London Through My Eyes: A Bollywood Dream Come True

Growing up with Bollywood dreams of London's foggy landscapes and historic marvels, I finally lived my cinematic fantasy during my master's in Birmingham. Planning this journey with my four best mates, we embarked on what was about to be an unforgettable budget adventure in the heart of England.

The Perfect Stay: YHA

On a student’s budget but with million-dollar dreams, we chose YHA for our stay—affordable, yet surprisingly comfy. It was our cozy nook in the bustling city, proving that dreams don’t need a lavish budget to come alive. And who knew? A mere 6 pounds booked early was all it took to shuttle us from Birmingham to the dreamy London.

Our Desi Lens on London

Being from India, we really looked forward to seeing bits of our country in London. The British Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum were like stepping back in time, but with a twist. Seeing stuff that was taken from India during colonization was bittersweet. It was like finding pieces of home, but in a place they were never meant to be. But here's the kicker: I walked into the Natural History Museum not expecting much and walked out a museum convert. Seriously, it’s that good. Who knew dinosaurs could be so captivating?

Getting Around: Tube vs. Bus

Here’s the lowdown on London transport: the Tube is fast but kind of soulless. Buses? Better if you actually want to see the city, but brace yourself for traffic. And for the love of your wallet, don’t forget to tap in and out with your contactless card. Oh, and the Oyster card is a lifesaver for discounts, especially if you're hitting up London often.

The Highlights Reel

Where do I even start?

The Magic of London Bridge at Night

There's something special about London Bridge lit up at night. It felt like stepping into a movie scene, with the lights reflecting off the Thames River. This was one of those moments that felt even more magical in person than in movies.

Tower Bridge Lift: A Must-See

We timed our visit to see the Tower Bridge lift. Watching it from a boat made it even more exciting. It was like watching a live show where history and engineering come together.

Emirates Air Line Cable Car: A Hidden Treasure

Taking the Emirates Air Line cable car was an unexpected delight. It offered a quiet moment above the city, showing off London's skyline from a different perspective.

Strolling Past Big Ben, London Eye

Just walking around, especially past Big Ben and London Eye, was like traveling through time. The city is filled with history at every corner, and seeing these iconic sites up close was surreal.

The Diversity of Canary Wharf and Buckingham Palace

Exploring both Canary Wharf and Buckingham Palace showed us the two sides of London: the modern and the historical. It's fascinating how these different parts of the city exist so close to each other.

Relaxing in Hyde Park and Greenwich Park

Spending time in Hyde Park and Greenwich Park was a perfect break from the bustling city. These parks are great for anyone looking to relax and enjoy a bit of nature in the city.

Discovering Garden 120

Finding Garden 120, a rooftop garden, was a surprise. It’s not as famous as other places, but it offers beautiful views and a peaceful spot to unwind.

Yummy Eats in London: Where to Go & What to Try

Chinatown & Soho: Foodie Havens

First off, you've got to check out Chinatown and Soho. These places are buzzing with great restaurants and cafes. You'll find everything from yummy dim sum to awesome fusion dishes. It's a mix of all sorts of flavours that you don't want to miss.

Hyped Desserts: Milk Cake & Italian Hot Chocolate

Now, for dessert lovers, there's this milk cake and Italian bear hot chocolate that everyone's talking about. They're super popular and always busy, so make sure to book a spot ahead of time.

For Harry Potter Fans: A Magical Photo Op

And hey, if you're into Harry Potter like me, you've got to visit Platform 9 ¾ at King’s Cross Station. It's a cool spot to snap a photo and just soak in the vibes of the wizarding world. Plus, you can check out some cool Harry Potter merch while you're there.

Reflections

Having made London a regular haunt, I’ve seen its many faces. It’s bustling, yes, but seek and you shall find its quiet corners. As a traveller, it’s an eternal favourite; as a potential resident, well... let’s just say it’s complicated.

Sign-Off

Diving into London was like living my own slice of a Bollywood movie, minus the dance sequences. It’s a city that captures you, heart, soul, and wallet. Whether you're there for the history, the hustle, or the Harry Potter nostalgia, London won’t disappoint.

So, go on, plan that trip. Maybe we’ll bump into each other, tapping our Oyster cards, lost in our own London adventure.

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