London, I always look forward to seeing you again.
(Please note, that I have included links to affiliates that I know and love. I am a big fan of Viator, and have used them around the world. I highly recommend them for London.)
I first met London over 20 years ago. It was love at first sight. The city is a blend of old and new, always evolving. It is classy, daring, energetic, historic, a melting pot, and a gateway to the world. My first trips to London were layovers and gave me a taste of what the city had to offer. I then started visiting London as a tourist and spending more and more time there. London became that exciting friend that you can’t get enough of and that you long to see when you are not together. I try to visit London at least once a year, and each time I discover something new, even if it is something old that was just waiting to be discovered. I would like to share with you a few of my favorite things, London style.
It is very easy to get around in London. You will most likely fly into the more convenient London Heathrow Airport. Gatwick Airport is further from the city center and not as easy to get into the city quickly. I normally take the Heathrow Express train into the city. You can purchase your tickets through Viator. I suggest purchasing your ticket in advance and adding it to your Apple Wallet or other smart device. The first Heathrow Express train leaves Heathrow at 5:12 am and the last train departs at 11:27 pm. The trains run every 15 minutes. The journey is only 15 minutes and will take you to Paddington Station. You may be able to walk from Paddington to your hotel or once you arrive Paddington you can take a connecting train. Also, it will give you a chance to locate Paddington Bear within the station. It is the quickest and most reliable service to the center of London.
Once I am checked into my hotel, I like to jump on the Big Bus tour. The tour allows you to sit back and take in the city. It is a great way to get your bearings and get things mapped out. I have probably experienced the tour over ten times, and I never tire of the tour.
The hop-on spots are convenient and most likely one will be near your hotel. I suggest purchasing your tickets through Viator (Viator is one of my partners and by purchasing through the link, provides me with the resources to grow Global Gal.) It is easy and convenient. I also suggest purchasing the 48-hour tickets that includes the river cruise for approximately $63 compared to the 24-hour ticket for approximately $52. It is a great way to experience London, and you can hop on and off as much as you like.
Two of my favorite things in London are the shopping and the food. My last trip to London was in late October. October is a perfect time to visit as the weather is wonderful and the preparation for the holiday season is underway. I always make a trip to Harrods. The Fresh Market Hall is in my opinion the best food hall in the world. On a trip to South Africa, I became addicted to Biltong. It is like beef jerky but has fewer additives and is tender. The food hall has the best! I like to pick it up and have it as a little snack on the bus tour. Harrods also has a nice tribute to the late Princess Diana and Dodi Fayed which is worth seeing. If you purchased your Big Bus pass, you can take the Blue Line to the Harrods stop.
Another must on your shopping list needs to be Fortnum & Mason. They are known for their hampers. What is a hamper you may ask? It is basically a basket with beautiful and yummy treats. Check out the video for a nice history on the hamper History of the Hamper . It is a must-visit any time of the year, but it is especially lovely starting in October when they have their Christmas selections. I began a tradition about 10 years ago where I collect Christmas Ornaments from my travels, and they have some of the best. You will be amazed by the selection of teas and treats, and you are sure to find something you love. My favorite thing on my last visit was the Pecan & Ginger Biscuits and I think I will order them once I finish this post. They are so good for the fall and the holidays. If you have your Big Bus pass you can take the blue line to either the Regent Street stop or the Piccadilly Circus stop.
Another food destination that I love to visit is Borough Market. The Market has a rich and long history. The market’s history goes back to at least the 12th century and has been in the same spot since 1756. The market has a selection of global and local treats. I really enjoyed the traditional fish and chips from Fish! and the Samosas from Gujarati Rasoi. I also picked up some spices while at the market. It is a great place to come for lunch and it is open every day except Monday. Borough Market is near London Bridge, so if you have purchased your Big Bus pass, you can take it to the London Bridge stop on the Blue Line.
I know a lot of us love Charlotte Tilbury, one makeup artists to the stars. She has her Charlotte Tilbury Flagship Store in Covent Garden. I visited the store for the first time last year. If you have used her products or would like to, I highly recommend the visit. You can schedule an hour with your own personal makeup artist. The cost of the consultation can be refunded towards your purchase. My friend came along with me, and we both were offered complimentary Prosecco. It was a very enjoyable experience and a must for makeup lovers. You can take the Big Bus green line to the Covent Garden stop.
I have so much love and passion for London. Writing this blog has made me miss London and want to plan my next visit. I want to share more with you in future blogs, but just wanted to share a few of my favorite things and tips. Just let me know if you need any suggestions or anything you would like to know about your trip to London. Stay tuned for more on London to come…….