London, United Kingdom

You know, I definitely see why people love London and are always wanting to go back. It’s such a vibrant city. Everything from the buildings to people has me hooked.

My top 5:

  • The Big Ben Tower. This is the nick name for the Great Bell. It’s one of the most popular tourist destinations but I truly enjoy seeing this every time I am there.

  • Buckingham Palace. Where the queen herself resides. I thought this was a for sure must see. I always hear about the Royal Family via news outlets and etc, but being in front of history like I was standing here blew my mind. A lot of people taking photos, naturally, but a wonderful experience nonetheless.

  • The Globe Theatre. Not the actual Globe Theatre that was built in 1599. A fire broke out around 1613 that burnt it to the ground. Since then, they have rebuilt and relocated but it’s still cool to see. I love William Shakespeare and think his work is the most beautiful so for all you acting buffs out there, or just people who appreciate the fine arts, this is the place to go!

  • Tower of London. A castle located in the north bank of the River Thames in central London. So gorgeous. I feel I keep using these words to describe everything but i’m serious. Everything overseas is stunning to me.

  • Shop on Oxford St. Not much else to say except if you love to shop, this is where you should go. Whether you want to blow your bank account or get a few small items, you’ll be sure to find something here. So lively and full of people. I went during winter so there were still Christmas lights up and wonderful holiday smells in the air.

Other places to check out:

  • Soho district

  • London Tower

  • Go to a SOHO House (If you know anyone who is a member OR if you are a member). There’s a few you can choose from.

  • Hyde Park

  • Tower Bridge

  • St. Paul’s Cathedral

  • Camden

  • Palace of Westminister

  • Shop around Neal’s Yard in Covent Garden

  • The Apple Market in Covent Garden

  • Day trip to Windsor Castle

  • Columbia Road Flower Market (Sundays)

  • Greenwich Market

  • Cutty Sark

  • Thrift shop in Brick Lane Market

  • Day trip to Brighton - Visit the Pier

  • Spend a day in Hampstead Heath and walk around the park (Hi Harry Styles ;)

  • Visit the financial district of London aka Canary Wharf

    Food:

  • Sexy Fish - Japanese. The black cod is delicious!

  • Harry’s - Fairly priced. Love the outdoor seating! Italian food

  • MNKY HSE - Latin American Food

  • Alchemist - I love their cocktail menu!

  • Ivy Asia - The interior is GORGEOUS. They serve different types of Asian food

  • Greggs- A staple spot to go to when in the UK. Cheap pastries. Perfect when you’re on the go. My favorite is the Chicken Bake.

  • Gauchos - Argentinian

  • Ekachai - Thai

  • Dishoom - Bombay food

  • Sticks n Sushi

  • Alma Cafe

  • Workshop Coffee Lab (In Brighton)

  • Captains Fish and Chips (In Brighton)

  • Gail’s (Yummy Bakery)

  • Fiddler’s Elbow (Bar - Live Music)

  • Upstairs at the Department Store (Members only)

  • Have tea at the Corinthia Hotel London

  • Nandos (Obviously)

  • Aroma Bakery (Fried Honey bread is DELICIOUS)

  • Silverberry

  • Sketch for dinner (although expensive, it’s great food- very nice interior as well!)

  • Black Cat - (Vegan - DELICIOUS)

  • The Prince of Greenwich - Cute pub with great food!

  • Royal Teas - Best breakfast burrito. I really love this spot for Brunch.

Honestly, the list can go on. There is so much to see and so many things to indulge in, but I feel like this is good starting point.

Danielle Giordano