London

Before you go…

  • Diverse food scene, rich culture, British humor.

  • Reservations..Make them! The Brits love a reservation… for dinner… for museums.. for exhibits… make them .. you don’t regret it.

    Get the Tube Map App to navigate underground, but some stations may not have service due to their depth.

    Change your Spotify location to view artists performing nearby. Catch great shows at low prices.

    Louis Vuitton City Guide App helps during trips, for $7. Enable location for nearby places. The walking tours are superior.

  • Avoid taxis from the airport during morning rush hour. Instead, take the Heathrow Express for around $30USD (one way).

  • Check out Top Jaw on Instagram. They interview famous people in London's food scene for quick recommendations. No need to buy their guide, just jot down the tips on a post-it

When you arrive…

  • Download the 'Tube Map' app to navigate underground stations.

    Pay for tube and bus with Apple Pay instead of a pass.

    Take the train from Heathrow to central London for $25 (around 30 mins) compared to a $100 cab.

  • Popular tube lines: Elizabeth, Victoria, District for easy access to main sights.

    Notting Hill is great for shopping, eating, flea market, but not close to major attractions.

    Islington quaint but somewhat far.

    Shoreditch: young, central.

    Kensington: classic, central.

    South London: Avoid due to distance from attractions.

  • Duck Soup – Soho. My favorite restaurant in London. It's a laid-back wine bar with friendly staff and a seasonal menu that changes daily. They only play vinyl records, and the music is fantastic. What to get: Everything is superb. Try the bread and butter, labneh (incredible), and pork belly if available. Reservations needed for groups of 5. Open for lunch, which is my favorite time to visit.

    Sir John Soan Museum - A must-visit for those interested in interior design, art, and architecture. This was the private home of architect Sir John Soane, and it's filled with beautiful, unique pieces

    See a Show - The theater scene in London is vibrant and charming. I saw Tina Turner for $60 and thoroughly enjoyed it. Look for family-friendly shows like The Lion King for a fun outing.

    Tate Modern - A stunning museum located on the South Bank. You could easily spend an entire afternoon here. After your visit, take a short 5-minute walk along the river to the Sea Containers hotel and enjoy a cocktail at the Lyaness bar.

    Barbican - A vast brutalist complex dedicated to arts and culture, located in the quiet financial district. Don't miss The Conservatory x Ranjani Shettar exhibit (tickets needed) – it's like an indoor botanical garden with modern art throughout. Explore the various gift shops and other exhibits after visiting the garden.

    Shepherds Market - A charming, winding street that opens up to several pubs and restaurants. It's particularly lively in the summer, with people enjoying pints on the street after work

  • NICE TO DOs

    Columbia Road Flower Market – Sundays only, Tons of boutiques/vintage shops

    National Portrait Gallery

    Finally reopened in June after an extensive 3 year overhaul – wasn’t open yet when I was there, but I’m sure it won’t disappoint. https://www.npg.org.uk/visit/

    St. Paul’s Cathedral

    Then walk over the millennial bride to Southwark – cool area along the Thames – walk to Borough Market for a million food options and is always buzzing until about 4ish, then head to the Tate, and then head to Lyanness for a drink.

    Here is the link to the guide:

    https://maps.app.goo.gl/mLRnnCCREgzdovQz7?g_st=i

See

Eat