« When a man has had enough of London, he has had enough of life; for there is in London everything that life can bring. »
Samuel Johnson.
Hello Sexy,
Oh, take a moment to look at me. Can you move closer to the screen? Wow, you look exceptionally radiant today! Have you been following the basic rules for a healthy intestine and tried the Kefir recipe, my young Padawan? I suspected it, but don’t worry. It only enhances your already naturally charming and charismatic face.
Now that you feel as attractive as Hugh Grant in front of Julia Roberts in “Notting Hill,” or the other way around, let me show you some great shots of London. If you don’t already know, you can happily fantasize and plan your next visit. If you do know, you’ll be craving to go back and… plan your next visit!
In early January, I was on a business trip in London with a little free time in between—an impromptu mid-work trip as I like to call it.
When this happens, you don’t have much time to wander around, meet locals, and fully experience the culture and customs.
What do you mean I make tons of it? I act like I have gone on a road trip in the middle of the Amazon forest and landed in a Botocudos tribe. If you think so, you’ve never been to England. It’s obvious that you’ve never eaten mint jelly or baked beans. But no, I’m joking (except for the jelly); I love English people and their fabulous country!
So what do you do in London if you want to have a good time and don’t have much time?
Two words: Camden – Soho. The big cliché we said, and believe me, it will work great.
And you sleep close to St Pancras – King’s Cross for greater convenience. Let’s go.
Sleeping near St Pancras – King’s Cross.
If you have limited time, it’s best to choose a hotel close to this central point. Additionally, King’s Cross is a beautiful station that may remind you of the Harry Potter series, featuring Platform 9 ¾.
Staying near King’s Cross not only saves you travel time, but also reduces the stress of catching your train or flight. You’ll be as carefree as a rooster in dough, as they say in France.
As for hotels, we all have different budgets, so you can use Tripadvisor to find one that suits your preferences. Ultimately, it’s up to you. Enjoy your trip!
An afternoon in Camden and an evening in Soho…
If you have been to London and skipped Camden because you thought it was too far or too north, you missed out on the essence of London. The English are known for their reserve and manners, but beneath the formal exterior lies a playful spirit. They know how to live passionately and express themselves through art. In Camden, you experience all of this firsthand. You can soak in the vibrant atmosphere and then head to a pub to enjoy a pint and live music.
This is the true essence of the English – genuine, friendly, and free-spirited. They are open to expressing themselves in any way, even if it means wearing unconventional clothing. After all, who says happiness can’t be expressed by waking up one morning and wanting to wear a rainbow?
Camden Town.
The first time I went to Camden Town, I felt like I was in a Disneyland for punks or hippies, or both, or all three.
I almost expected to come across Mickey with black studded boots and flowers in his ears. Here, Cinderella doesn’t forget the time in her silver palace, but has fun with her friends in fluorescent sneakers with a beer in hand. Camden is like Buckingham Palace on acid, lol.
You are disoriented at first, but then you have fun, take beautiful photos, and bring back wonderful memories for your Aunt Jeannine. In half a day, you get the benefit of a week’s vacation.
When night falls, it falls faster than at home, because I remind you that English people are an hour late (France is sandwiched between people who are an hour late and others who make watches, and you’re surprised that I’m always in trouble, QED bro!).
Given the limited time, I suggest a unique experience – a play or musical in the vibrant district of Soho. It’s a perfect way to spend an evening after a pint at the local pub.
Earlier this year, I went to see the “Book of Mormon” by the creators of the cartoon “South Park.” Let me tell you, if you like my humor on this blog, you’ll love it. At the end of the performance, I looked like a happy Panda because my mascara had taken so much from laughing. So, of course, this play is American, you will have understood that it was imported. But that’s also the magic of London: I always dreamed of seeing this play and never had the opportunity to see it on Broadway or in London. They are lucky to have the most famous Broadway musicals at home. It was the opportunity of my day, but when it comes to English humor, there is also the embarrassment of choice. I advise you to look a little before your stay, to know what you want to see.
If you like walking, it’s also super nice to simply stroll around Soho, just like in Camden because you can also decide to stay in one of the many bars or restaurants that host musicians. Super cool atmosphere guaranteed.
Soho.
What do we eat?
If you are in Camden, you can go to Mildreds Camden, 9 Jamestown Rd (a vegetarian/vegan restaurant), or Andy’s, 23 Pratt St (a Greek restaurant that offers vegetarian and vegan dishes).
If you are in Soho, I enjoyed myself at the Deli Brasserie, 44 Fifth St (an Indian restaurant). Otherwise, you have Leon, 35 Great Marlborough St, a great vegan choice and super good.
– Otherwise, almost everywhere you have “Prêt à Manger” (yes, yes, in French, lol), it’s a chain, and frankly, it’s okay; it’s pretty good.
As a general rule, when you’re a vegan padawan in a city you don’t know and you’re unsure where to eat, remember this: go Indian or Lebanese. You’ll always find a decent vegan meal.
Do you still have half a day before you leave? You could go to a museum or do some shopping.
The Piccadilly Circus district (and yes, big cliche we said!) is perfect for a leisurely walk to window shop. Even if you’re not into shopping, the area is very pretty and pleasant to stroll around, and Carnaby Street is definitely worth a visit.
As someone who prefers museums, I’d recommend the British Museum. It’s located in a lovely neighborhood with nearby parks and beautiful architecture. It’s also surrounded by four metro stations, but I’d suggest walking along St Pancras Road to the British Museum because there are many lovely sights to see.
Regardless of your choice between the two, you can easily manage your time and be close to amenities for catching your plane or train. It’s important to keep in mind that London is quite large, and its metro system can also be extensive. So, even if you think you’re close, you might not be as near as you expect if your train is departing in just 2 hours.
British Museum area. And yes, the weather is nice in London.
If I still haven’t convinced you, just know that there is so much to do in London. If you have the budget, you can stay there for 3 weeks without getting bored for a single minute.
London eye, Big ben, Buckingham Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral, Trafalgar square, Tower of London, Palace of Westminster, Carnaby street, Mayfair, Abbey Road, Brick Lane, Portobello road, Borough Market, Covent garden, Leicester square, Chinatown, St James Park and so many more parks, a gaggle of museums, absolutely magnificent districts like Notting Hill of course but so many others, in short I would have to write you an article per district of London to give you a summary and it wouldn’t even be not exhaustive.
In short, London is an amazing city with lots to see and do. So, be prepared to set aside some money for your trip because London has a unique charm that leaves its visitors amazed and happy.
XO. 🇬🇧
PS: Sorry to take you for an idiot, but for your safety, my little padawan, stupid thing, eh: when you cross, you must first look to the right, because remember that the English drive on the left. So.
It may seem like a humorous anecdote, but I once witnessed a French couple narrowly avoiding a collision with a taxi while crossing the street. So, when in doubt, remember this advice. It’s not just a matter of amusement; it’s about avoiding a potential accident that could have serious consequences.
Telephone box in Westminster. Big cliché we said. Still, you’re glad to know that they kept some for the tourists’ photos…