Hello everyone!
Each of us have our own passions throughout the world, don’t you think? My favorite European capital is London. I love the “Land of the Queen” and I feel completely at home, despite never having lived there. Every time I travel to that side of the world, even if my final destination is another, I always make sure to make a quick stop by London. Therefore, I’ll tell you what you can not fail to add to your itinerary:
Afternoon Tea. There’s nothing more London than a break for tea. The Berkeley hotel (which I love!!!), in the elegant neighborhood of Knightsbridge, has the most fashion tea in the city: Pret a Portea. The cakes, sandwiches and biscuits are molded in the form of shoes, bags and dresses that make reference to the big names in international fashion. They are delicious! Now, if you prefer a more irreverent and trendy, go to Sketch, at Conduit street in Mayfair, almost in front of the Westbury hotel (another of my favorite hotels in London). The tea selection is unbelievable.
Tate Modern – this museum is always worth a visit because besides the beautiful collection of contemporary art (Picasso, Warhol, Matisse, Mondrian, etc.) it always has excellent temporary exhibitions. The building opened its doors in 2000 where formerly operated an old power station on the banks of the Thames River. When leaving the museum, walk to the Borough Market (one of the best street markets of the city) and pass by the Shakespeare’s Globe (an old theater – it’s so worth watching a play), then cross the traditional Tower bridge of London and end at the Parliament House, in front of the large Ferris wheel – the London Eye.
Notting Hill. The neighborhood gained it’s shine back when Julia Roberts starred in Notting Hill. Until the 1990s it had a bad reputation. After that, it began to be sought by celebrities and a more younger crowd. A new life to the neighborhood that today is super trendy and has one of the largest markets in the city: the Portobello Road Market. My favorite London store, All Saints, has a huge house in Notting Hill.
Aqua Shard – for a drink and dinner at the end of the day, with an incredible view, choose the crowded bar from the main restaurant of Aqua Shard. Watch the sun go down from the huge glass windows; its definitely worth it for the view!
Hakkasan – Since we are talking about restaurants, let me share with you my favorite. The trendy chinese and cantonese Hakkasan. Don’t go to London without eating a “duck salad” from there, it’s amazing!
Covent Garden – a wonderful place for a walk. It’s full of street performers, flowers and fruit stalls, pubs, restaurants and trendy shops. The central point is the Covent Garden Piazza built in 1630 in a super stylish location. It later became a prostitution place and now it breathes new air. I love it!
