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DESTINATIONS, ENGLAND, EUROPE · November 11, 2018

Things To Do In London: A Neighborhood Guide to Pubs and Grubs


London is a sprawling city with a little bit of everything. Art lovers and foodies would be spoilt for choice, sightseers could spend days admiring history and architecture, and party goers can bask in the welcoming pub culture.

Below is a hand-picked guide of our favorite things in each London neighborhood. Be warned – there is no way to fit all of this into one trip, so try not to over-do it.

Angel/Islington

A midday walk or run along Regent’s Canal will make you feel like you stumbled on London’s best kept secret. If the weather is decent, you’ll see loads of people perched by the canal, sharing laughs, snacks, and a bottle of wine, joking about moving into one of the canalside riverboats. As the sun sets, we recommend heading over to Angel Comedy Club. These guys do stand-up every night of the week, it’s run by local comics, and it’s completely free. What’s not to like?

Brunchin’: Towpath Cafe, Apera & Co

Munchin’: Afghan Kitchen, Ottolenghi

Boozin’: Rosemary Branch, Earl of Essex (outside patio is ace)

Regent’s Canal
Towpath Cafe
Regent’s Canal

City of London

Somewhat confusing, the City of London (or the Square Mile) is the financial district in the centre of London. Ancient alleyways nestle between modern corporate skyscrapers, which makes for noticeable juxtaposition (word of the day).

This area is best explored during the day, and we highly recommend getting started with an early breakfast at the Sky Pod Bar, in the Walkie Talkie Building. Next, walk 15mins to admire and climb St. Paul’s Cathedral. After 528 steps to the top, you’ll be rewarded with one of the best vantage points of London. If you still have some juice left, walk another 15-20mins for more spectacular views – this time of the famous Tower Bridge and the Tower of London.

Sky Pod Bar
View from St. Paul’s Cathedral
View from St. Paul’s Cathedral

Shoreditch/Bethnal Green

Think quirky bars and markets, overpriced flat whites, and buzzing nightlife. Shoreditch epitomizes the “used to be dodgy, but now I’m hipster/edgy/expensive” trend. Nevertheless, you’re bound to have a fun time and meet some interesting people here. Head to Brick Lane Market for vintage clothing shops, food stalls and graffiti backdrops to the sounds of v impressive street performers. On Sunday, check out the Columbia Road Flower Market – even if you aren’t feeling floral, it’s a great place for a coffee/pint and some people watching.

Brunchin’: Rochelle Canteen, Fabrique, Curious Yellow Kafe

Munchin’: A Portuguese Love Affair, Chez Elle’s

Boozin’ (speakeasy edition): The Nightjar, The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town

Lads on Brick Lane
Brick Lane

Southbank/Westminster

Royal and elegant, this area oozes class. And tourists… Have a lazy walk along the River Thames and check out the London Eye, Palace of Westminster, and Westminster Abbey. Then, a gorgeous 15min walk through St. James’s Park and you’ll arrive at Buckingham Palace, where you can see the changing of the guards (dates/times here). If it’s a nice day, carry on past Buckingham Palace and you’ll reach Hyde Park, one of the most peaceful and attractive parks in town.

Boozin’: After a long day, rest your feet at the cozy and rustic atmosphere in Gordon’s Wine Bar. If you’re lucky, you can snag a spot in the cave.

Hackney/Haggerston

Artsy and edgy, Hackney has some of the most interesting markets and diverse eateries. Broadway Market might be our favorite market in town. You can find pretty much anything you’re in the mood for, and then walk it over and  London Fields.

Munchin’: At Broadway Market, find the Ghanaian Food Truck (not sure the name, but it is delightful). In Hackney, My Neighbors the Dumplings is tasty dumpling house with a basement Sake Bar and Hanging Garden

Boozin’: CRATE Brewery, Netil360 (great rooftop views of London), The Dolphin

Broadway Market – Ghanaian Food
My Neighbors the Dumplings

Borough/Bermondsey

Borough Market makes everyone’s list, but we recommend going on a weekday to avoid the crowds. In terms of sights, the market is conveniently just a 5min walk to the Shard, the tallest and most recognizable feature of the London skyline. It is also a 15min walk to the modern/contemporary art exhibitions at the Tate Modern. The top floor boasts a fantastic (and free) viewing deck with views across the River Thames, St Paul’s Cathedral, and as far as Canary Wharf and Wembley Stadium.

On the weekend, be sure to hit the Maltby Street Market with an empty stomach. It’s smaller, but the food and vibes are amazing. Plus, it’s walking distance to some of the best local breweries in London. Be sure to grab a scotch egg!

Munchin’ at Borough: Cheesy Potatoes at Kappacasein Dairy, Fresh Mexican at Tacos El Pastor

Boozin’ near Maltby: Partizan Brewing, Anspach & Hobday, Fourpure Brewing Co.

