I've been to London many, many times, so in many ways, visiting is more like saying hello to an old friend than visiting a place like a tourist. I find myself doing the same favorite activities over and over, whether it be walking along Oxford Street, taking a stroll along the Thames, or checking out a new restaurant.
This trip I came twice, once by myself for just an overnight trip. Another time with Bryan for one of his work events.
Queen's Jubilee
One exciting difference this time was the Queen's Platinum Jubilee. The entire country was celebrating Queen Elizabeth's 70th year in power (no small feat!). Streets and markets were decked out with the British flag. Little did we know at that time that we would soon have to say good-by to her.
The new Elizabeth Line was open! This one was built by Hong Kong's MTR Corporation, and it showed! The style of this particular tube line was super modern, with high ceilings, deep escalators, modern trains, and the works. I had so much fun riding it!
I always love walking, and this trip was no exception. The weather was perfect in late May, and I had the opportunity to walk both along the Thames River and also within Hyde Park (which is HUGE!).
Westminster Abbey + Big Ben
In the past few trips I've been staying near St. Pancras since it's right near the train station for easy access to Brussels or Paris. This time, since Bryan had a work event at the House of Common, so we stayed right in that neighborhood, which was so much fun!
We were situated right near the London Eye! Big Ben was finally unveiled (after being covered up in constructions for a LONG time!). The new shiny clock is gorgeous and definitely stands out compared to the old one.
It had been years since we visited Westminster Abbey, so we decided to revisit this fascinating building (where many, many very famous people are buried!).
Scottish Themed Dinner at the House of Common
Though I've never been to Scotland, this Scottish event at the House of Commons sure felt quite close! We listened to a bagpipe performance, heard a reading of a Robert Burns poem, and enjoyed haggis. I can't believe it, but I actually like it!
Day Trip to Cambridge
I took the train for a short visit to Cambridge to visit a friend.
What Kind of Food
Poppies Fish & Chips
We decided to actually have some traditional British food - yes, fish & chips!
Chinatown - Wan Chai in London??
We just got a kick out of this restaurant, since we live in Wan Chai in Hong Kong.
Dishoom London
Dining solo is one way of getting into restaurants with long lines. Dishoom is a very, very popular modern Indian restaurant. The wait at the Granary Square location was about 1.5 hours. However, when I showed up solo, I didn't have to wait at all, and I got a bar seat immediately!
California Dinner in London at Sola Soho
It might seem a bit strange for us to eat at a California restaurant in London, but we had a great time at Sola Soho. I'll be dedicating a whole separate post to our meal at that restaurant.
Hope to be able to come back again soon!
