Lost in London

Oh, how good it feels to be traveling again! As you may know I’m heading to India, but I took a little pit stop in London. To be honest, London has never really appealed to me, especially in the dead of winter. But as I was trying to figure out where to stop on my way to India London was calling me. I can’t say this enough, when something calls you, don’t fight it, just answer.

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I only had a quick weekend here, 2 days to be exact, and in true Janelle fashion, nothing planned. I did book an Airbnb in a little town called Leytonstone just 30 minutes from central London. I arrived on Saturday morning and lugged my sleepy ass and huge backpack to the Tube and made my way to Leytonstone.

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Since I couldn’t check into my room until 3pm I set up shop at the most adorable English café, All You Read Is Love. What a warm hello from London this place was. Also a small bookstore, this little café in Leytonstone is so quaint and cozy. I enjoyed a simple smoked salmon sandwich and green tea for 5 pounds as it lightly snowed outside. It was quintessentially London on a cold February afternoon.

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When I checked into my Airbnb I was greeted my Anna and Benny with hot peppermint tea. A well-traveled young European couple, Anna and Benny are the loveliest of hosts. They literally planned my entire day for Sunday. I mean if waiting until you’re in London to plan your trip to London isn’t the definition of procrastination I don’t know what is. But, as always, it fell into place and this time quite perfectly.

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Travel tip: Locals always know best. Just ask them what are the absolute musts and let them show you the way. I called it a night at 5pm and due to some jet lag I slept like a baby for 17 hours. I don’t know, but it was the best sleep I’ve had in weeks.

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The next day, Sunday, was my only full day in London. I wanted to spend the day visiting London’s iconic landmarks. So I played tourist and hopped on one of those hop on hop off buses. These things are really great when time is just not on your side.

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I started in St. Paul’s Cathedral, a classic English style Catholic Church with the most magnificent details in every corner.

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I then made my way to Tower Bridge, my favorite stop. When I think of London THIS is what I envision.

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And not to mention the smell of fresh hot caramel peanuts in every corner around Tower Bridge to further delight your senses.

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Next up was the London Eye. Since the weather was kind of crappy I didn’t take a ride on the London Eye, but I’m sure it’s worth every penny on a clear sunny day as you can see for up to 25 miles from the top in one of those giant capsules.

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I then made my way to Big Ben and had one of those “omg, I’m really here” moments!” Quintessential old London at its finest.

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Last stop was Buckingham Palace, but not before passing by Westminster Abbey, which is where Prince Charles and Catherine Middleton tied the knot. Ever so dreamy, this place just screams royalty.

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Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace with its awe-inspiring exterior is a sight to be seen. I was so impressed by the guards that just stood there with such discipline in this weather!

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Although it was February and the thick of winter, I surprisingly really enjoyed the weather. With average temperatures in the 30’s, grey skies, bare trees and biting cold conditions the tone was perfectly set for the gothic insipired architecture all over London. I was instantly transported to the medieval ages. With cheaper airfare, lower prices, less tourists and this kind of dark beauty February might not be a bad time to pay London a visit if it’s a trip you’re considering. Actually, it might be the ideal time.

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I ended my day in London in a classic British Pub and enjoyed a typical dish, Fish and Chips. You know, when in Rome, or in this case, London. And who can forget the perfectly paired British beer? Well, obviously not I!

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I had such a blast getting lost in London. It was a lovely quick trip and I hope to make my way back here with more time to play! Cheerio mate!