London has always felt like a second home to me, even though I only spent one year of my life there. I find the city to be comfortable, yet sophisticated. Historic, yet modern. I love that I can walk through the streets with ease and reconnect with my old favorites. However, I never get bored because there seem to be a few new surprises every time I return. With a 7-hour layover on my way back from Brazil, I was excited to escape the airport and take a whirlwind tour around the city.
My first stop was Knightsbridge, which is home to some of the best shopping in London. As soon as I got out of the tube station, the venerable Mandarin Oriental was right in front of me. It brought back memories from a wonderful trip to London in 2004 when I was lucky enough to stay there. Harvey Nichols was right across the street - the same place I went for my birthday brunch on another trip in 2010. I love how the best landmarks of London always stand the test of time.
Next, I went to Kensington Palace. Admittedly, the Queen's residence would not be my first choice of places to see in London, but I was lucky enough to be there on the day of the London Marathon and I really wanted to cheer on the runners near the finish line. By this point in the race, everyone is physically and mentally drained but they really come alive again at the sight of the finish line. I always get a little jealous when I am watching a race (instead of running in it), but it was fun to soak up the atmosphere of one of the world's marathon majors.
Despite my many visits to London, I have never actually visited Wellington Arch, so I thought this would be a good opportunity to experience something new. From Kensington Palace, I just walked along the side of Hyde Park - the same path as the horse guards parade route. I learned that the arch celebrates the Duke of Wellington's victory over Napoleon in 1815 to end the Napoleonic wars. Apparently he's a big deal, and worthy of such an impressive monument! There is a small exhibition inside the arch, which was perfect for a quick layover because it doesn't take much time.
By this point, I wanted to start heading back towards the direction of the airport, just in case of any delays. I got off at Hammersmith, which is actually my #1 suggestion for anyone who just wants to escape the airport for a couple hours without going all the way into London. There are loads of shops and restaurants next to the tube station, including my personal favorite, Primark. I was practically salivating at the opportunity to stock up on some basics at Primark, and I ended up buying a little more than I could fit in my carry-on. So, as I rode the tube back to the airport, I had to start adding extra layers of clothing.
I made it back to the airport with just enough time to pass through security and board my flight back to Hong Kong. As I prepared to depart for my current home, I couldn't help but smile as I thought about all the great memories from my former home. Even though it was a very quick visit, I couldn't have asked for a better layover in London. People are usually reluctant to leave airports between flights, but it's really easy with the Heathrow Express traveling to Paddington in only 20 minutes. For anyone who just wants to escape the airport for a quick fry-up or discount shopping, Hammersmith is another good choice. With so many amazing things to see in London, there is no reason to waste countless hours in the airport. Go out and explore!
 |
| Ready to depart for a quick day in London |
 |
| The Tube became my personal driver for the day |
My first stop was Knightsbridge, which is home to some of the best shopping in London. As soon as I got out of the tube station, the venerable Mandarin Oriental was right in front of me. It brought back memories from a wonderful trip to London in 2004 when I was lucky enough to stay there. Harvey Nichols was right across the street - the same place I went for my birthday brunch on another trip in 2010. I love how the best landmarks of London always stand the test of time.
 |
| I once stayed in the top center room with the long balcony |
 |
| I love how Harvey Nichols is always so bold and fun |
 |
| The red phone booths are so iconic. I hope they never disappear completely |
Next, I went to Kensington Palace. Admittedly, the Queen's residence would not be my first choice of places to see in London, but I was lucky enough to be there on the day of the London Marathon and I really wanted to cheer on the runners near the finish line. By this point in the race, everyone is physically and mentally drained but they really come alive again at the sight of the finish line. I always get a little jealous when I am watching a race (instead of running in it), but it was fun to soak up the atmosphere of one of the world's marathon majors.
 |
| So close to the end!! |
 |
| Princess Kate is always impressing the crowds! |
 |
| Approaching the finish line! |
Despite my many visits to London, I have never actually visited Wellington Arch, so I thought this would be a good opportunity to experience something new. From Kensington Palace, I just walked along the side of Hyde Park - the same path as the horse guards parade route. I learned that the arch celebrates the Duke of Wellington's victory over Napoleon in 1815 to end the Napoleonic wars. Apparently he's a big deal, and worthy of such an impressive monument! There is a small exhibition inside the arch, which was perfect for a quick layover because it doesn't take much time.
 |
| Beautiful detail on the gate of the arch |
 |
| Just one of many memorials in London |
By this point, I wanted to start heading back towards the direction of the airport, just in case of any delays. I got off at Hammersmith, which is actually my #1 suggestion for anyone who just wants to escape the airport for a couple hours without going all the way into London. There are loads of shops and restaurants next to the tube station, including my personal favorite, Primark. I was practically salivating at the opportunity to stock up on some basics at Primark, and I ended up buying a little more than I could fit in my carry-on. So, as I rode the tube back to the airport, I had to start adding extra layers of clothing.
I made it back to the airport with just enough time to pass through security and board my flight back to Hong Kong. As I prepared to depart for my current home, I couldn't help but smile as I thought about all the great memories from my former home. Even though it was a very quick visit, I couldn't have asked for a better layover in London. People are usually reluctant to leave airports between flights, but it's really easy with the Heathrow Express traveling to Paddington in only 20 minutes. For anyone who just wants to escape the airport for a quick fry-up or discount shopping, Hammersmith is another good choice. With so many amazing things to see in London, there is no reason to waste countless hours in the airport. Go out and explore!
 |
| Preparing to depart for my long journey back to Hong Kong |
No comments:
Post a Comment