Southwark Cathedral & The Shard
Maltby Street Market – Scotch Egg

Soho/Fitzrovia

My mind was blown when I found out New York’s SoHo stood for South of Houston, but we’re yet to figure out the background of London’s Soho. Carnaby street literally lights up at night, and the alleys are filled with both designers and indie shops. This area is also proximate to the British Museum and the West End Theatre District. So get curious at one of the world’s largest collections of ancient artifacts, and then hit the town for dinner and a show (if you’re into that kind of thing).

Treat yourself to a night cap at The Blind Pig (above Social Eating House), a swanky speakeasy disguised as an optometrist. Every time, we’ve order the same thing: the “less than perfect” Manhattan and extra dirty martini.

Munchin’: Bone Daddies, Polpo

Boozin’: The Blind Pig (above Social Eating House)

Notting Hill

Quaint townhomes and cafes, cobblestone streets, and the famous Portobello Road Market mean we couldn’t leave Notting Hill off of the list. Its cinematic prevalence has made Notting Hill very touristy, but don’t let that deter you from having a cheeky stroll through this idyllic neighborhood. Between the pastel townhomes and the rose latte at Farm Girl, this place is an instagram haven.

Munchin’: Walmer Castle (great Sunday roast)

Brunchin’: Farm Girl, Egg Break

Sadly, this wraps up our neighborhood guide of things to eat, see, and do in London. It should leave you feeling hungry and curious, but let us know if we missed any of your favorite spots!


In: DESTINATIONS, ENGLAND, EUROPE

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All aboard… The train from Kandy to Ella in Sri All aboard…

The train from Kandy to Ella in Sri Lanka! This 7 hour train journey transports you from the chaotic city streets of Kandy to the misty mountain tops of Ella. 

It is known as one of the most picturesque train journeys in the world. So does it live up to the hype? Is it worth the 7 hour ride? 

To me, yes, yes, 100% yes. Especially when tickets can be less than $5 USD…After reading tons of guides & then experiencing the train myself, a few tips for your trip:

🎟️ Buy reserved tickets in advance. This will help ensure you have a seat & don’t have to elbow your way for one. You can do so online or at the train station. Online tickets go on sale a month before and sell out quickly! If you buy from the train station, go a day or two in advance of your desired trip date.
⏰ Try to avoid weekends. This is a very very busy train for locals & tourists alike. Book the blue Express train, otherwise this journey will take even longer than 7 hours lol. 
🚂 Choose seats in 2nd or 3rd class, ideally next to a window. In these classes they have open windows & doors where you can get the full experience (& views) to peak out of. If you choose to hang your body, arm, leg, etc out of the train, you do so at your own risk! Don’t be dumb…
📸 Best views are on the right side of the train up to Nanu Oya. After that, best views are on the left side. Aka views are amazing on both sides! You can also move freely around the carriage, so don’t stress it. 

Last tip, enjoy!!! Take it all in. With your eyes, not just your phone & camera 😏. This is by far the best train ride I’ve experienced to date.
Kandy to Ella in Sri Lanka is rumored to be one of Kandy to Ella in Sri Lanka is rumored to be one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. 

The train ride is around 7 hours total - zipping past swirling green tea hills, tiny rural towns, rushing waterfalls & colorful stations. 

7 hours might sound like a lot, but I can honestly say, I never found myself bored. Quite the opposite! I was glued to the window (or open doorway 🫠) for fear of missing a single moment. 

As you might have noticed, this train has open windows & doorways that passengers can peak out of. Would you (safely!) give it a try?
If you’re a plant lover like me, you need to add If you’re a plant lover like me, you need to add the Square Peg Hotel in Kandy, Sri Lanka to your bucket list! 

Potted plants overflow from the hotel’s windows and walls, intertwining with trees along its edges, giving the hotel a captivating, post-apocalyptic charm. In the best way..

Square Peg offers a calm oasis overlooking the rowdy city of Kandy just below. The views & this property exceeded our expectations in every way! 🌿
Postcards from Kandy, Sri Lanka. A city equal part Postcards from Kandy, Sri Lanka. A city equal parts chaotic, vibrant & sacred. A city full of competing sounds - cawing crows, bleating tuk tuks, thrumming drums & whining brass horns. A city I had low expectations for, but left wishing I had more time. 

We stopped over in Kandy to take the famous Kandy to Ella train (more on this later!) & were glad to have some time to explore the city, albeit short. Here’s a mini 24 hour guide to Kandy:

DO // At the center of the city is Kandy Lake. Leisurely wander through town taking in the sights along the way. Next to the lake is the Kandyan Cultural Center where you can experience a traditional Kandyan dance performance. After the performance, head next door to visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the most important Buddhist sites in the world. 

STAY // The Square Peg Hotel was an oasis overlooking the city. In addition to the incredible views, they also have a gorgeous rooftop where they serve traditional curries in the evening & Sri Lankan breakfast in the morning.
This time last year Dave surprised me with an over This time last year Dave surprised me with an overnight trip to Anza Borrego Desert State Park, and it’s still one of my favorite weekend trips we’ve done while living in San Diego. Here’s a mini guide and some inspo to make the trip! 

