VO L . 5
JANUARY 2024
ORIGINS &
DESTINATIONS From Londinium
London
To London
a walk down history lane
Behind the
Afternoon Tea
a peek into British culture
What to
Do & See
the only guide you need
Fashionable
Notting Hill
a quintessential London experience
For
Kids
fun facts, games & stories for little ones
LIVINGNOTES® COPYRIGHT 2024
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LivingNotes
he view from our hotel in London is overlooking the T hames. T he sunsets are simply magnificent. T he street right infront is filled with London’s eclectic rhythm.
London, an enigma wrapped in history, demands to be experienced by everyone at least once. Known for its iconic landmarks like the Big Ben and the London Eye, it’s a city that embodies both the past and the present. Although these are the images that often define London in the global consciousness, there’s so much more to London than these postcard-perfect scenes. It’s a city of contrasts and surprises. London is a tapestry of cultural diversity, a hub of artistic innovation, and a haven for history buffs. It’s the birthplace of revolutions in music, fashion, and art. It’s where traditional pubs coexist with cutting-edge galleries. As you read through the pages of this edition, let the stories and photographs guide you through London’s cobbled streets and moder n thoroughfares. Feel the pulse of its vibrant markets in Notting Hill, the regal elegance of the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, and the serene heights of the London Eye. Allow London to whisper its centuries-old tales and moder n-day anecdotes to you. Immerse yourself in its majestic char m and understated grandeur. Please, enjoy!
Olya Hill
Letter from
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Editor
* P l e a s e n o t e t h a t t h e l i g h t d i s t o r t i o n s v i s i b l e i n s o m e o f t h e i m a g e s a r e t h e by p r o d u c t o f t h e s o f t w a r e used to create this editorial, and that they do not appear in the original pictures or prints.
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Fr o m f i r s t - t i m e v i s i t o r g u i d e t o l o c a l s e c r e s t f o r s e a s o n e d t r e av e l e r s . . .
COVER IMAGE BY OLYA HILL @POINTDEVUE.ART
MASTHEAD & C O N T R I BU TO R S OLYA HILL
EDITOR IN CHIEF & PHOTOGRAPHER
BABAK AMIREBRAHIMI EDITOR & PHOTOGRAPHER
HELLO@ONDTRAVELGROUP.COM +1 (415) 653-9054
F E A T U R E D 6
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T R AV E L
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I WISH I KNEW...
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Things we lear ned the hard w a y. . . s o yo u d o n’ t h av e t o !
CHECKLISTS
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An ultimate checklist for a s p l e n d i d N ov e m b e r t r i p t o London
TIPS & TRICKS
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Unique tips on how to best n av i g a t e t h e c i t y t o s t y l i n g l i k e a t r u e L o n d o n e r, s h o p p i n g a n d p h o t o g r a p hy t i p s on “Composotion”
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D E S T I N AT I O N ABOUT
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D i s c ov e r i n g t h e c i t y o f endless wonders
F U N FA C T S
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15 lesser known facts a b o u t L o n d o n yo u s h o u l d know
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Snagging the best airfare deals to London
HOTELS
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Curated recommendation on best places to stay in London, for any budget
H I S T O RY
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Fr o m a Ro m a n s e t t l e m e n t t o a global metropolis
C U LT U R E
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A t a p e s t r y w ov e n w i t h t h e t h r e a d s o f h i s t o r y, m o d e r n i t y, a n d v i b r a n t c u l t u r e s
DID YOU KNOW? 222 E x p l o r i n g L o n d o n’s h i s t o r y, c u l t u r e, a n d e v e r y d a y life through fascinating f a c t s & a s t i s t i c i m a g e r y.
FA C E D OF LONDON
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L e a n i n g a b o u t L o n d o n’s ethnic makeup & its diverse people!
