Exploring London
A month ago, we spent two weeks in the UK. Half of our time was in London, and the other half was spent exploring Wales. Reflecting on our time, we want to pass along some killer places to eat, drink, and explore that we discovered during our stay. This list includes things we personally experienced in London so we can truthfully speak to their greatness!
Paying for our flat
Places to Eat/Drink in London:
We like to eat...so if you do too, maybe there is something in here that you will like
Boa - Which obviously serves Chinese boa (steamed bun stuffed with something fun). There will undoubtably be a line…it doesn’t matter, you are going to stand in that line and it is going to be worth it. Order ANYTHING, its all amazing. Promise.
Adult Beverages from Callooh Callay
Callooh Callay - Located in Shoreditch, it is one of the top mixed drink bars...since forever apparently! (that's not just me saying that, they have actually won Best Drink Menu in the World). Upon arrival, you receive a sweet sticker book/drink passport & a sticker for each drink you order, dangerous/delicious? I think yes! The bathroom is a sweet surprise; of which I will not spoil.
The London Gin Club - The environment is off the charts. Treat yo' self to one of the gin tastings with pairings, you will fall in love with gin. Avoid if you don’t want to fall in love with gin…but who doesn’t want to fall in love with gin?!
The Shard - DRINKS! (avoid if you are not cool with heights)
Gong is the top floor bar: Has the highest view of London. There is a ₤30 minimum per person on drink orders, also a 1.5 hr max stay. Dress code is fly (aka look as sharp as the Shard itself).
Hutong Bar located on the 33rd floor: Next highest view of London. There are no minimums on time spent at the bar or on orders. Drinks are yummy, mega moody lighting comes free of charge. Dress code is fresh. There are even better views from the bathroom.
Places to Visit/Explore in London:
London has a few pretty things to look at, here are a few
Inside the walls of The Tower of London
Tower of London - Increadible place to start your journey through London. It will give you a crash course on the historical timeline of London, seems like just about everything happened there. Home to the Crown Jewels. Take the tour from the Beefeater, they are hilarious and you will learn a thing or two.
Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace - Marching, music, hoarse, pomp and circumstance. A long standing tradition for a good reason. Check it.
Westminster's Stained Glass
Westminster Abbey - The audio tour is free with your admittance. The final resting place for past King’s and Queen’s and home to some of the most amazing architectural achievements in the western world. The Abby is awe inducing and still a fully functional Catholic Cathedral complete with daily prayers sprinkled through out the day.
River Walk - If you have time to do one thing, this is it! Excersize meets touring. The multi-mile walk takes you past sights such as Westminster Bridge, London Eye, Tate Modern, Shakespeare's Globe, Millennium Bridge, and St Paul's Cathedral. Wear comfortable shoes (see below).
Comfortable shoes
Tate Modern - If you are into Modern Art, this is a great free museum with an impressive permanent collection. Paid entry for special exhibitions. Top floor has a great view of the river and the rest of London.
Our take aways from London:
We could totally see ourselves in living in London sometime down the road. It is an increadible city that is clean and the proud owner of a killer public transportation system! We could spend a lifetime investigating the modern food scene. London is a seamless melting pot of the past, present and future that demands your attention for what will unfold next. We love beer, but sadly were not super into cask beer. Maybe it is just an acquired taste that we can work on down the road. High tea, love that shit.
God save the Queen,
MAK
PS: This will NOT be our last journey to the UK! If you have anything that you recommend we would love to hear about it, and get it onto our list!
PSS: Friends featured in this blog post are: Savanah, Gianna, & Mel
