London

London is massive, diverse, expensive, and endlessly interesting. You could spend months here and still find new stuff. The history, the museums, the food scene, the neighborhoods. It’s one of the world’s great cities but your wallet will feel it.

The big sites are worth doing once. Big Ben and Parliament, Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey. Book tickets ahead for Tower and Abbey. Most museums are free which is amazing. British Museum, Natural History Museum, Tate Modern, V&A. All excellent and no entry fee.

The neighborhoods are what make London special. Shoreditch for street art and nightlife. Camden for markets and alternative vibes. Notting Hill for colorful houses and Portobello Market. Borough Market has incredible food. Brixton is diverse with great Caribbean food. Each area feels different.

Food scene is world class. Every cuisine imaginable. Street food markets are affordable and good. Pub culture is strong. Sunday roasts are the traditional thing. Indian food in London rivals anywhere. Markets like Borough and Maltby Street have great stalls. Afternoon tea if you want the touristy experience.

Parks are everywhere. Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, Hampstead Heath. Green spaces all over the city. Walk along the Thames. Take the Tube to random stops and explore. London rewards wandering.

West End shows are cheaper than Broadway. Book day tickets at TKTS booth in Leicester Square. The theater scene is excellent. Nightlife ranges from pubs to clubs to everything in between.

Getting around means the Tube. It’s extensive and connects everything. Buses are good too. Get an Oyster card or use contactless payment. Walking works for central areas. Black cabs are iconic but expensive.

Money is brutal. London is one of the most expensive cities on earth. Meals add up, hotels cost a fortune, drinks are pricey. Free museums help.