GETTING THERE // The park is a super easy and very scenic 2 hour drive from San Diego. Stop in Julian on your way for a slice of their famous apple pie and a trip seemingly back in time. 

STAY // @bungalowsofthedesert_ offer adorable vintage trailers with everything you need to be comfortable (think firewood, gas stove, & tea kettle) yet still get the benefits of camping (think dark starry nights & no neighbors for miles). 

SEE // Font’s Point at sunset is a can’t miss with views across the badlands that i imagine are akin to Mars. Check out my latest reel for a few tips on how to get there.

Awin

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All aboard… The train from Kandy to Ella in Sri All aboard…

The train from Kandy to Ella in Sri Lanka! This 7 hour train journey transports you from the chaotic city streets of Kandy to the misty mountain tops of Ella. 

It is known as one of the most picturesque train journeys in the world. So does it live up to the hype? Is it worth the 7 hour ride? 

To me, yes, yes, 100% yes. Especially when tickets can be less than $5 USD…After reading tons of guides & then experiencing the train myself, a few tips for your trip:

🎟️ Buy reserved tickets in advance. This will help ensure you have a seat & don’t have to elbow your way for one. You can do so online or at the train station. Online tickets go on sale a month before and sell out quickly! If you buy from the train station, go a day or two in advance of your desired trip date.
⏰ Try to avoid weekends. This is a very very busy train for locals & tourists alike. Book the blue Express train, otherwise this journey will take even longer than 7 hours lol. 
🚂 Choose seats in 2nd or 3rd class, ideally next to a window. In these classes they have open windows & doors where you can get the full experience (& views) to peak out of. If you choose to hang your body, arm, leg, etc out of the train, you do so at your own risk! Don’t be dumb…
📸 Best views are on the right side of the train up to Nanu Oya. After that, best views are on the left side. Aka views are amazing on both sides! You can also move freely around the carriage, so don’t stress it. 

Last tip, enjoy!!! Take it all in. With your eyes, not just your phone & camera 😏. This is by far the best train ride I’ve experienced to date.
Kandy to Ella in Sri Lanka is rumored to be one of Kandy to Ella in Sri Lanka is rumored to be one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. 

The train ride is around 7 hours total - zipping past swirling green tea hills, tiny rural towns, rushing waterfalls & colorful stations. 

7 hours might sound like a lot, but I can honestly say, I never found myself bored. Quite the opposite! I was glued to the window (or open doorway 🫠) for fear of missing a single moment. 

As you might have noticed, this train has open windows & doorways that passengers can peak out of. Would you (safely!) give it a try?
If you’re a plant lover like me, you need to add If you’re a plant lover like me, you need to add the Square Peg Hotel in Kandy, Sri Lanka to your bucket list! 

Potted plants overflow from the hotel’s windows and walls, intertwining with trees along its edges, giving the hotel a captivating, post-apocalyptic charm. In the best way..

Square Peg offers a calm oasis overlooking the rowdy city of Kandy just below. The views & this property exceeded our expectations in every way! 🌿
Postcards from Kandy, Sri Lanka. A city equal part Postcards from Kandy, Sri Lanka. A city equal parts chaotic, vibrant & sacred. A city full of competing sounds - cawing crows, bleating tuk tuks, thrumming drums & whining brass horns. A city I had low expectations for, but left wishing I had more time. 

We stopped over in Kandy to take the famous Kandy to Ella train (more on this later!) & were glad to have some time to explore the city, albeit short. Here’s a mini 24 hour guide to Kandy:

DO // At the center of the city is Kandy Lake. Leisurely wander through town taking in the sights along the way. Next to the lake is the Kandyan Cultural Center where you can experience a traditional Kandyan dance performance. After the performance, head next door to visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the most important Buddhist sites in the world. 

STAY // The Square Peg Hotel was an oasis overlooking the city. In addition to the incredible views, they also have a gorgeous rooftop where they serve traditional curries in the evening & Sri Lankan breakfast in the morning.
This time last year Dave surprised me with an over This time last year Dave surprised me with an overnight trip to Anza Borrego Desert State Park, and it’s still one of my favorite weekend trips we’ve done while living in San Diego. Here’s a mini guide and some inspo to make the trip! 

GETTING THERE // The park is a super easy and very scenic 2 hour drive from San Diego. Stop in Julian on your way for a slice of their famous apple pie and a trip seemingly back in time. 

STAY // @bungalowsofthedesert_ offer adorable vintage trailers with everything you need to be comfortable (think firewood, gas stove, & tea kettle) yet still get the benefits of camping (think dark starry nights & no neighbors for miles). 

SEE // Font’s Point at sunset is a can’t miss with views across the badlands that i imagine are akin to Mars. Check out my latest reel for a few tips on how to get there.

Awin

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