Mom & I had two half days in London with all of our travel surrounding our time there. It was a taste of what I assume will become my favorite city if I get the chance to go back. I felt pretty much totally safe here unlike some other cities abroad I’ve visited. Easy to navigate, great food, seriously amazing architecture, whats not to love? Throughout the post I’ll share one of my tips and things I wish I would have known. Enjoy!

 

The Tower of London, so super cool especially for a history lover like me. Lets not forget about crown jewels either, sparkle heaven. Totally could have spent all day here but the time our flight got in and we made our way over we only had an hour and a half. (tears) 

Tower Bridge

Westminster Abbey

Sketch

SO DANG FABULOUS. I feel like I’ve never actually experienced the true meaning of delight until this afternoon tea. This is a very girly/artsy thing, so take someone who will appreciate it. Make an early reservation so you can see the place before it gets busy. Don’t miss the bathrooms either, the two we saw are so cool. The whole experience is worth every penny. Definitely don’t eat breakfast beforehand because you’re going to be leaving stuffed. We spent two hours and it was perfect. There are more equally awesome looking rooms you can try out if the Parlor is booked too.

The Natural History Museum. You can pay to store your luggage here. This is worth a stop for the architecture alone.

and some random iPhone photos…

left to right:

Farm Girl Cafe which had delicious and healthy options

Dishoom restaurant where I had best Indian food I’ve had in my life. The live band and old Bombay Style decor was so cool.

The Tower. Totally fascinated by the Tudors so this was a treat.

V&A museum, which is the first museum ever to have a restaurant in it!

Notting Hill

Tower Bridge selfies

adorable store fronts in Kensington

Kensington Palace Gardens

walking Piccadilly Circus

Sketch

 

TIPS:

• Like I said before, I felt really safe but watch your pockets and bags for pickpockets on the tube and in crowed places. I wouldn’t have felt like I needed to be super aware of this but a British woman on our plane gave us a heads up so we were aware.
• I preferred Google Maps over my iPhone for transit and walking directions. The public transit can seem daunting but it was easy enough for me to figure out so I’m sure with a smart phone anyone can get around.
• Some places like Sketch won’t let you bring luggage inside, so if you’re arriving make sure you stop at your hotel or pay to have it stored at a museum etc.
• Carry a bag that won’t annoy you, mom had a big tote that was hurting her shoulder. I was happy with my small backpack because I could have my hands free to take photos and look at directions.