191 ORIGINS
OUR S T O RY
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ADVENTURES TO S EE & D O
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A g u i d e t o u n c ov e r i n g t h e b e s t o f L o n d o n’s locals’ secrets
NOTTI N G H I L L 5 2 9 A t a p e s t r y o f c u l t u r e, c u i s i n e, a n d c o u t u r e
A RT & T R AV E L
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What we do, our art, and a cause that is very dear to our hearts
T R AV E L E R ’ S D I A RY
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Our time in London t h r o u g h O l y a ’s , e d i t o r i n c h i e f , p o i n t o f v i e w.
P L AY L I S T
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S o m e f av o r i t e t u n e s f o r making great memories while exploring London!
586 FOR
KIDS
S p e n d q u a l i t y t i m e w i t h yo u r yo u n g t r av e l e r s & h e l p t h e m learn amazing trivial facts about London through pictures, games, and stories.
BEST PLACES 549 T O E AT A culinary experience w i t h f l av o r s f r o m e v e r y cor ner of the globe for every tastes & budget
573 STRETCH YOUR MONEY Unforgettable London experiences without breaking the bank
BUDGET578 F R I E N D LY EXPERIENCES Exploring the vibrant heart of London witho u t t h e l av i s h e x p e n s e
L U X U RY 582 EXPERIENCES Exclusive London experiences to create some of the best memo r i e s o f yo u r l i f e t i m e
F U N FA C T S
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GAMES
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W h a t e v e r y k i d s h o u l d k n o w. . . Riddles, crosswords & more!
BEDTIME STORIES 624
C AT A L O G U E 6 8 4 SPONSORS 704 &OFFERS
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LivingNotes
About
Discovering London:
A City of Endless Wonders Welcome to London, a city that’s as vibrant & diverse as it is steeped in history. If you think London is just about Big Ben & red buses, prepare to be pleasantly surprised. Let’s embark on a jour ney through this fascinating city & uncovering some unique gems along the way.
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Where Histor y Meets Modernity
London is a city where the past and present dance together in a harmonious blend. Strolling through the cobbled streets, you’ll feel the echoes of history, from the Tower of London’s haunting tales to the majestic Westminster Abbey. But there’s more! Have you heard of the Seven Noses of Soho? These quirky sculptures are hidden in plain sight and finding them is like a mini treasure hunt in the heart of the city.
A Melting Pot of Cultures
London’s diversity is its heartbeat. Take a walk down Brick Lane and you’ll be transported through a culinary journey from Bangladesh to Brazil. And let’s not forget the bustling Brixton Market, a kaleidoscope of Caribbean flavors and sounds. This city celebrates its multicultural identity with open arms, offering you a chance to explore the world in a few short Tube stops.
Green Spaces Galore
Amidst the urban buzz, London’s green spaces offer serene escapes. The famous Hyde Park is just the tip of the iceberg. Venture out to Hampstead Heath for panoramic city views, or find peace in the hidden gem of Kyoto Garden in Holland Park. Each green space in London tells its own story and offers a unique experience.
Art and Soul
If you think art in London is limited to the Tate Modern and National Gallery, think again. Street art in Shoreditch adds a vibrant layer to the city’s art scene, with murals that change faster than the British weather. Then there are the lesser-known galleries like the Wallace Collection, a treasure trove of art and armory.
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London After Dark
As the sun sets, London lights up with a different energy. Whether it’s enjoying a West End show, discovering a speakeasy bar in a hidden alley, or dancing the night away in Camden, the city offers endless possibilities for night owls.
A Shopper’s Paradise
From the regal arcades of Mayfair to the quirky markets of Camden and Portobello Road, London is a shopper’s dream. Each district offers a different shopping experience, whether you’re looking for luxury brands, vintage finds, or artisan crafts.
An Invitation to Explore
Every corner of London tells a story, and the best way to discover it is to simply wander. From the grand museums to the tiny bookshops tucked away in narrow lanes, there’s an adventure waiting at every turn. London isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience. So pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and get ready to explore the wonders of this incredible city.
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FUN FACTS 15 Little-Known Gems About London:
Unearthed & Unveiled
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London’s Subter ranean Secret The River Fleet
Hidden beneath the bustling streets of London is the River Fleet, now an underground river. This former tributary of the Thames was covered over in the 18th century due to pollution and is now a part of London’s sewer system, flowing secretly beneath the city.
