, as you will probably see most of this while you’re galavanting around London.
If you are going to be in London on Saturday I would absolutely wander around Portebello Road. My first stop would be at Buns from Home and then I would head to the top of the road and put my name at Farm Girl. You most likely will be given a two hour wait which is perfect because you will have plenty of time to meander around all of the vendors.
As for Sunday’s I would make my way to East London and start the day at Brixton market and then pop over to the Breakfast Club for brunch or the Princess of Shoreditch for a Sunday Roast.
Culinary Delights
London's culinary landscape is as diverse as its population. I know many people say English food is terrible but, they obviously do not know where to go as I have never had a meal in London. Of course you have to fish chips at least once and as a fish and chip connoisseur The Mayfair Chippy is the best in the city.
Don't miss the opportunity to indulge in a traditional afternoon tea, and my personal favorite Sunday roast at a pub. My favorite roasts are served at Cadogen Arms, The Princess Royal, and Princess of Shoreditch. I like to try a new spot for afternoon every time I go but my current favorites are The Claridge, The Ritz, Sketch, and The Woseley.
In all honesty my restaurant recommendations is extensive and constantly changing but here are favorites as now: Berenjak, Noble Rot, Gymkhana, Dishoom (duh), Padella, Rita’s, Zephyr, The Cow, Gloria, Gold, Aubin and Randall, Bancone, The River Cafe, Lyle’s, Kitty Fishers, Social Eating House, Som Saa, The Barbary, and The Ivy.
Not only does London have some of the best restaurants it also has some of the best bars including a few on the 50 Best Bars in the World. Like restaurants my list of bars are constantly changing but today my favorites include: Tayer + Elementary, The Connaught, Mr. Fogg’s, Happiness Forgets, Side Hustle, The Cocktail Trading Co, Swift Bar, Tonight Josephine, and Disrepute.
And of course don’t skip the markets. Borough Market is the most famous and has some of the best food in the world but, Kingly Court, Seven Dials, and Camden Market are also great places to wander around.
Cozy Accommodations
Where you stay in London is absolutely key. I have personally stayed all over but my personal favorite neighborhoods for both convience and location are Mayfair, Soho, and Covenant Garden. Shoreditch is also a great location if you want a more Brooklyn vibe and don’t plan on heading over to Notting Hill.
My hotel recommendations include: The Mayfair Townhouse, Nomad, The Hennrietta Hotel, The Soho Hotel, Covent Garden Hotel, The Treehouse Hotel, The One Shoreditch, and The Hoxton Holborn.
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