My Budget Adventure in London

Hi there! My name is Aliza Nair, and I’m from the enchanting city of Paris. I’ve always had a soft spot for travel, and London has been on my bucket list for as long as I can remember. A few months ago, I finally decided to go for it, booking a short getaway to explore this historic and bustling city. Let me share my journey with you—how I got there, how I managed my expenses, and all the delightful things I experienced along the way.

The Journey to London

I started my trip early in the morning, boarding the Eurostar train from Gare du Nord in Paris. The journey to London was surprisingly quick, just a little over two hours. I loved the smooth ride and the excitement of traveling under the English Channel! Arriving at St. Pancras International Station, I was greeted by the grandeur of its Victorian architecture. It felt like stepping into a different world, with its brickwork and clock tower reminding me I was truly in London.

I had booked a cozy hostel in Southwark, not too far from the Thames River. It was affordable, clean, and perfect for someone like me who planned to spend most of her time exploring.

Exploring London: A Dream Come True

To make the most of my time (and my budget), I opted for a hop on hop off London. It was a lifesaver! For one ticket, I could travel around the city, stopping at all the major attractions without having to worry about navigating the public transport system. Plus, the audio commentary on the bus gave me fascinating tidbits about the history of London as we passed landmarks.

First Stop: Tower of London

I hopped off the bus near the Tower of London, my first proper stop. This medieval fortress was everything I had imagined and more. I joined a guided tour led by one of the famous Yeoman Warders (also called Beefeaters), who shared incredible stories about the tower’s bloody history and its role as a royal residence, prison, and even a zoo! Seeing the Crown Jewels was a highlight—I had never seen diamonds that big before.

Right outside the tower, I walked across the iconic Tower Bridge. Standing there with the view of the Thames and the city skyline was magical.

Buckingham Palace and St. James’s Park

Next, I made my way to Buckingham Palace. It was such a grand sight! I was lucky to catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a quintessential London experience. The precision and pageantry of the guards were incredible.

Afterward, I strolled through St. James’s Park, a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. Watching ducks glide across the pond and soaking up the greenery felt like a perfect break from the urban hustle.

Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and More

No visit to London would be complete without seeing Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Even though the clock tower was partially covered due to renovation, it still held a certain charm.

Westminster Abbey, just a short walk away, was breathtaking. I took my time exploring the interior, marveling at the ornate tombs and stained glass. It felt surreal to stand in the same place where kings and queens had been crowned for centuries.

A Bustling Afternoon in Central London

By midday, I was ready for something lively, so I headed to Piccadilly Circus. The energy there was infectious, with neon lights, bustling crowds, and street performers. From there, I walked to Trafalgar Square, where I admired the towering Nelson’s Column and the majestic lions.

I also took a quick peek into the National Gallery, which houses works by some of the greatest artists in history.

Food Adventures: London on a Budget

Being a foodie, I made it a point to try some classic British dishes. For breakfast, I found a small café in Covent Garden that served a traditional English breakfast—eggs, sausages, toast, baked beans, and a steaming cup of tea.

Lunch was all about fish and chips! I grabbed a plate at a pub near the London Eye, complete with mushy peas and tartar sauce. It was greasy, crispy, and oh-so-delicious.

For dinner, I wandered into Borough Market, a haven for food lovers. I treated myself to a hearty meat pie and ended the day with sticky toffee pudding, a dessert so rich and sweet it felt like a warm hug.

Evening by the Thames

As the sun dipped below the horizon, I found myself on the South Bank of the Thames. The lights of the city shimmered on the river, creating a scene straight out of a postcard. I stopped at a little stall for a cup of hot chocolate and sat on a bench, taking it all in. The London Eye was lit up in blue, and the majestic dome of St. Paul’s Cathedral glowed in the distance.

Little Finds and Hidden Gems

One thing I loved about London was how many surprises it held. Walking through Covent Garden, I stumbled upon street performers juggling and singing. In Soho, I found quirky shops and vintage bookstores. The city felt like an endless treasure hunt, with something new to discover around every corner.

Parting Thoughts

Before I knew it, my short trip was coming to an end. As I sat on the Eurostar back to Paris, I couldn’t help but reflect on how much I had seen and done in just a few days. London had given me everything I’d hoped for—history, culture, delicious food, and unforgettable experiences—all without breaking the bank.

If there’s one thing I learned from this trip, it’s that you don’t need to be rich to explore a city as iconic as London. With a little planning, a hop-on-hop-off bus pass, and a sense of adventure, you can see the world on a budget.

I can’t wait to go back someday and dive even deeper into the wonders of London. Until then, I’ll cherish these memories and encourage anyone who dreams of traveling to take the leap.