This year, London has been under the global spotlight as it hosted the 2012 Olympics. Being the capital city of England, London is a popular tourist destination both from travellers around UK and from other part of the world.
As a traveler from Asia, nothing could be more exciting than arriving in London and visit other parts of Europe. However, and based on my experiences, capital cities is always expensive and according to some travellers I met, London is one the most expensive city in the world but it’s the best in terms of so many things; From architectural structures, museums, parks, urban hikes or even just strolling around.
It has always been a dream of mine to visit and experience what it feels like to live in Europe. I dream of having an apartment in London or somewhere else in Europe near the park so I can walk, meet new people and enjoy watching everyone passing by. Given a chance, I would also consider checking some car deals and getting my own car. That way, I can go wherever I want anytime while listening to my favourite songs. I can easily roam around Europe at my own pace without waiting for the bus, plane or train schedules.
According to European travellers I met, travelling in London or in any other parts of Europe can be very expensive, but still, I can experience the culture and history without spending much money as there are so many things and places that I can do and visit for FREE.
I asked them about it and they told me these fun and free things to visit in London:
Parks and Gardens
View of Buckingham Palace from St. James Park
In every busy city, park serves as lungs. They say that London is blessed with many large parks and gardens which are also great to visit. One of the most peaceful and quiet is the Queen Mary’s Rose Garden in Regent’s Park. St. James Park is also good to visit as it has the views of Buckingham Palace.
Free Music / Street Performers
Street Performers at Covent Garden
They say that there are plenty of spots to see and listen to great music for free. The best areas for these are the Covent Garden and South Bank Centre. The latter have an all year round events at night. During daytime, it is great place to visit to experience the culture of the city, alongside the Thames River. In Covent Garden, there are also activities going on everyday. All performers are licensed and have passed auditions to perform here.
Museums / Art Galleries
Tate Britain
They say that there are a lot of museums and Art Galleries in Great Britain which are open for public and free to enter. It showcases some of the most famous artwork and collections of exceptional and historical exhibitions. Some of these are the Tate Modern, Tate Britain, National History Museums and the National Gallery to name a few.
I will probably visit these attractions once I get to visit London. It’s a great way to experience the culture, history and architectures all for FREE.
Photo Credits: St. James Park by Lapatia, Tate Britain by clagnut,
Performers by Dave Catchpole
