So we’ve booked our flights to Bali and we’re in the midst of finalising our trip’s itinerary. We’re planning to head to Europe for a few months before probably relocating to Central America – exciting! We’ll literally be traveling across the world. While we’re in Europe, I really want to revisit London although I’ve been there a few times before. I have a lot of friends living in London, both New Zealanders living overseas and also friends I met across the globe traveling. It will be my partner, Ben’s, first trip to Europe so of course London is a key destination.
When we head back to London, this is what we’re planning to get up to:
People Watching in Hyde Park:
Unfortunately when I was in London last time the weather was pretty miserable, which apparently is quite normal, so I did a quick dash through Hyde park and admired it in a bit of a rush. I’ve seen photos of Hyde Park on a summer’s day and it looks so lovely. I think it’d be really fun to grab a picnic, pop down on a nice patch of grass and people watch. The next time I’m in London, I’m hoping to stay in a hotel close to Hyde Park, because I love the feel of the area.
Tate Modern:
New Zealand is seriously lacking in good museums and galleries – sorry to be frank – so for us kiwis traveling to London is a real treat. Tate Modern was highly recommended to me by numerous friends who live in London, but I simply ran out of time and didn’t make it here. One thing that I really love about many of the museums and galleries in London is that they are free – perfect for the budget traveller who’s trying to keep costs down.
Going on the London Eye:
I know this is so touristy and cliche, but I think the view would be unbeatable. Last time I was in London I was literally living penny to penny so skipped a lot of the touristy things I figured I could do next time. Fortunately, the flight I took out of London provided me with a pretty incredible view of many of the famous landmarks, but I think it’d be very special enjoying London from the London Eye – also a little bit romantic.
Visit More Markets:
London has a wonderful reputation for excellent food markets as well as high quality second hand clothing stores. I visited the Borough Market which I really enjoyed – there were so many delicious things to sample, but I feel I missed out on so many. I’ve heard so many great things about Camden’s market that I am determined to go on my next visit. The vintage shopper in me also has her eyes on Alfies Antique Market. I love the feel of visiting the markets in a new city, I think it’s a great way to really experience the culture of the city and to find some great bargains, too.
London is such a diverse and interesting city that has a lot to offer. Choosing what to do when you’re only there for a few days can feel really restrictive, but I think it’s good to make a shortlist so you can pack in as much as possible.
Do you have any suggestions of places I must see in London? Let me know!
