London

London

I spent 3 days in London (February 21-23) with a French friend. I chose to go there by bus because it was the cheapest solution. About £30 for a round trip. It is certainly not the most comfortable solution though. The journey takes between 8 and 10 hours depending on the path it takes and buses are really not made for long journeys.

As far as accommodation is concerned, I booked in a youth hostel located near a subway station which was very convenient. We were at the "Wombats Hostel" which was very modern, very comfortable and very cheap. 

We had not really planned any particular program, we just knew that we wanted to visit the most emblematic places (The London Eye, Buckingham Palace, Camden Town, Piccadilly Circus, The Tate Modern Museum ...). 

However, we were very surprised to see that strikes were blocking the subway on February 22nd and 23rd, and London being so huge, it was a real problem. 

Concerning the subway, it is possible to take the "Oyster Card" which costs £5 but which allows many reductions throughout your stay and which calculates for you the most advantageous fare to apply on the day. The £5 is refunded at the end of your stay as well as the money on the card. So I really advise you to take it if you know you will be using the metro more than walking or taking the bus. 

Our favorites

Bought market

For a very friendly, authentic atmosphere. Full of fresh and quality products ( And French cheese !!!).

The small museum of zoology

A small museum that doesn't look like much, that takes about an hour and is really very complete. Between, the skeletons of animals from all over the world, the wall covered with microscope slides or the wall covered with vials of bones. It's a very special and instructive place. The volunteers who work there are adorable and the museum is free! 

You can see other galleries in the area, including the University of London gallery.

Camden Town

Even though it was very busy, the atmosphere is really special. Improbable shops, music, bars and pretty facades!

Notting Hill

Known for its many appearances in films, we didn't want to miss this area. The pastel-coloured houses are really a pleasure to look at.

The British Library

Free exhibitions on the ground floor composed of a whole bunch of documents that have marked the history of the United Kingdom in various fields (religion, politics, music, feminism...). We could observe some Reading Room, observe the column of old books in the center. And the place in itself is a visit because the library is arranged in a very modern way.

The area around the Tate Modern Museum

At night, there's a very nice view of London lit up and the Thames. There are some nice works of street art. Pubs with a view on the Thames.

And here is a video that I found very interesting showing you the top 10 places to visit in London. Will you be able to recognize some of the places I have introduced to you?