Londontown.
London was the first international destination (besides Mexico) that I traveled to when I was 15 years old. Now 15 years later, I’m finally back! To be honest, I don’t remember particularly liking London all that much when I was younger; but I must admit, I’m in love now!
After three and a half months in South America, we were exhausted and ready for some down-time. We took a break from traveling and stopped to live for a bit. I’m completely in love with London and could see myself living here some day (or today!). The people are friendly and polite, the city is beautiful, historic, manageable — The tube is so great and easy. I could go on and on about how amazing London is. Here are just a few things we did as tourists (and locals) throughout our 10 days in London Town:
Living as a Local.
Sunday Markets at Brick Lane.
Played “Touch” (Rugby) at Regents Park… AND WON! Token Americans and a bunch of Aussies playing in London 🙂 Love it! 
After work drinks at Sushi Samba with our favorite Aussies and best London hosts! And the view didn’t suck either.
Afternoon walk around Hyde Park
Exploring like a Tourist.
“Walkie Talkie” building and lunch at Darwin at the Sky Garden
Borough Markets – Perfect for lunch!
London Bridge. Typically mistaken as the more beautiful London Tower Bridge (See Below).
St. Paul’s Cathedral – This is where Prince Charles and Princess Diana were married
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And a HUGE shout out to Michael celebrating his 30th birthday with a bunch of Aussies in London dressed as Astronauts for the Space theme Sevens Rugby Tournament! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, LOVE! — Oh yeah, and the U.S. team won!! Bonus!
2015 Bucket List Complete:
- Picture with my Big Buddy Ben
- See Phantom of the Opera
- Play rugby
- Attend a themed party
- Drink English Breakfast tea in England
Next Time:
- Take the classic Beatles picture on Abbey Road
Pro:
- You can drink the tap water – Such a nice change from South America!
- Drink alcohol on the streets
- Public transportation is so easy – The biggest difference from the U.S. (at least the West Coast) is that everyone uses public transportation, not just people that can’t afford a car. It’s fun being in the middle of all the action.
- Fun, active, lively city with so much to do every day/night
Con:
- Expensive!!
- Some bars close at midnight – Which could be a pro sometimes too 🙂
Tips:
- Go to the Natural History Museum in the morning before the crowds and the kids
- Easy Jet is super cheap to fly, but they get you with baggage fees so just carry-on if you can, and you’re only allowed one carry-on per person
- If flying from London to other destinations, keep in mind that Stansted Airport is far outside of London and the security is intense! Bring your own liquids bag or be prepared to pay for one.
Fun Fact:
- I’m not ashamed to admit that I definitely hummed Mary Poppins tunes all week 🙂
- Crabbies is a delicious alcoholic ginger beer, very refreshing and perfect for summer
- Brits love theme parties
- I’m obsessed with the yellow flowers in the country. I don’t know what they are, but they’re so tall, so thick and so neon yellow!