I lived in London for 2 years and I fell in love with the city. Its just an amazing place, full of culture, history, beauty, a buzzing nightlife, gourgeous parks, interesting markets, everywhere you look there are amazing structures, restaurants, pubs, etc.
The things you dont want to miss:
Portabello Road – (Notting Hill – Saturdays)
Tower of London – (This is a great place to see – leave at least a few hours or even a full day to explore this area)
Camden Market (Crazy place – check out the underdog – it will surprise you – its like a zoo in there)
Trafalgar Square (Grab a sandwhich and sit in the middle of the square – and admire the surroundings)
Big Ben & Westminister (check opening times/days for Westminister before heading there)
Shakespear Globe Theatre (You can book tickets online and save – try and get some descent seats – its outdoor so make sure to wear proper attire)
Hyde Park (you can sunbake in your bra – and fit in with the locals)
Covent Garden (wander through the streets and you will find some great shops and cafe’s)
The best way to see London – just buy a daily tube pass (zones 1 – 3). Hop off and on – and you will find your own adventure around London. Buy the A – Z map (pretty much get it anywhere) it will be a good investment!!!!
If you have time to venture out of London go to Cambridge/Bath/Brighton/Devon.
The London survival kit:
There is no such thing as customer service: (especially in bars/restaurants – minimum wages are 5 pounds an hour – and living expenses are through the roof – so dont expect good service in most places)
There are no rubbish bins in Tube stations – for safety reasons
If you are flying into Heathrow airport – best way into town is to catch the tube – or you can catch the express which only takes 15 minutes or so.
Make sure you have your belongings secured at all times
Dont give way to people walking your direction – you will never get anywhere around London if you give way. Just charge through the crowds – dont make eye contact with anyone and people will move accordingly. Dont get offended if someone smacks into you and doesnt say sorry – no one has time to say sorry in London.
People think your weird in London if you smile. You will know what I mean when you get there!
Pret is a good place to get something to eat if you are on the go.
Birds in London are not scared of humans
Dont stand on the curb of the road – you will probably get run over.
If your not aware of your surroundings – i.e blocking a possible walk way route – prepare to be hated by locals.
Stay on the left hand side on the escalator!!!!
If you want information – just ask someone – people will usually jump if you approach them – but once they know your not a crazy person – they will be happy to help you out.
over 5 years ago