London Unveiled: A Captivating 5-Day Travel Journal
Hello, fellow adventurers! I’m thrilled to share the first installment of our unforgettable European journey. While I don’t have a new recipe for you today, prepare to feast your eyes on a vibrant collection of photographs and stories from our recent five-day escapade in the magnificent city of London. My husband and I spent two incredible weeks exploring Europe this past February, and London was undoubtedly one of the brightest highlights.
This post kicks off a three-part travel photo journal series. Today, we’re diving deep into the grandeur and charm of London. Next Friday, I’ll transport you to the romantic streets of Paris – a post you absolutely won’t want to miss! Be sure to mark your calendars and return for more European magic.
Without further ado, let’s journey into the heart of London!
The Enduring Lure of London: A Childhood Dream Realized
London has occupied a coveted spot on my bucket list for as long as I can remember – long before the term “bucket list” even entered my vocabulary. I must have been around ten years old when my mom’s friend returned from a trip to the British capital, presenting my mom with a fascinating photo. It featured her sitting confidently in one of London’s iconic red double-decker buses, exuding an undeniable coolness. From that moment, the image of London, with its distinctive red buses, was etched into my young mind, sparking a lifelong dream.
Beyond that initial spark, my fascination with London was further fueled by my English education. All my textbooks taught British English, immersing me in a different lexicon and spelling. I diligently learned “trousers” instead of “pants,” “autumn” instead of “fall,” and “aubergine” instead of “eggplant.” I practiced spelling “theatre” and “centre,” embracing the subtleties of British spelling. My sister even playfully teased me about my “funny” pronunciation of “can’t,” a subtle nod to the British accent I unknowingly adopted. Furthermore, these textbooks were brimming with images and descriptions of major London attractions: Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, London Bridge, and countless others. It’s no surprise, then, that I harbored such an intense desire to visit this extraordinary city.
We dedicated five glorious days to exploring London, soaking in every detail this magnificent, fast-paced metropolis had to offer. Each day brought new discoveries, unforgettable moments, and a deeper appreciation for its rich history and vibrant contemporary culture.
Our London Adventure: A Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Easing into the Capital’s Embrace
After a long transatlantic flight, our first day was dedicated to recuperation. Overcoming jet lag was our primary goal, so we opted for a gentle introduction to the city rather than rushing into sightseeing. We checked into our comfortable hotel, the Novotel London City South, which proved to be an excellent choice thanks to its fantastic location, friendly service, and impeccably clean rooms. It offered a perfect base for our explorations, being conveniently situated near many key attractions.
We enjoyed a leisurely stroll in the downtown area surrounding our hotel, simply breathing in the London air and observing the bustling city life. Our wanderings led us to Cafe Nero, a ubiquitous coffee shop chain akin to Starbucks. We savored warm drinks and, to my absolute delight, discovered an amazing caramel shortbread bar that offered the perfect sweet treat to combat the travel fatigue. It was a simple yet perfect start to our London adventure, allowing us to acclimate to the new time zone and prepare for the excitement ahead.
Day 2: Notting Hill’s Hues and Borough Market’s Flavors
Our second day began with a culinary exploration at Borough Market, one of London’s most famous and vibrant food markets. We were on a mission to find a unique breakfast experience and stumbled upon Arabica Bar & Kitchen, a gem offering exquisite Lebanese cuisine. The cozy atmosphere, combined with the incredibly friendly service, immediately put us at ease.
My husband, Garrat, ordered the “Arabica fry up,” a delightful dish featuring two eggs, grilled spicy beef sujuk, mushrooms, and mini flatbreads. It was incredibly flavorful and satisfying. I opted for the “Za’atr Man’ousheh,” scrambled eggs with mushrooms served on a Lebanese flatbread, which was equally, if not more, delicious. This breakfast was a truly memorable start to our day, setting a high standard for the meals to come.
Energized and satisfied, we then headed straight to the famous Notting Hill district. We plunged into the lively atmosphere of Portobello Road Market, walking alongside thousands of fellow tourists. The street was a vibrant tapestry of colors and sounds, with countless antique shops, quirky boutiques, and food stalls. We spent time browsing the unique treasures and soaking in the bohemian vibe. Afterward, we wandered off the main thoroughfare into the peaceful, quiet residential streets, marveling at the iconic pastel-colored houses that give Notting Hill its postcard-perfect charm. It felt like stepping into a movie set, utterly enchanting.
