"London, London, London town...You can toughen up or get thrown around." Perhaps the statement speaks for itself when referring to a city with almost everything at hand. Similar to NYC, there is never a dull moment in London, always new, up and coming places to discover. History, nightlife, entertainment, fashion, food...whichever and whatever floats your boat, the list is endless. Considering the fact that weather conditions aren't always up to par (fairly gloomy at times), a city with a population of over 8 million must have a pretty extensive itinerary to fulfill a lifetime. Visitors tend to visit Piccadilly Circus and Knightsbridge, overlooking the less tourist-infused zones. So get yourself an Oyster card (a basic necessity) and wander around these exceptional areas of London.
1. Camden
Where peculiarity meets London classicism. If food experimentation is your 'thing'...Camden truly provides you with a broad spectrum of almost every cuisine you can possibly imagine. Especially the Camden Market; the most eccentric layout where nearly 100 different food booths cater to your food fantasies. Souvenir stores, book shops, and all the works...one store in particular stood out to me, Cyberdog; a glimpse into the psychedelic future, with neon outfits and Galaxy galore, you will have a ball just browsing through this offbeat two story shop.
2. Shoreditch
A near replica of New York's hipster-chic village, Shoreditch has a fairly alternative atmosphere with street art, small rustic stores, and a London punk rock vibe to fit the standards of any traveler. One cafe whose prominency in character really stuck with me was Lady Dinah's Cat Emporium, where (if you're a cat lover, of course) you're bombarded with kittens whilst having a cup of tea and some matcha cookies, a pleasant and soft dream of mine. Besides this odd cafe encounter, there are plenty of fascinating cafe's and restaurants to choose from.
3. Convent Garden
Shopping is an infinite adventure here, the most quaint and diverse area. I consider this place a colorful paradise, somewhat touristic but worth a look. One you step outside the Metro, you find yourself adjacent to the Convent Garden Market; this is not just ANY typical Market, crafty and famous for its health-crazed cafes, you can find almost everything from fruits and veggies to high end stores like Burberry and Chanel. The vicinity surrounding this Market is quite appealing especially due to its high popularity in street shows, enchanting architecture, and small English stores.
4. Regents Park
Regents Park is by far one of the most extraordinary parks I had the pleasure of getting lost in. With Regents University and the London Zoo both hidden inside, this Park has originality and history. Opened to the public in 1835, this park has royal and historic roots, by which Prince Regent was the original heir to such a masterpiece of 410 acres. Gardens, lakes, monuments, and a natural wildlife of Swans that fits the category of "real-life fairytale". Outside this park you find charming residences and stores, a real tourist pleaser if I must say.
5. Westminster
Being that Peter Pan is my all time favorite Disney animation, Big Ben was on the top of my London go-to's during this trip. Home to The Eye, Big Ben, The Buckingham Palace, and many more...Westminster is undoubtably a crowd-pleaser. Located in the center of London you have the ability to really venture off here due to its never ending sites and landmarks to see. Although this area is packed with tourists, the beauty is undeniable. Recommended that if you happen to come across The Eye (you can't miss it!), don't be scared to get that Panoramic view from the top.
Hope you enjoyed, tune in for my next post!