The London Eye’s Mysterious Capsule
Among the 32 capsules of the London Eye, there is an elusive 33rd capsule. It’s often omitted for superstitious reasons, adding a touch of mystery to this iconic London landmark.
Earl’s Court Police Box
This iconic blue police box, reminiscent of the famous TARDIS from ‘Doctor Who’, isn’t just for show. Located in Earl’s Court, this box is a historic piece, serving as one of the last remaining police boxes in London.
Soho’s Sculpted Noses
As an act of artistic rebellion against the proliferation of CCTV cameras in London, artist Rick Buckley installed a series of sculpted noses across Soho. These small, quirky installations can be found on several buildings, challenging passersby to spot them.
Shepherd’s Bush’s Nar row Dwelling
In the diverse neighborhood of Shepherd’s Bush lies London’s narrowest house. At just 3.5 feet wide, this slim building is tucked between its larger neighbors, challenging our ideas of space in a city known for its grand architecture.
22 LivingNotes Artistic Underbelly Leake Street Tunnel Waterloo’s
Hidden beneath the bustling Waterloo Station is the Leake Street Tunnel. Known as the “graffiti tunnel,” it’s a legal canvas for street artists, constantly evolving with vibrant, colorful art.
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The Macabre Garden of St. Bartholomew-the-Great
This peaceful garden hides a dark past. Located in one of London’s oldest churches, it was once the site of public executions, including that of William Wallace, the Scottish hero.
The Tower of London’s Raven Lore
The Tower of London is not just famous for its history but also for its resident ravens. Superstition holds that if these birds leave, the Crown & Britain will fall. The birds are so important that they even have a designated ‘spare’ raven.
Paddington’s Ingenious Rolling Bridge
Paddington Basin is home to an innovative piece of engineering: the Rolling Bridge. This unique bridge curls up into an octagonal shape to let boats pass and then gracefully unfurls to allow pedestrians to cross.
The Philpot Lane Mice
In the heart of the city, on Philpot Lane, you will find a tiny but charming statue. Two bronze mice share a piece of cheese, commemorating an urban legend about two builders who, during the construction of the nearby Monument to the Great Fire of London, argued and fought fatally over a missing sandwich, not realizing it was taken by mice.
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Buckingham Palace’s Hidden Passage
Rumored to exist is a secret tunnel from Buckingham Palace to the Royal Albert Hall. This tunnel is said to allow the royal family to travel discreetly between these key locations.
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Hyde Park’s Secret Pet Cemeter y
Nestled in Hyde Park is a tiny, hidden pet cemetery, dating back to the 19th century. It started as the burial place for the Royal family’s pets and expanded to include other Victorian-era pets, a touching glimpse into historical pet ownership.
The Evolving St. Paul’s Cathedral
The majestic St. Paul’s Cathedral that stands today is actually the 5th iteration. Its predecessors, dating back to 604 AD, include a version destroyed in the Great Fire of London.
The Whispering Ears of Covent Garden
Artist Tim Fishlock’s sculpted ears adorn the walls of Floral Street in Covent Garden. These surreptitious installations add an auditory dimension to the visual arts scene, inviting passersby to lean in and listen.
Canar y Wharf ’s Traf fic Light Tree
This intriguing sculpture in Canary Wharf consists of 75 fully functional traffic lights. Created by Pierre Vivant, it symbolizes the vibrant, dynamic rhythm of London’s financial district, an area known for its constant motion and energy. Each of these facts offers a glimpse into the lesser-seen, quirky side of London, revealing a city rich in history, mystery, artistic expression. London is a city where every corner has a story, waiting to be discovered.
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T R A V E L
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I Wish
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I Knew What You Must know Before Traveling to London:
Insider Tips & Hidden Gems Ah, London! A city rich in history, culture, & the occasional rain showers. But before you jet off, let’s talk about some insider tips & lesser-known facts that I wish I knew before my first trip to London. From navigating TSA to choosing the right cab, these insights will help you enjoy a hassle-free & memorable London experience.