It's London Calling!

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I'm back from an incredible trip, where I experienced both the hustle and bustle of London, one of the busiest cities in the world, and the beauty of the English countryside.

London: A City Like No Other!

My hubby and I kicked off our journey in the heart of London, one of the world’s most iconic cities. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and regal atmosphere, we couldn’t wait to dive in. Of course, we visited must-see landmarks like Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London, London Bridge, and Piccadilly Circus. But it was the hidden gems that gave us a deeper connection to the city.

One of the highlights was Borough Market, an outdoor market with over a thousand years of history. What makes this market special is the incredible array of food and its commitment to sustainability and community. Though I typically avoid revisiting the same spots twice, the market's variety and atmosphere drew me back three times—an absolute must for foodies!

For a different side of London, we ventured to Camden Town via the Underground (subway). Famous for its eclectic Camden Market brimming with alternative fashion and famed British singer and songwriter, Amy Winehouse, Camden was perfect for anyone looking for something unique. With counter-culture energy, live music, and lively pubs, this area is perfect for a fun and diverse day/night out. Of course, a trip to Camden wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the Hawley Arms, Winehouse's favorite pub.  

London’s vibrant cultural scene was another major highlight. We enjoyed two performances, each on opposite ends of the spectrum. Moulin Rouge was absolutely breathtaking—a spectacular performance that I recommend checking out. On the flip side, we watched a live adaptation of the throwback Fawlty Towers, showcasing the hilarious antics from the original John Cleese sitcom.

Surrey: A Countryside Escape

After soaking in the vibrant city life, we shifted gears and headed southwest from London to the tranquil countryside in Surrey. Walking trails are abundant and so are the foxes and pubs. The quiet charm of this area offered a perfect contrast to the urban buzz. We explored picturesque villages like Shere (famous for being the backdrop of the movie The Holiday), Dorking, and Cobham, each giving us a true taste of local English life.

One of the most fun excursions was a gin tasting at Silent Pool Distillery. Though I’ve been to many wine tastings, this was my first experience with gin, and it was incredible. Learning about the different botanicals and tasting the various flavors was a unique and insightful afternoon.

All in all, this trip gave us the best of both worlds—London’s energetic cityscape and the serene, beautiful countryside of Surrey. Each offered a different but equally memorable experience, making it the perfect vacation!

If you are thinking about traveling to the UK and want some help, let me know! We can create a standout adventure!

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