Winning London

Winning London

It seems like it has been ages since I last posted on here. I have been extremely busy the past few weeks, and had absolutely no time to write. But, I'm back and better than ever. Two weeks ago was Florida State's spring break. Instead of spending hours catching rays on the beach or recuperating from the busiest weeks of homework, I hopped on a plane for a week in London.

I traveled to London as a part of FSU's honors program. We spent a week exploring the culture and history of the beautiful city. This was my third time to London, but there is always something new to discover in this wonderful city. If you've never been to London, go ahead and make plans because I promise you will immediately fall in love with the city. 

London has something to offer for everyone. It's the perfect juxtaposition of the historical and modern. There's a ton of things to do from musical performances, high end shopping, museums, and delectable dining.

Check out some of the fun things I was able to see during my week in London:

Notting Hill Shopping

Notting Hill was extremely crowded but a great place to shop. Make sure you check out the markets on a Saturday with plenty of time on your hands. I watched the Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant movie on the flight over to check out the markets beforehand. I also highly recommend Geale's for the best fish and chips in London. It's a few blocks from the Notting Hill markets and has absolutely wonderful service. 

Christ Church College at Oxford University

We took a short day trip to Oxford. While there, we took a Blue Badge tour of Christ Church College, one of the most historic colleges in Oxford (think authors like Lewis Carroll, former Prime Ministers, and filming for Harry Potter). Oxford gave us time to escape from the busy hustle and bustle of London. It offered great shopping on its high street, wonderful history, and much more. I highly recommend visiting the Ashmolean museum and having afternoon tea in its 4th floor restaurant.  

Once: The Musical on the West End

We were fortunate enough to see Once while in London. It was one of the best musicals I have ever seen, and I have seen my fair share of musicals. The characters were relatable and lovable. While in London I also saw Matilda: The Musical and La fille du régiment at the Royal Opera House. However, Once was by far my favorite. Try getting tickets from their box office during the week for the best prices. 

High Tea at the National Gallery

Pretty self explanatory. We had delicious tea at the National Gallery with a beautiful view of Trafalgar Square. I personally recommend trying the English Breakfast tea, but don't forget the milk and sugar. Also, scones, clotted cream, and jam are officially my favorite food. 

Westminster Abbey

We were fortunate enough to attend an Evensong at Westminster. Evensongs are free to the public. It's a great way to see the Abbey without paying the ridiculous entrance fee. Also, don't you think this photo belongs on a brochure.

The London Eye

A lot of people say the London Eye is not worth the steep price and long wait times. I think everyone should do it once, and just once. I recommend doing it a night. The wait time is much shorter, and you get a wonderful view of all of the city lights. Also try to visit the eye on a clear night so you can get a good view of the city.

View from the Top of St. Paul's Cathedral

I worked hard for this picture. You have to climb 528 steps to the top of the cathedral for this view of London. However, it was definitely worth the effort. I was lucky enough to visit St. Paul's on a clear and sunny day.

Iconic Red Phone Booth and Big Ben

For one of the best tourist pictures in London, visit this telephone booth within site of Big Ben. I think it makes for a great photo. 

Friends from Class

I was lucky enough to spend the entire week exploring London with these lovely people.

Buckingham Palace

Most people say you should visit Buckingham Palace during the changing of the guard. However, there are always thousands of people there, and it can be really crowded. I much preferred visiting the palace in the early evening. You can also tour the palace depending on whether or not the Queen is in residence.

View from the Tate Modern across Millennium Bridge to St. Paul's

I think this photo shows a wonderful juxtaposition between the historical and the modern London. You have the modern architecture and art of the Tate Modern and the Millennium Bridge contrasted with the history and art of St. Paul's cathedral. The Millennium bridge is a pedestrian only bridge and offers some wonderful views of the River Thames.

Exploring the Tower of London

I explored the Tower of London with these two lovely ladies from the program. The tower offers a free tour with the Yeoman Warders of the Tower. This tour is engaging and entertaining for all ages. I highly recommend a visit to the Tower of London to all travelers with any interest in history.

Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament

We were able to tour the Houses of Parliament (but no pictures inside!). It was amazing to stand where some of the biggest movers and shakers of British politics such as Winston Churchill and Margaret Thatcher once stood. It also is very interesting to see how the architecture of Parliament differs greatly from the architecture of the houses of Congress.

I had such a wonderful time in London, and I can't wait to go back. One day, I would love to live there.