Before heading back to our hotel, we found a charming spot for a late lunch, where we relaxed with a warm cup of cappuccino, reflecting on the morning’s vibrant discoveries.
For dinner, we returned to the bustling Borough Market, conveniently just a five-minute walk from our hotel. After a pleasant wander, we decided on a restaurant called Fish! And what a winning choice it was! The interior was clean and modern, the service was impeccable, and the seafood menu was incredibly impressive. Both of us couldn’t resist ordering the same dish: a whole grilled lobster served with chips (as fries are known in the UK). Words truly can’t describe the sheer delight; my face in the photos says it all – pure bliss!
Later that evening, we rendezvoused with my high school friend, Sola, now a talented designer living in London. We met for drinks in the lively Piccadilly Circus area, catching up and sharing stories amidst the dazzling lights and vibrant energy of the West End. It was a wonderful way to cap off an already perfect day.
Day 3: Iconic Landmarks and a Sunset Spectacle
Day three was a full immersion into London’s most iconic sights, blessed with a gorgeous sunny day perfect for sightseeing. We began our architectural journey at the magnificent Tower Bridge, an engineering marvel that majestically spans the River Thames. Walking across its historic structure, we admired its intricate Victorian Gothic design and the sweeping views of the river and the city skyline.
From the bridge, we ventured to the ancient Tower of London, a historic castle steeped in centuries of royal intrigue and dramatic events. Inside, we were captivated by the sheer opulence of the Crown Jewels, an awe-inspiring collection of royal regalia featuring some of the world’s most famous diamonds. Photography isn’t permitted inside, so you’ll truly have to experience their dazzling splendor for yourself! The surrounding grounds of the Tower were equally delightful, offering a peaceful, relaxing green space. Despite the urge to simply lie on the lawn and take a nap, the city’s countless other attractions beckoned, urging us onward.
Our next destination required a ride on the famous London Underground, affectionately known as the “Tube.” Our plan was to visit Big Ben and the London Eye. After carefully studying the Tube map, we decided Victoria station would be our best bet. Oh, how wrong we were! Our navigational misstep led to an extra two miles of walking, but in hindsight, it was a fortunate detour. Along the way, we stumbled upon classic red phone booths, an iconic symbol of London. Naturally, we had to capture the moment. That’s my wonderful husband, Garrat, saying “Hi!” from inside one of them.
By the time we reached the London Eye, it was approximately an hour before sunset – absolutely perfect timing. The “magic hour” is truly the best for photography, bathing everything in a soft, golden glow. Although we hadn’t pre-booked tickets, the queue moved surprisingly fast, and we were boarding our capsule in no time. The experience was everything I could have wished for and more. From one of London’s highest points, we witnessed the most magical sunset, painting the sky with an array of breathtaking colors. The panoramic views of the city, with Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament bathed in the dying light, were simply unforgettable.
The 360-degree view of London from the London Eye was absolutely breathtaking, offering a unique perspective of the city’s vastness and beauty. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the city lights began to twinkle, transforming the landscape into a dazzling display.
It was a truly great day, filled with iconic sights and a magical sunset experience that will forever be etched in our memories.
Day 4: Shopping, Palaces, and Quintessential Afternoon Tea
Our fourth day began with a little retail therapy. We visited One New Change Mall, which was conveniently located not too far from our hotel. Beyond its excellent selection of shops, this modern shopping center held a delightful surprise: a stunning, unobstructed view of St. Paul’s Cathedral. The rooftop terrace offered a serene escape, providing panoramic vistas of the historic cathedral and the surrounding city – a truly peaceful moment amidst the urban bustle.
The rooftop views were simply serene, a perfect spot to pause and appreciate London’s architectural grandeur.
After some invigorating shopping, we made our way to Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the Queen. We admired its grand facade and the impressive gates before taking a leisurely walk through the vast and beautiful Hyde Park. The expansive green spaces offered a tranquil contrast to the city’s energy. Our stroll through the park led us to the elegant Burlington Arcade Shopping Center, a historic covered shopping street brimming with luxury boutiques. My primary mission here was to get my macaron fix from Ladurée, the renowned Parisian patisserie, whose exquisite treats I adore.
