London: Something For Everyone

I was able to take a trip to London when I was 16 years old. I wish there was some way I could convey to you how truly awesome it was. Fortunately, I had a camera and some money with me, and was able to leave with some great memories, photos, and souvenirs. Although I had to deal with finding a missing passport and going through tons of electrical adapters trying to find the right one, I left London not only vastly inspired, but also armed with some of the most amazing experiences I have ever experienced.

The Tower of London is a popular British Landmark located in London. Probably most well-known as a place or torture and a royal prison, the Tower of London holds centuries of history that are made available to you and your family when you visit. I spent an entire day walking around learning all the stories and seeing for myself just how the Tower worked. Probably my favorite part was seeing the ravens. These huge black birds strut around the lawn, eyeing  visitors with their black eyes. The ravens have been residents of the Tower for generations, as a superstition states that if they ever left, the kingdom would fall. In respect of this superstition, the ravens have their very own living quarters and their own personal handler.

Big Ben is probably one of the most recognizable monuments in London. As the third largest clock tower in the world, this huge and incredibly beautiful tower is even more breathtaking in real life. It is readily apparent why Big Ben has been represented for generations in films, TV, and books. Standing at the base of the clock tower is a really neat experience. I’ll be the first to admit that I’d rather not get into inner-workings of the government, getting to visit Parliament was really pretty inspiring. Getting to see first-hand how the London government runs taught me a lot, and I left feeling happy that I decided to go.

As cliche as it is, I had to see the Changing of the Guards. Although I didn’t try to make him laugh or kiss him or anything, they are armed after all, but I did get my picture taken. But who knows? If I go back, maybe I will end up kissing one. Many different locations have a Changing of the Guards, and I recommend seeing one for yourself if you are in any of these locations. The plethora of gardens and parks located in London is unbelievable. Huge plots of flowers of every color roll on the landscape, surrounded by swans and beautiful artistic sculptures. Since it is free, and since it makes walking anywhere amazing, I definitely recommend going.

London’s shopping scene is just awesome. I got to visit Camden Market, which isn’t your ordinary shopping spot. Stretching on for as far as I could see, Camden Market offered everything from handmade bags to leopard print Doc Martins. So grab some money and your passport, as there is something for everyone at Camden Market, and I guarantee after a long day shopping, you can’t help but walk away with tons of stuff.

Everyone in your family can walk away with some unforgettable experiences after a London visit. I definitely did. If you’ve never been able to see London for yourself, I recommend you take a trip there sometime. I promise, it’s even worth the hassle of having to find that missing passport.

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