My First Time Abroad: Exploring London’s Charm and Culture

Written By Hallie Davis

My first time out of the good ole U. S. of A and flying in general…was to go across the pond for a 2-week study abroad trip to London, U.K. I went December of 2015, leaving the day after Christmas on what the British call “Boxing Day.” I remember being so excited that I would be there to ring in 2016! Also, I could legally drink there, unlike back home, so I was super pumped. 

I was studying art history and the class was related to my major. It was only a one credit class I believe and the whole class was graded on one reflection paper of our experience there. Talk about an easy A. We did all the things I absolutely love to do in life in general. We explored, walking in and out of coffee shops and trinket stores, on our way to whatever museum we were going to that day. The weather was a bit chilly, but honestly pretty perfect for how much walking around we were doing. 

We went and saw 2 plays while we were there as well! Being from a small town, with parents who weren’t interested in that stuff, besides the school plays I was in that they were obligated to go to, we weren't really “theater people” you could say. This trip opened my eyes to not only how much of the world I had yet to see, but also how travel didn’t have to be this big, scary thing. It was actually doable. Hell, I was doing it! I saw Big Ben from the London Eye. I had the classic fish and “chips” for dinner one night. I drank at pubs and minded the gap on the tube. I even “borrowed” some toilet paper from Buckingham palace because we only had 2 days left and one roll should hold us over instead of buying a whole pack lol. 

Needless to say, the wonderful experience I had in London gave me the confidence to start traveling to other parts of the world, eventually living in China for a year, but that’s a story for another day. Below is a list of recommendations that I hope will help you if you ever decide that London…is in fact…calling. 


Iconic London

1. Buckingham Palace

  • Highlights: Changing of the Guard, State Rooms, Royal Mews.

  • Description: The official residence of the British monarch. Witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony or visit during the summer months to explore the State Rooms.

2. The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben

  • Highlights: Gothic architecture, iconic clock tower, Thames River views.

  • Description: Admire the stunning Gothic Revival architecture of the UK Parliament and the iconic Big Ben clock tower. Explore the area around Westminster for additional landmarks like Westminster Abbey.

3. The London Eye

  • Highlights: Panoramic views of London, Thames River.

  • Description: A giant Ferris wheel offering breathtaking views of London’s skyline. Enjoy a 30-minute rotation for a spectacular vantage point over the city.

4. Hyde Park

  • Highlights: Serpentine Lake, Speaker’s Corner, large open spaces.

  • Description: One of London’s largest parks, offering serene lakes, beautiful gardens, and areas for relaxation. Ideal for a leisurely stroll or a boat ride on the Serpentine.

Museums

1. British Museum

  • Highlights: Rosetta Stone, Elgin Marbles, Egyptian mummies.

  • Description: One of the world's most comprehensive museums, featuring artifacts from ancient civilizations to modern times. Free entry, though donations are encouraged.

2. Natural History Museum

  • Highlights: Dinosaur gallery, Hope Diamond, earthquake simulator.

  • Description: Known for its impressive architecture and extensive collection of specimens covering various segments of natural history. Perfect for families and science enthusiasts.

3. Tate Modern

  • Highlights: Works by Picasso, Warhol, Hockney.

  • Description: A leading contemporary art museum housed in a former power station. It offers innovative exhibitions and a stunning view of London from its terrace.

4. Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A)

  • Highlights: Fashion collections, medieval artifacts, Asian art.

  • Description: Focuses on decorative arts and design, showcasing everything from fashion to textiles. A treasure trove for those interested in art and design.


Pubs

1. The Churchill Arms

  • Location: Kensington

  • Highlights: Stunning floral displays, historic charm, and a traditional British menu with Thai dishes.

  • Description: Known for its striking exterior covered in flowers and its rich history, this pub offers a unique atmosphere and a blend of British and Thai cuisine.

2. The Old Bank of England

  • Location: Fleet Street

  • Highlights: Stunning Victorian architecture, grand interior, traditional pub fare.

  • Description: Housed in a former bank, this pub features an opulent interior with high ceilings and elaborate decor. Enjoy classic pub dishes and a selection of ales in a grand setting.

5. The Lamb and Flag

  • Location: Covent Garden

  • Highlights: Historic pub with literary connections, cozy atmosphere.

  • Description: A historic pub with connections to famous writers such as Charles Dickens. Enjoy a traditional pub setting with hearty British fare.

5. The World’s End

  • Location: Camden

  • Highlights: Iconic pub with a rich history, vibrant atmosphere, eclectic decor, live music.

Description: A legendary pub steeped in history and character. Known for its unique blend of eclectic decor and lively ambiance, it offers a quintessentially British pub experience with a modern twist

Hallie Davis
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