From there, we continued our leisurely walk to the iconic Trafalgar Square, admiring Nelson’s Column and the majestic lion statues. Our final destination for this leg of the journey was Covent Garden, where we had a special reservation for an authentic Afternoon Tea.
Being in London, experiencing a traditional Afternoon Tea was an absolute must! We indulged in the Thames Foyer Afternoon Tea at The Savoy, a place synonymous with beauty, elegance, and extraordinary service. The ambiance was truly enchanting, with live piano music softly playing in the background. We savored incredibly light and fluffy English scones – quite possibly the best I’ve ever tasted – accompanied by clotted cream and jam, alongside an assortment of delicate tea sandwiches. It was a truly refined and quintessential British experience.
For the fourth course, I delighted in an assortment of mini pastries, each a tiny work of art. My husband, having selected the “High Tea” option, enjoyed a more substantial offering of smoked salmon with an egg on toast, which, despite its simple description, looked absolutely delicious and was presented beautifully.
After nearly two hours of continuous feasting, a walk back to the hotel was much needed. As fate would have it, we were once again treated to a stunning sunset, this time unfolding over the serene River Thames. The sky was ablaze with fiery colors, casting a magical glow over the city.
And as night fully descended, the illuminated St. Paul’s Cathedral, perfectly framed by the Southwark Bridge, presented a truly beautiful and captivating sight, didn’t it?
Day 5: Culinary Exploration and City Panoramas
By our fifth day, it had become a delightful ritual to grab a quick breakfast at Pret a Manger, a popular fast-food chain throughout the UK. Unlike conventional fast-food establishments, Pret a Manger truly stood out for its commitment to natural, freshly prepared, and remarkably healthy food. I was particularly hooked on their fresh juices and smoothies, which provided a perfect, revitalizing start to each busy day of sightseeing.
After breakfast, we found ourselves casually walking around Borough Market for what must have been the fifth time! This place is undeniably a foodie’s dream, a vibrant tapestry of culinary delights. You can discover anything and everything here: from freshly baked artisanal bread and an incredible variety of cheeses to thousands of mushroom varieties and a wide selection of fresh seafood. The market is a sensory overload in the best possible way, bustling with vendors and visitors, offering samples, and creating an infectious atmosphere of gastronomic adventure.
During our final visit, we couldn’t resist sniffing a jar full of rich, earthy truffles and even tasted a sliver. The flavor was subtly funky yet irresistibly delicious, a truly unique experience!
Our last major attraction for the trip was The View from The Shard, London’s tallest building. We planned our visit perfectly, arriving about half an hour before sunset. This allowed us to experience both the daylight views, the magical transition as the sun dipped below the horizon, and the breathtaking night view of London illuminated beneath us. From this incredible vantage point, the city sprawled out in every direction, a glittering expanse that was, as expected, nothing short of spectacular.
That same evening, we ventured into London’s vibrant Chinatown for dinner. The area was a dazzling maze of thousands of amazing eateries, each tempting us with incredible aromas and colorful storefronts. After much deliberation, we settled on Leong’s Legends, a highly-rated Taiwanese restaurant. We got our much-desired dim sum fix, savoring their delicious and authentic dishes, a perfect end to our culinary explorations.
A Love Affair with London’s Oysters: A Special Culinary Highlight
Are you still with me? Kudos to you for sticking around! I’m almost done, but I couldn’t conclude this London journey without mentioning one particular culinary obsession we indulged in more than anything else: oysters! One memorable evening, we had dinner at Wright Brothers Oyster and Porter House, an award-winning oyster establishment nestled within Borough Market. They boasted an unparalleled selection of oysters sourced from all over the world. It was an absolute treat, a true connoisseur’s delight, savoring the fresh, briny flavors of each unique oyster. It was a highlight we still talk about!
Farewell, London (For Now!): Memories to Last a Lifetime
London, we truly love you! Our five days in this dynamic city were nothing short of spectacular. From the historic grandeur of its landmarks to the vibrant energy of its markets, and the exquisite flavors of its culinary scene, London offered an experience that exceeded all our expectations. Every corner turned revealed a new facet of its charm, leaving us with a collection of cherished memories and a strong desire to return.
That’s it for our London travel journal! Stay tuned for next Friday when we’ll unveil the romantic beauty of PARIS! Get ready for another visual feast and an entirely different kind of European enchantment.