Jolly London…a city of approximately 8.7 million with centuries of history, and where medieval meets modern around every turn. I had the pleasure of a whirlwind 2 days in London in November, and by whirlwind, I do mean whirlwind! Walking 20km per day, leaving no area unexplored. This is a city of juxtaposition where you can be in a 300 year old pub enjoying a pint one minute, and then at the top of the 4th tallest building in Europe enjoying a cocktail the next.
Before going to London, I highly recommend doing your research. There truly is a lot to see, and something for every taste. For this trip, I actually wanted to shy away from the main touristic sites, and get a feel for the local side of London. Explore the neighbourhoods, taste the market fare and find the best cocktail bar in the city. Alright…and I also might have gone to Harrods…but its London! That is a definite must-do. London really needs at least 4-5 days to properly explore, however I want to give you the highlights of my trip and perhaps dispel some myths about this city.
London is a city that goes to bed EARLY! Yes, there are some places where you can stay up late and party, but for the most part, the pub will be closing at 10pm (yes, even on the weekends), or 11pm if you are really lucky. Also, it is tough to find late night food in some areas, so do plan to eat dinner early and end your night early. I spoke to a lovely chap in a classic London pub who informed me that the reason most establishments close early is that the locals actually start drinking right after work, and so by 10pm everyone is quite sloshed, and staying open later just encourages bad behaviour and fighting. Time to go home to bed people!
London is full of amazing cocktail bars! Honestly, I had my best cocktail in Europe here. They are clever, inventive, believe in botany in their cocktail game and really pride themselves on providing an amazing experience. My list of amazing cocktail bars in order of simply amazing to very delicious:
Iris Bar – Gherkin – Not only do you get a 360 degree rooftop panorama view of London, their cocktail game is ON POINT! Honestly best cocktail of my life. I highly recommend making reservations at least a month in advance to get the time you want. Also…amazing photo ops. This a MUST DO when in London. Here is a link: https://searcysatthegherkin.co.uk/iris-bar/
Mr. Fogg’s House of Botanicals – inventive, strange ingredients and a very Alice in Wonderland feeling space. Lots of locals, great vibe and truly creative cocktails. Here is a link: https://www.mr-foggs.com/house-of-botanicals/
Roka Shochu Lounge – Tucked downstairs from the classy sushi restaurant, this is where people come to see and be seen. Classy vibe, inventive cocktails and a modern art forward room make this an amazing London gem. Here is a link: https://www.rokarestaurant.com/restaurant/shochu-lounge/
Gong Bar – The Shard – Of course I must include The Shard on my list! 4th tallest building in Europe, tallest building London. The views from here are spectacular. Lovely views of the Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Big Ben and a host of other sites. The champagne was on point, however it is pricey here, but then again, you are paying for the view. Not to be missed! Here is a link: https://www.the-shard.com/restaurants/gong/
Ethnic food here is simply amazing. My first night I went to this hole-in-the-wall Palestinian place (Shake Shuka) that turned out to be one of the tastiest (and most affordable!) meals on my trip. Its worth it to stop into the small local restaurants and see what they have to offer. They might just surprise you… Also had the best Indian food of my life! If you have not been to Dishoom, you must go! The lineup for this place is easily 2 hours and they don’t take reservations, so get your name on the list and go have a drink somewhere. The butter chicken is to die for. I’m still craving it! I actually managed to avoid the line by finding the Shoreditch location around 10:45pm at night (after searching in vain for somewhere to get late night eats). No line, and they were still happy to serve me late night. There is also a location in Covent Garden, which is a classier neighbourhood but will be busier.
** Also if you are looking for an over-the-top pizza experience, you absolutely must go to Home Slice in Neals Yard, near the Covent Garden area of London. Large pizzas with an original selection of toppings and a whole pizza that barely fits on your table!
Just get out and explore! London has a lot to see. There is a great outdoor market near the Tower of London called Borough Market. Grab a salami, some bread and cheese and wander the city. If you’re an avid walker, you can get to most sites on foot, or feel free to take the tube, which is very convenient and gets you everywhere. Make sure to get an Oyster card though, as it provides the best value and convenience for subway riding.
One of my favourite neighbourhoods was Covent Garden. Beautiful streets, quaint restaurants and lovely little shops. Very central. I stayed in the Marylebone area of London, which is the higher end, prestigious neighbourhood. More quite and residential feeling, so you know you will get a good night sleep! Yet still close to Oxford and Piccadilly so there is a lot to do within a short walking distance.
Hotels, hotels, hotels….which one to pick? As a travel agent, I personally stay with the hotel partners I trust to provide the best value and service, as well as being centrally located. My personal picks for London are as follows:
Dorset Square – located on a quiet tree-lined street, this boutique hotel feels like you have gone to visit a very rich relative and are staying in their house. Very British, homey feel with a very cute bar that provides delicious cocktails and a private ambiance for a romantic dinner. A lovely place to start your evening. Also found the bathroom to be one of the best of the hotels I stayed at in London, with a perfect shower! Not exactly in the thick of the action, but close to the Baker St. tube station and very well priced. Great value for money.
Prince Akatoki London – steps from Oxford street, but still located on a quiet residential street, this 5 star luxury property balances luxury with an exotic feeling of Asia. I definitely recommend a suite as they are very large, have private balconies and amazing bathrooms. A lot of space and very relaxing. Understated luxury in an amazing location.
The Savoy, London – Quinessential London luxury, this Fairmont is perfect located in the lovely Covent Garden area of London. Iconic, British style, complete with high tea service and home to the American Bar, named the World’s Best Bar in 2018. How can you forego that level of prestige??
London is unforgettable. And you should see the best of it!! As a travel agent, I am happy to work with you to create an amazing London vacation. I have relationships with some of the best hotels in this city, and if you work with me to book a room, I am usually able to extend exclusive amenities like food and beverage credits, room upgrades, complimentary inclusions and other enticing perks. I also work with a number of reputable tour operators who can help you see the city from a local perspective and grant you exclusive access into the best historical sites, complete with unique experiences.
Contact me today to get started planning!
